Are you looking for the Best 4×4 Audio Interface Under $500? A 4×4 audio interface is an essential tool for anyone looking to record music or podcasts independently without needing a recording studio.
They are also great for those who want to mix and master their soundtracks at home with ease. Choosing the best 4×4 audio interface under $500 can be challenging if you don’t know what features to look out for, which is why we created this guide on how to choose one!
This article will go through the best 4×4 audio interface under $500. We will also answer any questions you might have about these devices, highlight their pros and cons, and give you some valuable tips to help you make your purchase.
In a Hurry! Then this is my Best Pick
This year’s Best 4×4 Audio Interface Under $500 is Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 3rd Gen Audio Interface. Because of its features with the budget-friendly package. Two high-headroom instrument inputs, two balanced line inputs, four balanced outputs, 24-bit/ 192kHz performance at a reasonable price.
It has all the essential features which give you excellent audio quality. That is why I selected this. If you don’t have much time, you can go with this. Please read more information about it below.
What does an audio interface do?
Before we go into the best 4×4 audio interface under $500, let’s first understand what an audio interface is and what it does. The term “audio interface” actually refers to a type of computer hardware used in recording studios for converting analog sound signals from various sources (e.g., vocals, guitars) into digital form. This is done because analog signals can be manipulated more easily in digital format.
The main function of an audio interface is usually to connect microphones, guitars, keyboards, external MIDI devices, and other sound sources to a computer or laptop that runs recording software. The audio interface can connect multiple sources simultaneously via XLR input, quarter-inch jacks, and digital interfaces.
Why is an audio interface necessary?
The need for an audio interface comes in when you realize that your computer or laptop does not have the necessary hardware to enable multiple inputs for recording music. Most soundcards in computers and laptops are designed to work with microphones, not musical instruments.
The input and output options on your computer may also be limited. These include a USB interface, Firewire, or Thunderbolt ports. While they are compatible with almost all soundcards, these connection options usually aren’t enough for complex studio monitoring setups.
As the name suggests, an audio interface lets you connect multiple audio sources at once to your computer to enhance its recording capabilities. It also has additional features that help you monitor, adjust, and track everything in your studio.
Buying Guide: Best 4×4 Audio Interface Under $500
Choosing the best 4×4 audio interface under $500 can be difficult if you don’t have any experience with these devices, so we recommend doing a lot of research before making your purchase. Here are some features to look out for:
Input or output options
Your device’s input and output options will determine how to monitor your recordings. Some 4×4 audio interface models have a combination of USB ports, XLR jacks, and ¼-inch inputs. Other devices may also support digital optical connections via TOSLINK ports.
The type of port your device uses will help determine how you can listen to your recordings. If your device has USB ports, you will need a pair of high-quality computer speakers or headphones. It is also beneficial if the connector cables are short because long ones prove troublesome in crowded studio spaces.
If your model features XLR jacks, it’s best to use studio monitor speakers to listen to your recordings so you can hear the full range of sound. These connected speakers give a “flat” response, which means they have no coloration or distortion, so all frequencies are heard without any added effects.
On the other hand, ¼-inch jacks allow you to directly monitor your instrument or microphone signal without requiring additional hardware. Using your mixer or audio interface, you can plug into the ¼-inch jacks and then connect your mixer with that. You can also use this type of connection if you’re using a passive speaker hooked up to an amplifier.
Versatility
The product you buy should be versatile enough to work with any instrument or microphone without causing interference. You also need to make sure that it is compatible with your computer or laptop’s operating system.
An audio interface with the ability to switch between electric guitars, keyboards, and vocalists would be beneficial if you have a band with many different types of instruments. This way, you can connect each musician’s device to the audio interface and monitor their sound as they record.
Features
Different features can be found in 4×4 audio interfaces, but some of the most common ones include MIDI ports, mic preamp, headphone jack, and built-in converters. Most high-end devices will have all these features, so you should decide what would work best for your recording needs.
Connectivity
It would be best to consider buying a 4×4 audio interface that you can easily connect to your computer or laptop. Your device’s connectivity options will depend on the type of port that it has. If your computer or laptop doesn’t have a USB connection, an audio interface with built-in card readers and FW ports would be beneficial.
Internal hardware
The internal hardware of your audio interface is just as crucial as its connectivity options. If the hardware inside your device doesn’t support high-resolution quality, it might not be worth investing in because any music or sound playback would produce an inferior sound quality.
Design
The design of your audio interface will largely depend on your personal preference. Still, it is essential to remember that some recording devices such as mixers and MIDI controllers can be bulky. You should also look for a device with easy-to-use controls and knobs because you might need to change settings while you’re working.
Compatibility
To determine whether or not your audio interface is compatible with Windows and Mac OSx, you need to keep in mind that most brands usually release different versions of their devices for both operating systems. If you own a MAC, we recommend checking the system requirements for any product you consider buying to ensure it will work with your laptop.
Dimensions and weight
It is a good idea to check the dimensions and weight of an audio interface before purchasing because some devices may be too large or heavy for your setup. You should also ensure that it won’t hinder you from reaching your computer or mixer if you need to adjust any recording settings.
Warranty
A warranty is beneficial in protecting your purchase from defects that could cause severe inconvenience to you. Most brands offer a one-year limited warranty for all their devices, but some offer extended warranties for a small price.
5 Best 4×4 Audio Interface Under $500 – Glance
| # | Product | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 3rd Gen Audio Interface | View on Amazon |
| 2 | MOTU M4 Audio Interface | View on Amazon |
| 3 | Behringer UMC404HD Audio Interface | View on Amazon |
| 4 | ESI MAYA44 Audio Interface | View on Amazon |
| 5 | Tascam US-4x4HR Audio Interface | View on Amazon |
Let’s see the review of these audio interfaces. I hope this may help you to choose an audio interface.
1. Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 3rd Gen Audio Interface
Key features
- Two mic preamps
- Air mode
- Two high-headroom instrument inputs
- Two balanced line inputs
- Four balanced outputs for clean
- 24-bit/ 192kHz performance
- Quick start tool
- Phantom Power 48V
Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 3rd Gen Audio Interface is an excellent option for any musician that needs a budget audio interface. This interface gives you a lot of versatility with the options but contains a reliable interface that won’t derail you from your music.
The Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 3rd Gen Audio Interface is a cheaper alternative to its other interfaces, so it’s great for those who are looking for affordability.
The Focusrite Scarlet 4i4 3rd Gen Audio Interface has been designed to be compact and portable so that you can take it on the go. The interface has two microphone pre-amplifiers, which means you can record vocals while being backed up by an instrumental track. This interface also comes with again that can easily customize the input.
The interface features a direct monitoring function, which will allow you to hear yourself while recording over a track. This is especially useful for musicians just learning how to record or vocalists who have been singing for most of their lives. Another great feature that the Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 3rd Gen Audio Interface offers is the ability to listen back through zero-latency speakers.
One of the interface’s most valuable aspects is its ability to record and mix at up to 24-bit/192kHz. This will allow you to create music on your computer with ease, and it comes with cutting-edge technology so you can make sure that your sound is crisp.
The Focusrite Scarlett 4i 4 3rd Gen Audio Interface is compatible with most DAWs like Fl Studio, Ableton, etc., so it’s easy to integrate into your existing setup.
The Focusrite Scarlet 4i4 3rd Gen Audio Interface can have four separate channels of input at any given time, making it easier for you to get a good sound from all of the instruments you’re using. This will allow you to record up to four different tracks at any time, which is very beneficial for those trying to create music independently and not use a full band.
Pros
- Good quality build
- Two impressive preamps
- Easy to use controls
- Low latency
- Direct monitoring function
- Low noise
Cons
- Sometimes get unstable with a guitar
2. MOTU M4 Audio Interface
Key features
- 4 input and 4 output
- ESS Sabre32 Ultra DAC technology
- 2.5ms at 24-bit/96kHz with a 32 sample buffer
- Full-colour LCD screen
- 2 great-sounding microphone preamps
- 1-touch hardware monitoring on all inputs
- Loopback
- USB bus
- 120 dB output and -129 dB
- MIDI in/out
- 6 GB of free loops, samples, and libraries
MOTU M4 4×4 USB-C Audio Interface is a high-quality audio interface used for recording or live performance. It has an ultra-low latency of 2.5 milliseconds, which makes it ideal for monitoring live inputs (mic, guitar, or MIDI keyboard) over your computer.
MOTU M4 audio interface has the same ESS Sabre32 Ultra DAC Technology as other professional Audio interfaces, which cost thousands of dollars. This technology delivers a 120dB dynamic range with low noise and distortion. It has 4 inputs and 4 outputs built to maximize your recording capabilities.
Nothing is more essential during recording and mixing than obtaining the best possible levels. The MOTO M4 includes a full-color LCD with precise, detailed level meters for all inputs and outputs. Professional volume control and feedback are available to help you fine-tune your sound.
The M4 makes it easy to route what is played on your computer back to the computer. You can then mix the computer sound with live microphones or guitar playing through the M4 so that you can stream or podcast your music.
The M4 has two excellent sounding premium mic preamps with individual gain and phantom power, perfect for recording from a wide variety of studios when using your favorite plug-in.
The M4 automatically switches the tracking input and software output to line inputs for no latency monitoring directly through any Morite plug-in.
Loopback allows you to record your computer playback while simultaneously routing the mixed computer sound back to the Mac or Windows computer. This is perfect for recording podcasts, commentary for video, or streaming music on Facebook Live.
Pros
- Ultra-high-speed USB-C interface
- USB Bus
- High sample rate
- ESS Sabre32 Ultra DAC technology
- Mic Preamps deliver crystal clear audio
Cons
- No optical inputs and outputs
3. Behringer UMC404HD Audio Interface
Key features
- 24-Bit/192 kHz resolution
- 4×4 USB 2.0 Audio/MIDI interface
- 4 inputs / 4 outputs
- 1x MIDI I/O with ultra-low latency
- MIDAS designed Mic Preamplifiers
- +48 V phantom power
- Monitor A/B source
The Behringer UMC404HD Audio Interface is a sleek and streamlined interface perfect for those who want to take their music with them on the go. This audio interface features four input channels, and four outputs feature MIDAS-designed mic preamps with exceptional 24-Bit/192 kHz, which will give you a high-end and professional sound.
With this device, you can easily mix what you’re playing back on your computer with live microphones or guitar that’s plugged into the interface. This way, if you’re streaming or podcasting your music, you’ll be able to add in sound from your instruments and vocals for added depth.
The Behringer UMC404HD Audio Interface is an excellent alternative to the Scarlett 4i4 3rd Gen, but it’s more expensive than some of its competition.
The Behringer UMC404HD comes with a robust USB 2.0 connection that allows you to easily connect to your computer without any installation or extra software required. The device also comes with a MIDI port that will allow you to incorporate other instruments into your music, such as a drum machine or sequencer.
Ultra-low latency is also very beneficial when playing back instruments, so you can make sure that the MIDI is in sync with your vocals or other live tracks.
The Behringer UMC404HD comes with MIDAS-designed mic preamps and +48 V phantom power that will give you a better sound quality than some devices on the market. You’ll be able to record clear and crisp vocals, and it comes with a gain control knob so you can adjust the input with ease.
Pros
- Good build quality
- Value for money
- Easy to set up
- 4-in/4-out configuration
- MIDAS-designed mic preamps
Cons
- Some users find latency is awful
4. ESI MAYA44 Audio Interface
Key features
- 48 kHz sample rate
- 4 inputs and 4 outputs
- 18-bit A / D converter
- 20-bit D / A converter
- -10 dB input and output level
- Optical S/PDIF digital output
- Headphone output with 3.5 mm jack socket
- 60 mW amplifier
- ASIO 2.0 / CoreAudio support / MME and WDM support
- Standard USB connection to PC or Mac
- Compatible with Windows and Mac OS
ESI MAYA44 is perfect for those with portability in mind, as the device is about half the size of some other devices on this list. You can easily take it with you when traveling and set it up quickly without any extra cords or accessories.
This device is an excellent alternative for those looking for an interface that will allow them to playback with high-quality instruments and vocals. You’ll be able to mix what’s going on in one track while you’re playing around another track and sing over the top of it, and you won’t experience any latency issues.
The MAYA44 has inputs and outputs with the professional level of -10 dBV. This is the best offer in the market for this price range.
The integrated 60 mW amplifier will allow you to directly stream your audio without the need for any extra amplification. This will ensure that you get a clear signal, making it easier to get great sound while recording.
The ESI MAYA44 can record up to 48 kHz, which will allow you to capture high-quality audio when streaming or playing back your instruments.
This interface comes with a comprehensive mixer, effects, and routing; it also has MIDI ports and compatibility with most DAWs.
This audio interface has an aluminum exterior, which helps protect it from damage, and it also has stereo headphone outputs that are directly integrated into the device. This will allow you to monitor yourself while recording or mixing without taking off your headphones.
The ESI MAYA44 provides 4 analog inputs and 4 outputs with RCA connectors to work with, which will allow you to mix so many tracks at once without any issues.
Pros
- ASIO 2.0 and CoreAudio support
- 4 analog input and 4 analog output channels
- S/PDIF digital output
- Worth of money
- Portable design
Cons
- Some users get confused a bit during installation
5. Tascam US-4x4HR Audio Interface
Key features
- Mac, PC, and iOS compatible
- Captures audio in sample rates up to 192kHz
- Super-low latency
- Bus-powered
- 4 x Ultra-HDDA microphone preamplifiers with 57dB of gain
- +48V phantom power for condenser microphones
- 1/4-inch TRS inputs on all four channels
- 2 sets of stereo 1/4-inch line outputs
- 5-pin MIDI in/out
- Headphone output with volume control
The Tascam US-4x4HR Audio Interface features up to four channels of simultaneous I/O, which will give you plenty of room to record while you’re playing.
The interface is designed with the user in mind, so it’s very intuitive and easy to use. You can easily swap between inputs and outputs without any complications, perfect for trying different configurations when recording your music.
With this device, you can record up to 24-bit 192 kHz audio, so you’ll be able to get a clear and high-quality sound that will be free from any noise. If you’re looking for a device that’s compatible and easy to use for live performance and recording, then it can’t get any better than the Tascam US-4x4HR Audio Interface.
This audio interface has 4 XLR mic inputs and 4 TRS line inputs with MIDI in and out ports, allowing you to connect multiple instruments. The Tascam US-4x4HR Audio Interface is perfect for the home recordist who wants to have straight access to everything they need with no hassles or extra equipment required.
Equipped with a loopback function makes it easy to create demo or commentary when streaming and podcasting.
The direct monitoring function makes it easy to cue your instruments while recording so that the sound and vocals are in sync. This means you won’t have to fuss with delays or complicated mixes when trying to record.
The Tascam US-4x4HR Audio Interface has high-quality converters and studio-grade mic preamps to give you clear sound. While this unit is perfect for home use, it can also be used in professional studios.
This audio interface is also compatible with iPad and other iOS devices, allowing you to make music on the go.
Pros
- MIDI in/out
- Zero-latency Direct Monitoring
- 4 XLR/TRS combo inputs
- Great sound quality
- Ultra-HDDA mic preamps
Cons
- Some users say it doesn’t work with Windows 10
FAQs
What is the best audio interface under 500?
There are many to choose from, but the Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 3rd Gen Audio InterfaceD is great for beginners. It comes with USB connectivity and works seamlessly with your computer without the need for any special software or installation. Plus, it has an integrated MIDI port that will allow you to connect external instruments.
What are the best audio interface brands?
You can get the best audio interface brands are Focusrite, Tascam, and Behringer. These brands have a vast range of devices that will work for many different purposes. These interfaces have a wide variety of capabilities, so you’re sure to find something that works for what you need.
What is the best audio interface for a home studio?
The best audio interfaces for home studios are the Tascam US-4x4HR, Focusrite Scarlett 2i2, and Focusrite Scarlett Solo Audio Interfaces. These devices combine high quality with affordability to make them perfect for the home studio.
Does an audio interface reduce CPU usage?
No, an audio interface will not reduce CPU usage on your computer. It is commonly assumed that these devices can reduce CPU usage, but this is just a myth.
Why does your audio interface crackle?
An issue where your audio interface produces a “crackling” sound while playing audio may be due to your drivers or settings problems. These can be easily fixed by going through the process of reinstalling your drivers and clearing cache files on your computer. If this does not resolve the issue, you may have a hardware problem on your audio interface, such as an external effect appearing only to output static.
Conclusion
This article has looked at the best audio interface under $500. We have also explained what an audio interface is, discussed its features, and shared some of the best audio interface brands. After reading this article, we hope that you can find the best audio interface for your needs and budget.
The FOCUSRITE SCARLETT 4i4 3RD GEN AUDIO INTERFACE is an excellent option for beginners because it’s affordable and easy to use. It comes with USB connectivity and works seamlessly with your computer without the need for any special software or installation.
Plus, this unit has an integrated MIDI port that will allow you to connect external instruments.
If all of these features sound perfect, but you want more than just audio recording capabilities, consider our TASCAM US-4x4HR Audio Interface, which includes MIDI ports to combine different aspects of music production into one package.
We hope you enjoyed reading our guide and that it helped you find the best audio interface for your needs. If you have any further questions or need help finding an option that works for you, don’t hesitate to leave a comment.
Now, I want to know which is your favorite audio interface.
