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Best Audio Interface Under $100 2026: 7 Picks for Home Studios

Entry-level audio interfaces under $100 for recording guitar, vocals, and instruments at home

Updated

BEST OVERALL
Focusrite Scarlett Solo (3rd Gen)
$60–$90
CHEAPEST
Behringer UMC22
$40–$50
TWO-MIC
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (3rd Gen)
$80–$120

An audio interface is the bridge between your guitar, microphone, and computer. It converts analog signals to digital audio (A/D conversion), adds microphone preamps with phantom power for condensers, and provides direct monitoring (listening to your performance with zero latency). All professional home recordings start with an audio interface.

We researched 35+ budget interfaces and ranked the 7 best under $100 new, with used prices included. Each pick emphasizes value—what you get at this price point and what to verify when buying secondhand.

The 7 Best Audio Interface Under $100

#1

Focusrite Scarlett Solo (3rd Gen)

USB Audio Interface · 2-in/2-out, 24-bit/192kHz, one mic pre, one instrument input$120 new | $60–$90 used

Best for: Solo artists, singer-songwriters, guitarists recording at home

The Scarlett Solo is the world's best-selling audio interface; designed for one-person recording, the Air mode adds high-frequency presence to microphones. Used examples from the 3rd generation at $60–$80 are exceptional value.

What to check used: Verify USB connectivity is solid and the headphone jack does not crackle. The Air mode button should click firmly. Check the mic preamp for noise (hiss).

#2

Behringer UMC22

USB Audio Interface · 2-in/2-out, 48V phantom power, MIDAS preamp$40–$50 new

Best for: Beginners who want phantom power for condenser mics at the lowest price

MIDAS preamps in a $40 interface is remarkable; the UMC22 was designed by the Behringer/MIDAS engineering team. Sound quality exceeds the price dramatically. Phantom power enables AT2020, Blue Yeti XLR, etc.

What to check used: New only (rarely on used market). Budget models sometimes have hum issues; test immediately with a condenser mic. The metal chassis can feel cheap.

#3

Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (3rd Gen)

USB Audio Interface · 2-in/2-out, 2 mic preamps, 24-bit/192kHz$170 new | $80–$120 used

Best for: Artists who record two sources simultaneously (voice + guitar, duets)

The 2i2 adds a second XLR/combo input vs the Solo; record two tracks simultaneously. Industry standard for bedroom producers.

What to check used: Verify both preamps work and respond to gain knobs equally. Check USB connector for loose connection noise. Air mode on both channels should engage cleanly.

#4

Native Instruments Komplete Audio 1

USB Audio Interface · 1-in/2-out, 24-bit/192kHz, NI software bundle$70–$90 new | $40–$60 used

Best for: NI software users; producers wanting DAW software included

The KA1 comes with Komplete Start (worth $200+ in plugins) included; best value when you factor in the included software.

What to check used: Verify the software license is transferable or still active on used units. The single input limits simultaneous recording to one source.

#5

PreSonus AudioBox USB 96

USB Audio Interface · 2-in/2-out, 24-bit/96kHz, included Studio One Artist$100 new | $55–$75 used

Best for: Logic Pro users on Mac or Studio One users

The AudioBox 96 comes bundled with Studio One Artist DAW (worth $100); exceptional overall value. Solid build quality.

What to check used: Verify the Studio One license is included and valid. The 96kHz limit is lower than competitors at this price (most do 192kHz).

#6

M-Audio Air 192|4

USB Audio Interface · 2-in/2-out, 24-bit/192kHz, Pro Tools First included$100 new | $50–$70 used

Best for: Pro Tools users and engineers learning the industry-standard DAW

The Air 192|4 includes Pro Tools First; recording school standard at home. Crystal Series preamp is clean and transparent.

What to check used: Pro Tools First has limitations (max 3 sessions at once); verify those constraints fit your workflow. Check the XLR connectors for proper fit.

#7

Steinberg UR12

USB Audio Interface · 2-in/2-out, 24-bit/192kHz, D-PRE preamp$80–$100 new | $45–$65 used

Best for: Cubase/Nuendo users who want seamless integration

Steinberg's D-PRE preamp has a discrete, Class-A design that punches above its price range. Deep integration with Cubase if you use that DAW.

What to check used: Check that Cubase integration is stable on your version of Cubase. The compact size means fewer physical buttons—menu diving may be required.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an audio interface and do I need one?

An audio interface converts analog audio (from your guitar or microphone) to digital signal your computer can record. It also adds microphone preamps and phantom power for condensers. If you are recording anything more than built-in laptop microphone, yes, you need an interface. USB interfaces start at $40 and work great.

Focusrite Scarlett Solo vs 2i2—which should I buy?

Solo if you record one source at a time (vocals, then guitar). 2i2 if you need to record voice and guitar simultaneously (duets, live performance, singer-songwriter format). Solo is $120 new / $60–$90 used. 2i2 is $170 new / $80–$120 used. Solo is the common choice for beginners.

Can I record guitar directly with an audio interface?

Yes. Plug your guitar cable into the instrument input (labeled "Instrument in" or "Hi-Z input"). The interface converts the guitar signal to digital. No preamp needed for guitar—the mic preamp is for microphones only. For condenser mics, you need phantom power (48V), which most interfaces provide via XLR inputs.

What is phantom power and when do I need it?

Phantom power (48V) is electrical power sent down XLR cables to power condenser microphone capsules. Dynamic mics (SM58, Shure) do not need phantom power. Condenser mics (AT2020, Blue Yeti XLR) require phantom power to function. Most audio interfaces have a phantom power switch on XLR inputs.

Do I need an audio interface for a USB microphone?

No. USB mics (Blue Yeti, AT2020USB+) connect directly to your computer via USB and include their own preamp. You skip the interface entirely. Use a USB mic if you want simplicity, an interface if you want to record guitars, keyboards, or multiple microphones.

What sample rate and bit depth do I need for home recording?

44.1kHz/16-bit is CD quality (industry standard). 48kHz is professional video standard. 24-bit captures more dynamic range. For home recording, 44.1kHz/24-bit is the sweet spot—plenty of quality without consuming excessive disk space. All interfaces on this list support it.

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