Best Audio Interface For MAC : For all budgets
As a result of their simple and stable operating systems, Apple computers have become the norm in the creative industries. Windows PCs may also be used to create music, although it can be difficult to locate equipment and software that work together.
Assuming you have a Mac computer, we will take a look at the best audio interface for MAC. Most of these should also be compatible with a windows PC.
If you are aware about audio interface or mixer then you can read our post here.
Before we go into details , here is a list of the best audio interfaces for MAC for all budgets.
What is a Podcast Audio Interface?
Podcast Audio interface is basically a device which connects your microphones to your computer.
It is a simpler device and it does not have all the knobs and sliders and things on the front. You do have a gain option so you can turn your gain up and down but that’s about it.
And so, what the audio interface does is it takes your analog input, so in the same example, 2 microphones go into the audio interface. The podcast audio interface acts as a great sound card and it processes that sound, converts it to digital format, and then sends it to your computer usually via USB or Thunderbolt or Firewire.
It then comes up on your computer as 2 different tracks and you can then do adjustments in post-production so you can adjust the sound levels of each person’s microphone.
Unlike the 3.5 mm jack going into your computer, podcast audio interfaces preserve the quality of audio and provide a far more professional sounding audio. Some of the audio interfaces also have pre-amps which can used to amplify certain inputs for recording purpose.
Podcast audio interface is generally smaller in size and has 2 inputs in most standard devices. More inputs are also available though commonly now.
Best Audio Interface for Mac 2022
Lets take a look at some of the best Audio interfaces available for MAC laptops and desktops available in 2022.
PreSonus Studio 24c USB-C Interface
Similar to the Scarlett 2i2, the PreSonus Studio 24c has a basic user interface. One of its most notable features is the inclusion of two award-winning XMAX preamps and a dedicated mixer knob for fine-tuning the mix of input and playback material. This is one of the best audio interface for MAC in budget range.
Because it uses USB-C (rather than Thunderbolt 3), you won’t need a dongle to use it with your MacBook. Studio One Artist, if you don’t already have one, and the Studio Magic Plugin Suite, which includes plug-ins from Maag Audio, Lexicon, and Arturia, are also included with the Studio 24c.
Audient iD44 for Mac
Audient is a manufacturer of high-quality user interfaces at a reasonable cost. The iD44 has four console mic preamps, class-leading conversion, ADAT expansion, and more when you need extra inputs.
The iD44 is simply a desktop version of the Audient iD44. It has the same discrete circuit architecture as the ASP8024-HE console’s preamps. With a hint of analogue flavour, these preamps will add character to your recordings.
Additionally, this interface has separate Talkback, Dim, and Cut controls as well as other monitor outputs and ADAT connection for expanding your rig’s capabilities. The iD44 is a fantastic bargain and a top selection for the finest Mac audio interface, with all of its capabilities.
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Generation
If you’re looking for a high-quality audio interface, go no further than Scarlett 2i2. In addition to two new Scarlett mic preamps, the 3rd generation Scarlett 2i2 has 24-bit/192kHz converters, an enhanced gain structure, minimal latency, and Hi-Z inputs.
Focusrite’s ‘Air’ mode has been added to the mic preamps, mimicking the company’s ISA console transformers. Makes your recordings seem “expensive” by opening up the high-end! It can be turned on and off as needed, so you may experiment with the settings to get the results you want.
The Scarlett 2i2 is one of the best Mac audio interfaces on the market, regardless of whether it’s your first or simply a backup. Since your MacBook only has USB-C ports (to connect to your computer), you’ll need to purchase an adapter to make it work with Thunderbolt 3 and the cable that comes standard with it.
MOTU M4 4×4 USB-C Audio Interface
This audio interface has some interesting features and is also budget friendly.
Speed: Thanks to MOTU’s highly built USB drivers, the M4 delivers class-leading, ultra-low 2.5 ms Round Trip Latency for monitoring live inputs (mic, guitar, or keyboard) via your computer (at 96 kHz with a 32 sample buffer)
Nothing is more important in recording and mixing than getting the levels just right. A full colour LCD with level metres for all inputs and outputs distinguishes the M4 as the only audio interface in its class. Get your sound exactly right with professional-level volume control and feedback.
In order to blend computer output with live microphones and/or guitar inputs from the M4 in your host software for live streaming or podcasting, the driver offers easy loopback channels to your host computer. There has never been a better time to listen to music through streaming or podcasts.
An Engineering Tradition: Every MOTU audio interface is built on decades of award-winning product engineering for popular songs, huge tours and blockbuster movies.
Connect the M2 to your Mac or PC and start recording songs using the accompanying Performer Lite or Live Lite production tools, as well as hundreds of loops, one-shots, and sounds from Big Fish Audio, Lucidsamples, and Loopmasters.
Antelope Orion Studio Synergy Core
This is a Thunderbolt 3 audio interface for professional use. Inputs include mic, line, and Hi-Z instrument signals on XLR-1/4′′ connectors.
Line and mic signals are handled by eight additional preamps on the rear panel, which accept XLR-1/4′′ inputs. Additional I/O options include ADAT expansion, Thunderbolt 3 inputs of up to 32 channels, and USB 2.0 Type-B inputs of up to 24 channels.
Up to 16 channels of I/O may be added via DB25 connections. Antelope also has its own ecosystem of DSP plugins, comparable to that of Universal Audio. This interface comes with 50 Antelope plug-ins.
This is a top-of-the-line interface that may serve as the foundation of a large studio setup. This is one of the best audio interface for MAC in a professional setup.
If you are a wedding or wildlife photographer then you might want to look at a 3 point slinger.
