5 best USB audio interfaces for streaming [Cyber Monday]
Some of these audio interface devices are used by pro streamers
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Key notes
- If you're looking for an audio interface for streaming with USB, we've ranked the top ones on the market.
- Some of these devices have pro features but are still easy to work with.
- Number one on our list is the common pick of most professional streamers.
For those of you that don’t know, audio interfaces are devices that let you plug pro mics, instruments, and other signals into a PC. When an audio interface is used with a computer, it can act as the PC’s sound card.
If you’re on the lookout to buy an audio interface, it’s important to determine the specific port that’s available on your computer for its use. Otherwise, they won’t be compatible, and you’ll need extra adapters.
If you’re interested in buying a USB audio interface specifically for streaming, then you should take a look over our list of top choices.
Note: All the prices and offers in this article are subject to change, so be sure to check the official product page to get the latest deal. If the product/offer you’re looking for is no longer available, you can try to find it on its official manufacturer page or get another one from our list.
What audio interface has the best audio quality?
- Behringer UM2 – most popular device
- Behringer U-Control UCA202 – easy setup
- Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 – made of aluminum
- Behringer UMC22 – for proffessional workflows
- Focusrite Scarlett Solo – comes with a bundle
Now let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of each device.
Behringer UM2 – most popular device
- Audiophile 48 kHz resolution
- Maximum Sampling Rate: 48 kHz
- Compatible with popular recording software
- Streams 2 inputs / 2 outputs
- Zero-latency direct monitoring
- Sound quality is a bit low
The Behringer UM2 is a neat USB audio interface that can even use professional-grade studio condenser mics to create outstanding tracks and studio-level music.
As expected, on the rear panel of the UMC404HD, you can easily find the USB 2.0 port for an easy connection to your PC.
It also features the ability to switch between 48 kHz and 96kHz, and both sampling rates offer better than CD recording quality for professional results quickly and efficiently.
Behringer U-Control UCA202 – easy setup
- Ultra-flexible audio interface
- High-resolution 48 kHz converters
- Stereo Headphone output with dedicated Level control
- Additional S/PDIF optical output
- Powered via USB
- Requires computer-specific drivers
If you’re looking for a first audio interface that doesn’t require much setup beforehand, you can’t go wrong with the Behringer U-Control UCA202.
This neat USB audio interface only needs to be plugged into your PC and you are ready to go. This includes both your Windows PC and Macbook.
Long story short, this makes activities such as song recording sessions or streaming to be extremely easy to start.
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 – made of aluminum
- Excellent digital performance
- The rugged metal unibody case
- Truly portable interface
- Authorization code for Ableton Live Lite
- Bold color choice
- The software may be difficult to handle
The Focusrite’s Scarlett 2i2 is a 2 in/2 out USB recording interface that is housed in an attractive anodized aluminum unibody chassis, making it look extremely stylish and modern.
It is also equipped with some of the most popular microphone preamps in the industry, which allows the creation of transparent, low-noise and low-distortion preamps.
All these eventually provide a great audio recording and streaming experience. That’s why Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is part of this list.
Behringer UMC22 – for proffessional workflows
- Audiophile 48 kHz resolution
- No drivers required
- Compatible with popular recording software
- Streams 2 inputs / 2 outputs
- Preamplifier with +48 V phantom power
- Some units have been reported to emit static
If you’re the type that likes to take your tracks seriously, then Behringer UMC22 is the audio interface for you, providing 48 kHz resolution.
That’s simply perfect if you want to enjoy the amazingly-detailed and pristine recording quality that others talk about.
Not only is the device great from a sound-quality point of view, but the fact that it is compatible with all popular OS and recording programs makes it one of the most versatile audio interfaces on the market.
Focusrite Scarlett Solo – comes with a bundle
- Class-leading conversion
- Super-low latency
- Compatible with Windows 7/Mac OS X 10.10 and higher
- Range of 104dB (A-weighted)
- Crisp and cleat board sound
- Quality control issues
The Focusrite Scarlett Solo is a USB audio interface that comes with a variety of extra in the package when you buy it.
Not only is it a great device all in itself, but it also comes with Pro Tools, the first Focusrite Creative Pack and Ableton Live Lite, Softube Time and Tone Bundle, and more.
No less important, Focusrite is known for making high-quality equipment and this one is no exception to the rule.
If you’re the type of person that would love to start recording some music, but hates the bulkiness of professional consoles, then using a USB audio interface to connect to your PC is the next best thing.
Not only are most of the entries on our list easy to install and use, but they also provide pristine sound quality, which is essential if you are also trying to use the interface for streaming.
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