Most of the audio interfaces available today in the market are highly flexible and are compatible with all the iPhones and iPads. An audio interface is a component of any professional or home recording studio.
This acts as a middleman between the iPhone/ iPad or computer and the voice/ instrument. It takes analog signals as input and turns them into digital signals for output. They also monitor the recordings through headphones or speakers. It is a daunting task to select an audio interface, Alternatively, it has an audio mixer that enables zero latency. To make it simpler, to buy an audio interface we have listed some factors to consider.
- Sound Quality: The sound quality is the make or break for any process in the recording studio. The high-end models have better sound quality than the cheaper ones.
- Portability: This is an important factor to consider if you are making music while on the road or carrying the device while traveling. It is better to go for lightweight options.
- Usage: You need to decide the purpose of buying the audio interface before selecting it. If you are buying it for one instrument or microphone, then it is pointless to buy an eight-channel audio interface. So, decide the purpose before buying the audio interface.
More details on the factors to consider when buying the audio interface for iPad are discussed in the “Buying Guide” given later in the article. In this article, we have listed the Best Audio Interface for iPad with their notable features, advantages, and disadvantages. Read on to all about them.
Audio Interface for iPad Chart
| Interface For iPad | Connectivity | Channels | Weight | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| M-Audio Interface for iPad | USB | 2 | 12.05 oz | Check On Amazon |
| PreSonus Audio Interface for iPad | USB | 2 | 1.05 lbs | Check On Amazon |
| IK Multimedia Audio Interface for iPad | USB | 10 | 3.48 oz | Check On Amazon |
| MOTU Audio Interface for iPad | USB | 4 | 1.95 lbs | Check On Amazon |
| Universal Audio Interface for iPad | USB | 2 | 3.2 lbs | Check On Amazon |
| Apogee Audio Interface for iPad | USB | 10 | 1.85 lbs | Check On Amazon |
| Focusrite Audio Interface for iPad | USB | 8 | 1 lb | Check On Amazon |
Audio Interface for iPad Reviews
1. M-Audio Interface for iPad
M-Track Duo Audio interface is one of its kind as it features a compact design and it simplifies processes like live streaming, podcasting, and studio recording. The 48 kHz audio resolution delivery makes it suitable for composing music on any PC or Mac.
This audio interface combines two different crystal preamps and combines it with phantom power which makes it ideal for recording any music and is compatible with all instruments and microphones. The committed switch enables choosing between instrument-level input and line input and is perfect for connecting to drum machines, digital pianos, or any kind of DI guitar or bass.
Additionally, it offers zero latency by monitoring the instrument, line, or mic input signal carefully. It allows you to record new parts of an existing composition or delete the same.
The device is completely powered by the USB which enhances the portability. It has ¼” in-line and output audio jacks. The MPC software enhances the creating music experience.
Best Features:
- Connectivity: USB
- Number of Channels: 2
- Compatibility: Mac or PC
- Weight: 12.7 oz
Pros:
- Two different crystal preamps.
- Compatible with instruments and microphones.
- Zero latency.
- Powered by USB.
Cons:
- People faced issues with after-sales services.
2. PreSonus Audio Interface for iPad
This PreSonus Audio is the ideal choice for podcasters, sound designers, guitarists, and musicians who like to record music when traveling. It is compatible with iPad, Windows, and Mac.
It is powered by USB 2.0 which does not require any additional power supply. It has a rugged build that features a Class A mic preamplifier which ensures low sound and high performance. The 2 combo line/ instrument/ microphone input with MIDI I/O enables easy functioning and recording.
On top of that, Studio One Artist DAW with the Capture Duo makes the wireless direct transfer easy for all the recordings. It is equipped with a 2 ¼” balanced stereo headphone output and TRS mainline level.
The internal analog mixer enables zero latency. The metal chassis makes it durable. The studio high-grade converters enable 96 kHz/ 24-bit playback and recording.
Best Features:
- Connectivity: USB
- Number of Channels: 2
- Compatibility: Mac, Windows and iPad
- Weight: 1.04 lbs
Pros:
- Compatible with Mac and Windows.
- Powered by USB 2.0.
- Easy recording and functioning.
- Analog mixer.
Cons:
- The new software upgrades are not up to the mark.
3. IK Multimedia Audio Interface for iPad
This is a new-generation Rig Pro which is the first mobile audio interface that allows it to connect to all kinds of PCs, Macs, iPads, and iPhones. It is a small device that can even fit in your pocket.
The MIDI interface gives a 24-bit/ 96 kHz recording studio quality with some of the additional features. The plug-and-play feature is easy to use with all the music gear connected. A Hi-Z and XLR combo enables one to connect the favorite instrument or microphone.
This feature coupled with +48v phantom power is compatible with microphone condensers. With that, the MIDI in/out can connect keyboards, controllers, and everything else. The connected headphones can control the audio interface which ensures zero latency also there are different types of headphone sizes.
It is compatible with the USB audio interface, iPad interface, and iPhone interface. The USB-A and USB-C cables are also included in the box. This interface suits all audio professionals and delivers better audio quality.
Best Features:
- Connectivity: USB
- Number of Channels: 10
- Compatibility: iPhone, iPad, Mac or PC
- Weight: 3.48 oz
Pros:
- New-generation Rig Pro.
- Small-sized product.
- Plug-and-play functioning.
- Zero latency.
Cons:
- Poor build of the audio interface.
4. MOTU Audio Interface for iPad
This M4 audio interface delivers best-in-class monitoring live inputs for the keyboard, guitar, or microphone through the computer. This is achieved by the engineering excellence achieved in the USB drivers that deliver low 2.5 ms round-trip latency.
With the LCD full-color display, detailed and clear level meters can be achieved for all the outputs and inputs that in turn help in achieving the best level of music.
It also enables you to enjoy high-quality volume feedback and control to get the correct sound output. Moreover, the loopback channel to the host computer allows the mixing of two sounds for a better podcasting and live-streaming experience.
The virtual instruments and workstation software enable to lay down of tracks with the included music for better production.
Best Features:
- Connectivity: USB
- Number of Channels: 4
- Compatibility: PC
- Weight: 1.95 lbs
Pros:
- LCD full-color display.
- Low latency rate.
- Better live-streaming and podcasting.
- Better production.
Cons:
- Some users thought that it stopped in the middle of recording.
5. Universal Audio Interface for iPad
This is a special edition of Universal Audio’s Apollo Solo USB interface which has a great-quality 5 plug-in award-winning titles from US, Pultec, and Teletronix with a value of $ 1,300.
This device features Solo Core Processing which is great for tracking through guitar amps, microphone preamps, tape machines, EQs, and vintage compressor plug-ins that enable it to compose music without any latency. It is compatible with unison guitar amps and mic preamp.
The great-quality headphone amplifier allows low-noise, detailed, and loud monitoring. Further, the device runs on UAD plug-ins via AAX, AU, and VST 64 formats in great DAWs.
It has superior components, a premium analog design, and uncompromising build quality. It is compatible with Ableton Live, Cubase, Pro Tools, and more.
Best Features:
- Connectivity: USB
- Number of Channels: 2
- Compatibility: Mac and Windows
- Weight: 3.2 lbs
Pros:
- Solo core processing.
- Compatible with mic preamps and guitar amps.
- Superior components.
- Analog design.
Cons:
- Not compatible with Windows software.
6. Apogee Audio Interface for iPad
This is an audio interface that features A/D and D/A conversion which provides ultra-low distortion and delivers a transparent window in a sonic landscape of the recordings and mix.
It features an intuitive touch screen which is enhanced with hands-on processing and Symphony’s touch screen which enables you to lock on to the perfect setting. The desktop’s preamps deliver up to 75 dB of clean gain music. The device also combines DSP processing with analog circuitry to provide authentic and rich preamp modeling. On top of that, there are 6 hardware plug-ins for a great symphony.
This device does not require you to switch between windows and enables you to record without any delay. It also includes 2 native plug-ins.
Best Features:
- Connectivity: USB
- Number of Channels: 10
- Compatibility: Mac, PC, iPhone, iPad
- Weight: 1.85 lbs
Pros:
- Ultra-low sound distortion.
- Intuitive touch screen.
- 10 devices can be connected at the same time.
- DSP processing with analog circuitry.
Cons:
- It is on the expensive side of things.
7. Focusrite Audio Interface for iPad
This is a 3rd Gen audio interface by Scarlett that is perfect for recording producers and engineers to create their recording studio wherever they go. The mic preamps with the switchable Air mode provide the acoustic and vocal recording with an open and brighter sound.
The device offers four line/ mic inputs, eight analog inputs, high-headroom instrument inputs, two high-impedance, and four rear fixed-line additional inputs. It can connect to eight channels for larger and better recording sessions. Also, it allows better A/D and D/A conversion that provides clear music that provides pronounced music up to 192 kHz/ 24-bit.
It is designed in such a way that it can stand firmly on the road. It can be connected to any PC or Mac through a USB cable.
Best Features:
- Connectivity: USB
- Number of Channels: 8
- Compatibility: Mac or PC
- Weight: 1 lb
Pros:
- 3rd generation interface.
- Connects to 8 devices at the same time.
- Allows better A/D and D/A conversion.
- Designed to stand firmly on the road.
Cons:
- It features limited options.
Factors to Consider When Looking for an Audio Interface for Your iPad
Some decisive factors are required for the ideal audio interface for your iPad. We have curated a list that has some of the important factors to consider when looking for an audio interface.
1. Sound Quality
For any process in the recording studio, you need to make sure that the audio or the sound quality is as good as it can get. The expensive ones have a better sound quality in the delivery while the audio quality decreases with the decreasing price.
2. Portability
If you want an audio interface that you can take on the road, then you need to select a device that is portable and lightweight. Also, make sure that the build is rugged and strong so that it can tackle bangs and knocks. If you want to set it up in a studio environment or at the home recording, then the decision can be much freer on the buyer’s part.
3. Usage
You need to decide on the usage of the audio interface before you buy it. If you are buying the interface for just one instrument or one microphone then you need not go for the eight-channel interface that can connect eight devices. You have to make sure that the audio interface is suitable for the recording purpose that you want and has the correct number of outputs and inputs to enjoy streaming or podcasting.
4. Compatibility
Different audio interfaces are suitable for different instruments and different devices. You should go for the audio interface that will be able to support all the hardware that you want to connect with the device.
5. Software
Usually, the audio interfaces are paired with software. The software can vary in terms of being professional high-quality software systems or they can feature some basic software that can adjust the settings or the sound of the instruments.
6. Specialization
You need to select the audio interface according to the aspect of music that you are concerned with. Some of the audio interfaces are suitable for the instruments while others work better for the spoken words and some others are equally suitable for both activities. You must do proper research and settle for the one that best suits the purpose.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ans: To choose the audio interface that is suitable for the iPads, you should go for the one that is compatible with the iOS software and that does not consume too much power. With lower power consumption, it is better if the audio interface has a DC input. Audio interfaces that consume more power cannot be directly connected to the iPads.
Ans: No, only the audio interface that is compatible with the iOS service and low on power consumption is ideal to be connected to the iPads.
Ans: Generally, the iPad and the audio interface should have a similar kind of connection. Therefore, if you have a newer iPad/ iPad Air or iPad Pro, then the audio interface should ideally feature a Thunderbolt or USB-C type connection. For the older versions of the iPads, the Thunderbolt connection is more suitable. For the USB type-B connection, you can use an adapter to connect with the iPad.
Ans: The audio interfaces are good for a lifespan of around 5 years to 10 years. For the cheaper devices, the audio interface might last for a shorter lifespan while the high-end devices might last for 10 years or more.
Ans: The small-sized audio interfaces are usually powered by electricity while the larger ones generally feature an external power supply. The audio interfaces that are meant for the phone and tablets are generally powered by electricity.
Final Word
The audio interfaces are available in several different shapes and sizes. They are also suited for different purposes and have different specializations. We have tried to list all the things that you need to consider when buying an audio interface. If you still have doubts, you can write to us in the comment section below.
- If you are here for the recommendations, we have listed the best three products from the list. The first recommendation from the list is the M-Audio Interface for iPad. There are two different crystal preamps and this device is compatible with all instruments and microphones.
- The second suggestion from the list is the PreSonus Audio Interface for iPad. It is powered by USB 2.0 and is compatible with Windows and Mac.
- The third and final pick from the list is IK Multimedia Audio Interface for iPad. It features a new generation rig pro and is a small-sized device.
Feel free to share your questions regarding its selection and usage to us in the comments section below. We will respond promptly to resolve them.
