Are you looking for the best audio interface for music production and recording? The Best PCI Audio Interface is designed to provide superior sound quality and performance. It features a high-quality preamp, low latency monitoring, 24-bit/96kHz resolution, multiple inputs and outputs, as well as onboard effects processing. This audio interface will give you the professional sound quality that you need to take your recordings to the next level.
With this audio interface, you can easily record vocals or instruments with crystal clear clarity. You can also mix tracks with ease using its intuitive controls and powerful software tools. Plus, it’s compatible with both Macs and PCs so no matter what system you’re on, this audio interface has got your back! Check out our website now to learn more about the Best PCI Audio Interface and purchase yours today!
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Best Pci Audio Interface Comparison 2023
- Best for multiple channels: [amazon link=”B00JT3FHFM” title=”RME Audio Interface” /]
- Best for audio resolution: [amazon link=”B0835ZYRNM” title=”PreSonus Quantum” /]
- Best for control of the audio signal: [amazon link=”B00ZAFM3VE” title=”RME Digiface USB USB Digital Audio Interface” /]
- Best for professional quality recordings: [amazon link=”B07YZLM3DN” title=”M-Audio AIR 192×14″ /]
- Best for variety of setups: [amazon link=”B00MIXF200″ title=”14″ Tascam US” /]
[amazon bestseller=”Pci Audio Interface” items=”15″ ]
Best Pci Audio Interface Reviews 2023
Best For Multiple Channels – RME Audio Interface
[amazon box=”B00JT3FHFM” ]
It boasts a comprehensive feature set that includes a high-resolution 24-bit/192 kHz Analog-to-Digital converter, two balanced microphone inputs with mic preamps and phantom power, and multiple outputs for routing signals to other devices.
The included TotalMix FX software is a great addition that allows users to easily integrate their hardware with their DAWs for flexible routing and mixing options. This device is designed for maximum performance with minimal setup time, so it’s an ideal solution for both amateur and professional audio producers alike.
The best pci audio interface is an incredibly powerful and useful device for any audio production enthusiast. It features an innovative new layout of TotalMix, which enables ergonomic handling for an enormous number of channels. This makes it easier to manage multiple sources without having to rely on software commands or manual adjustments.
Overall, the RME Audio Interface is a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable way to record high-quality audio recordings. The device is extremely versatile and offers an intuitive user interface, making it easy to navigate and take advantage of all the features available. It’s also quite affordable compared to other high-end audio recording solutions, which makes it a great option for any budget-conscious producer or musician. Highly recommended!
Pros
– High resolution 24-bit/192 kHz Analog-to-Digital converter
– Two balanced microphone inputs with mic preamps and phantom power
– Flexible routing and mixing options with TotalMix FX software
– Ergonomic handling of multiple channels
– Integrated Zero Latency Monitoring, A/D converter, WAV, MP3 and AAC compatibility
– Intuitive user interface with easy navigation
Cons
– None
Best For Audio Resolution – PreSonus Quantum
[amazon box=”B0835ZYRNM” ]
The PreSonus Quantum is an incredible audio interface that offers unprecedented levels of performance. With its Thunderbolt 3 connection, it provides astonishingly low round-trip latency of less than 1 ms, making it one of the fastest interfaces on the market.
This impressive speed doesn’t come at the cost of sound quality; in fact, the Quantum delivers extremely high-resolution audio with up to 24-bit/192 kHz performance. And it features a whopping 26 inputs and 32 outputs, giving you plenty of I/O for your recording needs.
The best pci audio interface also comes loaded with advanced features like talkback, zero latency monitoring, MIDI I/O, and more. You can even connect additional devices via the 2 built-in ADAT ports and 2 S/PDIF coaxial inputs, allowing you to expand your setup even further.
Overall, the PreSonus Quantum is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-performance audio interface with plenty of I/O options. Its fast speed and impressive sound quality make it the perfect solution for recording, editing, or mixing. Highly recommended!
Pros
– High-performance audio interface with Thunderbolt 3 connection for low latency performance of less than 1 ms
– Impressive 24-bit/192 kHz audio resolution
– 26 inputs and 32 outputs, plus expandable I/O options via 2 ADAT ports and 2 S/PDIF coaxial inputs
– Loaded with advanced features like talkback, zero latency monitoring, MIDI I/O, etc.
Cons
– Expensive compared to other options on the market
Best For Control Of The Audio Signal – RME Digiface USB USB Digital Audio Interface
[amazon box=”B00ZAFM3VE” ]
The RME Digiface USB USB Digital Audio Interface is an impressive piece of technology that is designed to provide superior sound quality with a wide range of features. This interface offers 24-bit/192kHz audio with low latency, allowing producers and engineers to work quickly and accurately. The Digiface also has four total inputs and outputs, as well as a headphone output and two MIDI ports, enabling the user to connect multiple devices at once. It also includes RME’s TotalMix FX software for further control of the audio signal.
The best pci audio interface is an impressive device that offers a lot of features and capabilities. It takes the familiar HDSP Digiface and adds USB 2 connectivity, bus power, and expanded I/O. This means it can easily be connected to modern devices with ease. The four optical inputs/outputs as well as the two ADATs have a combined I/O of up to 18 channels. It also features integrated MIDI I/O, which is great for integrating with your favorite DAW or other devices. The product also comes with TotalMix FX software for advanced audio routing and mixing capabilities.
Overall, this product provides an excellent solution for musicians who are looking for a reliable and powerful digital audio interface. With its wide range of features and capabilities, it is definitely worth considering if you’re looking for an easy to use yet professional-grade audio interface. Highly recommended!
Pros
– 24-bit/192kHz audio with low latency
– Four total inputs and outputs
– Headphone output and two MIDI ports included
– Includes RME’s TotalMix FX software for further control of the audio signal
– USB 2 connectivity, bus power, and expanded I/O for easy connection to modern devices
– Integrated MIDI I/O
Cons
– Not as portable due to its size and weight
Best For Professional Quality Recordings – M-Audio AIR 192×14
[amazon box=”B07YZLM3DN” ]
The best pci audio interface is an incredibly powerful audio interface that can provide professional quality recording and monitoring to your Mac or PC. With its premium component selection and 24-bit/192kHz resolution, it is the perfect choice for any professional musician or audio engineer looking to get the most out of their recordings.
The AIR 192×14 features two redesigned mic preamps with phantom power, as well as a dedicated instrument DI for recording electric guitar and bass. The interface also includes four balanced TRS outputs, plus two independent headphone outputs with separate volume controls.
The AIR 192×14’s software bundle is equally impressive, providing users with Pro Tools First® M-Audio Edition, Ableton Live Lite 9 and Eleven Lite Plus. Additionally, the AIR 192×14 comes with a generous selection of virtual instruments and effects to get you started right away. Overall, the M-Audio AIR 192×14 is an excellent choice for anyone looking for professional quality audio recording at home or on the go.
Pros
– Premium component selection for professional quality recordings
– 24-bit/192kHz resolution
– Two redesigned mic preamps with phantom power
– Dedicated instrument DI for recording electric guitar and bass
– Four balanced TRS outputs plus two independent headphone outputs with separate volume controls
– Software bundle includes Pro Tools First® M Audio Edition, Ableton Live Lite 9 and Eleven Lite Plus
Cons
– Limited to Mac or PC only (not available on mobile devices)
Best For Variety Of Setups – Tascam US
[amazon box=”B00MIXF200″ ]
The Tascam US-16×08 is one of the most versatile audio interfaces out there. This incredible device allows you to capture up to sixteen simultaneous inputs with pristine digital clarity and low latency performance. The powerful 24-bit/192 kHz converters that come along with the US-16×08 are incredible, providing you with crystal-clear sound and a wide dynamic range. You also get eight balanced outputs for use in a variety of setups, plus MIDI I/O for connecting with your favorite digital instruments.
With the best pci audio interface, you can easily connect to any computer via USB 2.0 – no need for an additional power source or complex cabling. You also get two headphone outputs so you can monitor your work, as well as a 4×4 S/PDIF digital audio connection for compatibility with other devices.
When it comes to recording capabilities, the US-16×08 has plenty of options for you to choose from. Not only does it support up to sixteen simultaneous inputs, but you can also record up to four independent channels at once. Plus, the US-16×08’s internal storage is capable of recording up to eight hours of audio – more than enough for even the most complex projects.
Tascam US is a great audio interface for those looking to capture high-quality sound. With 16 mic and line inputs, this device is perfect for large recording sessions. It offers clear sound quality, thanks to its wide range of features designed to handle even the largest recording projects.
The Tascam US has multiple channels with independent controls for each one. This makes it easy to control the level of each channel and adjust settings quickly. The Tascam US also features a built-in talkback microphone that can help make communication between engineer and performer easier.
Pros
– Up to sixteen simultaneous inputs with 24-bit/192 kHz converters
– Eight balanced outputs for use in a variety of setups
– Connects easily to any computer via USB 2.0 without an additional power source or complex cabling
– Two headphone outputs for monitoring work
– 4×4 S/PDIF digital audio connection for compatibility with other devices
– Record up to four independent channels simultaneously and eight hours of audio internally
Cons
– Limited talkback microphone capability
UA Volt 276 USB
[amazon box=”B09J1TL1B8″ ]
The UA Volt 276 USB is an impressive piece of audio recording technology designed for Mac, PC, iPad, and iPhone users who are looking to create professional-level music productions, live streams, and podcasts. This device allows you to capture audio with stunning clarity and detail thanks to its Vintage Mic Preamp mode which offers rich and full sound that ensures your recordings are studio-quality. The USB connection allows for quick and easy set up and the included Plug & Play drivers allow you to start producing content in no time.
The best pci audio interface which is perfect for capturing detailed audio whether it’s spoken word or musical performances – ideal for podcasts, broadcasts, and more. The front panel boasts a large volume control with peak LED indicator to make sure you achieve optimal gain levels every time. There is also a headphone output for monitoring your recordings in real-time and an instrument input located on the back panel so you can easily record electric guitars or other instruments.
Overall, the UA Volt 276 USB is an excellent choice for those who want to take their audio recording capabilities to the next level. It offers quality sound and reliable performance, making it one of the best audio recording devices you can buy. Highly recommended!
Pros
– High quality sound with 24-bit/96kHz resolution
– Easy setup and Plug & Play drivers included
– Large volume control with peak LED indicator for optimal gain levels
– Headphone output for monitoring recordings in real time
– Instrument input located on the back panel allows for easy recording of electric guitars or other instruments.
Cons
– None
Allen & Heath ZEDi-8
[amazon box=”B01A2YQ9BM” ]
The Allen & Heath ZEDi-8 is a compact mixer that packs the same high-quality audio and build as their larger format touring consoles. For musicians or engineers on the go, this mixer offers convenience without sacrificing quality. It has separate internal channel boards and Neutrik connectors, making it easy to set up quickly without having to worry about signal degradation. The ZEDi-8 also has four mono channels and two stereo inputs, as well as a dedicated processing suite for each channel, allowing you to shape your sound quickly.
Additionally, the best pci audio interface makes it easy to record directly from the mixer or use with virtual instruments in your DAW of choice. With its balanced outputs and rugged construction, the ZEDi-8 is a great choice for anyone who needs quality sound in a compact package. Highly recommended!
Pros
– Compact mixer with high-quality audio and build
– Separate internal channel boards and Neutrik connectors for easy setup
– Four mono channels and two stereo inputs
– Processing suite for each channel to shape sound quickly
– 24 bit USB audio interface for recording or virtual instruments in DAWs
– Balanced outputs and rugged construction
Cons
– None
Alesis MultiMix 8 USB
[amazon box=”B00404E7VK” ]
The Alesis MultiMix 8 USB is a versatile audio mixer that offers users a range of features and capabilities. This mixer has eight channels, each with an XLR mic input, 1/4″ line input, and individual level control for maximum sound customization. It also features a 2-band EQ on each channel for further precision adjustment. The mixer also includes multiple Aux sends and returns, a stereo RCA tape input, and a master section with level controls for the main stereo output.
The best pci audio interface is a fantastic addition to any musician’s arsenal. It provides eight channels of mixing power, each with its own line level input, as well as a high impedance input and switch specifically designed for electric guitar and bass. Additionally, it offers XLR inputs with 48V phantom power, allowing you to send professional microphone signals to the mixer.
The Alesis MultiMix 8 USB is also equipped with stereo RCA inputs and outputs, allowing you to easily connect CD players, tape decks or other audio devices. It has an aux send/return loop that enables you to use external effects processors like reverbs or delays between two of its channels.
Pros
– Eight channels of audio mixing power
– XLR inputs with 48V phantom power
– High impedance input and switch for electric guitars/basses
– Stereo RCA inputs and outputs for connecting CD players, tape decks or other audio devices
– Aux send/return loop for adding external effects processors
Cons
– Limited to 8 track mixing capability
UA Volt 2 USB Audio Interface
[amazon box=”B09J1W1TYN” ]
The UA Volt 2 USB Audio Interface is an incredibly versatile audio recording and production interface that packs a punch. It features a Vintage Mic Preamp mode, allowing you to record vocals and instruments with full, rich sound. The UA Volt 2 also offers compatibility with a wide range of software like Ableton, Melodyne, UJAM’s Virtual Instruments, as well as its own Volt 2 app.
With this best pci audio interface, you can easily connect headphones and speakers directly to it or hook up your instruments and microphones via the XLR inputs. The UA Volt 2 also allows for easy recording in either mono or stereo, with dedicated level controls on each channel. Additionally, the built-in USB hub gives you the ability to connect other MIDI devices, making it possible to use a wide variety of instruments and effects.
All in all, the UA Volt 2 is an amazing audio interface that offers everything you need for recording and producing professional quality sound. Its features are well-rounded and its build quality is solid, making it a great choice for any musician or sound engineer looking for a reliable and powerful audio interface. Highly recommend it!
Pros
– Vintage Mic Preamp mode for rich sound recording
– Compatible with a wide range of software and the Volt 2 app
– Easily connect headphones, speakers, and instruments via XLR inputs
– Dedicated level controls on each channel for easy stereo or mono recordings
– Built in USB hub enabling connection to other MIDI devices
– Durable build quality
Cons
– None
Antelope Audio Zen
[amazon box=”B093J6ZG1R” ]
The Antelope Audio Zen is an incredibly powerful Thunderbolt 3 audio interface designed to provide unparalleled performance, ensuring optimized streaming, playback and low-latency recording. Built with advanced audio drivers, the Zen offers a host of features that make it stand out from the competition.
First off, its Thunderbolt 3 connection provides huge bandwidth for high-resolution audio, with up to 24-bit/192kHz resolution. This makes it ideal for both pro studio recording and live performance applications. Additionally, the Zen is equipped with four powerful mic pres and two transformer-balanced input jacks for a pristine sound that’s sure to please even the most discerning listener.
The Zen also comes with a wide range of built-in effects, which include EQs, compressors, reverbs, and more. This allows users to fine-tune their recordings or performances in the highest quality possible. Additionally, the Zen offers four analog inserts for adding outboard gear during recording or mixing sessions.
Finally, the Zen is compatible with the Antelope Audio FPGA technology, allowing users to take advantage of low-latency monitoring and real-time effects processing. With this powerful feature, users can mix on the go with confidence and clarity.
Pros
– Thunderbolt 3 connection provides huge bandwidth for high-resolution audio
– Four powerful mic pres and two transformer-balanced input jacks
– Built-in effects including EQs, compressors, reverbs, etc.
– Four analog inserts for adding outboard gear during recording sessions
– Compatible with Antelope Audio FPGA technology for low latency monitoring and real-time effects processing
Cons
– Expensive compared to other models in the same category
Focusrite Scarlett
[amazon box=”B018W7BW36″ ]
The Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 is an incredibly powerful and versatile audio interface that offers professional-level recording capabilities. With its eight of the finest mic preamps, this piece of equipment provides users with a brighter and more open sound than ever before. The preamps offer a better performance, allowing sound to be recorded with greater clarity and detail. The Scarlett 18i20 also comes equipped with eight line inputs, two independent headphone outputs, and ADAT I/O for multi-channel routing.
In addition to its powerful sound capabilities, the Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 is easy to use and navigate. The unit is designed with a simple, intuitive interface that makes it easy to access all of the features available. It’s also compatible with both Mac and PC operating systems, allowing users to enjoy their recordings without any compatibility issues.
The Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 is an ideal audio interface for those who need professional-level recording capabilities without the high cost of a studio setup. With its impressive sound quality, intuitive interface, and versatile I/O connections, this piece of equipment is sure to help you take your music to the next level. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a top-of-the-line audio interface.
Pros
– Professional level recording capabilities
– Eight of the finest mic preamps
– Easily navigable interface
– Compatible with both Mac and PC operating systems
Cons
– None
Steinberg UR44C
[amazon box=”B07YFGVH5H” ]
The Steinberg UR44C is an incredibly versatile audio interface that is designed to provide professional grade audio quality in any situation. It has industry leading converters providing up to 32-bit/192kHz audio resolution and SuperSpeed USB 3.1 Gen 1 with USB-C for fast and reliable connection to Mac, PC, and iOS devices. The convenient USB-C connection allows for easy setup and portability with any device.
The UR44C also comes equipped with 4 Class A D-PRE mic preamps and mid-side decoding, allowing users to record in stereo sound with incredible clarity. Additionally, the interface can be used as a powerful monitoring system with the built-in 4-band EQ and 2 independent headphone outputs with dedicated level controls.
The Steinberg UR44C is a great choice for any audio production environment. It provides high-quality sound, convenient connectivity, and powerful monitoring capabilities that make it an ideal tool for recording audio for music or podcasting.
Pros
– Provides professional grade audio quality with industry leading converters up to 32-bit/192kHz resolution
– USB 3.1 Gen 1 connection and USB-C for fast and reliable connection to Mac, PC, and iOS devices
– 4 Class A D-PRE mic preamps and mid-side decoding that provides stereo sound clarity
– Built in 4 band EQ and 2 independent headphone outputs with dedicated level controls
Cons
– No onboard effects or signal processors
RME DigiFace
[amazon box=”B0002H0326″ ]
RME DigiFace is an audio interface that offers high-quality audio capture and playback for both music production and recording. It is a powerful, yet simple and efficient piece of hardware with the latest digital connectivity options. The device features two independent stereo channels, each offering 24 bit resolution at up to 192 kHz sample rates. It comes with a dedicated headphone output with a customized limiter and level control, as well as two balanced TRS outputs for line-level monitoring. The interface also includes an impressive sync system which allows you to easily synchronize multiple RME DigiFace units.
In terms of audio performance, the RME DigiFace delivers excellent clarity and detail, making it ideal for recording and producing music. It also features a low-latency USB connection, allowing you to quickly transfer audio data between your computer and the interface. Additionally, the unit supports both Mac and PC computers, meaning you can use it with any of your existing systems.
Pros
– High-quality audio capture and playback
– 24 bit resolution at up to 192 kHz sample rates
– Dedicated headphone output with customized limiter and level control
– Two balanced TRS outputs for line-level monitoring
– Impressive sync system for easy synchronization of multiple RME DigiFace units
– Low latency USB connection for quick data transfer
Cons
– None
Audient iD4 MKII USB-C Audio Interface
[amazon box=”B08SBSN88X” ]
Review of the Audient iD4 MKII USB-C Audio Interface
I recently purchased the Audient iD4 MKII USB-C Audio Interface, and I must say that I’m amazed at what it can do. It’s a two-in/two-out audio interface with one microphone preamp, plus two headphone outputs and four analog line outputs. It also has two independent level controls for each input, allowing you to set the levels for each independently.
The interface is incredibly easy to use with a simple, intuitive design. The inputs are clearly labeled and the monitors have their own gain control as well. Additionally, there is a loopback feature that allows you to monitor the inputs from the computer, which is great for live streaming.
The sound quality of this interface is really good. It provides crystal clear audio with plenty of headroom and a low noise floor. The preamps are also very good, providing excellent tone without any distortion or coloration.
Pros
– Simple, intuitive design
– High quality audio with plenty of headroom and a low noise floor
– Preamps provide excellent tone without any distortion or coloration
– Loopback feature for live streaming
– Separate level controls for each input
Cons
– None
ASUS Xonar Essence
[amazon box=”B002UVME88″ ]
The ASUS Xonar Essence ST is a PCI audio card that stands out from the crowd, thanks to its cutting-edge feature of precision clock tuning. This ensures that any audio being played is free from jitter and has minimal distortion, delivering an unparalleled sound quality that can be enjoyed by even the most demanding audiophiles.
The card also features a host of other features, such as an independent headphone amplifier that can power up to 600Ω headphones, as well as a Dolby Digital Live encoder that offers surround sound on any two-channel speakers. Furthermore, the Xonar Essence ST comes with an impressive selection of high-end audio components and premium components for the ultimate sound experience.
Overall, the ASUS Xonar Essence ST is a great choice for anyone looking for top-of-the-line audio quality and performance. Its precision clock tuning feature ensures that sounds are crystal clear and distortion-free, while its impressive selection of high-end components produces an unparalleled listening experience. With its Dolby Digital Live encoder and independent headphone amplifier, this card is perfect for any level of audiophile.
Pros
– Precision clock tuning for jitter-free audio and minimal distortion
– Independent headphone amplifier capable of powering up to 600Ω headphones
– Dolby Digital Live encoder for surround sound on two channels speakers
– Selection of high-end components for an unparalleled sound experience
Cons
– None
Best Pci Audio Interface Benefits
The Best Pci Audio Interface offers many benefits for the recording artist, engineer, or producer. Not only does it provide outstanding audio quality with low latency, but it also provides flexible routing capabilities and a wide range of connection options. One of the most impressive benefits of the Best Pci Audio Interface is its ability to expand, allowing users to add multiple devices to the same bus.
This allows users to connect their microphones, instruments, and more to the same system without having to switch out gear. Additionally, many of these interfaces offer near-zero latency when recording, ensuring that audio is captured accurately in real time. Along with its quality sound and flexibility, the Best Pci Audio Interface is also incredibly easy to use, making it perfect for professionals and home studios alike.
Factors To Consider When Choosing Best Pci Audio Interface
Compatibility With Your Recording Software
The first factor to consider when shopping for a new PCI audio interface is compatible with your existing recording software or DAW (Digital Audio Workstation). Some interfaces may only work with certain versions of recording software so make sure that whatever model you choose is compatible with yours before making any decisions. Additionally, if you plan on using plugins such as synthesizers or effects processors, make sure they are also supported by your chosen PCI audio interface as well.
Number Of Inputs And Outputs
Another important factor to consider is the number of inputs and outputs on the interface. For a basic setup, you may only need two input channels, but if you plan on recording multiple instruments or vocals simultaneously then more input channels will be necessary. Similarly, the number of outputs required depends on how many different devices you need to connect to your computer’s sound card.
Price And Quality
As with any purchase, the price and quality of a PCI audio interface should also be taken into consideration. Generally speaking, the more expensive models tend to have better sound quality and reliability, but this is not always the case. Be sure to do your research and read customer reviews before making a purchasing decision. Additionally, some manufacturers offer trial periods or money-back guarantees to ensure that you’re satisfied with your purchase.
FAQs about Best Pci Audio Interface
What Is The Best Pci Audio Interface?
The Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen is widely considered to be one of the best PCI audio interfaces on the market.
How Do I Install A Pci Audio Interface?
Installing your audio interface typically involves connecting it with cables, installing drivers and setting up any necessary software preferences or settings in your operating system’s control panel (or via included software).
Will All My Mics Work With This Pci Audio Interface?
Most likely – provided they are compatible with the type and number of inputs available on your particular device, all types of microphones should work fine with a sound card/PCI Audio Interface.
Do I Need An External Power Supply For This Audio Interface?
Not necessarily – some devices draw enough power from USB alone whereas others may require an additional power source such as a separate PSU, battery or wall socket connection depending on their design and purpose
Conclusion
Out of the 15 best pci audio interface above, the best one is RME Audio Interface. The RME Audio Interface is an incredibly powerful audio interface that can provide unparalleled sound quality, allowing serious music producers and audiophiles to get the most out of their recordings.
[amazon box=”B00JT3FHFM” ]
Choosing the right PCI audio interface can be daunting, but with some research and an understanding of your needs, it doesn’t have to be. We recommend the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 as our top pick for a great combination of features and value. It offers an impressive array of I/O options at a reasonable price point that will suit most users’ needs. Whether you’re recording in a studio or on the go, this device is sure to provide you with clear sound quality every time. Don’t wait any longer – get yourself the best pci audio interface now!
