A good audio interface bridges your Mac and audio equipment like microphones, instruments, and speakers. You will want an audio interface if you plan on recording audio of any kind – vocals, instruments, podcasts, etc. Connecting mics and instruments directly to your Mac rarely produces professional-level results. An interface provides superior analog-to-digital conversion and inputs for different audio sources. Here are some of the best audio interfaces for Macs.
Universal Audio Apollo Twin X Quad
It is a premium 10-in/6-out desktop Thunderbolt 3 audio interface with onboard UAD-2 QUAD Core processing. It offers a lot of processing power in a compact form factor. The unit has two dual XLR/jack inputs at the back and left and right monitor outputs. It also has two line outs, which you can configure as DAW output or for a second monitor pair. The front panel provides an easily accessible Hi-Z input for electric guitars and a studio headphone out.
The interface can run UAD’s accurate analog emulation plugins in real-time. It also supports optical expansion if you need more inputs. It has Thunderbolt ports that connect to your Mac. It's also compatible with UA's LUNA recording system for a tightly integrated hardware/software experience.
Pros
- Bundled plugins
- Premium design
- High-quality Preamp
- Studio style workflow
Cons
- Tricky installation process
- No bundled Thunderbolt in the package
Audient iD4 MkII
The Audient iD4 MkII is a simple two-input and two-output interface loaded with phantom power for condenser mics. It also brings instrument-level DI for plugging your guitar or bass onto your desktop. The main output goes to your speakers and has dual headphone outputs.
USB-C powers the compact interface. You can use it with an iPhone or an iPad, along with the Apple camera connection kit and a PSUt. It is one of the best bang-for-buck audio interfaces available.
Pros
- Sturdy construction
- iD app brings software enhancements
- JFET inputs
- Clean gains
Cons
- Finicky with older USB versions
Focusrite Scarlett 4i4
The newest Scarlett line from Focusrite offers high-end features at an affordable price. The 4i4 has four inputs, two for XLR mics and two for line or instrument. It also has four outputs and a MIDI in/out. This portable Mac recording option has a strong mic presence, excellent conversion, and low latency performance.
For output, it has a single headphone output with a dedicated level control. The 4i4 offers up to 24-bit / 192kHz operation. It comes with an external PSU requiring a 1.5A supply to run. However, you are good to go if your setup has USB-C ports.
Pros
- Sleek Design
- Up to 24-bit / 192kHz operation
- Sturdy construction
- Auto gain and clip-safe features
Cons
- Single headphone output
These interfaces capture high-quality audio to unleash the full potential of your Mac-based recording setup. Use our vocal presets and sample packs to take your recordings to another plane, whether for music production, podcasting, voice-over, or any other situation. Since they use stock plugins, they work right out of the box with your favorite DAW without tinkering.