10 Best Audio Interfaces for PC in 2026

That moment when you plug a condenser mic into your computer’s headphone jack and hear nothing but hum and hiss. You fiddle with drivers. You try a USB adapter. The latency makes monitoring impossible. This is the exact moment most people start searching for the best audio interfaces for PC. A dedicated interface sidesteps all of that: dedicated preamps, proper phantom power, low-latency ASIO drivers, and the ability to record multiple sources at once. But not every interface suits every workflow.

We’ve rounded up the top ten audio interfaces for PC in 2026, covering everything from two-input studio workhorses to compact bus-powered boxes for podcasters on the move. Whether you need a single XLR input for vocal takes, a pair of combo jacks for a guitar-and-mic setup, or a full mixer-style controller for live streaming, there is a pick here that fits your rig and your recording style.

TL;DR: The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen is the best all-rounder: great preamps, auto-gain, and rock-solid drivers. The PreSonus AudioBox 96 is the best value for two-input recording. The FIFINE SC3 is the best dedicated streaming mixer with faders and sound effects. The M-Audio M-Track Duo is the simplest budget dual-input interface for beginners.

#	Product	Inputs & Outputs	Sample Rate	Best For
1	Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen	2 XLR/TRS combo in, 2 TRS out, 1 headphone out	24-bit / 192 kHz	Serious home studio musicians and producers
2	Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen	1 XLR/TRS combo in, 1 instrument in, 2 TRS out, 1 headphone out	24-bit / 192 kHz	Solo guitarists, vocalists, and singer-songwriters
3	PreSonus AudioBox 96 25th Anniversary	2 XLR/TRS combo in, 2 TRS out, 1 headphone out, MIDI I/O	24-bit / 96 kHz	Musicians who need MIDI and dual preamps on a tight build
4	M-Audio M-Track Duo	2 XLR/TRS combo in, 2 TRS out, 1 headphone out	48 kHz	Budget-conscious podcasters and small duet recordings
5	PIYONE Q2	2 XLR/TRS combo in, 2 TRS out, 1 headphone out	24-bit / 192 kHz	Beginners who want high sample rates and loopback for streaming
6	MAONO PS22 Lite	1 XLR combo in, 1 instrument in, 2 TRS out, 1 headphone out	24-bit / 192 kHz	Streamers who need loopback and flexible routing software
7	FIFINE AmpliGame SC3	1 XLR in, 1 line in, 1 headphone out, 1 line out, 1 headset combo	16-bit / 48 kHz (estimated)	Gamers and streamers who want physical faders and sound effects
8	Synido USB C Audio Interface	1 XLR/TRS combo in, 1 instrument in, 2 RCA out, 1 headphone out	24-bit / 48 kHz	Ultra-portable recording on a tight desktop footprint
9	M-Audio M-Track Solo	1 XLR combo in, 1 instrument in, 2 RCA out, 1 headphone out	48 kHz	Absolute beginners with a single mic and a guitar
10	Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen	1 XLR/TRS combo in, 1 instrument in, 2 TRS out, 1 headphone out	24-bit / 192 kHz	Budget-minded users who still want Focusrite’s proven preamp quality

How we picked

• Input count and type: One XLR input is enough for a solo podcaster. Two combo jacks (with instrument Hi-Z switching) let you record a mic and a guitar simultaneously without an external DI box.
• Sample rate and bit depth: 24-bit / 96 kHz is the modern baseline for professional recording. Higher rates like 192 kHz offer marginal benefit for most sources but matter for precise pitch shifting or sound design.
• Preamps and phantom power: Transparent, low-noise preamps with at least +48V phantom power are essential for condenser microphones. Switchable Air mode or pad switches add versatility for loud sources.
• Latency and driver support: ASIO drivers (native or third-party) are non-negotiable for real-time monitoring. Class-compliant USB operation is a bonus for plug-and-play on Mac or iPad.
• Monitoring flexibility: Direct monitoring (zero-latency blend of input and playback) keeps tracking sharp. A dedicated headphone output with its own level control is a strong plus.
• Software bundle: The included DAW and plugin suite can save hundreds in starter costs. Pro Tools Intro, Ableton Live Lite, and Studio One Artist are the most common bundled options.

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1. Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen: Best Overall

Pros:

• 120 dB dynamic range, using the same converters as Focusrite’s flagship Red interfaces
• Auto Gain and Clip Safe features prevent distorted takes without manual level riding
• Improved Air mode adds harmonic richness to vocals and acoustic guitars
• Full software bundle with Pro Tools Intro, Ableton Live Lite, Cubase LE, and the Hitmaker Expansion

Cons:

• No MIDI I/O (compared to the PreSonus AudioBox)
• Slightly larger footprint than the Solo models
• USB-C cable included but short

Best for: Home studio musicians and producers who want professional-grade conversion and foolproof recording.

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The 4th generation of the Scarlett 2i2 is the interface that most home studio owners should stop looking at and start using. Focusrite took everything that worked about the third gen — clean preamps, solid build, reliable drivers — and added features that genuinely change how you record. The dynamic range jumps to 120 dB, putting it on par with interfaces that cost twice as much. That means quieter noise floor and more headroom when you push a signal.

What really sets the 2i2 4th Gen apart from the Solo 4th Gen is the second input. Having two combo jacks means you can run stereo mics, a guitar and a vocal mic simultaneously, or a stereo line-level synth. The auto-gain feature is not a gimmick. It sets input level by analyzing your signal, and Clip Safe acts as a digital safety net that catches transient peaks before they hit the converter. In practice, you spend almost no time staring at gain knobs and more time recording. The software bundle is generous enough that a new producer could work for a year without buying additional plugins.

2. Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen: Best for Solo Recording

Pros:

• Same 120 dB dynamic range as the 2i2
• Switchable Air mode with harmonic drive for vocal presence
• One high-headroom instrument input for guitar or bass
• Compact size fits in a laptop bag

Cons:

• Only one XLR input limits multi-mic recording
• No MIDI I/O
• Bus-powered but draws enough current that some older USB ports may need a powered hub

Best for: Singer-songwriters and voice-over artists who record one track at a time and want the cleanest possible signal path.

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If you never need to record more than one microphone and one instrument at a time, buying the Solo 4th Gen saves desk space without sacrificing conversion quality. The preamp is identical to the one in the 2i2, and the Air mode has been refined for the fourth generation. Flicking it on adds a high-frequency lift around 8 kHz plus a subtle harmonic drive that makes a flat condenser mic sound like it has a presence boost. For voice-over or solo vocal work, it reduces post-production EQ work noticeably.

The headphone output is surprisingly powerful for a bus-powered interface. It drives 250-ohm studio headphones to comfortable listening levels without straining. The build quality is the same metal chassis as the larger model, and the red finish has become something of a studio status symbol. The only real limitation is that you cannot upgrade inputs later — if you ever want to record a stereo pair of mics, you will need a different interface.

3. PreSonus AudioBox 96 25th Anniversary: Best Value Dual-Input Interface

Pros:

• Two Class-A mic preamps with 48V phantom power
• MIDI I/O for connecting keyboards and controllers
• Over $1,000 worth of software including Studio One Artist and Ableton Live Lite
• Mixer control for zero-latency monitoring

Cons:

• Maximum sample rate limited to 96 kHz (not 192 kHz like the Focusrite)
• No loopback function for streaming
• Bus-powered but USB 2.0 — not USB-C

Best for: Musicians who need MIDI connectivity and dual preamps, and who prefer Studio One as their primary DAW.

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PreSonus has been making the AudioBox for long enough that the 25th Anniversary edition feels more like a refinement than a revolution. That is not a bad thing. The two Class-A preamps are quiet and neutral, and they handle dynamic and ribbon mics without fuss. The inclusion of MIDI I/O is a genuine differentiator in this category — no other interface on this list under $100 offers MIDI in and out. If you own a hardware synth or a controller with DIN MIDI, this is the only choice that does not require an additional adapter.

The software bundle is the real story here. Studio One Artist is a full-featured DAW, and the included Studio Magic Plug-In Suite adds a dozen solid effects and instruments. The user manual suggests a 96 kHz ceiling, which is more than adequate for most recording. The only missing piece is loopback for streaming. If you want to route system audio into your stream while also recording your mic, you will need a virtual audio cable workaround. For pure music recording, however, this interface is hard to beat.

4. M-Audio M-Track Duo: Best Budget Dual-Input Interface

Pros:

• Two combo XLR/Line/Instrument inputs with Crystal Preamps
• USB/Direct zero-latency monitoring switch
• Includes MPC Beats software with Akai Pro tools
• Very compact and lightweight

Cons:

• Maximum 48 kHz sample rate (no high-resolution recording)
• RCA outputs instead of balanced TRS
• Plastic build feels less durable than Focusrite or PreSonus

Best for: Podcasters and beginning producers who need two inputs and want to keep their setup small.

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The M-Track Duo is the entry point for anyone who needs two XLR inputs on a tight workspace. The Crystal Preamps are clean enough for dialog and basic vocal recording, and the instrument input handles electric guitar and bass without extra gear. The USB/Direct switch lets you mix the live input with playback for zero-latency monitoring, a standard feature but well implemented here.

The limitation is the 48 kHz sample rate. For podcasting, voice-over, and most streaming applications, 48 kHz is perfectly fine. But if you plan to do serious music production where you might pitch-shift or time-stretch audio, the lower sample rate leaves less headroom for processing. The RCA outputs are another compromise — you will need RCA-to-TRS cables to connect to studio monitors with balanced inputs. That is a small hassle, but at this size and feature count, it is an acceptable trade-off.

5. PIYONE Q2: Best for Beginners Who Want High Sample Rates

Pros:

• 24-bit / 192 kHz recording at a very accessible level
• Two combo inputs with independent gain knobs and LED rings
• Loopback function for streaming
• USB-C bus-powered, class-compliant with Mac and iOS

Cons:

• Brand reliability less proven than Focusrite or PreSonus
• Driver installation may be needed for Windows (not fully class-compliant)
• Build quality is acceptable but not premium

Best for: Budget-conscious PC users who do not want to sacrifice sample rate options.

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The PIYONE Q2 fills a specific gap: it offers dual inputs and 192 kHz sampling at a place where most competitors cap out at 96 kHz or 48 kHz. Whether you can actually hear the difference between 96 kHz and 192 kHz is debatable, but the headroom matters if you record loud transient sources like drums or want to do extreme time-stretching. The loopback function is a direct win for streamers who need to send desktop audio into their broadcast software without extra routing.

The two combo jacks accept both XLR and TRS, and the 48V phantom power works cleanly with condenser mics. The gain knobs have illuminated rings that change color from green to red as you approach clipping — a visual cue that helps beginners avoid distortion. On the downside, the PIYONE name does not carry the same customer support network as Focusrite. If something goes wrong, replacement or warranty service may be slower. For the user who wants maximum specs for minimum investment, however, it is a compelling option.

6. MAONO PS22 Lite: Best for Streamers with Software Routing Needs

Pros:

• 24-bit / 192 kHz with 106 dB dynamic range
• ProStudio Routing Software with loopback and virtual channels
• Switchable modes for recording, live broadcast, and instrument
• Dedicated instrument input with Hi-Z switching

Cons:

• Only one XLR input (combo jack)
• Side-mounted headphone jack reduces cable clutter but can be awkward with certain desks
• ASIO driver needs manual selection in DAW settings

Best for: Live streamers and content creators who want flexible audio routing in a compact box.

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The PS22 Lite is built around the idea of routing flexibility. The included ProStudio software adds virtual channels and loopback, so you can mix your microphone, game audio, and music into a single stream output without patching cables. The dynamic light ring on the gain knob glows to indicate signal presence, and the side-mounted headphone jack keeps the front panel clean.

For a single-mic streamer, the interface is nearly ideal. The 192 kHz sampling is overkill for streaming, but the preamp offers up to 56 dB of gain, enough for most dynamic microphones. The instrument input works well for direct guitar recording. The biggest caveat is that you need to select the MAONO ASIO driver in your DAW settings for low-latency performance — the default Windows driver introduces noticeable delay. Once that is squared away, the PS22 Lite is a reliable, flexible companion for OBS and Twitch workflows.

7. FIFINE AmpliGame SC3: Best Dedicated Streaming Mixer

Pros:

• Physical volume faders for Mic, Line In, Headphone, and Line Out
• Four customizable sound effect pads for live drops
• Voice changer (6 presets) and auto-tune (12 keys)
• Vibrant RGB lighting with flow or freeze modes

Cons:

• Only one XLR input (no second mic or instrument input)
• Requires XLR mic (USB mic not compatible)
• Not a standard audio interface — no direct monitoring of playback via DAW

Best for: Gamers and live streamers who want tactile control over their audio mix and built-in sound effects.

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The SC3 is not a traditional audio interface. It is a USB mixer designed for streaming, with faders, mute buttons, and sound effect pads that give you direct control without alt-tabbing to software. Plug in an XLR condenser mic, assign your favorite sounds to the four pads, and you can add laugh tracks, air horns, or stingers with one press. The voice changer and auto-tune effects are a gimmick for some, but for variety streamers they are a reliable way to switch character voices.

The build is sturdy plastic with a compact footprint. The faders are smooth with a decent resistance, and the mute buttons have a satisfying click. The RGB lighting is adjustable and not overwhelming. The limitation is that the SC3 only accepts one XLR microphone. If you want to record a co-host or a second instrument, you will need an additional interface running downstream. For solo streamers who want everything in one box, though, this is a clever and cost-effective solution.

8. Synido USB C Audio Interface: Most Portable

Pros:

• Extremely small and lightweight (300g)
• Three monitoring modes: Stereo, Mix, USB
• 48V phantom power with good noise reduction
• Includes 3.5mm to 6.35mm adapter and USB-C cable

Cons:

• 24-bit / 48 kHz maximum sample rate
• Only one combo input and one instrument input
• RCA outputs (not balanced TRS)

Best for: Travelers and mobile musicians who need a tiny interface that fits in a laptop pocket.

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The Synido is barely larger than a deck of cards. It uses a USB-C connection for power and data, and its aluminum shell feels dense despite the light weight. The three monitoring modes are a unique touch: Stereo plays input left and right as separate channels, Mix blends input and computer audio, and USB plays only computer audio. This lets you adapt to recording, live streaming, or post-production without changing cables.

The 48 kHz samplerate is a limitation for serious music production, but for podcasting, voice chat, and quick demos, it is perfectly adequate. The built-in 48V phantom power works with standard condenser mics. The 3.5mm headphone jack is on the front left, easy to reach. The package even includes a 3.5mm-to-6.35mm adapter for studio headphones. If your workflow is simple and mobile-first, this is the most portable option on the list.

9. M-Audio M-Track Solo: Absolute Entry-Level

Pros:

• One XLR combo input with Crystal Preamp
• One dedicated instrument input
• USB/Direct monitoring switch
• Includes MPC Beats production software

Cons:

• 48 kHz maximum sample rate
• 1/8-inch headphone output (requires adapter for 1/4-inch headphones)
• RCA outputs (not balanced)

Best for: Complete beginners recording their first vocal or guitar track.

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The M-Track Solo is the simplest possible way to get a microphone and a guitar into your computer. The one XLR input handles mic duties, and the separate instrument input takes a 1/4-inch guitar or bass. The USB/Direct switch lets you hear your input without delay. The Crystal Preamp is the same design found in the Duo, and it is clean enough for basic recording.

The compromises are the same as the Duo: 48 kHz ceiling and RCA outputs. The 1/8-inch headphone jack is a step down from the full-size jacks on other budget interfaces — you will need a 1/4-inch adapter for standard studio headphones. Still, for someone who just wants to start recording and does not own any microphones yet, the M-Track Solo is a zero-barrier entry point. The included MPC Beats software gives you a functional DAW and beat-making tools.

10. Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen: Still a Solid Budget Pick

Pros:

• Proven preamp quality with switchable Air mode
• 24-bit / 192 kHz converters
• Two high-headroom instrument inputs (one dedicated, one via combo)
• Three-year warranty and massive user community

Cons:

• Older generation lacks auto-gain and Clip Safe of the 4th Gen
• No USB-C (USB 2.0 Type-B connector)
• Single XLR input still limits multi-mic recording

Best for: Users on a tight build who still want Focusrite’s reliable sound and software bundle.

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The 3rd Gen Solo remains on this list because it is still widely available and still performs admirably. The mic preamp is clean, the Air mode adds useful high-end clarity, and the 192 kHz converters offer more headroom than most budget interfaces. The included software suite — Pro Tools Intro, Ableton Live Lite, Cubase LE, plus the Hitmaker Expansion — is the same generous bundle as the 4th Gen.

The main reasons to choose the 3rd Gen over the 4th Gen are its availability and the fact that the preamp is still a step up from most entry-level competitors. You lose the automatic level-setting features, but if you are comfortable setting gain manually, that is not a dealbreaker. The USB 2.0 connection works fine with modern PCs, though the cable is USB Type-A to Type-B. For a first interface that will teach you the basics without holding you back, the 3rd Gen Solo is a proven workhorse.

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Buyer's Guide: How to Choose an Audio Interface for PC

Before you decide which of these ten best audio interfaces for PC is right for you, there are a few key factors to weigh. The good news is that modern USB interfaces have improved dramatically in the last five years, and even the most basic models here will give you a noticeable quality jump over built-in sound cards.

Input Channels and Connectivity

The most critical decision is how many inputs you need. A single combo jack (XLR plus quarter-inch) covers one microphone or one instrument at a time. Two combo jacks let you record a stereo pair, a mic and a guitar simultaneously, or two mics for an interview or duet. Some interfaces also include a separate dedicated instrument input with higher impedance for guitar or bass pickups — this matters because a standard line input can load down a passive guitar and make it sound dull. Beyond XLR and instrument jacks, check for MIDI I/O if you own hardware synths or controllers with DIN cables. MIDI over USB adapters exist, but having it built in is cleaner.

Sample Rate and Bit Depth

Sample rate (measured in kHz) determines how many snapshots of audio are taken per second. 44.1 kHz is CD quality. 48 kHz is the standard for video and streaming. 96 kHz and 192 kHz are desirable for professional music production because they push the Nyquist frequency high enough to keep anti-aliasing filters out of the audible range. In practical terms, 96 kHz gives you more headroom for pitch correction and time-stretching. If you only do voice-over or podcasting, 48 kHz is perfectly adequate. Bit depth (16-bit vs 24-bit) matters more for dynamic range — 24-bit gives you about 144 dB of theoretical dynamic range, which is essential for recording quiet sources next to loud ones without noise.

Preamps and Phantom Power

The preamp is the circuitry that boosts a microphone's signal to line level. Good preamps are transparent (they do not add coloration) and quiet (low self-noise). All interfaces on this list include +48V phantom power, required for condenser microphones. Dynamic microphones do not need phantom power but benefit from clean gain. Look for at least 50 dB of gain for dynamic mics like the Shure SM7B or the Rode PodMic. The Focusrite Scarlett series offers 56 dB or more; the M-Audio Crystal Preamps offer about 54 dB. If you use ribbon microphones, phantom power can damage some models, so a global phantom power switch (all or nothing) versus per-channel control is a consideration.

Latency and Driver Support

Latency is the delay between when you play or sing and when you hear it through your headphones. Low latency is essential for staying in time while tracking. ASIO drivers bypass Windows' default audio stack to reduce latency. Most Focusrite, PreSonus, and M-Audio interfaces ship with proprietary ASIO drivers. The MAONO and FIFINE units offer ASIO as well, though you may need to select it manually in your DAW. Class-compliant interfaces work plug-and-play on Mac and iPad but may require drivers on Windows for best performance. A direct monitoring circuit (hardware-level blend of input and playback) is a more reliable way to achieve zero-latency monitoring regardless of driver settings.

Monitoring and Routing

Direct monitoring lets you hear your mic input mixed with your computer playback without any digital round-trip delay. A simple USB/Direct blend knob is common. More advanced interfaces offer software mixers that let you create custom headphone mixes for each output. For streaming, loopback capability is a game-changer: it routes your desktop audio (game sounds, music, browser) into your recording software alongside your microphone. The MAONO PS22 Lite and PIYONE Q2 explicitly offer loopback; others may require third-party virtual audio cables.

Build and Portability

If you travel or work in multiple locations, size and power matter. Bus-powered interfaces (no wall wart) are easier to pack. The Synido is the smallest here, while the Focusrite 2i2 is still compact but slightly larger. Metal chassis are preferable for durability — the Focusrite and PreSonus models use metal, while the M-Audio units are predominantly plastic. USB-C connectivity is forward-looking but not strictly necessary for performance; USB 2.0 Type-B works fine with proper drivers.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between an audio interface and a sound card?

A sound card is usually a built-in chip on your motherboard designed for output (speakers) and basic input (headset mic). An audio interface is an external device with dedicated preamps, higher-quality converters, and multiple input/output options. It also supports professional driver standards like ASIO that dramatically reduce latency for real-time monitoring.

Do I need an audio interface for gaming?

If you use a USB gaming headset with a built-in DAC, you do not need an interface. But if you want to pair a high-quality XLR microphone (like a Shure SM7B or a Rode NT1) with a PC for in-game chat or streaming, an audio interface is essential to provide phantom power and clean gain. The FIFINE SC3 is designed specifically for this scenario.

Can I use an audio interface with a USB microphone?

Most audio interfaces have XLR or combo inputs that do not accept USB microphones. USB mics (like the Blue Yeti) are self-contained and do not need an interface. If you plan to upgrade from a USB mic to an XLR mic later, keep your current USB mic and buy an interface when you are ready to use the XLR mic.

What is phantom power and do I need it?

Phantom power (often labeled +48V) is a voltage sent through an XLR cable to power condenser microphones. Dynamic microphones (like the Shure SM58) do not require it and are usually unaffected by it. Ribbon microphones can be damaged by phantom power, and you should not engage it with ribbons. Most interfaces have a global phantom power switch, so be mindful of which mic is connected.

How do I reduce latency when recording?

Set your buffer size as low as it can go without causing clicks or pops. In your DAW, choose your interface's ASIO driver (not Windows Audio or WDM). Use the direct monitoring feature on the interface to hear your input without any digital round-trip. If latency persists, try increasing the buffer size slightly until the audio is stable.

Can I connect studio monitors to an audio interface?

Yes. Most interfaces have balanced TRS outputs (or RCA outputs on budget models) that connect to powered studio monitors. You will need balanced cables (TRS to TRS or TRS to XLR, depending on your monitors) for the cleanest signal and best noise rejection. RCA outputs are unbalanced and more susceptible to interference over longer runs.

What software do I need to start recording?

Every interface on this list includes at least one DAW. Ableton Live Lite, Pro Tools Intro, Studio One Artist, and MPC Beats are common bundles. They are limited versions of full DAWs but contain enough features to record, edit, and mix full songs. You can use any of them to get started without additional purchases.

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Final Verdict

The best audio interface for PC is the one that matches your recording needs without unnecessary complexity. For most home studio producers and serious musicians, the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen is the clear top pick: excellent preamps, 120 dB dynamic range, auto-gain features, and a generous software bundle make it the most versatile interface in this group. If you work alone and record one source at a time, the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen gives you the same converter quality in a smaller, more affordable package.

Streamers and podcasters should look at the MAONO PS22 Lite for its loopback and routing flexibility, or the FIFINE SC3 if they want physical faders and sound effects. The PreSonus AudioBox 96 is the best choice for anyone who needs MIDI connectivity and prefers Studio One as their DAW. For absolute beginners on the tightest possible setup, the M-Audio M-Track Duo provides two usable inputs at a very accessible level.

If you are still undecided, ask yourself one question: how many sources do you need to record at once? One mic? Go with the Focusrite Solo 4th Gen. A mic and a guitar? The 2i2 4th Gen or the PreSonus. Two mics for a podcast? The 2i2 4th Gen or the M-Track Duo. Whatever you choose, any of these ten interfaces will transform your PC into a capable recording studio.

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