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In this article, we’re going to be discussing the top 12 Mac OS audio interfaces in 2021.
We felt that we really had to create this article, reviewing all of these audio interfaces suitable for Mac, as there seems to be minimal information on the topic, in a condensed, easy to read format!
We realize that everyone reading this will (more than likely) have or own a Mac, hence the reason you are looking for a compatible audio interface.
However, not everyone has the same budget, nor the same input/output requirements…
So we’ve structured the article in a very logical format, segmenting on the main criteria, which is the number of line outputs, and then sub-criteria which is budget…
All of this information is nicely condensed and summed up in the table directly below, but for you guys who want all of the information and videos to watch the audio interface in action, keep reading! If you aren’t necessarily looking for an audio interface for a Mac, or your just want the best of the best, look at our guide for the best audio interface overall!
So let’s get to it, what are the 12 best audio interfaces for Mac OS in 2021?
Best Audio Interfaces For Mac OS
- Presonus Audiobox USB 96
- Focusrite Scarlett Solo [3rd Gen]
- M-Audio Air 2×2
- Focusrite Scarlett 2i2[3rd Gen]
- Apogee ONE For Mac
- Behringer UMC 404HD Audiophile
- Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 [3rd Gen]
- Apogee Duet 2 For Mac
- Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII Heritage Edition
- Tascam US-16X08
- Focusrite Scarlett OctoPre Dynamic
- Tascam Celesonic US20x20
Mac Audio Interface With 2 Outputs
PreSonus AudioBox USB 96
Compatibility
- Mac / Connectivity via USB
Features
- Durable, heavy-duty steel chassis
- 2 inputs (for Microphones and Guitars/Bass), 2 line outputs
- Low Latency
BUNDLE
This audio interface is also available in a full recording equipment bundle, which includes the following:
- Presonus Audiobox USB 96 audio interface
- M7 large-diaphragm condenser microphone
- HD7 Headphones
Technical Specs
- USB 2.0 bus-powered (no need for separate power)
- Midi interface
- Compatible with almost all recording software for Mac and Windows
- 24-bit resolution; 44.1|48|88.2| & 96 kHz sampling rates
- 2 combo mic/instrument inputs with high-performance, low-noise, high-headroom mic preamplifiers
- Includes Studio One Artist DAW software and 6GB+ of third-party software
- Includes Studio Magic Plug-In Suite
- 20 Hz – 20 kHz Frequency Response
- 48v Phantom Power
Take a look at this video, which gives us an overview of the PreSonus Audiobox USB 96 Audio Interface followed by a demo.
Focusrite Scarlett Solo [3Rd Gen]
Compatibility
- Mac [Mac 10.12 and onwards] / Connectivity via USB
Features
- A very popular & best selling audio interface on Amazon, with over 21,000 reviews, averaging 4.8 stars
- Solid metal chassis for high-quality protection
- Incredibly simple to use, with a clear display user interface
- 2 inputs (1 microphone and 1 instrument input),
- 2 outputs (left and right output)
- Has a switchable air setting, which can give your vocal recordings a richer, brighter, more open sound
- Comes with the following software
- Pro Tools | First Focusrite Creative Pack
- Ableton Live Lite
- Focusrite Control
- Softube Time and Tone Bundle
- Focusrite’s Red Plugin Suite
- 3 Month Splice Subscription
- One free XLN Addictive Keys Virtual Instrument
- Lowest latency of any audio interface on the market
Bundle
This audio interface is also available in a full recording equipment bundle, which includes the following:
- Focusrite Scarlett Solo Studio (3rd Gen) USB Audio Interface and Recording Bundle with Pro Tools | First
- Microphone Suspension Boom Scissor Arm
- Microphone Shock Mount
- Pop Filter
Technical Specs
- Class-leading conversion & sample rates up to a 192kHz/24 bit.
- Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz 0.1dB
- Super-low latency for using plug-ins in real-time without the need for DSP
- 1 XLR (Microphone) Input, 1 Line (Guitar) Input for singular or simultaneous recording.
- Provides 48v Phantom power for active microphones
- Does not need a power supply, runs and is powered directly from the USB connection
- 3-Year Purchase Warranty
- Designed in England and manufactured in China
For a 1st-hand view of the amazing recording quality of the Focusrite Scarlett Solo (3rd Generation) take a look at the video demonstration below:
Being an Amazon Best Seller, it’s clear that this audio interface is a fantastic prospect for beginners looking for their 1st audio interface.
Looking into the specifications of this audio interface, it’s clear why it’s so popular, especially considering its inexpensive price.
M-Audio – AIR 192|4 2X2 AUDIO INTERFACE
Compatibility
- Mac / Connectivity via USB
Features
- A beginner-friendly, clear user interface
- Pro-grade metal chassis
- Includes DAW Software: Pro Tools | First M-Audio Edition, Ableton Live Lite, Eleven Lite, the Avid Effect Collection, AIR Creative FX Collection (20 world-class FX AU/VST plugins), 2 GB of sample content from Touch Loops, Strike, Xpand!2, Mini Grand, Vacuum, BOOM from Air MusicTech
- High Quality ‘Crystal’ Preamps for professional audio recording
- Low-Noise, Low Latency
- +48v Phantom Power Switch for microphones which require it (condenser mics)
BUNDLE
- In a Complete Recording Bundle, for someone looking to have everything they need to record in one package; What exactly does this include:
- Includes M-Track 2 x 2 USB Audio Interface: + Software Suite
- M-Audio’s HDH40 Closed-Back Headphones
- Nova Black large-diaphragm condenser microphone
- Shock mount
- XLR Cable
Technical Specs
- 2 inputs x 2 outputs USB audio interface with or without MIDI
- 24 bit /192 kHz resolution
- Two XLR and 1/4 inch TRS combo inputs
- Two 1/4 inch (Guitar/Bass) instrument inputs
- Includes standard USB and USB-C connections
This Audio interface comes in two versions (all shown under the same Amazon listing), which are:
- Without Midi functionality
- With Midi Functionality
Although it was hard to find the perfect demo of someone using the M-Air 192, we were able to find this unboxing and demo video of the 192|8, which should give you some idea of the quality of the 192|4:
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 [3Rd Gen]
Compatibility
- Mac [Mac 10.12 and onwards] / Connectivity via USB
Features
- Amazon’s most popular & best selling audio interface, with over 1000 reviews averaging 4 stars
- Solid metal chassis for protection
- Incredibly simple to use, with a clear display user interface
- 2 combination inputs (for either mic or instrument)
- 2 outputs (left and right output)
- Comes with the following software
- Pro Tools|Focusrite Creative Pack
- Ableton Live Lite
- Focusrite Control
- Softube Time and Tone Bundle
- Focusrite’s Red Plugin Suite
- 3 Month Splice subscription
- One free XLN Addictive Keys Virtual Instrument
- Lowest latency of any audio interface on the market
BUNDLE
The Focusrite Scarlet 2i2 audio interface is also available in a full recording equipment bundle, which includes the following
- Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Studio (3rd Gen) USB Audio Interface
- Microphone suspension boom scissor arm with basic microphone shock mount
- CM25 MKIII condenser microphone
- HP60 MKIII closed-back headphones
- Pop Filter
Technical Specs
- Class-leading conversion & sample rates up to a 192kHz/24 bit.
- Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz 0.1dB
- Super-low latency for using plug-ins in real-time without the need for DSP
- 2 Combo XLR (Microphone) or Line (Instrument) Inputs for singular or simultaneous recording.
- 2 Line Outputs
- Provides 48v Phantom power for active microphones
- Does not need a power supply, runs and is powered directly from the USB connection
- 3-Year Purchase Warranty
- Designed in England and manufactured in China
For a 1st-hand view of the recording quality of the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (3rd Generation) take a look at the video demonstration below:
Being an Amazon Best Seller, it’s clear that this audio interface is a fantastic prospect for beginners looking for their 1st audio interface.
Looking into the specifications of this audio interface, it’s clear why it’s so popular, especially considering its inexpensive price.
Apogee ONE For Mac
Compatibility
- Mac (Mac 10.6.8 and onwards) / Connectivity via USB
Features
- Die-cast aluminum chassis
- Legendary/World Class Apogee Hardware for incredible recording quality – Sounds Fantastic!
- Very Low Latency
- Not to mention, this device has a Truly Incredible in-built microphone, one that has turned heads and converted some of the Neumann & SHURE Audio fanatics to using the Apogee One’s built-in microphone instead.
Technical Specs
- 2 inputs x 2 outputs audio interface
- USB 2.0 connection with 24-bit / 96kHZ AD/DA conversion
- Designed in California, Built in the USA.
Without further ado, it’s easier if you are able to hear an audible demonstration of the audio interface in action, which I have featured below!
There’s not too much to say here, besides the fact that Apogee creates really high sound quality audio interfaces.
However, from the research I have done, where Apogee lack, is in their customer service, which isn’t necessarily something you want, considering you may have questions regarding the interface if things were not to work!
On a more positive note, Apogee has a great website, with plenty of information, and video tutorials on how to set up the device and even recording tips & tricks.
Make no mistake, this audio interface is fantastic, it was one of the best, highest sound quality audio interfaces I’ve ever used.
Mac Audio Interface With 4 Outputs
Behringer UMC 404HD Audiophile
If you’re looking for more inputs, let’s say 4, potentially to an instrument from multiple angles at one time, this interface is the perfect solution, offering high-quality hardware without breaking the bank.
Compatibility
- Mac / Connectivity via USB
Features
- USB 2.0 Audio/MIDI Interface
- 4 or 8 channel inputs (depending on the model you choose) and 4 outputs
- Compatible with most recording software (Avid Pro Tools, Ableton Live, Steinberg Cubase, etc)
- Low Latency
Technical Specs
- USB 2.0 Audio/MIDI Interface
- Audiophile 24-Bit/96 kHz resolution for professional audio quality
- Compatible with popular recording software including Avid Pro Tools*, Ableton Live*, Steinberg Cubase*, etc.
- Ultra-low latency audio recording
- 4 or 8 states of the art MIDAS designed Microphone Preamps
- 48 V phantom power
In the video demonstration below, they are reviewing the 4 input version. The hardware is still the same, and therefore the sound quality will be just as good!
Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 [3Rd Gen]
Before talking about the features or specifications, this Scarlett 4i4 is very similar to the Scarlett 212, except it has 2 additional line intputs, and 2 additional balanced outputs… Not only does this make it an ideal, high-quality device for recording, but also live performance.
Compatibility
Mac [Mac 10.12 and onwards] / Connectivity via USB
Features
- A very popular & best selling audio interface on Amazon, with over 21,000 reviews, averaging 4.8 stars
- Solid metal chassis for high-quality protection
- Incredibly simple to use, with a clear display user interface
- 4 inputs (2 microphone and 2 instrument inputs),
- 4 outputs
- Has a switchable air setting, which can give your vocal recordings a richer, brighter, more open sound
- Comes with the following software Pro Tools | First Focusrite Creative Pack
- Ableton Live Lite
- Focusrite Control
- Softube Time and Tone Bundle
- Focusrite’s Red Plugin Suite
- 3 Month Splice Subscription
- One free XLN Addictive Keys Virtual Instrument
- Lowest latency of any audio interface on the market
bundle
The Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 audio interface is also available in a full recording equipment bundle, which includes the following:
- Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 audio interface
- USB Type B studio microphone
- XLR cable
- Shock mount
- Pop filter
- Mic stand
- Recording Headphones
Technical Specs
- Class-leading conversion & sample rates up to a 192kHz/24 bit.
- Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz 0.1dB
- Super-low latency for using plug-ins in real-time without the need for DSP
- 2 XLR (Microphone) Inputs, 2 Line (Guitar) Inputs for singular or simultaneous recording.
- 2 Line Outputs
- Provides 48v Phantom power for active microphones
- Does not need a power supply, runs and is powered directly from the USB connection
- 3-Year Purchase Warranty
- Designed in England and manufactured in China
Being an Amazon Best Seller, it’s clear that this audio interface is a fantastic prospect for someone requiring minimal latency, high-quality recordings and several outputs.
For a detailed review and recording demonstration showing off the recording quality of the Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 3rd Gen, take a look at the video demonstration below:
Apogee Duet 2 For Mac
Compatibility
Mac / Connectivity via USB
Features
- USB Connection and MIDI I/O
- Incredibly compact and durable audio interface with full color LED display for input and output levels, grouping, phase, muting and phantom power.
- Designed in California and Built in the USA
- Ultra-Low latency monitoring
Technical Specs
- ESS Sabre32 DAC technology for high-quality audio preservation
- (2×4) 2 Analog Inputs (XLR and 1/4 inch) and 4 Analog Outputs (2 x 1/4 inch jack balanced outputs, MIDI and 1/4 inch stereo headphone output)
- AD/DA conversion providing 24-bit, 192kHz recording
- Direct connection to iPad and IOS devices, including iPhone, iPad and iPad Touch – 30 pin cable is sold separately
The Apogee Duet is the Apple MacBook Pro of the Audio Interface industry, it’s sleek design is highly attractive, very durable and extremely portable for the professional musician who wants a device that provides high-quality recordings in the studio and whilst on the road.
The Apogee Duet is the perfect audio interface for anyone looking for more inputs/outputs than the Apogee One, and whilst it doesn’t feature the same in-built microphone that the Apogee One has, it has legendary status microphone pre-amps and internal circuitry, for that high-quality sound.
Below is a video demonstration of the duet in action, being integrated with a guitar and iPad:
Mac Audio Interface With 6 Outputs
Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII Heritage Edition
Compatibility
- Mac / Connectivity via Thunderbolt – Not all units on this list have thunderbolt audio interface mac protocols, so this is a huge bonus.
Features
- A special edition of UA’s acclaimed Apollo Twin MkII interface
- Includes a premium suite of 5 award-winning plug-in titles from Teletronix, Pultec, and UA
- Free LUNA recording system download for Mac users
- 2×6 Audio Interface with Thunderbolt connectivity
- Sleek design and high build quality
- Built-in Talkback microphone for easy communication between the engineer and the musician
- Comes with real-time analog classics UAD plugin bundle: Including UA 610-B Tube Preamp Legacy Pultec EQ, LA-2A and 1176 compressors, Marshall Plexi Classic, Ampeg SVT-VR Classic, and more
- Runs with all major mac-compatible DAWs
- Requires 12DC mains power
Technical Specifications
- UAD-2 Core DSP Acceleration (three different cores to choose from SOLO, DUO or QUAD)
- 2 high-quality mic/line preamps (inputs)
- 6 outputs (2 line outputs, 2 monitor L & R outputs and 2 line/XLR outputs)
- S/PDIF can be used for a single optical input socket, or for up to 8 channels of digital audio via ADAT format.
- Thunderbolt Connectivity
A device for someone looking for a compact, high-quality audio interface with Thunderbolt connectivity, alongside 6 outputs.
If you happen to have a setup where the singer is separated from the engineer i.e in a recording booth, this is the ideal audio interface with it featuring a talkback microphone for direct contact.
Mac Audio Interface With 8 Outputs
Tascam US-16×08
Compatibility
- Mac and iPad / Connectivity via USB
Features
- 16 input / 8 output rack-mountable audio interface
- Smart minimalistic design with plenty of inputs on the front of the interface
- On/Off switch for ease
- Suitable for engineers and bands looking to record live sessions (multiple instruments simultaneously)
- Tough metal body, making it ideal for heavy-duty usage
Technical Specifications
- Capable of 96kHz/24-bit resolution recording
- 8 Ultra-HDDA microphone preamps with 57db of gain, meaning noise level interference is practically null
- USB 2.0 Connectivity
- 4-band EQ and Compression on each channel
- 8 XLR microphone inputs and 8 Balanced Line Inputs
- 8 Balanced Line Outputs
Focusrite Scarlett OctoPre Dynamic
Before commenting on this, I actually own the Focusrite Scarlett Octopre MKII which is a former model…
So what can I say about it, well I love it!
It was rather inexpensive for the price, and the quality of the recordings it provides is superior to other interfaces of the same price budget.
Compatibility
- Mac
Features
- 8×8 Audio Interface which is rack-mountable
- Stylish design, with several interface menu options for the engineer
- 2 high-headroom instrument outputs, particularly suitable for guitars and basses with high output pickups
- Opportunity to record an entire band, with 8 inputs (for recording) and 8 outputs (for monitoring)
- Two Year Manufacturers Warranty
Technical Specifications
- Up to 192kHz, with integrated AD/DA 24-bit converter
- 8 XLR/Line combination inputs
- 8 line outputs
- 48V phantom power
- LED display
- Integrated mains power supply
As you can see from the video demonstration below, the interface provides a fantastic audio recording quality!
Mac Audio Interface With 20 Outputs
Tascam Celesonic US20x20
This interface is in the same series as the Tascam US-16×08 interface, except it provides more inputs and outputs, making it suitable for an engineer/musician who requires this.
Compatibility
- Mac and iPad / Connectivity via USB
Features
- 16 input / 8 output rack-mountable audio interface
- Smart minimalistic design with plenty of inputs on the front of the interface
- On/Off switch for ease
- Suitable for engineers and bands looking to record live sessions (multiple instruments simultaneously)
- Tough metal body, making it ideal for heavy-duty usage
Technical Specifications
- Capable of 96kHz/24-bit resolution recording
- 20 simultaneous inputs when operating at 44.1kHz or 48kHz
- 8 Ultra-HDDA microphone preamps with 56db of gain, meaning noise level interference is practically null
- USB 2.0/3.0 Connectivity
- 4-band EQ and Compression on each channel
- 8 XLR/Line inputs and 2 Balanced Line Inputs
- S/PDIF coaxial input/output
- Word input/output
- 8 Balanced Line Outputs
Conclusion
We really hope that you’ve found our article on the Best Audio Interfaces for Mac both interesting and useful!
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