best audio interface for mac home studio

The 2Pre interface operates in conjunction with the Focusrite Control software. Coupled with 48V phantom power, you can rest assured you’ll capture every sonic detail with Clarett’s crisp and clean mic preamps! As a result, the signal to noise ratio is better than in previous Focusrite interfaces and the dynamic range is wider.

Where audio resolution is concerned, the new and improved A2D and D2A converters process at 24-bit/192kH while presenting plenty of headroom. With that said, you’ll find both USB-C and USB-A cables in the box. The unit has a USB-C port on its back for USB-C bus power, so you’ll need a USB-C compatible device. On the bottom right is the headphone jack for direct monitoring too.Īnd on the rear of the interface, you’ll find four balanced 1/4″ line outputs for connecting your studio monitors, DIN MIDI In and Out ports and an optical ADAT input which enables you to add additional inputs via another console. Meanwhile, the main monitor level knob sits further to the right. And you’ll find independent gain controls and individual self-illuminating phantom power switches next to these inputs. On its front, you’ll find two 2 in 1 XLR/¼” jack JFET instrument/microphone inputs that deliver extreme quality.

Air Mode: relay-controlled analog circuitry on both preamps.

Two professional-quality Clarett+ preamps.

Many know of Focusrite’s infamous Scarlett series, and the Clarett is here to improve on that feature set rather than expand. We think the Clarett is the best beginner audio interface for recording electric guitar thanks to its Air mode which we’ll cover later on. Next, we have the Focusrite Clarett 2Pre USB audio interface. But for its low price tag, Solid State Logic’s SSL 2+ is well-built.

You may find your audio cables to be a little bit loose. Though each knob and buttons feel stable, the XLR ports do have a little bit of give. In addition, you’ll find a second headphone output, two XLR/¼” inputs, a pair of balanced ¼” monitor outputs, and a USB-C port for bus power/computer connectivity. The RCA outputs make connectivity with a variety of other audio gear such as turntables possible too. The SSL2+ is a little bulkier than its predecessor thanks to the additional two RCA outputs and added MIDI I/O. In fact, its design is perfect for home studio integration! But the SSL 2+ is lightweight and portable enough for performers and travelling producers too. Coupled with its compact design, you’re getting a lot for a nice low price. Its two inputs and four outputs have powerful drivers that deliver 24-bit/192kHz audio resolution and the audio precision that SSL is known for. 2 x professional, high-current grade headphone outputs.

Legacy 4K – analog colour enhancement, inspired by classic SSL consoles.

Firstly, the SSL 2+ is the number one audio interface on our list.

Best audio interface for mac home studio