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Audio Interfaces
An audio interface from American Musical Supply gives you all of the processing power you need to turn your computer, laptop, or iOS device into a powerful recording and music production center! Audio interfaces are compact, portable, and powerful hardware devices armed with high-speed USB or Thunderbolt device connectivity. With models that can be positioned on a tabletop or inside a small rack, our collection of interfaces includes varying numbers of inputs and outputs for connecting recording microphones, line-level gear, monitor speakers, and other devices via XLR, 1/4", MIDI, ADAT, S/PDIF, and more. Whether you're a singer-songwriter needing a few mic inputs, an EDM producer crafting exciting new sounds, or an engineer looking to record larger bands - AMS has the right interface for you. Available on our 0% interest monthly payment plans, these audio interfaces work side-by-side with the latest DAW (digital audio workstation) and softsynth software to create pristine audio!
Shop Audio Interfaces
An audio interface is the bridge between your instruments, microphones, and your DAW. Whether you’re setting up your first home studio or expanding a professional rig, we carry digital audio interfaces from Focusrite, Universal Audio, RME, SSL, Audient, Apogee, Fender, and more — all with 0% interest financing and free, VERY fast shipping.
What to Know Before You Shop Audio Interfaces
Choosing the right audio interface comes down to a few practical questions: how many inputs you need, what connection type your computer uses, and how much headroom you want for future growth. Getting these right the first time saves you from buying twice.
Input and Output Count: Start With What You Need Now
The number of inputs on a digital audio interface determines how many sources you can record at the same time. A solo singer-songwriter recording vocals and guitar needs two inputs at most. A band tracking drums, bass, and two guitars simultaneously needs eight or more. Models like the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Gen 4 and the Universal Audio Volt 276 are strong two-input options for home studios. For larger sessions, the Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 Gen 4 and the SSL 18 provide 8 or more mic preamp inputs with expandability via ADAT.
USB vs. Thunderbolt Audio Interfaces
Most audio interfaces connect via USB, and today's USB-C interfaces — including the Fender Quantum HD 2 and the SSL 2+ — deliver reliable, low-latency performance for the majority of home and project studios. Thunderbolt interfaces like the Universal Audio Apollo Twin X and Apollo x4 Gen 2 offer lower round-trip latency and support UAD plug-in processing directly on the interface hardware.
If you run DSP-heavy sessions or need the lowest possible latency for tracking vocals through reverb or compression in real time, Thunderbolt is worth the investment. For most other applications, a quality USB audio interface is entirely sufficient.
Preamps, Conversion, and Why They Matter
The mic preamps built into an audio interface shape how your recordings sound before they ever reach your DAW. Entry-level interfaces typically include workable preamps that get the job done. Purpose-built interfaces like the Audient iD44 MKII use Class-A console-style mic pres for noticeably cleaner results, especially on quieter sources like acoustic guitar and vocals.
The RME Babyface Pro FS and RME Fireface UCX II are known for exceptional AD/DA conversion and ultra-low noise floors, making them popular choices in studios where accuracy and longevity matter.
Frequently Asked Questions About Audio Interfaces
Do I need an audio interface if I already have a sound card in my computer?
Built-in sound cards are designed for playback, not recording. They use 1/8" connections with high noise floors, lack proper impedance for microphones and guitars, and introduce audible artifacts when you stack multiple tracks. A dedicated digital audio interface solves all these issues with proper XLR and 1/4" inputs, phantom power for condenser mics, and clean preamps designed for recording.
Can I use an audio interface with my iPhone or iPad?
Several interfaces support iOS and iPadOS, including models from Focusrite, Apogee, and iRig. The Apogee Duet 3 and the iRig Stream Pro both offer direct iOS connectivity. Check the interface's specifications for class-compliant support and whether a Lightning or USB-C adapter is needed for your specific device.
How many inputs do I actually need?
For solo recording, two inputs cover vocals and one instrument. For home studios recording small ensembles, four inputs handle most situations comfortably. If you record full bands or want to capture a full drum kit with multiple mics, eight or more inputs — with ADAT expansion support — give you the flexibility to grow. It’s generally better to buy an interface with slightly more I/O than you need today than to outgrow it in six months.
What sample rate and bit depth should I record at?
Most professional recordings use 24-bit/48kHz at a minimum. Recording at 24-bit/96kHz gives you more headroom during mixing and mastering and is a common choice for film and broadcast work. Higher sample rates like 192kHz consume significantly more storage and CPU. For most music production, 24-bit/48kHz is the practical standard.
Find the Right Audio Interface at AMS
Whether you’re just getting started or upgrading to a more professional setup, we carry audio interfaces for every workflow and budget. American Musical Supply offers 0% interest financing, VERY fast and free shipping, a free 12-month extended warranty, and a 45-day return window on every order. Browse our full selection and pair your interface with studio monitors, microphones, and recording accessories to build the setup you need.
