Premier Guitar features affiliate links to help support our content. We may earn a commission on any affiliated purchases.

10 Recording Interfaces for Every Budget

You've got your guitar tone nailed, now you gotta figure out a way to get it into your preferred DAW....

Interfaces are the beating heart of our home-recording efforts, and they continue to get better, smaller, and easier to use—opening the doors to songcrafters of all abilities and experience. Here, with a wide range of prices, are 10 varied interface options, all of which can take your tunes to the next level.

UR24C

This compact interface features class-A D-PRE preamps, latency free monitoring with DSP effects, MIDI input/output, and a loopback function for live-performance streaming.

STEINBERG
$249

Model 12

This all-in-one recording/workflow station features a multi-track recorder, USB audio/MIDI interfaces, DAW control functions, and podcasting capabilities including smartphone inputs.

TASCAM
$599

ioStation 24c

Featuring a pair of XMAX class-A analog preamps and high-definition 24-bit, 192 kHz analog-digital converters, this ergonomically designed interface provides loads of control in a compact package.

PRESONUS
$299

M4

This 4-in/4-out USB-C interface provides 120 dB of dynamic range, an ESS-driven headphone out, and the same converter technology found in interfaces costing thousands.

MOTU
$219

AudioFuse Rev2

Designed for project studios to professional productions, this interface features stout construction, DiscretePRO mic preamps, ultra-low latency, and a host of connectivity options.

ARTURIA
$599

Go Twin

This pixie-sized interface still packs in two high-quality preamps, real-time signal- and peak-level indicators, 48V phantom power, and oversized gain dials for precise control.

TC-HELICON
$149

Babyface Pro FS

Sleek and powerful, and boasting onboard metering with peak and RMS calculation, this 12-in/12-out low-profile interface allows deep control over levels, sub mixes, and gain structures.

RME
$899

AIR 192|14

Featuring low-noise Crystal preamps and specially designed gain and impedance stages, this 8-in/4-out interface covers everything one needs to craft 24-bit/192 kHz studio-quality tunes.

M-AUDIO
$299

Symphony Desktop

This most affordable Symphony series interface still boasts the company’s cutting-edge components and circuit design, plus features like Apogee’s Alloy mic-preamp emulation.

APOGEE
$299

Apollo Twin X

With high-end A/D and D/A conversion technology from UA’s Apollo X rackmount interfaces, this desktop unit features Unison mic preamps for impressive models of classic preamps and guitar amps.

UNIVERSAL AUDIO
$399


Featuring authentic tape behavior controls and full MIDI implementation, the EC-1 is a premium addition to any guitarist's setup.

Read MoreShow less
- YouTube

The final installment with Santa Cruz Guitar Company founder Richard Hoover details the remaining steps that takes a collection of wood and wire into an impeccable instrument. Hoover explains how the company's craftsman delicately sand and finish the acoustics with a light touch to keeps them shiny and singing. He describes the pragmatic reasoning behind finishing the body and neck separately before marrying the two. He describes the balance between mechanical precision with the Plek machine and luthier artistry for the individualistic, hands-on set ups and intonation. Finally, Richard outlines why the company is now designing strings specific to their guitars.

Neil Young announces the love earth world tour, kicking off this summer.

Read MoreShow less

With a career that extends over 60 years, where do you begin? Jason and Nick tackle Clapton’s extensive discography and try to suss out the different eras of his career.

Read MoreShow less