An audio interface is an essential piece of equipment for any musician, producer, or podcaster. It allows you to connect your microphones, instruments, and other audio equipment to your computer so that you can record and monitor your audio.
One of the most important features to look for in an audio interface is phantom power. Phantom power is a DC voltage that is supplied to microphones through the audio interface’s XLR connectors. This voltage is necessary to power condenser microphones, which are the most popular type of microphone for recording vocals.
- Connectivity Ports: Audio interfaces come with a variety of connectivity ports, including XLR, TRS, and MIDI. Make sure to choose an interface that has the ports you need to connect your instruments and microphones. Some interfaces also have additional ports, such as MIDI inputs and outputs, or optical or S/PDIF inputs and outputs.
- Number of Channels: The number of channels that an audio interface has determines how many microphones and instruments you can record at the same time. Most audio interfaces have two or four channels, but some have more. If you plan on recording a full band, you will need an audio interface with at least four channels.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the top features to consider when buying a best audio interface with phantom power, provide in-depth some of the best products on the market, and offer a detailed “Buying Guide” to help you make an informed decision.
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Best Audio Interface With Phantom Power Table
| Product Name | Connectivity Ports | Number of Channels | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| M- Audio Interface With Phantom Power | USB Type B, XLR, TRS, MIC Port | 2 | Check On Amazon |
| Focusrite Audio Interface With Phantom Power | USB Type C, RCA, TRS, XLR, MIC Port, MIDI | 8 | Check On Amazon |
| Behringer Audio Interface With Phantom Power | USB Type B, XLR, TRS, MIC Port | 2 | Check On Amazon |
| PreSonus Audio Interface With Phantom Power | USB Type B, MIDI Ports, MIC Port, XLR | 2 | Check On Amazon |
| MOTU Audio Interface With Phantom Power | USB Type C, RCA, TRS, XLR, MIDI, MIC Port | 4 | Check On Amazon |
Best Audio Interface With Phantom Power Reviews
1. M- Audio Interface With Phantom Power
M- Audio Track is a powerful 2-channel USB audio interface designed for both Mac and PC users. Its standout feature is the Crystal Preamp with phantom power, ensuring top-notch audio recording quality. This little device has a special input for guitars and another one for different sound sources, making it versatile for recording various instruments and audio.
Musicians and producers will have the convenience of 1/8″ headphone and RCA stereo outputs, facilitating accurate monitoring and playback. With zero-latency monitoring, you can hear your audio in real-time without delays.
It excels with 24-bit / 48 kHz digital audio processing, exceptional sound fidelity. It achieves a 97 dB signal-to-noise ratio, minimizes distortion with a THD+N of 0.005%, and maintains frequency response with only ±0.35 dB variance.
Key Features
- 2-channel USB audio interface
- Crystal Preamp with phantom power
- Dedicated instrument input
- Stereo line input
- 1/8″ headphone and RCA outputs
- Zero-latency monitoring
Pros
- High-quality audio recording and playback.
- Versatile inputs for microphones and instruments.
- Simple To set up.
Cons
- Not suitable for extensive multi-track recording.
2. Focusrite Audio Interface With Phantom Power
Focusrite Scarlett 18i8, is a third-generation USB audio interface, stands as a professional-grade solution for those seeking superior audio recording capabilities. Its key feature is the ability to record up to 10 channels of audio, making it a tool for musicians, producers, and audio enthusiasts.
This has four special mic inputs that make vocals and acoustic recordings sound bright and clear. It also offers two high-headroom instrument inputs, catering to a wide range of instruments, and four fixed-line inputs for accommodating keyboards, drum machines, and other audio gear.
An additional asset is the optical input, which allows for the expansion of audio inputs to a16 channels. It connects to both Mac and PC systems via USB, ensuring compatibility with a variety of setups. Furthermore, it provides exceptional audio quality with 24-bit/192kHz A-D and D-A conversion, ensuring your recordings are of the highest fidelity.
Key Features
- 8 analog inputs (4 mic/line, 2 instrument, 4 fixed-line)
- 1 optical input (8 additional channels)
- 10 analog outputs (6line, 2 headphone)
- 24-bit/192kHz A-D and D-A conversion
- Two high-headroom instrument inputs
- Two independent headphone outputs
- Pair of virtual loopback inputs
Pros
- High channel count
- Wide range of I/O options
- Comes with a variety of software
Cons
- Can be expensive
3. Behringer Audio Interface With Phantom Power
Behringer U-Phoria UMC202HD stands as a budget-friendly USB audio interface designed to deliver a audio recording experience. Its standout feature is the inclusion of two input mic preamps with +48 V phantom power, ensuring studio-grade clarity for vocals, guitars, and various instruments.
It ensures sound quality that meets the requirements of both home and studio recording with 24-bit/192 kHz audio resolution. For those looking for a simple and effective recording solution, this small audio interface with a streamlined 2×2 USB 2.0 configuration is a good option.
The most significant feature is zero-latency monitoring, which enables you to record without causing delays. Whether you’re a singer, guitarist, or musician of any kind, it provides a user-friendly and cost-effective option for capturing professional-quality audio on your computer.
Key Features
- 2-channel USB audio interface with Midas-designed mic preamps
- 24-bit / 192 kHz audio resolution
- Zero-latency direct monitoring
- Compact and affordable design
Pros
- Affordable price
- Rugged Build Quality
- High-resolution audio recording.
Cons
- Limited to two input channels.
4. PreSonus Audio Interface With Phantom Power
PreSonus AudioBox USB 96, is a 2-channel USB 2.0 audio interface that redefines personal and portable recording. This stylish matte black device features two Class-A mic preamps, making it easy to capture high-quality sound effortlessly. It further elevates its versatility with two high-headroom instrument inputs, perfect for recording guitar, bass, and line-level devices, alongside MIDI I/O support.
The standout feature is its studio-quality converters that allow for recording and playing back audio at a high 24-bit/96 kHz quality. It also comes with more than $1000 worth of recording software, including Studio One Artist, Ableton Live Lite, and the Studio Magic Plug-In Suite, providing you with a complete recording package.
The USB bus-power via USB 2.0 ensures mobile-friendliness without the need for an additional power supply. Additionally, it boasts a high-powered headphone output and balanced ¼” TRS outputs.
Key Features
- 2-channel USB 2.0 interface
- High-quality Class-A mic preamps
- Instrument inputs for guitar and bass
- 24-bit/96 kHz studio-grade audio
- Zero-latency monitoring with mixer control
- +48V phantom power for studio mics
- Durable steel chassis
Pros
- Bundled with valuable recording software
- Versatile for instruments and MIDI
- Real-time monitoring
- Compatible with major DAWs
Cons
- No extended power supply included
5. MOTU Audio Interface With Phantom Power
MOTU M4 stands out as a 4×4 USB-C audio interface that defines professional audio quality while maintaining an affordable price point. It has ESS Sabre32 Ultra DAC Technology, ensuring pristine and exceptional sound. This audio interface offers ultra-low latency monitoring, making it ideal for musicians, podcasters, and producers who demand real-time feedback during recording.
One standout element is the full-color LCD, which simplifies metering, providing users with a clear visual representation of their audio levels. The M4 is designed for portability, with bus-powered operation, making it easy to take on the go. As a bonus, it includes Performer Lite and Live Lite production software, enhancing its value further.
It delivers 4-in/4-out configuration, a 120 dB dynamic range on main outputs, and just 2.5 ms of round-trip latency at 96 kHz with a 32-sample buffer. Whether you’re a musician, podcaster, or producer, this audio interface offers excellent sound quality, low latency, and a full suite of features, making it a cost-effective solution for your audio recording needs.
Key Features
- 4-in/4-out USB-C audio interface
- ESS Sabre32 Ultra DAC Technology
- 120 dB dynamic range on main outputs
- 2.5 ms round trip latency
- Full-color LCD for easy metering
- Bus-powered for portability
Pros
- Clear visual metering with the full-color LCD
- Bus-powered for on-the-go use
- Includes Abelton Lite DAW Software
Cons
- Back inputs can’t handle typical keyboard line output
Buying Guide For The Best Audio Interface With Phantom Power
1. Connectivity Ports
The type and number of connectivity ports on an audio interface will determine what types of devices you can connect to it. The most common types of connectivity ports on audio interfaces are:
- XLR: XLR is the standard connector type for microphones.
- TRS: TRS connectors are used for connecting instruments and other audio devices.
- MIDI: MIDI connectors are used for connecting MIDI devices, such as keyboards and controllers.
2. Number of Channels
Audio interfaces come with a variety of input and output channels. Choose an interface that has enough channels for your needs. For example, if you plan on recording two microphones at the same time, you will need an interface with at least two input channels.
3. Phantom Power
Phantom power is an absolute necessity if you’re using condenser microphones, as they require an external power source. Ensure that the audio interface you choose provides phantom power (+48V) on all its XLR inputs. This feature is vital for capturing the full potential of condenser mics.
4. Audio Resolution
Audio resolution, often expressed in bits and sample rate (e.g., 24-bit/192kHz), determines the quality of your recordings. Higher bit depth and sample rates offer greater audio fidelity and dynamic range. Choose an audio interface that supports the level of audio resolution you require for your projects.
5. Gain Rate
The gain rate of an audio interface affects its ability to capture both quiet and loud sounds accurately. Having sufficient gain ensures that your recordings maintain a balanced signal without distortion or noise. Look for an interface with adjustable and clean preamps to achieve optimal gain levels.
6. Supported Software
The software compatibility of your audio interface is essential. Many interfaces come bundled with digital audio workstations (DAWs) or offer support for popular recording software like Pro Tools, Ableton Live, Logic Pro, or Cubase. Ensure your chosen interface is compatible with the DAW you prefer to work with.
Audio Interfaces With Phantom Power – FAQs
Ans: Most audio interfaces offer standard 48V phantom power, which is sufficient for condenser microphones. If you require more than 48V, you might need an external phantom power supply or a specialized audio interface.
Ans: Low-latency monitoring allows you to hear your audio input in real-time while recording. This feature is crucial for musicians and podcasters who need to monitor their performance without any perceptible delay, ensuring a seamless recording experience.
Ans: Class-A preamps are known for their high-quality, transparent sound and are often preferred by professionals. Class-AB preamps offer a balance between quality and affordability. Both can provide excellent audio quality with the right implementation.
Ans: Phantom power is typically used with condenser microphones. It’s essential to check the microphone’s specifications to ensure it requires phantom power. Dynamic microphones do not rely on phantom power.
Conclusion
The best audio interface with phantom power for you depends on your specific requirements and budget. Whether you’re just starting or need a high-fidelity recording solution, there’s an option here to suit your needs.
- If you’re a beginner, the M-Audio Interface With Phantom Power is a basic but effective audio interface with phantom power which is a good option.
- Another Recommendation, if you need more inputs and outputs, or if you want to record at higher sample rates, the Focusrite Audio Interface With Phantom Power 18i8 3rd Gen is another option. It is a more expensive interface, but it offers better sound quality and more features.
- If you are looking for a good value for the price, the Behringer Audio Interface With Phantom Power U-Phoria UMC202HD is a good option. It is an affordable interface with phantom power and good sound quality.
Ultimately, the best way to choose an audio interface is to read reviews and compare different models. It is also important to consider your specific needs and budget when making a decision.
