10 Best Cheap Audio Interface Picks for Vocals and Guitar

The M-AUDIO M-Track Solo is the best compact audio interface for most buyers, earning that spot with a combo XLR input, phantom power, and MPC Beats software included right in the box. It handles vocals, guitar, and line signals without making you buy extra gear first.

The one thing separating these picks is how many inputs they offer and what devices they connect to — some plug straight into phones, while others need a laptop or desktop.

• Best Overall: M-AUDIO M-Track Solo — single combo input with phantom power and included production software.
• Most Compact Design: Jolgoo 2×2 USB — metal housing with dual cables for computers and mobile devices.
• Best Dual Input: M-AUDIO M-Track Duo — two combo inputs for recording vocals and instruments together.
• Best Phantom Power: BOMGE Mini 2-Channel — dedicated 48V switch plus independent RCA stereo outputs.
• Highest Preamp Gain: YONDRIX 2×2 USB — 60dB gain with HI-Z switching for quiet microphones.
• Best Mobile Connectivity: MAONO P2 Hybrid — dual USB ports with MFi-certified phone and tablet support.
• Best Brand Heritage: PreSonus AudioBox 96 — Class-A preamps and MIDI I/O from an established studio brand.
• Best Pro Preamps: Focusrite Scarlett Solo — switchable Air mode and three-year warranty coverage.
• Best High Resolution: PIYONE 2×2 Interface — illuminated LED rings on each knob at 24-bit/192kHz fidelity.
• Best for Streaming: MAONO PS22 Lite — dedicated broadcast modes and ProStudio routing software included.

1. M-AUDIO M-Track Solo USB Audio Interface

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Best for: solo creators needing one simple recording path

The M-AUDIO M-Track Solo keeps things straightforward. You get one combo XLR and Line input alongside a separate Line and Instrument input, which covers a microphone and a guitar at the same time. The Crystal Preamp feeds condenser mics through built-in phantom power, so your voice stays clear without extra boxes on the desk.

Monitoring is just as easy. A USB/Direct switch lets you hear yourself with zero latency, while the 1/8″ headphone output and stereo RCA outputs give you two ways to listen back. You’ll also find MPC Beats software from Akai Professional in the box, giving you production tools before you even open a browser to look for more.

Anyone who needs to record two microphones simultaneously should skip this one, since it only lists a single XLR input.

Pros

• One combo XLR/Line input with phantom power
• Separate Line/Instrument input
• 1/8″ headphone and stereo RCA outputs
• USB/Direct switch for zero latency monitoring
• Includes MPC Beats software from Akai Professional

Cons

• Limited to 48kHz audio resolution, so higher sample rate workflows require a different unit

2. Jolgoo 2×2 USB Audio Interface

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Best for: musicians recording on laptops and mobile devices

The Jolgoo 2×2 USB stands out because of its build. A rugged metal housing shields against interference, which matters if you’re setting up near routers or power strips. It pushes 24-Bit/192kHz audio, capturing high-fidelity detail whether you’re tracking acoustic guitars or spoken word. Dual XLR/Line combo inputs feature independent gain controls and LED Peak indicators, so you can watch your levels instead of guessing when distortion hits.

You’ll still need to supply your own recording software, as the listing names compatibility with Audacity, Ableton, and Pro Tools but includes none of them.

Pros

• 24-Bit/192kHz audio conversion
• Metal housing for interference shielding
• Independent gain controls with LED Peak indicators
• Includes both USB-C and USB-A cables
• Driver-free compatibility with iOS and Android

Cons

• Box includes cables and hardware but no recording software, so that’s a second purchase

3. M-AUDIO M-Track Duo USB Audio Interface

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Best for: podcasters recording two voices at once

If you need two microphones running together, the M-AUDIO M-Track Duo gives you exactly that. It features dedicated connections for a pair of microphones or instruments, both equipped with phantom power.

The outputs step up as well. You get a 1/4″ headphone output and stereo 1/4″ outputs, which fit standard studio monitor cables without adapters. The USB/Direct switch is here too, keeping latency out of your headphones while you track. It delivers 48kHz audio resolution and ships with the same MPC Beats software from Akai Professional, making it a complete starting point for beatmakers or interviewers.

Recording at higher resolutions isn’t an option here, as the spec sheet caps the conversion at 48kHz.

Pros

• Two combo XLR/Line/Instrument inputs
• Phantom power available on both channels
• 1/4″ headphone and stereo 1/4″ outputs
• USB/Direct switch for zero latency monitoring
• Includes MPC Beats software

Cons

• Maximum 48kHz audio resolution limits high-fidelity recording sessions

4. BOMGE mini 2 Channel USB Audio Interface

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Best for: live performers connecting PA speakers directly

The BOMGE Mini 2-Channel leans heavily into connectivity. Alongside its dual microphone and line connections with 48V phantom power, it lists two independent RCA stereo jacks. These let you hook up PA speakers, powered monitors, or amplifiers right away. You can even choose between balanced TRS and unbalanced TS connections depending on the gear you already own, which saves you from hunting down specific adapter cables.

It operates at 48 kHz audio resolution and draws power straight from your computer’s USB port. The ultra-low noise design suits beginners stepping into voiceovers or guitar tracking, while the small size fits inside a gig bag. A 1/4″ headphone output and stereo 1/4″ outputs handle monitoring, and the USB/Direct switch eliminates delay during live takes. Plug-and-play support covers Mac OS and Windows XP or later without any driver downloads.

Shoppers using older tablets or phones won’t find them supported, since the listing specifies Mac OS and Windows XP or later only.

Pros

• Two combo XLR/MIC/LINE inputs with 48V phantom power
• Two independent RCA stereo jacks for monitors and amps
• Supports both balanced TRS and unbalanced TS connections
• Ultra-low noise design
• No drivers required for Mac OS and Windows

Cons

• Compatibility is listed only for Mac OS and Windows XP or later, ruling out mobile device users

5. YONDRIX 2×2 USB

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Best for: vocalists using low-output dynamic microphones

The YONDRIX 2×2 USB brings 60dB of preamp gain to the table. That number matters if you’re using a dynamic microphone that usually sounds quiet unless you push the volume hard. HI-Z switching is also listed, letting you plug in a guitar or bass directly without losing high-end detail.

It records at high-resolution studio quality and needs no drivers for Windows or Mac systems. Dual XLR/Line combo inputs handle two sources, while 48V phantom power supports condenser mics, indicated by a dedicated light so you know exactly when it’s active. Balanced TRS outputs feed your speakers, and a separate headphone output has its own level control. The box includes a USB A to C cable, a USB B 2.0 to USB A cable, and a user manual.

You’ll notice there’s no mention of iOS or Android support, so mobile recording requires a computer.

Pros

• 60dB preamp gain for quiet microphones
• 24-bit/192kHz recording resolution
• HI-Z switching for direct instrument connection
• Dedicated phantom power indicator light
• Separate headphone level control

Cons

• Package includes USB A to C and USB B 2.0 to A cables, leaving out native USB-C to C connections

6. MAONO P2 Hybrid USB Audio Interface Dual XLR

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Best for: creators recording on phones and computers together

The MAONO P2 Hybrid solves a specific problem: plugging into a phone and a laptop at the same time. Dual USB ports with MFi-certified connectivity mean you can track in GarageBand on an iPad while sending audio to a PC. It captures sound at the highest resolution available on this list through dual XLR inputs, backed by a -130dB EIN rating for dead-silent recordings. ASIO support is listed for lower-latency monitoring when producing music.

Controls are built for live work. An independent mute button stops unwanted noise during instrument swaps, and Stream Mode sends your voice equally to both channels for a balanced broadcast. The ergonomic 15° tilt angle keeps knobs visible, while the aluminum-alloy housing handles daily use. Built-in loopback captures your voice, backing tracks, and desktop audio together, which is essential for reaction videos or tutorials.

The 56dB of preamp gain might fall short for notoriously quiet microphones that demand more lift. It matches the PIYONE 2×2 Interface in recording fidelity, but the PIYONE lacks the dual USB ports and MFi certification the P2 lists.

Pros

• Dual USB ports with MFi-certified connectivity
• 24-bit/192kHz quality with -130dB EIN
• Independent mute and Stream Mode controls
• Ergonomic 15° tilt angle with aluminum-alloy housing
• Built-in loopback for desktop and instrument audio

Cons

• 56dB preamp gain sets a ceiling for extremely low-output microphones requiring more amplification

7. PreSonus AudioBox 96 25th Anniversary USB Audio Interface

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Best for: producers needing MIDI connections and studio software

The PreSonus AudioBox 96 carries a 25th Anniversary badge, pointing to a long run in personal recording. It features two Class-A mic preamps and two high-headroom instrument inputs, delivering up to 24-bit/96 kHz playback and recording. What truly separates it’s the inclusion of MIDI I/O. If you have an older keyboard controller or a drum machine, you can plug it straight in without buying a separate MIDI interface.

Monitoring is handled by a mixer control knob, letting you blend the live input with your computer’s playback to create a custom zero-latency mix. It runs entirely on USB 2.0 bus power, so it travels easily. The software bundle is massive, listing Studio One Artist, Ableton Live Lite, and the Studio Magic Plug-In suite. You also get a high-powered headphone output and balanced ¼” TRS outputs for your monitors.

The 96 kHz maximum sample rate trails behind several other interfaces on this page.

Pros

• Two Class-A mic preamps
• MIDI I/O for keyboards and drum machines
• Mixer control for blending inputs and playback
• Includes Studio One Artist and Ableton Live Lite
• Bus-powered via USB 2.0

Cons

• Recording resolution peaks at 24-bit/96 kHz, falling below the 192kHz limit of newer units

8. Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB-C Audio Interface

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Best for: singers wanting brighter acoustic recordings

The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen centers on its preamps. A switchable Air mode alters the frequency response to add clarity, which is especially useful when recording acoustic guitars or breathy vocals. High-performance converters handle up to 24-bit/192kHz resolution, ensuring your tracks retain their detail. Gain Halos surround the dials, lighting up to warn you before clipping ruins a take.

Two high-headroom instrument inputs let you plug in directly, while two low-noise balanced outputs send clean audio to your speakers. It connects via USB-C, fitting modern laptops without adapters. The software package includes Pro Tools Intro+, Ableton Live Lite, Cubase LE, and the Hitmaker Expansion for effects and mastering. Backing it all is a three-year warranty covering manufacturing faults anywhere in the world.

Anyone relying on legacy USB-A ports exclusively will need an adapter, as the unit is listed specifically as USB-C.

Pros

• Switchable Air mode for added clarity
• 24-bit/192kHz high-performance converters
• Visual Gain Halos prevent clipping
• USB-C connection
• Three-year warranty coverage

Cons

• Listed as a USB-C interface, requiring an adapter for computers with only USB-A ports

9. PIYONE 2×2 Interface

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Best for: home studios operating in dim lighting

The PIYONE 2×2 Interface catches the eye with fixed LED light rings on each gain knob. Beyond aesthetics, this helps you see your levels in dark rooms without turning on overhead lights. Underneath, it processes audio at 24-bit/192kHz using high-performance converters for wide dynamic range. Two combo jacks accept XLR or TRS cables, and integrated 48V phantom power drives demanding condenser microphones cleanly.

It connects via a modern USB C port that handles both data transfer and bus power, eliminating external power bricks. The class-compliant design means no drivers are needed for Mac or PC setups. A Direct Monitor feature ensures zero-latency tracking, while the built-in 3.5mm headphone jack accepts standard headsets directly. Hi-Z input support is also listed for plugging in guitars without losing tone.

Users with professional studio headphones terminating in 1/4″ plugs will need an adapter for the 3.5mm jack.

Pros

• Fixed LED light rings on gain knobs
• 24-bit/192kHz resolution with wide dynamic range
• USB C port handles data and bus power
• Built-in 3.5mm headphone jack
• Hi-Z input for guitars

Cons

• 3.5mm headphone jack rules out standard 1/4″ studio headphones without an adapter

10. MAONO PS22 Lite USB Audio Interface

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Best for: streamers routing game and voice audio separately

The MAONO PS22 Lite targets broadcasters. It includes ProStudio Routing Software, which opens virtual channels and loopbacks to manage game audio, music, and your voice independently. Dedicated modes for recording, live broadcast, and instruments make switching setups fast. It captures sound at 24-bit/192kHz with a 106dB dynamic range, keeping streams detailed and loud enough without distortion.

Hardware-wise, it packs 56 dB of preamp gain and 48V phantom power for condenser microphones. A dedicated instrument input adjusts impedance for guitars. The dynamic light ring shows input status at a glance, and the side-mounted headphone jack keeps cables out of your way. It’s designed to be small and light, fitting in the palm of your hand while remaining compatible with Mac, Windows, and iPads.

Those needing to record two microphones at once will find only a single XLR input described here.

Pros

• ProStudio Routing Software with loopbacks
• 24-bit/192kHz resolution with 106dB dynamic range
• Dedicated modes for broadcast, recording, and instruments
• Dynamic light ring indicates input status
• Side-mounted headphone jack reduces clutter

Cons

• Designed for a single microphone and one instrument, limiting multi-guest podcasts

Also Worth Considering

The Tiimge USB Audio Interface is a 2×2 recording interface offering 24Bit/192kHz studio sound, 48V phantom power, and XLR/TRS inputs for low latency monitoring.

The XTUGA USB Audio Interface is a computer recording sound card featuring an XLR input, a 3.5mm microphone jack, and ultra-low latency plug-and-play operation. The PIYONE 2×2 Interface surpasses it on resolution, printing 24-bit/192kHz fidelity against the XTUGA’s unstated sample rate.

The JOLGOO USB Audio Interface is a red 24-Bit/192kHz plug-and-play recording sound card. Buyers drawn to the red finish might prefer it for visual matching in their setup.

How We Chose

To earn a place, a listing had to state its sample rate, specify the types of inputs provided, and confirm compatibility with modern operating systems. Some provide physical switches for zero-latency listening, while others rely on bundled software to manage loopbacks for streaming.

How to Choose the Right Audio Interface

Number of inputs you actually need

Decide what you’re recording first. A solo singer with a guitar needs fewer connections than a podcaster hosting guests. The M-AUDIO M-Track Solo provides one XLR input, while the M-AUDIO M-Track Duo lists two combo inputs for simultaneous recording. Pick the channel count that matches your typical session.

Sample rate and bit depth

Higher numbers capture more detail. Most picks here print 24-bit/192kHz resolution, like the YONDRIX 2×2 USB and the PIYONE 2×2 Interface. The PreSonus AudioBox 96 stops at 24-bit/96 kHz. Match this figure to your software’s requirements before buying.

Included software and cables

Check what arrives in the box. The Focusrite Scarlett Solo bundles Pro Tools Intro+ and Ableton Live Lite, saving you from downloading free trials. The Jolgoo 2×2 USB includes both USB-C and USB-A cables, whereas others list only one type.

Output connections for your speakers

Look at your monitors before choosing. The BOMGE Mini 2-Channel uses RCA stereo jacks, fitting consumer speakers easily. The M-AUDIO M-Track Duo relies on 1/4″ outputs, which suit professional studio monitors better. Ensure the interface matches your existing cables.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

The M-AUDIO M-Track Solo remains the best compact audio interface for most people because it pairs a combo input with phantom power and included software, keeping your desk clear. If you only need basic tracking without extras, the M-AUDIO M-Track Duo offers a simpler dual-input layout. Pick the one that matches your cables, plug it in, and start recording.