5 Best USB Audio Interfaces For Low Latency [Great Options]
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Low latency audio interfaces are audio interfaces that are designed to minimize the issue of audio latency. This is something that can ruin sound quality, especially when it is at a level that is detectable by the human ear.
There are numerous caused for why low latency occurs, and it can happen in a variety of cases, such as during the recording stage, during playback, during DSP, or during transit.
If you run into this issue and are looking to minimize it, then you need a good audio interface. Luckily, we’ve compiled a list of what we think are the best audio interfaces that can deal with low latency.
Note: Deals are subject to change. Keep in mind that the price tag often varies. We recommend going on the vendor’s website to check the price. Some of the products may be out of stock by the time you’ve made your purchasing decision. So, hurry up and hit the buy button.
What are the best USB low latency audio interfaces?
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2
- Two natural-sounding Scarlett mic preamps with plenty of even gains
- Two instrument inputs designed for seriously hot pickups
- Conversion and sample rates up to 192kHz/24-bit
- Cue mix switching, with four analog outputs
- May sometimes emit static
There’s a reason why the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is the most popular audio interface in the world, and that is because it focuses on good sound, ease of use and beginner-friendliness.
This model is compact yet versatile, with two natural-sounding Scarlett mic preamps.
It also ensures super-low latency and the same class-leading sound quality and digital conversion that the Scarlett line of products is known for.
M-Audio M Track 2X2
- 24 bit/192kHz resolution
- Crystal Preamps that deliver pristine, transparent sound
- +48v Phantom Power accommodates all microphone types
- Hi-Speed USB connection with USB/Direct balance knob for zero-latency monitoring
- Rugged metal chassis
- Occasional quality control issues
The M-Audio Track 2X2 provides you with high-quality signal capture in a way that has never been easier thanks to the brand-new Crystal Preamps.
These provide you with a transparent, low-noise solution is that ensures that you get the best quality audio from your microphone or any other instrument that you may be recording at the moment.
PreSonus Studio 24c 2×2
- USB-C bus-powered and +48V phantom power (global)
- 2×2 audio interface with MIDI for macOS and Windows
- 24-Bit resolution
- 44. 1, 48, 88. 2, 96, 176. 4 and 192 kHz sampling rates
- 2 mic/instrument/line inputs with mix-l solid-state mic preamps
- Occasional quality control issues
Focusing on sound quality above all else, the PreSonus Studio 24c 2×2 operates at up to 192 kHz for the ultra-high-definition recording and mixing of all your songs.
You also have multiple high-quality converters on every input and output and PreSonus’ professional-grade XMAX-L mic preamps allow you to record complex musical harmonics smoothly and naturally.
Focusrite Scarlett 18i8
- Eight analog inputs
- Class-leading conversion and sample rates up to 192kHz/24 bit
- Super-low roundtrip latency for using your plug-ins in real-time without the need for DSP
- Focusrite iOS Control
- May have software issues
The Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 is a compact and flexible 2-in, 4-out USB audio interface that makes it easy to perform and record studio-quality audio even at low latency.
The fact that it is so compact and only powered via USB makes it great for jobs on the road.
More so, the small casing hides two natural-sounding Scarlett mic preamps, super-low latency, MIDI I/O, four analog outputs and the same sound quality and digital conversion as the rest of the Scarlett range.
M-Audio M-Track 8X4M
- 24-bit/192kHz resolution for professional recording and monitoring
- High-speed USB connection with USB/Direct balance knob for zero-latency monitoring
- Rugged metal chassis
- Large central control for easy volume adjustment
- Hefty price tag
The M-Audio M-Track 8X4M is a USB audio interface made to provide you with pretty much all the studio-grade features you could expect.
Not only is it durable and does it provide crystal-clear sounds, but it also comes with plenty of software tools as well.
These include the Pro Tools First, M-Audio Edition, Eleven Lite, Ableton Live Lite, and more.
Many people think that creating music is just a matter of pulling a few strings and pushing a few buttons, but they fail to realize the work and issues that appear during professional studio recording sessions.
One such issue is low sound latency, and if you too want a way to deal with it, then getting an audio interface specifically designed to tackle this issue is a must.
What’s your favorite pick? Feel free to share with us via the comments section below.
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