8 Best Audio Interfaces Under $500 – Expand Your Musical Capabilities!

The image provided above shows that the device has a simple interface with well-labeled controls and ports. The same is the case for the backside of the invention as well. Consequently, most people should find this a breeze to connect to their computers as well as to other musical devices.

With regards to the input ports to the device, you get four in total. Two of them are for musical instrument connection. The other two input ports can be connected to a host of other devices such as drum machines and synthesizers.

As to the output, you get four analog ports. There is, however, an additional headphone jack that can be considered an output port as well. You do have to remember that MIDI in/out connection is also present on this device. This will, of course, expand the capabilities of the audio interface as well as those of the computer it is connected to.

Also, with the mic preamps, you should be able to record great vocals in addition to a few other benefits. As well you have access to software that allows you to control your music from a myriad of devices. Add all these benefits to a three-year warranty, and you will understand how many people choose this as their first pick.

There is, however, the downside of the weight where this seemingly compact device weighs a little more than most. This, we are sure you can get past if you love the benefits enough.

What do we love it for?

• Has four input and four output ports excluding the headphone and MIDI connections
• Easy to use
• The device comes with a three-year warranty
• The tool also comes with 24-bit/192 kHz audio resolution

What were we disappointed with?

• A few people seem to have issues with the drivers required to run the device competently
• The tool also appears to cause computer audio to crash for some users

Our next offering is one that bears a lot of similarity to the editor’s choice, albeit it is from a different manufacturer. It offers 24-bit/192 kHz audio resolution and should thus be on par with its predecessor in this area.

Concerning the input ports, you get the same set up as that of the device above it in the lineup. There are two mic/instrument ports complemented by two-line ports. You find as well that the output is the same since it allows for one headphone jack in addition to four line outputs.

One component that’s missing from this setup is the MIDI in/out connection. As such, if you want to be able to attach a MIDI controller, this is not the machine for you. It nevertheless has a slim profile and even weighs less than three times the weight of its predecessor.

The manufacturer does try to make up for the lack of MIDI connectivity with a few extra features as well. Among them is the 118 dB dynamic range that should allow you to capture different sounds accurately.

This tool, as well comes with software that should give you control and allow you to monitor various inputs and outputs. As well, this is coupled with a USB 3.0 for an easy connection to your computer as well as a one-year warranty. As such, the only possible reasons to pass up this device could be the high cost of the tool as well as maybe the lack of MIDI support.

What makes it stand out?

• Fast USB 3.0 connection
• High dynamic range
• Included software for easy control
• Multiple inputs and outputs
• Remote control via the devices that are connected
• One-year warranty

Which disadvantages must you keep in mind?

• Pricey
• Lacks MIDI support

Another option to seriously consider purchasing is the Behringer UMC404HD. Despite its complex outlook and the high number of components, the manufacturer is still able to keep the weight of the device under 3 lbs. This is quite an impressive feat to pull off and makes the tool more portable.

Nevertheless, most users will first look towards performance and useful components before looking at the weight. However, even before you get to that, you might as well look to see the number and types of available ports. The main ports are eight in total and are equally divided between input and output. Also, you have a single USB port and a headphone jack.

In addition to the above, you can as well add to the list of benefits the fact that this tool has zero latency. As such, you will be able to experience sounds with no lag, and that will allow you to tweak the signal for optimal results.

Also, despite this tool being lightweight, it happens to feature a metal body that should be able to take a beating without damaging any internal components. As well, the fact that this tool also happens to have mic preamplifiers is impressive. This ensures that weak signals from your microphones can be upgraded to suitable standards.

The product guarantee covers you for three years, which is as well impressive by audio interface standards. You might also love the fact that the tool is compatible with a few different versions of recording software. This makes it one very versatile tool to feature on our list.

What do we love it for?

• Compatible with different software
• Comes with Mic preamplifiers to keep your sound signals strong
• Multiple input and output ports including MIDI connectivity
• Lightweight
• Solid build
• Comes with a three-year warranty
• Affordable

What were we disappointed with?

• Some users noticed the direct monitoring volume was so low that they couldn’t hear themselves
• There also seems to be some static and EMF interference when some people use the device

If you want the capacity and capability to record input from even more channels at once, you should consider purchasing the M-Audio M-Track 8X4M. The ability to connect lots of different devices makes this a gem in the market and worth the price you pay for it. Nevertheless, you can get it for even less than $300.

You as well get assignable auxiliary output ports. Of course, there are still a few other output ports with designated functions as well.

With a high-speed USB connection, communication between this device and your PC should be seamless as well. Also, you get multiple software packages to use with the device as well.

You likely want to get the best sound results from your microphones, which is why the manufacturer has opted to include preamps. In addition to that, you can get 24-bit/192kHz audio resolution out of the device.

Body-wise you get a durable metal chassis that is practically weightless. As such, putting it in your bag and carrying it around all day should be a piece of cake.

What stands out?

• High-speed USB connection
• Up to eight input ports
• High-quality audio resolution
• Durable but lightweight

What cons did we manage to find?

• Working with windows 10 PCs may prove to be a bit of a problem

The Mackie Studio 3×2 is another tool that professional music makers looking to make the most use of their PC can utilize. This device can be applauded for having the audio resolution of a pro device. This feature, when used in conjunction with the dual Onyx mic preamps, will give you superb sound capabilities.

As well you get a 2-Track A, line level, and DAW mix input ports to make sure that different sounds can find their way to your PC from various sources. You as well have your pick of output options, which include Studio, phones amp DAW, and a few others.

Again you don’t have to worry about purchasing additional software if this is your device of choice. The manufacturer provides you with a copy of Tracktion, which means you can install the software, plug in the machine, and get to creating music as soon as you receive the purchase.

Another benefit you might like is the inclusion of two different headphone jacks. These even allow for individual level control. Also, you get a built-in mic in the body of the device. This will enable you to communicate with artists during the recording session as well.

What do we love it for?

• The tool comes with free professional software
• A mic is built into the device for communication with artists
• Includes multiple input and output ports

What were we disappointed with?

• No MIDI capability
• This tool is not reputed to be long-lasting

You might as well decide that the Steinberg UR-RT2 is your go-to device when it comes to solving your audio interface needs. This tool is one of the pricier ones on the list with a tag of about 350 dollars. As such, if you are willing to spend this amount of money on such a device, you can then get into the features. This will tell you whether the price point is worth it or not.

Among the highlights of the tool is the inclusion of Class-A D-PRE mic preamps. These serve to raise and amplify sound input from the microphones to a suitable level. As such, even with multiple sources, no sound will be overly amplified above the rest.

As well, you have three main options to choose from with regards to the device that you pair with the Steinberg UR-RT2 audio interface. These include Windows PCs, macOS, and even iOS devices if you are looking to use the tool on the go.

Also, you are guaranteed no lag on the device due to the latency-free FX monitoring. You should note that the two output jacks are somewhat limited when compared to other devices featured on this list.

Why are we impressed?

• Compatible with multiple devices
• Latency-free monitoring
• Includes preamps to bring up the level of sound to acceptable levels
• Lightweight
• The Device is MIDI compatible

What negatives must you be aware of?

• Has a limited number of output ports
• The tool is relatively expensive
• Installation of the required software is no walk in the park

This tool is one that can be used by different music professionals, including beatmakers, and producers as well. With the combi-xlr/jack, you can connect different types of gear that will make recording music into your PC a lot easier. This is inclusive of equipment like synths.

Also, you have two stereo jacks as your output options. Despite fewer jacks than most of the other machines listed, you still have the benefit of high power output from this device. You as well have a USB 2.0 port to link this tool with your PC.

There is also a big volume knob on top of the device. This is the component you use while adjusting output levels.

Also noteworthy is that this tool comes with various software packages. Once you install them on your computer, you will be able to do just about anything you can imagine with the Native Instruments Komplete Audio 2.

What are our favorite features?

• Simple design
• Comes with software for creating music
• Zero-latency
• Affordable

What could be better?

• No MIDI support
• The headphone output is weak