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Jun 13, 2018 High definition 24-bit/96kHz audio plus MIDI interface for iPhone, iPad, Mac, PC and Android devices; Connects to everything, yet easily fits in your laptop bag, gig bag or pocket; Neutrik™ combo input for guitar, microphone or other instruments with a professional quality preamp, phantom power and gain control.
Nickolas AndersonBefore I start with the reviews of the top ten best audio interface for GarageBand, I want to explain a little about what the actually audio interface is. An audio interface is a useful device that helps make quality studio recordings at a studio or in your basement. It is an external sound card that has a mic as an input device and speakers or headphones for the output.
What makes an audio interface dependable is itsversatility to accommodate a wide range of recordings. For instance, it canrecord, voice, guitar, and keyboard, etc. while providing features likemetering, mixing, Simply connect your (for example) guitar with the interface.You can then easily combine it with laptops or desktop computer via a simpleUSB port and start recording. Easy peasy, right?
GarageBand, on the other hand, is an incredible softwareused mainly on MACs and iOS that enables you to create soundtracks for music,podcasts, and even movies. Because it is a very user-friendly app, it is usedby both beginners as well as professionals to have complete control over therecordings and ensure the best possible sound quality.
If you want your music to sound its best, you cannot justrely on the inbuilt iOS mic. You have to invest in an audio interface. Whilefinding the right equipment for your needs isn’t very hard if you know exactlywhat to look for. Yet, due to incompatible audio interface, many people runinto problems with their software in the editing phase. To avoid any suchsituation, I will be including a buyer’s guide. But first, let’s get startedwith my audio interface reviews!
Reviewed Products2.1 Focusrite Scarlett 2i4 (2nd Gen) USB Audio Interface with Pro Tools 2.2 Focusrite Scarlett 6i6 (2nd Gen) USB Audio Interface 2.3 Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 2nd Gen 2.4 Focusrite Clarett 8Pre USB 18-In/20-Out 2.5 Behringer U-PHORIA (UMC404HD) Audiophile 2.6 Audient 2 Audio Interface iD4 2.7 MeloAudio TS Mini Audio Interface 2.8 Behringer U-Phoria UMC202HD Audiophile 2×2 USB Audio Interface 2.9 IK Multimedia iRig PRO DUO 2 channel professional audio interface 2.10 Native instruments Komplete 2
Our Recommendations
Best Price/Value
Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 2nd GenWith Focusrite’s trademark ruggedness & performance, quickly configurable front channels, and a feature that allows adding eight audio input channels, this is the value for price you can get.
Check on AmazonBest Price
Behringer U-PHORIA (UMC404HD) AudiophileWith a standard interface design, this champ offers crisp noiseless sound quality. A budget solution for artists on a budget.
Check on AmazonBest Quality
Audient 2 Audio Interface iD4Audient brings exceptional sound quality to one of its smallest interfaces. This portable audio interface is the best quality you will find in the market today.
Check on AmazonProduct Reviews
Focusrite Scarlett 2i4 (2nd Gen) USB Audio Interface with Pro Tools
- Scarlett natural sounding mic preamps with ample even gain
- Sample rates up to 192kHz per 24 bit
- Cue mix switching, along with 4 analog outputs
- Headphone output with gain controls
Pros
- Has amazing volume control
- Compact sturdy and tough enough to take it along anywhere – even hiking.
- As this model is powered by a USB cable, therefore you don’t need to take a carry a power cable all the time
- Has all the loops and additional software you require to start recording
- Includes free download of The Softube Time & Tone Bundle and 2GB Loopmasters Samples
Cons
- Sometimes makes a cracking sound which is distracting
- Doesn’t work with AMD processors for PC
I am starting off my reviews with the world’s best selling audio interface. It reigned supreme for a long time until the 3rd Gen came along recently. This model is popular because of its unmatched features like four analog outputs, MIDI i/o, two Scarlett mic preamps, compact yet flexible design. Besides, it has the same classy sound quality, which is the hallmark of the Scarlet range.
You can take it anywhere. Connect it simply with a USB port, plug the instrument or microphones in and start recording everywhere against a cue mix.Moreover, this model is perfectly compatible with all other major DAWs on PC and MAC.
Overall, this is ideal for anyone who wants a cue mix for recording or performing on the go.
Check Price & Reviews on AmazonFocusrite Scarlett 6i6 (2nd Gen) USB Audio Interface
- Four Analog Inputs
- Four mono or stereo Outputs
- 2 natural-sounding microphone preamps
- 2 ¼ inches jacks to take a balanced or unbalanced connection
- A MIDI In and a MIDI out 1 SPDIF in and 1 SPDIF out
Pros
- A substantial level control knob helps adjust your monitor levels with ease
- Digital conversion up to 24-bit per 192kHz
- Has an intuitive and straightforward interface
- Accompanying software works great
- Has XLN addictive keys that connect with your keyboard
- The metal body casing is eye-catching
- Secure knobs
Cons
- Windows drivers often conflict with this device
- Builds up static often you need to power cycle it, or else you get a cracking sound
- The two microphone plugins are placed right in front of it which sometimes get in the way
Best Guitar Interface For Ipad Garageband 3
This slightly modified and expensive model supports two extra line inputs. And that’s the only significant difference when compared with previous 2i2 and 2i4 models. You can now permanently connect your keyboard, speakers, and computer to it without having to juggle the cords depending on what you need most at a particular time.
In case you have a smaller setup, I would suggest going for the low end and cheaper model. Even a simple base model can handle speakers and headphones.
All in all, a straight forward interface, strong specs and easy to use controls control make this upgraded model another most sought after audio interface in the market. You won’t regret buying it. That’s for sure.
Check Price & Reviews on AmazonFocusrite Scarlett 18i8 2nd Gen
- Conversion at up to 24-bit / 192kHz
Pros
- Impressive I/O flexibility
- A rugged and durable casing
- Has a great digital interface
- Best for studio engineers who need more versatility
- I noticed no hissing or other noises during the recording session
- Great value for the money
Cons
- The single stereo output may not be suitable for some users
- The manufacturers should have chosen a different color for the input knobs
Compared to the previous two models, this one has extended sample rate compatibility, increased preamp performance, and a better overall sound. It improves in quite a few areas.
First, it supports recordings at a sample rate of 192k Hz. In addition, the preamp design has also been upgraded to have lower noise and higher gain. When it comes to instrument inputs, this device can cope with even the loudest guitars. Impressive, don’t you think?
Second, it is compatible with the Focusrite Control software. Thus allowing you to configure settings like monitor mix setups and routings.
The layout remains the same for all Focusrite models. Four inputs at the front, monitor dial to control output levels on the right, and stereo level outputs on the rear. The optical input on the rear end can carry eight digital channel inputs. Plus – it also has a USB port for potential connectivity.
With Focusrite’s trademark ruggedness & performance, quickly configurable front channels, and a feature that allows adding eight audio input channels, there’s an awful lot to like here.
Check Price & Reviews on AmazonFocusrite Clarett 8Pre USB 18-In/20-Out
- PC USB 2.0 and Mac audio interfaces
- 24-bit/192kHz D-A and A-D conversion
- Range up to 119 dB 2 mic/line ins,
- ADAT in, 2 monitor and 2 line outs plus headphone out
- 8 mic/line ins, ADAT I/O (adds 8 I/O), 2 monitor and 8 line outs plus 2 headphone out and S/PDIF Air enabled preamps
- Software includes XLN Audio Addictive Keys; Focusrite Control, Focusrite Red Plug-in Suite,; Tone Bundle, Softube Time And; Ableton Live Lite and 2 GB of Loopmasters samples
Pros
- Sonic performance
- Eight Clarett mic preamps with Air effect
- Easily ccessible metering and monitoring
- Has a very generous IO to handle any recording session
Cons
- Has latency issues with latest-gen computers
- Noisy
This newest Focusrite model brings high-quality sound to those who lack thunderbolt connectivity. With two inputs you can play and record two instruments simultaneously
It’s nice to have easy access to so many inputs at the same time.
You can even hook up your entire band without any trouble. Moreover, the Eight Clarett mic preamps have an Air effect. It switches in an analog model of Focusrite’s highly praised classic transformer-based ISA mic pre, elevating your sound to newer heights.
Furthermore, the addictive keys software that comes with this model is well…. Addictive! This is definitely one of the best audio interfaces for GarageBand
Check Price & Reviews on AmazonBehringer U-PHORIA (UMC404HD) Audiophile
- Four dual channel XLR/TRS connectors.
- Every input is linked to a MIDAS preamp.
- It has a corresponding control cluster with a line switch, pad, and rotating gain control.
Pros
- Sound leveling and representation are immaculate
- Has an easy installation
- Excellent value for the price
- Amazing overall sound quality
Cons
- The pots and connectors are cheaply made, but considering the price, it does make sense
- A dedicated power switch would have been a great addition
- Does not come with required drivers
Behringer is notorious for churning out budget-friendly devices. Unfortunately, most of their devices are crap, but this mode caught my attention straight away. I can’t say for sure whether it was because of the shockingly low price or sound quality. The device doesn’t look as good as Focusrite’s models mentioned above. However, it is easily one of the most versatile audio interfaces I have come across.
In terms of design, it is a standard interface with inputs on the front, outputs on the back, and everything crammed into a sturdy aluminum construction.
In terms of performance, it works like a champ. The vocal recordings are crisp. For guitar recording, it can take active pickups with no issues at all. I am impressed!
Moreover, its audio interface is totally compatible with windows and Mac and works well with most DAWs. In short, this partner for a home studio is as powerful and intuitive as audio interfaces get.
Check Price & Reviews on AmazonAudient 2 Audio Interface iD4
- 2-in 2-out
- USB 2.0 Audio Interface
- One Class-A Audient Console
- Mic Preamplifier
- One Discrete JFET Instrument Input
- 24bit/96khz
- All-metal enclosure
- Windows, macOS, and iOS compatible
Pros
- iD ScrollControl mode to turn the volume control into the rotary encoder in order to control the plug-in parameters.
- Zero-latency monitoring with monitor mix and pan
- Comes with monitor controller functionality
- Creates music on the go because of its small size and quality sound handling features
Cons
- A little fragile so handle with care
- Not very durable
The iD4 is Audient, bringing exceptional audio performance to one of its smallest interfaces. They have crammed a DI, a single microphone preamp, twin headphone, and stereo outs into a single unit that can fit in the palm of your hand.
Furthermore, it has a large rotary encoder acting as primary monitor volume as well as a software control. That’s a lot of features in such a portable device.
Even though the two inputs are very minimal, it can cover your needs – whether acoustic or electronic. It is small and bus-powered, so you can take it along if you want to create music on the go.
Check Price & Reviews on AmazonMeloAudio TS Mini Audio Interface
- 24 bit / 192 kHz audio sound quality
- 48dB Preamp
- XLR input Line (TRS) input MIDI
- output Balanced Main Line
- Output USB port for connectivity
- Supports XLR & MIDI
- Built-in 48 volts Phantom Power and Preamp
Pros
- Multifunctional iPhone compatible audio interface It is compatible with iPhone 5 and later, as well as iPad, Windows, Mac, and Android
- Can record keyboard, guitar, bass, vocals – you name it
- One of the most economical devices
- Quality sound (196 kHz / 24-bit) and resolution
- 48 volts phantom power
Cons
- An L & R output would have been nice
MeloAudio is a novice manufacturer, yet my first encounter with their flagship device doesn’t disappoint. This model can go toe to toe with iD4 in terms of cost and performance. While the former costs a little less, the later provides slightly better sound quality (192 kHz / 24-bit).
Additionally, it also provides 48 volts of phantom power. So musicians who require higher operating power because they want to plug in a condenser microphone should definitely give this model a shot. What’s more, it also has MIDI and XLR inputs.
All in all, this is an ideal device for people who want a compact, versatile, and budget-friendly model for their audio mixing needs.
Check Price & Reviews on AmazonBehringer U-Phoria UMC202HD Audiophile 2×2 USB Audio Interface
Best Guitar Interface For Ipad Garageband 2
- Interface Type: USB 2.0
- Converter: 24-bit
- Sample Rate: Up to 192kHz
- Inputs: 2x XLR/TRS combo
- Warranty: 3 years limited
Pros
- Has a rich and full audio output
- Astonishing noise-canceling ability
- 3 years warranty keeps you plenty covered
- A great option for people on a budget
Cons
- As this is an older model it has limited inputs
- This is an older model
I have reviewed Behringer’s UMC 402HD model before, so this is a previous model. The only reason I include it in my list is because of its meager cost when compared with the latest model.
The clarity of this basic audio interface is astonishing, and the sound comes out very full and rich, replicating whatever you throw at it.
In case your recording venue has ground loop issues that cause significant hum in recordings, then this little device can take care of the record with absolutely non-existent noise in the output. It is silent. Even when the volume is cranked up, you hear no noise.
Check Price & Reviews on AmazonIK Multimedia iRig PRO DUO 2 channel professional audio interface
- Two Neutrik combo jack inputs
- Two balanced TRS outputs
- MIDI in/out
- Dual ultra-low-noise pre-amps with phantom power
- TRS balanced outputs & a 1/8″ headphone jack Lightning
- USB and MicroUSB cables
Pros
- Professional audio along with true mobility
- More robust than previous IK multimedia’s iRig model
- Comes in two models – corded and cordless
- The package includes lighting and USB cables
Cons
- Batteries could have been better in cordless models
- Won’t work as efficiently when it has low batteries
It is a widely compatible interface. Featuring everything you would expect from a dual-channel audio interface. For instance, phantom power, MIDI, signal metering, direct monitoring, and XLR/Hi Z inputs. More than enough to work with multiple devices.
It is fairly robust, and the cordless model works best when fully charged. Once the charge drains, it becomes less stable over time.
Overall, it may not have natural and sexiest sounding preamps, yet as a utility for your music box, you cannot ignore this economical bargain.
Check Price & Reviews on AmazonNative instruments Komplete 2
- Two combi-XLR/jack inputs
- Stereo jack out VU Meter
- USB 2.0
- Essentials software bundle
- 48V phantom power
- 192 kHz and 24 bit Audio Quality
Pros
- Very light, portable and has an attractive design
- High power and zero latency output sounds
- VU Meter for accurately adjusting levels
- Has pretty big volume knob to adjust the output levels
- While recording you can hear the playback due to Input/host mix feature
Cons
- Only allows direct monitoring to headphones
The last audio interface on my list is stylish and aesthetically pleasing Native Instruments Komplete Audio 2 interface. Simple design, elegant and dirt cheap – there I summed up this device for you.
The device comes bundled with a range of Komplete Start software. It has 15 synths sample instrument along with various effects
This viable portable solution for pc or laptop recording is everything a novice music producer needs to get started. In short, a Komplete solution. See, what I did there?
Check Price & Reviews on AmazonBest Audio Interface – Buyer’s Guide
If youare still not sure which one of the best audio interface for garagebandfulfills your requirements, I will be writing a buyer’s guide below to help youout. You can use the following criteria to decide which interface to call in.
iOS support
Ideally your interface should support macOS as well aswindows. iPads have also become quite popular for recording music so I consideriOS support just as valuable. However, if you are using a USB interface withyour iPad it may require additional adapters. Of course, this feature becomesless important in case you just want to utilize the interface with a desktop inyour home studio.
Ease of use
The ease of use is essential. You shouldn’t have to readthrough the manuals how to connect the interface with your device. Connectingany device or instrument with it should be easy. Moreover, the gain levelsshould be easy to adjust. Models like Native Instruments Komplete 2 have reallybig volume knobs to ease volume adjustment. The placement of phantom powerbuttons and clipper indicator lights – whether in front or rear – also adds tothe ease of use.
Portability
If you like to record music on the go or outdoors, youneed to consider a model which is light enough to not burden your backpack andhas a good battery. The last three models on my list are very lightweight andportable. So you can check these out.
Sound Quality
Guitar Interface For Ipad Garageband
The sound quality isn’t exactly a distinguishing feature among best audio interfaces for garageband. This is because most interfaces available in the market today are capable of recording a noise-free quality sound at 96 kHz rate and 24 bit depth. So sound quality should be least of your worries when it comes to shopping for your interface.
Software
The included software can be a bonus. However, it is never a deal-breaker. Usually, the included software is a “lite” version of software such as ProTools, Ableton or StudioOne used by professionals to better control the audio. If you are looking at audio interfaces then I assume you already have a recording software package in mind which you like. So, you can go with any package you like.
Inputs
Even if you are a solo artist and need only one or twodevices connected to your interface, I always recommend going for more inputs.More ports mean you don’t have to toggle the cords and can leave your devicesplugged in. Nevertheless, if you are on a budget then you can go for older lessexpensive models. They normally have limited inputs.
MIDI
Any instrument with a MIDI out needs an interface thathas support for the specific five pin input style. Many modern instruments andMIDI controllers can plugin directly with the USB so if you are just setting upyour home studio, you shouldn’t worry about this feature.
Best Audio Interface – Closing Thoughts
There, you have it – all the information you need to shop for the best audio interface for GarageBand. All the models I included in my article are below 1000 bucks because anything above starts to get into the category of professionals which is usually a concern for bigger studios. These models work best for solo recordists. Happy recording!
About the Author
Nickolas Anderson
I have been reviewing products for the last three years and I joined the Reviewbrewery team in late 2019.
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Contents
- 4 1. Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (2nd Gen) USB Audio Interface – Best For Beginners
- 5 2. Behringer U-Phoria UMC204HD
- 6 3. Audient iD4 High-Performance USB Audio Interface
- 7 4. Arturia AudioFuse 14 x 14 USB Audio Interface
- 8 5. Antelope Audio Zen Studio – Editor’s Choice
What’s an Audio Interface?
Before revealing the top 5 Best Audio Interface for GarageBand, we will discuss the brief history of an audio interface. This is simply a device used in making quality and good quality studio recordings at home it being an external sound card with inputs for mics and instruments like speakers and headphones for singing. What makes this device dependable is the function it supports inclusive of recordings of voice, keyboard, guitar much, much, more providing also metering and other important features. A type of external hardware capable to be connected to desktops or laptop computers via USB for modern pcs and older versions via ports like Ethernet as well. More to say is that these well-known audio interface devices work with both iOS and Windows Software, however, not forgetting the use of an additional adapter.
Now, having gotten that out of the way, what are the best audio interface devices available on market today?
Top Five Best Audio Interface for GarageBand
Reviews of Best Audio Interface for GarageBand
1. Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (2nd Gen) USB Audio Interface – Best For Beginners
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (2nd Gen) USB Audio Interface is one of the popular and trending easy to use devices working much to the efficiency suiting best any Garage-band and musician/podcaster. Why settle for the Scarlett 2i2? The device unlike other similar pieces of recording equipment is easy to use allowing the immediate recording with the exclusion of normal delays in setting up compared to the many others needing lots of software updates upon installation. So, looking at things from that angle, the robust design Scarlett 2i2 is a pretty dependable device and guess what? It’s small too! No need for the extra hustle carrying this little baby around! The Scarlett 2i2 back panel is finely furnished with the USB 2.0 connector and stereo line outputs with its front panel comprising of two Focusrite preamps presented with hybrid input ports reserved as the main action of the device. A device that can take an XLR cable or even a ¼ inched jack with a rocker switch below selecting Instrument as well as of course Mic inputs. More to say is that the Scarlett 2i2 comprises also of a 48V phantom power button glowing bright red whenever activated serving both inputs when connecting two microphones and a Direct Monitor button feeding input signals directly to the twin monitor options.
Additionally, for the user, there is a large grey dial controlling your speaker’s volume, as well as a separately driven headphone level dial having its own connector below. So, if you are looking for audio interface best working smoothly with your garage-band software don’t hesitate to get your hands loaded on this little baby!
Features and Specifications
- Two natural-sounding Scarlett mi preamps with plenty of even gain, conversion and sample rates up to 192kHz?24-bit, two instrument inputs specially design for the handling of seriously hot pickups super-low latency for using plug-ins in really having no need of DSP.
- Ideal for recording two mics at a go, crisp and clear conversion, recordings made easy especially for having Gain Halos around the gain knobs, instant recording, limited time offer, the inclusion of pro tools and much, much, much more!
- Item of Focusrite with the model number AMS-SCARLETT-2I2-2ND-GEN
- Weighs 1.32 pounds with product dimensions of 1.9 x 6.9 x 4.3 inches, USB 2.0 Hardware interface, size 2i2-2 Mic Pres, voltage of 240.
Pros
- Incredibly versatile, useful in both home recording and podcasting, live recordings. Ideal interface for daily use. It is a small, easy connection with Garage-band, ideal for beginner’s use not complicated to work with.
- Compact, has two Focusrite pres of ‘Safire’ quality, ideal for recording two mics at a go, also with a clear and crisp conversion.
Cons
- Has no digital I/O, low buffer setting produces popping and line noise, crackling and distortion after long time use.
2. Behringer U-Phoria UMC204HD
The Behringer U-Phoria UMC204HD is an audio interface designed with two channels for working with having complementary features you truly come to rely on usually found on the more expensive models out there. It is an audio interface model coming with multiple LED indicators making ease of monitoring, bundled up with EDM/DJ friendly DAW software Tracktion with complementary instrument as well as effect plug-ins. It being a reliable machine for your outdoor Garage-band it’s a great selection of the many models not just for being readily affordable but for its features such as the MIDAS-designed mic preamps and 24-bit/192kHz AD/AD conversion giving you the same sound quality as the popular mixers, however in a more portable form factor and at a fraction of the cost. The Behringer U-Phoria UMC204HD is compatible with a wide array of the popular recording software of today, offering also zero-latency monitoring, with each of the machine’s features safely protected with the impact-resistant metal chassis. Further to say is that what makes this machine of great use is it featuring two versatile inputs of combined XLR/TRS ports, having also four outputs, not forgetting decent controls.
Features and Specifications
- U-Phoria UMC204HD, a studio in a Black Box for its cool recording features, has 192 kHz Precision, MIDAS producing great quality sound, has zero-latency monitoring, Tracktion to record, edit, mix and share.
- 2×4 USB 2.0 Audio/MIDI Interface for recording microphones and instruments, 2-state-of-the-art, MIDAS designed Mic Preamplifiers with +48V phantom power, compatible with popular recording software including Avid Pro Tools, Abbleton Live, Steinberg Cubase, etc.
- Audiophile 24-Bit/192 kHz resolution for professional audio quality can stream 2 inputs/4 outputs plus 1x MIDI/O with ultra-low latency to your pc, supporting Mac OS X and Windows XP or higher.
- Behringer U-Phoria UMC204HD of weight of 1.37 pounds, product dimensions of 7.3 x 5.1 x 2 inches, USB Hardware Interface.
Pros
- Readily affordable, has impressively clear sound, is of versatile design, great for electric guitar, keyboard and even bass use making it ideal for Garage-band, Cool recording features.
- Zero-latency, Tracktion to record, edit, mix and share, 192 kHz precision.
Cons
- Other users are affected by driver issues and other software bugs fixable only after updating the main software.
- Though it’s affordable it’s rather at a price than it was intended to be for the best value of your money.
3. Audient iD4 High-Performance USB Audio Interface
Another on the list is the Audient iD4 which is undeniable to the best audio interface for your Garage-band you can get offered under $200! As it stands, the Audient iD4 is basically a simple two-input/two-output device featuring a mic preamp complete with phantom power for using condenser mics. It is the smallest and least complex member of Audient’s iD range of USB computer audio interfaces featuring two separate inputs: one mic/line input on a combination XLR/jack connector with switchable 48V phantom power, having also a J-FET-based instrument DI input, each of them having an individual gain control. It has an instrumental level DI for the plugging in of your bass or guitar, having also the main output for your speakers and dual headphone output, the whole device designed to be powered by USB and when using Apple’s camera connection kit, can also work with iPhone/iPad. More to say is that the Audient iD4 is one truly of great value for your money, basically ideal if you want to use it for your Garage-band.
Features and Specifications
- Audient iD4 USB Audio Interface OPEN BOX, has two separate inputs of which one is a mic/line input on a combination XLR/jack connector with switchable 48V phantom power, J-FET-based instrument DI input, each with individual gain control. The remaining I/O is made up of a headphone output on TRS jacks—mini and quarter-inch—and a pair of TRS jack loudspeaker outputs.
- Audient iD4 USB Audio Interface OPEN BOX weighing 1.63 pounds, dimensions of 8 x 7.2 x 3.9 inches, model number of 18-90008, voltage of 5 with USB 2.0 Hardware Interface
Pros
- One of the best models around,
- Is of the best value of your money,
- Has an excellent preamp, ideal for Garage-band.
- Has 2.0 USB Hardware Interface, has speaker output and dual headphone output, when using Apple’s camera kit, can also work with iPhone/iPad.
Cons
- Couldn’t find any
4. Arturia AudioFuse 14 x 14 USB Audio Interface
The Arturia AudioFuse is a somewhat classy audio interface with great sound and of a stylish design. Attractive as it is, the device is a portable Mac, PC as well as iOS-compatible interface having raft features and which despite having a compact frame, has plenty of connectivity on offer. Not only does this little device incorporate conventional mic, line and instrument inputs, but you can also connect a turntable, while one of the line outputs does duty as re-amp out for guitar recording. The Arturia AudioFuse is a square and somewhat heavy device coming in several colours festooned with buttons, white LEDS and dials, having also a snug fitting lid protecting it from damage whilst in transit. On the device, situated along the front edge are combi inputs and two fully independent headphone feeds, which, in turn, can accommodate both mini-jack and ¼-inch plugs. The back of the Arturia AudioFuse comprises of speaker outputs for two pairs of monitors, line connectors, MIDI/Out ports, which, because of size restrictions have been replaced by mini-jack connectors found in the box. When it comes to digital interfacing, both S/PDIF and ADAT In/Out, the device having also inserts for inputs 1 and 2 for the possibility of tracking through hardware compressors or channel strips.
Features and Specifications
- Arturia AudioFuse with 14 x `4 USB Audio Interface with 2 Mic Preamps, 2 phone Preamps, ADAT, SPDIF, Word Clock, and MIDI I/O, 24-bit AD/DA Converters at up to 192 kHz, and with Sampling Rate of Silver.
- Crystal-clear audio quality Exclusive, low noise Discrete PRO preamps Compatible with Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Linux Ultra-low latency as low as 3ms, Hi-Z inputs and outputs for easy guitar re-amping.
- 5dB A-weighted EIN rating guaranteeing the widest dynamic range for your audio, class-leading signal-to-noise ratios on the pre-amps and the purest discrete Analog signal paths to ever grace an audio interface. Has Pristine studio quality at the heart of AudioFuse, with each of its components promising the highest possible audio excellence. Its >131, AudioFuse set to be the centre of your studio by adding to this a host of connectivity options well as hands-on workflow approach.
- Arturia AudioFuse of weight 4.19 pounds, dimensions of 7.2 x 6.8 x 6.6 inches, model number of 810101_S, Classic Silver, with USB Hardware Interface.
Pros
- It is great for Garage-band, has great sound, allows loads of connectivity, stylish design, compatible with Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, with Linus Ultra-low latency as low as 3ms
Cons
- Highly priced, other interfaces with similar levels of I/O are available for a lower price.
5. Antelope Audio Zen Studio – Editor’s Choice
The Antelope Audio Zen Tour audio interface another of the available devices for your Garage-band, one considered as a high-end portable audio interface the guitarist would come to love if they grabbed hold of it! Incredibly flexible with a small but useful touchscreen enabling all the basic functions of the unit like input gains, headphone levels as well as talkback directly accessible using the front panel buttons and the large ‘soft knob’. More to say about the Antelope Audio Zen Tour is that is it is a portable Thunderbolt/USB 2.0 audio interface great at making an impressive front end for studio or mobile-DAW setup. A lovable device with the capability of handling 26 inputs and 36 outputs combining excellent sound quality with a large collection of built-in DSP-based effects, essentially latency free. The front of the Antelope Audio Zen Tour are two headphone outs, two re-amping outs and four line/Hi Z inputs, all on ¼-inch jacks. The back of the device comprises of four dual XLR ¼ inch inputs, two pairs of monitor outs on ¼-inch jacks, eight Analogue outs on a DB25, two RCA sockets for S/PDIF in and out, with a power connector and USB and Thunderbolt sockets. Further to the say, on the left-hand side, the device comprises of two ADAT pairs of ins and outs, having installed the software on your computer then you are all set and good to go! The Antelope Audio Zen is our choice for the Best Audio Interface for GarageBand.
Features and Specifications
- The Antelope Audio Zen Tour comprises of 4 mic pres & 4 line/hi-z ins with phantom power, 8 Analog outs, 2 headphone and 2 preamp outs, plus an array of digital I/O, built-in talkback, as well as also having a touchscreen control panel.
- Has 24-bit, 192 kHz audio and Antelope’s signature flawless conversion, guitar amp modelling and effects processing with virtually zero latency. It has FPGA-based hardware models of vintage gear and equalisers, at no cost at all, 32 channels via Thunderbolt and 24 on USB for zero-latency audio streaming.
- Antelope Audio Zen Tour with weight of 3.09 pounds, dimensions of 6.5 x 10 x 2.4 inches, model number of Zen Tour, screen size of 3.5 inches.
Pros
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- An incredibly flexible audio interface, great for Garage-band.
- It is truly portable, has latency-free DSP, 24-bit, 192 kHz audio and Antelope’s signature flawless conversion.
- Has 32 channels via Thunderbolt as well as 24 on USB for zero-latency streaming.
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Cons
- Comprises of only one compressor.
Conclusion and Recommendations:
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Of the viewed five products, I would recommend out of the three that I think would be ideal for you. If you are a beginner wishing to use the audio interface, the best to settle for is the Scarlett 2i2 USB 2ND-GEN interface. If you are more experienced and want an amazing to work with the sound device, I recommend the Behringer U-phoria UMC204HD which will work best for you. The Antelope Audio Zen Tour has great review rating from the users which is my third and final pick out of the five, for you, which would do if you have a little extra in your wallet. If not, then you either settle for any of the other two I left out or any other audio interface best suiting your Garage-band. Pick your choice for the Best Audio Interface for GarageBand today.
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