The best audio interfaces of 2022
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We’re checking out the best audio interfaces of 2022, so if you need a new interface now could be the perfect time to upgrade.
With so many great new interfaces released this year, we wanted to showcase some of the best value products across different price ranges and applications.
Finding the best audio interfaces of 2022
With a focus on home recording, we’ve picked out some interfaces that really stood out in terms of price, overall value, and features.
So if you’re a home recording artist, a Twitch streamer, or you’re building your own podcast, you’ll find something to suit your workflow here.
Steinberg UR12
On the budget end of the spectrum, the UR12 is a great option for mobile recording on Windows, macOS, or iPad OS. Instead of giving you a huge scope of connectivity, it simply provides the practical basics at a decent level of quality.
This means no MIDI or XLR outputs, but you do have a decent mic preamp and instrument input stage and the option to switch from USB bus power to a DC power adapter if you need to.
Steinberg UR12
Universal Audio Volt 4
If you need a few more inputs, the Volt 4 has you covered with two XLR combo mic pre/instrument inputs with vintage mode. You also have an additional two TRS line inputs on the rear panel and flexible monitoring options.
If you make your purchase before December 31, you’ll receive nearly $450 of free UAD plug-ins including the Teletronix LA-2A Classic Leveler Collection and Pure Plate Reverb.
Universal Audio Volt 4
Apogee Boom
Not all of us need multiple inputs, and instead, want to invest in the overall audio quality above all else. The Apogee Boom is certainly a way to do this with its simple and portable DSP-integrated design.
Connectivity may appear limited, but the Boom is equipped with one great preamp and the quality converters that Apogee is known for. When recording, the ECS channel strip gives you a three-band EQ, high-pass filter, compressor, and drive control.
Apogee Boom
SSL 12
SSL had a major impact when they began producing audio interfaces, especially since they aimed at the entry-level side of the market with the 2 and 2+ desktop interfaces. The SSL 12 is the new flagship of this line, with some slightly more pro-orientated features.
Apart from the four 4K preamps, you have MIDI, ADAT in, and talkback functionality which immediately adds a huge amount of value to the price. Overall the 12 is hard to beat at this price.
SSL 12
Audient ID44 MKII
Getting into the slightly more professional side of the market, the ID44 MKII has four XLR combo inputs, two of which have insert send and return points. It might not have MIDI, but you get two sets of ADAT ins and outs and Wordclock out.
Useful features like audio loopback also come in handy for streaming and podcasting and you have two independent headphones outs. Until January 8, you’ll get iZotope Nectar Elements with your purchase, so act fast.
Audient ID44 MKII
The close runners-up:
- Arturia Minifuse 4
- MOTU M6
What are your favourite new audio interfaces you’ve had your eye on in 2022? Please let us know in the comments below!
More about audio interfaces:
- All about audio interfaces
- Thomann’s guide to audio interfaces
- The best of 2022
Videos:
*Note: This article contains promotional links that help us fund our site. Don’t worry: the price for you always stays the same! We will receive a small commission if you buy something through these links. We appreciate your support!
- Apogee Boom: Apogee
- SSL 12: SSL
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