Best Audio Interfaces for Guitarists: Our Top 10 Picks & Reviews

Introduction

Finding the perfect way to bridge the gap between your guitar and your computer can be a daunting task, especially with the explosion of home recording technology in recent years. We have spent countless hours testing various units to determine which ones truly deliver the clarity, low latency, and ease of use that guitarists require. After rigorous evaluation, we have identified the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen Audio Interface as our top pick. Its combination of high-headroom instrument inputs, the legendary “Air” mode for added tonal character, and a rock-solid build makes it the gold standard for both beginners and seasoned pros looking for a portable, high-quality solution.

Our Top 10 Picks for Best Audio Interfaces for Guitarists

#1 Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen Audio Interface – Best for: High-Quality Home Recording on a Budget

In our time with the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen Audio Interface, we were immediately struck by how much performance is packed into such a compact red box. For guitarists, the high-headroom instrument input is a game-changer; it allowed us to plug in our hottest humbuckers without the fear of clipping or unwanted distortion. We found the “Gain Halos” around the volume knobs to be incredibly intuitive, providing an instant visual cue of our signal levels.

One feature we particularly enjoyed was the “Air” mode. Inspired by Focusrite’s classic ISA preamps, it adds a subtle high-end shimmer that made our acoustic guitar recordings sound more open and professional. This sentiment was echoed by several users who found that it gave their takes a “studio-quality” feel without needing external EQ. While some users mentioned minor driver frustrations on Windows 7, our experience on modern Mac and Windows 10 systems was flawless. The included software bundle, featuring Ableton Live Lite and the Hitmaker Expansion, provides everything a guitarist needs to start composing immediately. It is durable, reliable, and sounds fantastic, justifying its position as our top recommendation.

#2 Behringer UMC202HD 2×2 USB Audio Interface – Best for: Musicians Seeking Professional Preamps at an Entry-Level Price

We found the Behringer UMC202HD 2×2 USB Audio Interface to be a surprisingly heavy-duty contender in the budget space. Don’t let the price tag fool you; the inclusion of Midas-designed mic preamplifiers provides a level of warmth and headroom typically found in much more expensive units. When we tested it with both electric guitars and condenser mics, the signal remained clean and remarkably low-noise.

A standout feature we appreciated was the “Direct Monitor” button, which allowed us to hear our performance with zero latency. As one user aptly noted, this interface is “built like a tank,” featuring an impact-resistant metal chassis that feels like it could survive a rigorous tour schedule. We did notice that some models arrive with scuffs on the faceplate, a minor aesthetic issue also mentioned by other buyers. However, in terms of sheer sonic performance, especially at 192 kHz, it is hard to find a better value. If you need a simple 2-in/2-out setup that prioritizes preamp quality, this is an excellent choice.

#3 PreSonus Studio 24c 2×2 USB Audio Interface – Best for: Guitarists Needing MIDI Connectivity and Pro Software

The PreSonus Studio 24c 2×2 USB Audio Interface stands out for its versatility. During our evaluation, we found the inclusion of traditional 5-pin MIDI I/O to be a significant advantage for guitarists who also use keyboard controllers or older MIDI floorboards. The XMAX-L preamps delivered a transparent sound that we found very pleasing for clean guitar passages.

We were impressed by the ladder-style LED metering on the front panel, which makes it much easier to stay in the “sweet spot” compared to simpler “halo” lights. Some users pointed out that the USB-C connection on the back can feel a bit loose, a point we also noted during testing, so it’s best kept stationary on a desk. The inclusion of Studio One Artist edition is a massive perk, as it’s one of the most guitarist-friendly DAWs on the market today. Despite a few reports of noisy inputs on some units, our test model remained quiet and professional throughout several recording sessions.

#4 M-AUDIO AIR 192×4 USB-C Audio Interface for Recording – Best for: Desktop Users Prioritizing Ergonomics and Low Latency

The M-AUDIO AIR 192×4 USB-C Audio Interface for Recording features a slanted desktop design that we found refreshingly ergonomic. The large central volume knob is incredibly satisfying to use and allows for precise monitoring adjustments during a mix. For guitarists, the dedicated front-panel instrument input is a thoughtful touch, making it easy to swap guitars without reaching behind the unit.

We measured impressively low latency with this unit, thanks to its high-speed USB circuitry. Several users confirmed our findings, noting that it works flawlessly for real-time monitoring of amp simulators. However, we did find that the drivers can occasionally be finicky on specific Windows configurations, requiring a bit of troubleshooting during initial setup. The build quality is solid, though the glossy faceplate is a magnet for fingerprints and fine scratches. If you want an interface that looks as good as it sounds on your desk, this M-Audio unit is a strong contender.

#5 MOTU M2 USB-C Audio Interface – Best for: Professionals Needing Visual Feedback and Cleanest Preamps

In our professional opinion, the MOTU M2 USB-C Audio Interface offers some of the best conversion and preamp quality in this price bracket. The standout feature is undoubtedly the full-color LCD level meter. Unlike the simple LEDs found on competitors, this screen provides detailed, real-time feedback for both inputs and outputs, which we found invaluable for preventing clipping during high-energy guitar solos.

The preamps are incredibly quiet; even with the gain turned up for a dynamic mic like the Shure SM7B, we noticed very little self-noise. This was a sentiment echoed by users who transitioned from cheaper interfaces and noticed an immediate “clarity” in their recordings. While we found the volume knobs to feel slightly more plastic than we’d like, the overall metal construction is solid. It also features a dedicated power switch—a small but significant detail often missing in this category. For the guitarist who demands the most transparent signal path possible, the M2 is hard to beat.

#6 Audient iD4 MKII Audio Interface – Best for: Solo Artists Looking for “Large Console” Sound

The Audient iD4 MKII Audio Interface is a specialized tool that brings Audient’s legendary console preamps to your desktop. When testing the JFET instrument input, we found it perfectly mimicked the input stage of a classic valve amplifier, giving our electric guitar a rich, harmonic quality that other interfaces lacked. The Class-A microphone preamp is equally impressive, providing a clean, robust signal.

We were particularly fond of the “ScrollControl” feature, which turns the volume knob into a virtual scroll wheel for your DAW—perfect for adjusting plugin parameters on the fly. We should note, however, that the “one knob rules all” philosophy can take some getting used to. Some users reported buggy Windows drivers, though we found that most issues were resolved with the latest firmware updates. The dual headphone outputs (3.5mm and 1/4″) are a convenient touch, eliminating the need for pesky adapters. It’s a rugged, professional-sounding unit that prioritizes sonic character above all else.

#7 Audient EVO 4 Audio Interface – Best for: Beginners and Content Creators Who Want Automated Gain

If you find manual gain staging intimidating, the Audient EVO 4 Audio Interface is your best friend. We were incredibly impressed by the “Smartgain” feature. You simply play your loudest passage, and the unit automatically sets the perfect level for you. This worked perfectly during our guitar tests, ensuring we never clipped the converters during a take.

The design is minimalistic and modern, looking great on any workstation. We found the audio quality to be surprisingly high given the unit’s lightweight, plastic construction. However, we did encounter some lag with the EVO software app, a frustration shared by several other users. It’s also worth noting that plugging a guitar into the front instrument input disables the first rear mic input, which limits your options for simultaneous recording. Despite these minor quirks, its ease of use makes it the ideal starting point for guitarists who want to focus on playing rather than engineering.

#8 Audient iD14 MKII Audio Interface – Best for: Home Studios Planning to Expand in the Future

The Audient iD14 MKII Audio Interface takes everything we loved about the iD4 and expands it for more serious studio applications. The highlight here is the ADAT input, which allowed us to add an extra eight channels via an external preamp when our testing requirements grew. This “future-proofing” is rare in an interface at this price point.

We found the dual Class-A preamps to be incredibly musical, providing enough gain for even the most demanding microphones without the need for a separate booster. One user noted that it can drive high-impedance headphones up to 600 Ohms, which we confirmed in our tests—the headphone amp is significantly more powerful than the previous generation. While we did see a few reports of manufacturing defects like dead LEDs, our unit was perfectly constructed. The all-metal housing feels premium and heavy, staying exactly where you put it on your desk.

#9 MOTU M4 4×4 USB-C Audio Interface – Best for: Multi-Instrumentalists and Advanced Loopback Needs

The MOTU M4 4×4 USB-C Audio Interface is essentially the “big brother” to the M2, offering four inputs and four outputs. We found this to be the perfect middle ground for guitarists who want to record a stereo amp setup while still having inputs left over for a vocal mic or a room mic. The loopback functionality is some of the best we’ve used, making it incredibly easy to stream your guitar performances online with high-quality audio.

The latency performance is class-leading; we were able to run complex plugin chains in real-time with virtually no detectable delay. Some users have pointed out that the headphone amp isn’t quite as powerful as the Behringer alternatives for high-impedance headphones, but for standard studio cans, we found it more than adequate. Like the M2, the M4 features the beautiful LCD screen that makes monitoring a breeze. It’s a professional-grade tool that “just works,” even on Linux systems as one adventurous user reported.

#10 Shure MVX2U XLR-to-USB Audio Interface – Best for: Traveling Guitarists and Minimalist Setups

The Shure MVX2U XLR-to-USB Audio Interface is a marvel of miniaturization. While not a traditional “box” interface, this device plugs directly into the back of any XLR microphone or cable, turning it into a USB device. We found it perfect for traveling, fitting easily into a guitar gig bag pocket. Despite its size, it provides a massive 60dB of clean gain, which is enough to power even the notorious Shure SM7B without a Cloudlifter.

For guitarists, you would typically use this at the end of an XLR cable coming from your amp’s DI out or a load box. We found the ShurePlus MOTIV app to be a great companion, allowing us to adjust EQ and compression settings directly on the device. One user mentioned that it is “idiot-proof,” and we tend to agree. It doesn’t offer the multiple inputs of a standard interface, but for high-quality, single-channel recording on the go, it is an unbeatable convenience.

The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide

Key Factors to Consider

When selecting an interface specifically for guitar, the most important factor is the Instrument Input (Hi-Z). Standard line inputs won’t handle the impedance of guitar pickups correctly, resulting in a thin, dull sound. You should also look for high dynamic range, which allows the interface to capture the full spectrum of your playing from soft fingerpicking to aggressive strumming without clipping.

Understanding Latency and Sample Rates

Latency is the delay between playing a note and hearing it through your speakers. For guitarists using software amp sims, ultra-low latency is non-negotiable. Look for interfaces with high-speed USB-C connectivity. Regarding sample rates, while 192 kHz is impressive, most home recordings are perfectly fine at 48 kHz or 96 kHz. The quality of the converters is often more important than the maximum sample rate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Buying more inputs than you actually need, which takes away from the budget for preamp quality.
• Ignoring the software bundle; many interfaces come with $500+ worth of plugins that are perfect for guitarists.
• Forgetting to check for a dedicated “Direct Monitor” switch for zero-latency tracking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best audio interface for recording guitar?

For most guitarists, the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen is the best choice due to its high-headroom instrument input and excellent preamps. If you need more inputs for a stereo setup, the MOTU M4 is a superior professional alternative.

How do I connect my guitar to an audio interface?

Simply use a standard 1/4″ instrument cable. Plug one end into your guitar and the other into the input labeled “Inst” or “Hi-Z” on your interface. Ensure the instrument button is engaged to correctly match the impedance.

What are the best plugins for guitar recording?

Many interfaces come with starter versions of Ableton Live or Pro Tools. For tones, plugins like Neural DSP, Amplitube, and Guitar Rig are industry standards that work seamlessly with any of the interfaces on our list.

Can I use an audio interface with my guitar amp?

Yes, if your amp has a “Line Out” or “DI Out,” you can connect that to the interface’s line input. Never connect a speaker output directly to an interface, as the high voltage will destroy the unit.

What is the best audio interface for live guitar performance?

The MOTU M2 and M4 are excellent for live use because of their ultra-low latency and rugged build. The Audient EVO 4 is also a great lightweight option for performers traveling with a laptop rig.

How do I reduce hum and noise when recording guitar?

Ensure you are using high-quality shielded cables. Many interfaces, like the MOTU M2, have very low-noise preamps. Additionally, keep your guitar away from computer monitors and fluorescent lights, which can cause electromagnetic interference.

What are the best guitar recording software options?

Studio One (included with PreSonus) is highly recommended for its workflow. Logic Pro is a favorite for Mac users, while Reaper is a powerful and affordable option that works with every interface we tested.

Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation

After evaluating the top contenders on the market, we confidently recommend the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen Audio Interface as the best overall choice for guitarists. Its “Air” mode provides a tonal flexibility that is rare at this price point, and its high-headroom instrument input is specifically designed to handle the dynamics of electric guitar. Whether you are recording your first demo or building a professional-grade home studio, the Scarlett Solo delivers the reliability and studio-quality sound you need to succeed.