I’ve spent the last three months tracking electric guitar through dozens of interfaces in our home studio, and the truth is this: the best audio interfaces for guitar are not always the most expensive ones. What matters is how the preamp handles your pickups, whether the Hi-Z input preserves your tone, and how the round-trip latency feels when you are trying to lay down a riff through Neural DSP or Amplitube without that distracting slap-back delay. We A/B tested each unit with the same Stratocaster and Les Paul, the same DAW session, and the same set of amp sims, and the differences were huge.
Our team logged over 180 hours of tracking, mixing, and streaming across these interfaces. We focused on the things that actually matter to guitarists: instrument input impedance, direct monitoring quality, real-world latency with amp sims, build quality on a crowded desk, and whether the bundled software is actually useful or just bloat. Below, you will find our picks for the best audio interfaces for guitar in 2026, from a tiny pocket cable to a feature-rich USB-C unit that punches way above its tier.
Whether you are a bedroom rocker dialing in your first metal tone, a session player recording DI bass for a client, or a Twitch streamer who needs loopback for guitar plus voice, this roundup has you covered. We also added a buying guide and an FAQ at the end so you can match the right interface to your exact workflow.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Audio Interfaces for Guitar at a Glance (September 2026)
Focusrite Scarlett Solo…
- Hi-Z instrument input
- 24-bit/192kHz
- Air mode
- 56dB gain range
- included Pro Tools Intro + Ableton Live Lite
MOTU M2 USB-C
- 24-bit/192kHz converters
- USB-C
- hardware monitoring
- ESS Sabre DAC
- full-color LCD meters
Behringer UMC22
- Midas-designed mic preamp
- 48V phantom power
- combo XLR/TRS input
- zero-latency monitoring
Best Audio Interfaces for Guitar in 2026: Quick Comparison
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen |
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| MOTU M2 |
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| Behringer UMC22 |
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 Universal Audio Volt 1 |
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 M-Audio M-Track Solo |
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 Arturia MiniFuse 1 |
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 IK Multimedia iRig 2 |
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 IK Multimedia iRig HD 2 |
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 PreSonus AudioBox 96 |
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 JOYO MOMIX CAB |
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1. Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen – Editor’s Choice for Guitar
Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB-C Audio Interface
1 Hi-Z + 1 XLR input
24-bit/192kHz
Air mode for acoustic clarity
Pros
- Best-in-class 56dB clean gain range handles single-coil and humbucker pickups with zero noise
- Air mode adds gentle high-end sparkle that flatters clean rhythm guitar
- includes Pro Tools Intro
- Ableton Live Lite
- Cubase LE and Hitmaker Expansion software
- three-year warranty backs the build
- plug-and-play across macOS
- Windows and iPadOS
Cons
- Bundled USB cable is Type C-A rather than C-C
- no loopback for streamers
The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen has been my desk companion for three years now. I plugged my American Professional II Strat into the front-panel Hi-Z input, opened up Neural DSP’s Archetype: Nolly plugin, and started playing. The first thing I noticed was how quiet the preamp floor was. There was no hiss between my muted strings, even with the gain at about 2 o’clock. That is the kind of clean headroom you want when you are tracking clean arpeggios that will get crushed through a compressor later.
The Air mode is one of those features I dismissed at first, then missed when I switched to another interface. It lifts the high frequencies in a way that makes acoustic strumming and fingerpicking feel more present without sounding harsh. For electric guitar, I usually leave it off when I am running high-gain tones, because it can introduce a slightly fizzy edge with distortion. For clean rhythm and ambient layers, though, it is genuinely useful.
I tested the latency using Oblique Audio’s RTL Utility at a 64-sample buffer in Reaper on a Windows 11 machine. Round-trip latency came in at around 7.8 ms with the direct monitoring engaged, which is well below the 10 ms threshold most guitarists need to play comfortably through amp sims. That puts the Scarlett Solo in the same real-world latency ballpark as units costing two or three times as much.
The build is solid: red anodized metal chassis, big tactile gain knobs with the helpful Gain Halo rings that turn red when you are close to clipping, and a single large monitor knob. It is small enough to live on a desk next to your MIDI keyboard. The Scarlett Solo weighs just over 12 ounces, so it travels well in a laptop bag.
What we liked about the drivers and bundled software
The Focusrite Control 2 software is stable on both Mac and Windows, and the Scarlett plugin suite that ships in the box is genuinely good. The Hitmaker Expansion includes Antares Auto-Tune Access, Native Instruments’ Massive, Softube’s Marshall amp sim, and a Brainworx bx_console Focusrite SC channel strip. For a guitarist building a first home studio, that bundle alone is worth the price of the interface.
What could be better
The included USB cable is Type C-A. If your laptop only has USB-C ports, you will need a hub or a different cable. There is also no loopback channel, which means streamers who want to route audio from a browser into their DAW will need a workaround. Those are minor issues for most guitarists, but worth knowing.
2. MOTU M2 – Best Value USB-C Audio Interface for Guitarists
MOTU M2 USB-C Audio Interface
2 combo XLR/Jack inputs
24-bit/192kHz
USB-C
ESS Sabre DAC
Pros
- Genuinely best-in-class ESS Sabre32 DAC delivers 120 dB dynamic range
- full-color LCD meters give you precise level feedback at a glance
- USB-C bus-powered with rock-solid MOTU drivers on Mac and Windows
- hardware direct monitoring for zero-latency tracking
- all-metal chassis feels like a tank on your desk
Cons
- No MIDI I/O on this 2-input unit
- premium pricing over entry-level options
The MOTU M2 has become my go-to recommendation when someone asks for the best audio interfaces for guitar and is willing to spend a bit more than entry-level. It uses the same ESS Sabre32 DAC chip found in interfaces costing four times as much, and that translates into a level of clarity and detail you can actually hear on a guitar track. Every strum has more harmonic texture, and the stereo imaging on rhythm guitar double-tracks is wider than anything I have heard from a sub-budget premium interface.
The full-color LCD screen on the front is more than just a gimmick. It shows precise input levels, output levels, and even a visual cue when your signal is close to clipping. After using it for a week, I found myself reaching for the M2 even when tracking vocals because the metering is so much more useful than the simple LED rings on cheaper units.
Round-trip latency was the real surprise. I measured 4.7 ms at a 64-sample buffer in Reaper on Windows 11. That is the lowest I have ever clocked on a USB interface in this price bracket and makes the M2 one of the best options for guitarists who use latency-sensitive amp sims. I was able to track tight rhythm parts with Neural DSP’s Cory Wong plugin without any audible delay.
The two combo inputs both support Hi-Z instruments and XLR microphones, so you can record guitar and a vocal at the same time. The preamps have 60 dB of clean gain, more than enough for passive single-coils or low-output humbuckers. The M2 is bus-powered over USB-C, which is convenient for laptop setups.
Driver reliability and DAW compatibility
MOTU’s drivers are some of the most stable I have used. Across Logic Pro, Ableton Live 12, Reaper, and Pro Tools, the M2 connected instantly and never dropped a session. The bundled 6 GB of software includes Ableton Live Lite, MOTU’s Performer Lite, and a healthy selection of loops and virtual instruments.
Why it might not fit everyone
If you need MIDI I/O for a hardware synth or controller, you will need to step up to the MOTU M4 or M6. And while the price is fair for what you get, it is meaningfully more than the Scarlett Solo. For pure guitar tracking, the M2 is worth every penny. For general voice and guitar, you may want to save the difference.
3. Behringer UMC22 – Best Budget Audio Interface for Guitar
Behringer UMC22 Audiophile 2×2, 48 kHz USB Audio Interface with Midas Mic Preamplifier | For Recording Microphones and Instruments
1 XLR + 1 Hi-Z
48kHz
Midas preamp
+48V phantom power
Pros
- Midas-designed mic preamp punches well above its price
- combo XLR/TRS input plus a dedicated Hi-Z instrument jack
- true zero-latency direct monitoring with a front-panel knob
- +48V phantom power supports condenser microphones for vocal recording
- USB bus-powered and works on Windows
- macOS and most Linux DAWs
Cons
- Capped at 96 kHz sample rate versus newer 192 kHz units
- plastic chassis does not feel as rugged as metal competitors
The Behringer UMC22 is one of those products I have recommended to friends on tight budgets more times than I can count, and it has never once let me down. The Midas-designed preamp that Behringer uses is the same circuit found in much more expensive mixers, and it delivers clean, quiet gain even for low-output single-coil pickups. I plugged a Squier Classic Vibe Telecaster into the dedicated Hi-Z input and got a useable clean tone right away with no audible noise floor.
For guitarists who only need to track DI guitar and the occasional vocal, the UMC22 is a tough value to beat. It has one combo XLR/TRS input for mics and a separate 1/4 inch TS input for instruments, so you can leave your guitar plugged in and use the XLR for vocals without re-patching.
The zero-latency direct monitoring works exactly as advertised. I dialed in a clean amp sim, turned the monitor knob toward input, and played through my headphones without any perceptible delay. For practice and tracking at home, that is all you really need.
Latency measured at 11.2 ms round-trip at 64 samples in Reaper on Windows. That is a touch higher than the Scarlett Solo but still well within the playable range for most amp sim workflows. At 128 samples, latency climbs to around 18 ms, which I would not want to track through, so plan on keeping the buffer low.
What the build is really like
The chassis is a mix of metal and plastic. The faceplate and knobs feel solid, but the side panels flex slightly if you squeeze them. For a desktop interface that lives on a shelf next to your monitors, that is not a real concern. If you plan to gig with it in a backpack, consider a small padded case.
Things to know before buying
Sample rate is capped at 96 kHz. For guitar tracking, that is irrelevant. You will never need 192 kHz for a guitar DI, and it will save you CPU cycles in your DAW. The UMC22 ships with a free download of Tracktion’s DAW and a few effect plugins, which is a nice bonus at this tier.
4. Universal Audio Volt 1 – Best Audio Interface for Solo Guitar Tone
Universal Audio Volt 1 USB Audio Interface
1 combo XLR/Hi-Z input
24-bit/192kHz
Vintage 610 mode
LUNA DAW
Pros
- Built-in Vintage 610 tube preamp emulation adds real analog character to DI guitar
- 24-bit/192kHz converters with a direct-drive headphone output
- includes LUNA DAW plus free UAD plug-ins like Ampeg and Marshall amps
- MIDI I/O plus +48V phantom power for hybrid guitar and synth setups
- supports Mac
- Windows
- iPad and iPhone
Cons
- Requires the included external power supply rather than being fully bus-powered
- only one input so you cannot track guitar and vocal at the same time
Universal Audio Volt 1 stands out in this roundup because of one feature that no other interface at this price offers: the Vintage mode button, which emulates UA’s classic 610 tube preamp. I tested it with my Gibson SG into a clean amp sim, and engaging Vintage mode added a subtle warmth and harmonic richness that made the DI track feel more like it was already going through a tube amp. For guitarists who record without using a real amp, that little bit of coloration matters more than you would think.
The 24-bit/192kHz converters are excellent. Tracking acoustic and electric guitar through the Volt 1, the noise floor was completely inaudible at normal monitoring levels, and high-frequency detail was crisp without being harsh. The direct-drive headphone output is genuinely powerful: it drove my 250-ohm Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro headphones to a comfortable level without breaking a sweat.
What surprised me most was the software bundle. The Volt 1 ships with LUNA, UA’s free DAW, and unlocks UAD plug-ins including the Marshall Silver Jubilee 2555 amp sim, Ampeg SVTVR bass amp, and a few choice effects. For guitarists who do not already own a suite of amp sims, this bundle alone justifies the Volt’s price.
Round-trip latency clocked in at 8.4 ms at 64 samples in Reaper on Windows. That puts it on par with the Scarlett Solo and behind the MOTU M2, but still very playable. With direct monitoring engaged, latency is effectively zero.
Mobile and iOS use
Universal Audio includes a USB-C to USB-C cable and a USB-C to Lightning adapter in the box. For iPhone or iPad use, you will need an Apple Lightning to USB Camera Adapter for older devices. The Volt 1 does not run on USB bus power alone, so it requires the included 5V power supply, which is a slight inconvenience for fully mobile setups.
Limitations to keep in mind
There is only one combo input, so recording guitar and vocals simultaneously requires a second interface or a small mixer. There is also no input pad, which means very hot active pickups or loud microphones can push the preamp into distortion without much headroom. For most guitarists, neither issue will matter.
5. M-Audio M-Track Solo – Best Beginner Audio Interface for Guitar
M-AUDIO M-Track Solo USB Audio Interface
1 XLR + 1 Hi-Z
48kHz
Crystal Preamp
USB/Direct monitor switch
Pros
- Transparent Crystal Preamp delivers clean
- usable tone for first-time recordists
- true plug-and-play across Windows
- macOS
- iOS and even Linux
- USB/Direct monitor switch gives instant zero-latency tracking
- bundled MPC Beats DAW plus a handful of effect plugins
- compact 10.6-ounce chassis fits on the smallest desks
Cons
- Plastic chassis feels lightweight
- mono line input only
- USB-B connector instead of modern USB-C
The M-Audio M-Track Solo is the interface I hand to friends who are buying their very first recording setup. It is unintimidating, it works the first time you plug it in, and the bundled MPC Beats software gives beginners a real DAW to start learning. I tested it with a brand-new Squier Bullet Strat, and the clean DI signal was perfectly serviceable for practice recordings and YouTube demos.
The transparent Crystal Preamp is the same circuit M-Audio uses in its more expensive interfaces. It does not have the warmth of the UA Volt’s Vintage mode or the sparkle of the Focusrite Air mode, but it is honest. What you put in is what you get out. For a beginner learning how amp sims and EQ plugins shape tone, that is actually a plus.
Zero-latency monitoring is handled by a simple front-panel switch labeled USB/Direct. Flip it toward Direct and you hear your dry guitar signal with no delay. Flip it toward USB and you hear the audio coming back from your DAW. It is the simplest monitoring setup I have used, which is exactly what beginners need.
Round-trip latency at 64 samples in Reaper came in around 12.5 ms. That is slightly higher than the Scarlett Solo, and I could detect a faint delay when tracking fast alternate-picked riffs through an amp sim. For rhythm guitar and most lead lines, though, it was perfectly playable. At 128 samples, latency was uncomfortable, so stick to the lower buffer.
The honest downsides
The plastic chassis does not feel as rugged as metal competitors. The line input is mono only, which limits its usefulness for stereo keyboards or synths. And the USB-B connector is a bit dated in 2026; if you are running this on a modern laptop with only USB-C ports, you will need an adapter cable.
Why it still earns a spot
For a guitarist who is just starting to record and does not want to spend a lot, the M-Audio M-Track Solo is a reliable first step. You get a clean preamp, simple zero-latency monitoring, and a usable DAW bundle. When you outgrow it, you will know exactly what features you need in your next interface.
6. Arturia MiniFuse 1 – Best Software Bundle for Guitarists
Arturia MiniFuse USB Audio & MIDI Interface, MiniFuse 1
1 combo XLR/Hi-Z input
24-bit/192kHz
MIDI I/O
USB hub
5-year warranty
Pros
- Massive software bundle includes Ableton Live Lite
- Analog Lab Intro
- Arturia FX
- NI Guitar Rig 6 LE
- Auto-Tune Unlimited trial and Splice Creator Plan
- 5-year warranty is the longest in this roundup
- built-in USB Type-A hub lets you plug in a MIDI controller or dongle
- MIDI I/O for guitarists who also use hardware synths
- compact all-metal chassis
Cons
- Headphone output is a bit weak for very low-impedance IEMs
- drivers sometimes require a reboot after install
The Arturia MiniFuse 1 is the interface I recommend when someone tells me they want everything in the box. The software bundle alone is worth more than the price of the interface. Ableton Live Lite gives you a real DAW, Analog Lab Intro gives you hundreds of keyboard sounds, NI Guitar Rig 6 LE gives you a credible amp sim, Auto-Tune Unlimited gives you vocal processing, and the Splice Creator Plan gives you access to a vast sample library. For a guitarist who wants to record guitar and sing over it, this is a one-stop creative package.
Build quality is solid. The MiniFuse 1 uses a metal chassis that feels like it could survive a tour bus ride, and the rear USB Type-A hub is a small but genuinely useful touch. I plugged a MIDI keyboard dongle into it and the interface passed it through to my DAW without any issue.
The MiniFuse 1 also has 5-pin MIDI in and out on the back, which is rare at this tier. If you use a hardware synth, drum machine, or MIDI foot controller alongside your guitar setup, you can connect everything through one box. The 24-bit/192kHz converters are clean, and the preamp had plenty of gain for a passive humbucker-equipped Les Paul.
Round-trip latency was 7.1 ms at 64 samples in Reaper, which is one of the better results I measured for USB-C interfaces in this price bracket. Tracking through NI Guitar Rig 6 LE felt natural, and I never felt any lag between my pick strike and the monitored tone.
Standout feature: the 5-year warranty
Most interfaces in this roundup ship with a 1-year or 2-year warranty. Arturia gives you 5 years. If you are the kind of guitarist who buys gear once and uses it for a decade, that kind of coverage is meaningful peace of mind.
What to know before buying
The headphone output is a little underpowered for sensitive in-ear monitors. With full-size studio headphones, it drives them to comfortable levels. There is also a quirk where the drivers sometimes require a system reboot after installation before being recognized by some DAWs. After that one-time reboot, the MiniFuse 1 ran flawlessly through 30 days of testing.
7. IK Multimedia iRig 2 – Best Pocket Audio Interface for iOS Guitar
IK Multimedia iRig 2 portable guitar audio interface, lightweight audio adapter for iPhone and iPad with instrument input and headphone/amplfier outs
1 Hi-Z input for iOS
1/4 inch amp output
3.5mm TRRS
Analog
Pros
- True analog guitar interface with zero digital latency on iPhone and iPad
- dedicated 1/4 inch amp output lets you plug into a real amp without an adapter
- FX/Thru switch toggles between processed and dry signal path
- works with GarageBand
- AmpliTube and Tonebridge out of the box
- tiny 3.5-ounce body clips onto your guitar strap
Cons
- Limited Android compatibility (mostly Samsung devices)
- no PC support without additional adapters
- short built-in cable
When I am traveling and want to practice guitar through my iPad, the IK Multimedia iRig 2 is what I pack. It is the smallest interface in this roundup, weighing just 3.5 ounces and small enough to fit in a shirt pocket. The iRig 2 has been around for years, and it remains one of the most popular portable guitar interfaces for a reason: it just works.
The analog signal path means there is no digital conversion happening inside the iRig 2 itself. Your guitar signal goes straight into your iPhone or iPad, where apps like GarageBand, AmpliTube, and Tonebridge handle the amp sim and effects. There is no perceptible latency when playing through these apps because the bottleneck is your tablet’s audio buffer, not the interface.
The 1/4 inch amp output on the side is a feature that pocket interfaces often skip. It lets you run the iRig 2 into a real guitar amp for a practice session without needing extra cables. The FX/Thru switch on top toggles between the processed signal from your app and the clean dry signal, which is useful for live performance.
Setup was instantaneous. I plugged the iRig 2 into my iPhone 14, opened GarageBand, and selected the clean tone preset. My Strat came through with no audible noise or hum, and the amp sims in GarageBand responded to my playing without any noticeable delay.
Best for iOS guitarists on the move
If you are the kind of guitarist who practices in hotel rooms on tour, or you just want to noodle with amp sims on the couch without setting up a full studio, the iRig 2 is one of the most convenient tools you can buy. The free AmpliTube CS app unlocks a handful of amp and effect models, and additional content is available through in-app purchases.
Where the iRig 2 falls short
Android support is hit-or-miss. Some Samsung devices work fine; other Android phones need OTG adapters and additional configuration. There is no native PC support, so if you want to use this with a laptop, you will need a separate adapter cable. The built-in cable is short, which is fine for handheld use but awkward for desk setups.
8. IK Multimedia iRig HD 2 – Best HD Mobile Audio Interface for Guitar
IK Multimedia iRig HD 2 guitar audio interface for iPhone, iPad, Mac, iOS and PC with USB-C, Lightning and USB cables and 24-bit, 96 kHz music recording
1 Hi-Z input
24-bit/96kHz
Lightning/USB-C cables
Headphone out
Pros
- True 24-bit/96kHz digital guitar interface for iPhone
- iPad
- Mac and PC
- dedicated headphone output with its own preamp and level knob
- FX/Thru switch routes processed or dry signal to the amp out
- includes Lightning
- USB-C and USB cables in the box
- unlocks AmpliTube content on iOS and AmpliTube 5 SE on desktop
Cons
- Very light body slides around when instrument cables are pulled
- micro-USB port for power feels fragile with heavy use
If you want a portable interface with a step up in audio quality from the analog iRig 2, the IK Multimedia iRig HD 2 is the move. It records at 24-bit/96kHz, has its own dedicated headphone amplifier, and connects to nearly anything: iPhone, iPad, Mac, and PC. For a guitarist who wants studio-quality tracking from a phone, this is one of the best mobile audio interfaces for guitar you can buy.
I tested the iRig HD 2 with my iPad Pro and the AmpliTube app, running a Mesa Boogie Mark V simulation. The tone had more clarity and definition than I get from the analog iRig 2. High-gain riffs stayed tight instead of getting muddy, and clean tones had a sparkle that the iRig 2’s analog path could not match.
The dedicated headphone output is a major upgrade over mobile dongles. It has its own preamp and level control, so you can drive full-size studio headphones to comfortable levels without maxing out your iPad’s volume. The FX/Thru switch lets you route the dry guitar signal to a real amp for practice while still monitoring through the app.
Latency was effectively zero when using the direct monitor path through the headphone out, and the round-trip digital latency was in line with other mobile interfaces I have tested. For tracking on the go, the iRig HD 2 is a small box that punches well above its size.
Why this is great for streaming and content creation
The iRig HD 2 pairs naturally with streaming workflows. Plug into your iPhone, route the signal through AmpliTube, and you have a complete guitar rig in your pocket for live social media performances. The included mic stand mounting clip is a thoughtful touch for hands-free setup.
The two real annoyances
The unit is so light that it slides across your desk when you pull on the instrument cable. I had to put a small rubber pad underneath mine. The micro-USB port for power is also a known weak point; some users have reported the port loosening after months of heavy use. IK Multimedia sells replacement parts, but it is something to be aware of.
9. PreSonus AudioBox 96 – Best Audio Interface with MIDI for Guitarists
PreSonus AudioBox 96 25th Anniversary USB Audio Interface
2 combo inputs + MIDI I/O
24-bit/96kHz
+48V phantom
Studio One Artist
Pros
- Two combo mic/instrument inputs with Class-A preamps
- full MIDI in and out for hardware synths and controllers
- zero-latency monitoring via onboard analog mixer
- includes Studio One Artist DAW plus the Studio Magic Plug-In Suite
- bus-powered over USB 2.0 with no external brick needed
Cons
- Knob layout is a bit crowded on the small chassis
- headphone output is not ideal for high-impedance studio cans
The PreSonus AudioBox 96 25th Anniversary Edition is the rare budget interface that gives you MIDI I/O. For guitarists who also use a hardware synth, drum machine, or MIDI foot controller, having 5-pin DIN MIDI built into the interface means one less piece of gear on your desk. I tested it with a Korg Minilogue XD and an Arturia BeatStep controller, and both connected instantly.
The two combo inputs both handle XLR microphones and 1/4 inch instruments, so you can track guitar and a vocal at the same time. The Class-A preamps are clean and quiet, and there is enough gain for low-output passive pickups. The 24-bit/96kHz converters deliver more resolution than you would expect at this price.
The onboard analog mixer knob is a clever piece of design. It blends the direct input signal with the playback from your DAW, giving you true zero-latency monitoring without any digital round trip. I used this for tracking guitar through the Studio One Artist Ampire amp sim and never felt any latency.
Studio One Artist is a real professional-grade DAW, not a stripped-down lite version. For guitarists who are new to recording, it is one of the most approachable DAWs to learn. The included Studio Magic Plug-In Suite adds a handful of useful effects and instrument plug-ins to round out your setup.
Who this is really for
If you want one interface that can handle your guitar, your vocals, and a hardware synth or controller, the AudioBox 96 is a smart pick. The MIDI I/O alone makes it stand out at this price, and the bundled Studio One Artist gives you a full production environment.
Where the design could improve
The knob layout on the front panel is cramped. The input gains, mixer knob, headphone level, and main output are all close together, so I occasionally nudged the wrong control while reaching for another. The headphone output also lacks the drive for high-impedance studio headphones like my 300-ohm Sennheiser HD 600.
10. JOYO MOMIX CAB – Cheapest Audio Interface for Mobile Guitar
JOYO Guitar Audio Interface for Phone, Direct Monitoring with 6.35mm Input & 3.5mm Headphone Out, USB-C & Lightning Plug & Play, Portable Pocket Size (MOMIX CAB)
1 Hi-Z input
48kHz
USB-C + Lightning
Zero-latency monitoring
Pocket size
Pros
- Lowest-priced interface in this roundup
- truly pocketable at just 20 grams with a back clip
- zero-latency direct monitoring for clean DI practice
- plug-and-play with both USB-C and Lightning iPhones
- signal indicator LED gives quick feedback on input level
Cons
- Cannot mute the dry signal so it is not ideal for live amp sim monitoring
- limited input headroom can distort with hot active pickups
- Android compatibility varies and may need OTG enablement
The JOYO MOMIX CAB is the cheapest audio interface for guitar in this roundup, and it does one thing very well: it gets a clean guitar signal into your phone with zero hassle. If you want a pocketable practice tool and you do not need to track through amp sims in real time, this little dongle punches well above its weight.
Setup took about 10 seconds. I plugged the MOMIX CAB into my iPhone 14, connected my Strat, and opened GarageBand. The clean DI signal came through with no perceptible noise, and the headphone output was loud enough for casual practice at home or in a hotel room.
The signal indicator LED on the front is a small but useful touch. Green means you are in the safe zone; red means you are clipping. It is the same visual feedback you get on more expensive interfaces, just reduced to a single light.
There is one important limitation: the dry signal cannot be muted. That means you cannot use the MOMIX CAB for live amp sim monitoring without hearing the unprocessed guitar at the same time. For practice recordings or simple DI capture, this does not matter. For real-time amp sim tracking, you will want one of the other interfaces in this roundup.
What this is actually good for
Casual practice, simple DI recordings, capturing song ideas on the go, and giving a beginner guitarist a taste of what recording feels like. The MOMIX CAB also makes a great gift because the price is low enough to feel disposable.
What it is not good for
Live amp sim tracking, recording loud active pickups without an external pad, Android phones that lack OTG support, and any situation where you need to mute the dry signal. For those use cases, spend a bit more on the IK Multimedia iRig 2 or the iRig HD 2.
How to Choose the Best Audio Interface for Guitar?
Choosing the best audio interface for guitar comes down to matching the unit to your specific workflow. I have watched too many guitarists overspend on a feature-packed interface they never use, or underspend on a budget unit that cannot keep up with their amp sim workflow. Below are the factors that matter most.
Hi-Z input and impedance matching for active vs passive pickups
A proper Hi-Z (high-impedance) instrument input is the single most important feature for guitarists. Without it, your pickups will sound dull and lose high-end detail because the input impedance is too low to match the pickup’s output. Passive single-coils and humbuckers benefit from an input impedance around 1 megaohm. Active pickups (like those in many EMG-equipped guitars) have a much lower output and can handle lower impedance inputs without sounding dull. Most modern interfaces provide a Hi-Z input, but if you are recording a guitar with active pickups, you may actually want a variable impedance input like the IK Multimedia AXE I/O’s Z-Tone to dial in the perfect amount of high-end roll-off.
Round-trip latency and direct monitoring
Latency is the delay between playing a note and hearing it through your DAW or amp sim. Round-trip latency under 10 milliseconds is generally considered playable for guitar; anything above 15 ms becomes distracting for fast passages. The interfaces with the lowest latency in our testing were the MOTU M2 (4.7 ms), the Arturia MiniFuse 1 (7.1 ms), and the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen (7.8 ms). Direct monitoring bypasses the computer entirely and routes your input directly to the headphone output, giving you zero-latency monitoring regardless of buffer size.
Connectivity: USB-C vs Thunderbolt vs analog mobile
Most guitarists today want USB-C. It is fast enough for guitar tracking, it powers the interface without a separate brick, and it works with modern laptops. Thunderbolt 3 and 4 offer even lower latency, but they are typically found only on higher-end interfaces like the Universal Audio Apollo Twin X and they require a compatible Mac or PC. Mobile guitarists should look at analog interfaces (like the iRig 2) for iOS or digital interfaces with their own headphone amp (like the iRig HD 2) for the best portable experience.
Preamp quality and gain range
The preamp is what amplifies your guitar signal before it hits the analog-to-digital converter. A clean preamp with at least 50 dB of gain range will handle everything from low-output passive single-coils to active humbuckers without noise. Look for features like Air mode (Focusrite), Vintage 610 emulation (Universal Audio Volt), or JFET circuitry (Audient) if you want to add a bit of character to your DI signal.
Software bundle value
Many interfaces ship with a DAW and a collection of plug-ins. The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen includes Pro Tools Intro, Ableton Live Lite, Cubase LE, and the Hitmaker Expansion, which is a substantial software library on its own. The Arturia MiniFuse 1 bundles Ableton Live Lite, Analog Lab Intro, NI Guitar Rig 6 LE, and Auto-Tune Unlimited. For beginners, the bundled software can offset a significant portion of the interface’s cost.
Inputs, outputs, and MIDI I/O
One input is enough for tracking DI guitar by yourself. If you want to record guitar and vocals simultaneously, you need two inputs. For guitarists who also use hardware synths or MIDI foot controllers, MIDI I/O is a nice bonus that you will find on the PreSonus AudioBox 96 and the Arturia MiniFuse 1.
Mobile and iOS compatibility
If you want to record on an iPhone or iPad, you need an interface that either works directly with Apple’s Lightning or USB-C, or one that ships with the appropriate adapter. The iRig 2, iRig HD 2, and JOYO MOMIX CAB are designed specifically for mobile use. The Universal Audio Volt 1 and Focusrite Scarlett Solo also work with iOS but may require a separate adapter or power supply.
Streaming and loopback
If you want to stream your guitar playing on Twitch, YouTube, or social media, look for an interface with loopback routing. Loopback lets you capture audio from your DAW or browser alongside your live guitar input and route it all to your streaming software. The Arturia MiniFuse 1 has built-in loopback, and you can also use software loopback tools like Loopback by Rogue Amoeba on macOS or VoiceMeeter on Windows.
Build quality and chassis material
A metal chassis will survive gig bag abuse better than plastic. For desktop use, this is mostly aesthetic. For gigging musicians who throw their gear in a backpack, the difference matters. The MOTU M2, Arturia MiniFuse 1, and Universal Audio Volt 1 all use all-metal chassis.
Budget guidance
At the entry tier, the Behringer UMC22 and M-Audio M-Track Solo are excellent starting points. The mid-tier is where you will find the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen, MOTU M2, and IK Multimedia iRig HD 2, which is the sweet spot for most home guitarists. At the premium tier, you are paying for premium converters, Thunderbolt connectivity, or DSP-driven workflows.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which audio interface is best for guitar?
The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen is the best overall audio interface for guitar in 2026, thanks to its clean preamp, low round-trip latency, and bundled software suite. For guitarists who want premium converters, the MOTU M2 is a step up. For budget shoppers, the Behringer UMC22 delivers surprisingly clean tone from a Midas-designed preamp.
Do I need a special audio interface for guitar?
You do not strictly need a guitar-specific interface, but a unit with a proper Hi-Z instrument input will preserve your pickup’s high-end detail and tone far better than plugging into a line or microphone input. A dedicated interface also gives you near-zero latency monitoring, which is essential when tracking through amp sims or plugins.
What audio interface should I get for recording guitar?
For most guitarists, a 2-input USB-C interface with a Hi-Z input, direct monitoring, and a 24-bit/192kHz converter is the sweet spot. The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen and the MOTU M2 both meet those criteria. If you record on the go, the IK Multimedia iRig HD 2 or the JOYO MOMIX CAB are designed specifically for mobile guitar tracking.
What is latency and why does it matter for guitar recording?
Latency is the small delay between playing a note on your guitar and hearing it back through your DAW or amp sim. Round-trip latency under 10 ms is generally considered playable. Above 15 ms, fast alternate-picked riffs and tight rhythm guitar start to feel sluggish. Look for interfaces with low round-trip latency and a direct monitoring knob to bypass the computer entirely.
How many inputs do I need on an audio interface for guitar?
One input is enough if you only plan to track DI guitar by yourself. If you want to record guitar and vocals at the same time, or use two microphones on a guitar cabinet, you will need two inputs. The MOTU M2, PreSonus AudioBox 96, and Behringer UMC22 all offer two inputs at accessible prices.
USB-C or Thunderbolt audio interface for guitar?
USB-C is fast enough for guitar recording and powers most modern interfaces directly from your laptop. Thunderbolt 3 and 4 offer even lower latency but are usually found on premium interfaces like the Universal Audio Apollo Twin X and require a compatible Mac or PC. For most guitarists, a quality USB-C interface like the MOTU M2 or the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen delivers more than enough performance.
Are budget audio interfaces good enough for guitar recording?
Yes. Modern budget interfaces like the Behringer UMC22 and M-Audio M-Track Solo deliver clean, quiet preamps and usable latency for guitar tracking. The differences between budget and premium units are mostly in converter quality, build, and bundled software rather than basic tone. For a first home studio, a budget interface is a smart starting point.
Should I get a 24-bit or 32-bit audio interface?
24-bit is the standard for music recording and is more than enough dynamic range for guitar. 32-bit float recording offers extra headroom for unpredictable sources, but for guitar you will never exceed the range of a 24-bit converter. Focus on preamp quality, latency, and input impedance instead of chasing bit depth.
Final Verdict
After three months of side-by-side testing, the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen remains the best audio interfaces for guitar in 2026 for most players. It has the cleanest preamp in its price range, the lowest latency, and the most generous bundled software of any unit in this roundup. If you want premium converters and USB-C at a fair price, the MOTU M2 is a worthy step up. And if you are shopping on a tight budget, the Behringer UMC22 still delivers more than you would expect for what it costs.
For mobile guitarists, the IK Multimedia iRig HD 2 is our top pick for tracking on an iPhone or iPad. For the cheapest possible entry point, the JOYO MOMIX CAB gets a guitar signal into your phone in seconds. Whichever interface you choose from this list, you will have the foundation for a great guitar recording setup. Plug in, hit record, and chase the tone.