What is the Best Audio Interface under £100? (2021)
In The Mix
16 min, 16 sec
A detailed review and comparison of several popular audio interfaces around the £100 price range, focusing on build, recording and playback quality, with recommendations based on these criteria.
Summary
- Tested over a dozen audio interfaces, showcasing six, with four favorites around £100 and two cheaper options at £70.
- Discussed the importance of build quality and workflow over the actual recording quality, which was similar across devices.
- Recommended the Presonus Studio 24c and Focusrite Solo 3rd Gen as the best options for around £100.
- Noted that cheaper interfaces at around £70 come with compromises, and suggested buying used equipment for better value.
- Announced a giveaway for some of the tested interfaces and invited questions in the comments section.
Chapter 1
An introduction to the comparison of popular audio interfaces, emphasizing the focus on build and sound quality.
- Announced the testing of popular audio interfaces around the £100 price range.
- Explained the intent to share favorites and discuss build, recording, and playback quality of each interface.
Chapter 2
Guidance on using video chapters and timestamps to navigate through the detailed comparison.
- Instructed viewers to use chapters and timestamps to navigate the video.
- Encouraged viewers to focus on specific interfaces or aspects like recording or playback quality.
Chapter 3
Initial impressions and overview of the audio interfaces tested for the review.
- Tested over a dozen interfaces, focusing on six, with four favorites around £100 and two cheaper at £70.
- Purchased interfaces personally, without affiliation or sponsorship, to maintain fairness and announced a giveaway.
Chapter 4
A brief explanation of what an audio interface is and its function in a music production setup.
- Defined an audio interface as a device for recording and playback of audio via computer connection.
- Highlighted the interface's role in providing power and transferring data but not affecting the final export quality.
Chapter 5
Introduction to the four favorite audio interfaces and preliminary recording quality tests.
- Introduced four favorite interfaces: Presonus Studio 24c, Focusrite Solo 3rd Gen, Audient Evo 4, and NI Komplete Audio 2.
- Conducted recording tests using a Shure SM7B microphone, noting that all interfaces provided good levels without significant noise.
Chapter 6
Detailed results from recording tests, analyzing noise and tone of the preamps.
- Played back recordings from each interface, focusing on noise and tone of the preamps.
- Found no significant differences in sound quality, indicating that build quality and workflow are the main differentiators.
Chapter 7
Examination of headphone and loudspeaker outputs across the interfaces.
- All interfaces provided ample gain for headphones, with volume levels being dangerously high past the halfway mark.
- Tested audio clarity, depth, and width by recording outputs and found minimal differences between interfaces.
Chapter 8
In-depth look at the build quality and features of the Presonus Studio 24c interface.
- Highlighted the full metal construction, combination XLR inputs, and individual controls for each function.
- Praised the interface's metering screen, separate headphone and loudspeaker volume controls, and USB-C connectivity.
Chapter 9
Examination of the Focusrite Solo 3rd Gen's build quality, inputs, outputs, and limitations.
- Reviewed the solid build quality, input and output limitations, and the unique halo level indicators.
- Noted the absence of separate headphone and loudspeaker volume controls, and praised the upgrade to USB-C.
Chapter 10
Review of the NI Komplete Audio 2 interface, discussing build quality and design aspects.
- Mentioned the plastic build, outdated USB-B connection, and the combination inputs.
- Criticized the limited usability of the volume dial and suggested potential improvements.
Chapter 11
Critical review of the Audient Evo 4 interface, focusing on its build and usability.
- Commented on the plastic build quality, smart gain feature, and lack of independent volume control for headphones and speakers.
- Appreciated the input and output quality but questioned the price value.
Chapter 12
Comparison of two budget-friendly interfaces and advice on purchasing used equipment.
- Recommended Mackie and a Presonus model as the best options for around £70, but noted their compromises.
- Advised considering used equipment for better value against buying new at lower price points.
Chapter 13
Summary of top recommendations and announcement of a giveaway for the interfaces.
- Identified the Presonus Studio 24c and Focusrite Solo 3rd Gen as the preferred choices.
- Announced a giveaway for some of the interfaces and invited viewers to participate or ask questions in the comments.