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10 Best Ios Audio Interface 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface for Guitarists, Vocalists, Podcasters or Producers to record and playback studio quality sound

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,392
Connectivity
Audio Quality
Power Source

Most important from
51079 reviews

Connectivity
Handles output and input extremely well, making it versatile for switching between connected devices.
Audio Quality
Excellent build quality with low noise and distortion, meeting all manufacturer specifications.
Power Source
Works well without the need for an AC/DC power adapter, reducing noise interference.
Compatibility with Recording Software
Works flawlessly on Linux with the right kernel and community-made projects.

The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface is an excellent choice for musicians, podcasters, and anyone looking to achieve high-quality audio recordings. One of its standout strengths is the studio-quality sound it delivers, thanks to its high-performance mic pre-amps and converters that allow recordings up to 24-bit/192kHz. This clarity is particularly beneficial for capturing instruments and vocals without distortion, making it ideal for guitarists and vocalists alike.

In terms of connectivity, the Scarlett Solo offers two high-headroom instrument inputs, which means you can plug in both a guitar and a microphone simultaneously. The USB-C connection ensures compatibility across various devices, including Mac, Windows, and iOS systems, enhancing its versatility for users.

Portability is another strong point of the Scarlett Solo, as its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to transport, which is great for recording on the go. Additionally, the Easy Start online tool provides new users with an accessible way to get set up quickly, making it user-friendly for those who may not be as tech-savvy.

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,392
Connectivity
Audio Quality
Power Source

Most important from
51079 reviews

Connectivity
Handles output and input extremely well, making it versatile for switching between connected devices.
Audio Quality
Excellent build quality with low noise and distortion, meeting all manufacturer specifications.
Power Source
Works well without the need for an AC/DC power adapter, reducing noise interference.
Compatibility with Recording Software
Works flawlessly on Linux with the right kernel and community-made projects.
#2

Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface for Recording, Producing and Engineering — High-Fidelity, Studio Quality Recording, with Transparent Playback

Rating
9.4
Number of Inputs and Outputs
Audio Quality
Power Source

Most important from
2795 reviews

Number of Inputs and Outputs
Independent power and dual headphone jacks are appreciated features, allowing for additional monitoring options.
Audio Quality
The interface is noted for being noiseless, with no added crackles or hiss when adjusting levels.
Power Source
Independent power and dual headphone jacks are appreciated features, allowing for additional monitoring options.
Compatibility with Recording Software
The Focusrite Control software stands out as very easy to use, with a loopback feature that enhances streaming without needing additional software.

The Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface is an excellent choice for musicians and audio professionals looking for high-quality sound and versatility in recording. One of its standout strengths is the eight microphone preamps, which deliver clear and transparent audio thanks to the 'Air' feature, making it great for vocal and instrument recordings. The 24-bit/192 kHz conversion ensures studio-quality playback, which many users appreciate for both music production and engineering work. Additionally, low latency with class-leading drivers means you'll experience minimal delay while recording, enhancing the workflow.

The unit boasts a total of 18 channels, allowing for multiple inputs and outputs, perfect for larger projects or ensemble recordings. Its dual headphone and speaker outputs with independent controls are beneficial for collaborative sessions, as they let different users adjust their listening levels without affecting others. Moreover, the ability to expand with an additional eight inputs and outputs over ADAT opens up even more possibilities for professional setups.

However, it's essential to consider some drawbacks as well. The 18i20 is somewhat bulky and weighs around 4.67 pounds, which might be less ideal for those needing portability for mobile recording sessions. Also, while it is compatible with most audio recording software, users must ensure their specific setup meets any technical requirements. Finally, being a USB interface, relying on a computer for operation means it's not as flexible as some standalone devices.

If you're looking for a robust audio interface that excels in sound quality and expandability, the Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen is a strong contender, particularly suited for home studios and professional environments alike.

Rating
9.4
Number of Inputs and Outputs
Audio Quality
Power Source

Most important from
2795 reviews

Number of Inputs and Outputs
Independent power and dual headphone jacks are appreciated features, allowing for additional monitoring options.
Audio Quality
The interface is noted for being noiseless, with no added crackles or hiss when adjusting levels.
Power Source
Independent power and dual headphone jacks are appreciated features, allowing for additional monitoring options.
Compatibility with Recording Software
The Focusrite Control software stands out as very easy to use, with a loopback feature that enhances streaming without needing additional software.
#3

IK Multimedia iRig USB Guitar Audio Interface - 24-bit 48 kHz Music Recording Studio Equipment Include USB C Cable For iPad, Mac And PC, Guitar Accessories, Recording Device

Rating
9.1
Connectivity
Portability
Compatibility with Recording Software

Most important from
215 reviews

Connectivity
Effortlessly connects electric guitar to an iPad, making it perfect for using apps like Gibson and adding effect pedals.
Portability
A reliable mobile sound dongle compatible with Android devices, expanding its usability beyond iPhones.
Compatibility with Recording Software
Works seamlessly with Garage Band and the included Tonex software, though some users face issues installing software on Mac.

The IK Multimedia iRig USB Guitar Audio Interface provides high-quality sound with its 24-bit 48kHz resolution, which captures detailed audio, making it great for both practice and recording sessions. Its universal compatibility with Mac, PC, iPad, and the latest iPhones (excluding models requiring lightning cables) ensures it can be used across different devices without much hassle.

The interface features multiple outputs, including a headphone output for direct monitoring, and an amp out, making it versatile for various setups. It is a practical choice for musicians on the go due to its robust, portable design, and lightweight build, weighing only 1.9 ounces and measuring 1.5 x 3.9 x 1 inches. Additionally, it comes with a suite of recording software and plugins, allowing users to start creating music immediately.

However, a significant drawback is its incompatibility with lightning cables, limiting its use with older iOS devices. This audio interface is ideal for guitarists and musicians seeking a reliable, portable solution for recording and practicing across various devices.

Rating
9.1
Connectivity
Portability
Compatibility with Recording Software

Most important from
215 reviews

Connectivity
Effortlessly connects electric guitar to an iPad, making it perfect for using apps like Gibson and adding effect pedals.
Portability
A reliable mobile sound dongle compatible with Android devices, expanding its usability beyond iPhones.
Compatibility with Recording Software
Works seamlessly with Garage Band and the included Tonex software, though some users face issues installing software on Mac.

Buying Guide for the Best Ios Audio Interface

Choosing the right iOS audio interface can significantly enhance your audio recording and production experience. An audio interface is a device that allows you to connect microphones, instruments, and other audio sources to your iOS device, providing better sound quality and more control over your recordings. When selecting an audio interface, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure it meets your needs and delivers the best performance for your specific use case.
ConnectivityConnectivity refers to how the audio interface connects to your iOS device. This is important because it determines compatibility and ease of use. Common connectivity options include Lightning, USB, and USB-C. Lightning connectors are specifically designed for iOS devices, ensuring a seamless connection. USB and USB-C interfaces may require adapters but offer broader compatibility with other devices. Choose a connectivity option that matches your iOS device and consider future-proofing for newer models.
Number of Inputs and OutputsThe number of inputs and outputs on an audio interface determines how many audio sources you can connect simultaneously and how you can route the audio. This is crucial for recording multiple instruments or microphones at once. Interfaces with 1-2 inputs are suitable for solo musicians or podcasters, while those with 4 or more inputs are better for bands or more complex recording setups. Consider your recording needs and choose an interface that provides enough inputs and outputs for your current and future projects.
Audio QualityAudio quality is determined by the interface's preamps and converters, which affect the clarity and fidelity of your recordings. This is important for achieving professional-sounding results. Look for interfaces with high-quality preamps and high-resolution converters (24-bit/96kHz or higher) for the best sound quality. If you're a professional musician or producer, prioritize interfaces with superior audio quality. For casual use, a mid-range interface with decent audio quality should suffice.
PortabilityPortability refers to the size and weight of the audio interface, which is important if you plan to record on the go. Smaller, lightweight interfaces are easier to carry and set up in different locations. If you need to travel frequently or record in various environments, choose a compact and portable interface. For home studio use, portability may be less of a concern, and you can opt for a larger, more feature-rich interface.
Power SourceThe power source of an audio interface can be either bus-powered (drawing power from the iOS device) or externally powered (using an AC adapter). This is important for convenience and reliability. Bus-powered interfaces are more portable and convenient, as they don't require an additional power source. However, they may drain your iOS device's battery faster. Externally powered interfaces provide more stable power and are better for longer recording sessions. Choose based on your recording environment and power availability.
Compatibility with Recording SoftwareCompatibility with recording software ensures that the audio interface works seamlessly with your preferred recording apps. This is important for a smooth workflow and maximizing the interface's capabilities. Most interfaces are compatible with popular iOS recording apps like GarageBand, but it's always good to check for specific compatibility. If you use a particular app, make sure the interface supports it fully. This will help you avoid any software-related issues and ensure a hassle-free recording experience.

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