Search Categories

1

Why We Love It

Users and reviewers rave about the Focusrite Scarlett 18i8's high-quality sound, versatility, and sleek design. They love the high-headroom inputs, which allow them to record loud instruments without any distortion. The MIDI I/O and ADAT expansion are also highly appreciated for their flexibility. The high-resolution audio and robust build quality are other features that users and reviewers frequently highlight.

Pros

  • High-performance audio interface
  • High-headroom inputs
  • Sleek, robust design

Cons

  • Requires external power source
  • Not ideal for beginners

18-in/8-out USB audio interface with high-headroom inputs

The Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen is a powerful and versatile audio interface designed for musicians and producers. It features four high-headroom inputs for recording loud instruments without clipping, and four balanced outputs for monitoring and sending audio out to external hardware. It also includes MIDI I/O and ADAT expansion to increase the number of channels. The Scarlett 18i8 operates at 24-bit/192kHz, offering high-resolution audio. Its sleek and robust design ensures it can withstand the rigors of the road.

2

Why We Love It

The MOTU 8pre-es is praised for its advanced features and superior audio quality. Users love the flexibility it offers, with a high number of inputs and outputs and extensive routing options. The ability to control the unit remotely from any device is another feature that reviewers appreciate.

Pros

  • Advanced audio conversion
  • Extensive routing options
  • Convenient remote control

Cons

  • May be overwhelming for beginners
  • Requires Thunderbolt for maximum functionality

Thunderbolt and USB audio interface with 24 inputs and 28 outputs

The MOTU 8pre-es is a 24x28 Thunderbolt and USB audio interface designed to offer advanced audio conversion and extensive routing options. It features 8 mic inputs, 2 front-panel hi-Z guitar inputs, and 16 channels of ADAT optical I/O. With a web app that provides remote control from any device, operation is easy and convenient.

3

Why We Love It

The Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 is loved by users for its reliable performance and high-quality preamps. The large number of inputs and outputs make it versatile for various recording setups. Plus, the included software is highly appreciated by users for the added functionality it provides in recording and mixing.

Pros

  • High-quality preamps
  • Large number of inputs and outputs
  • Comes with useful software

Cons

  • Requires computer for operation
  • May be complex for beginners

USB audio interface with 18 inputs and 20 outputs

The Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 is a 3rd generation USB audio interface designed to deliver high-quality audio recording and playback. It features 8 Scarlett mic preamps, 18 inputs and 20 outputs, and two high-headroom instrument inputs. It comes with a variety of software, giving you everything you need to start recording.

4

Why We Love It

The Tascam US-16x08 is highly regarded by reviewers for its wealth of I/O options, rackmount design, and high-quality preamps. Users love the flexibility it offers for their studio setup, with many praising the clean, quiet operation of the Ultra-HDDA mic preamps. The high-resolution audio and sturdy build are other features that users frequently mention. Despite its complexity, users appreciate its easy setup and reliable operation.

Pros

  • Wealth of I/O options
  • Rackmount design
  • High-quality Ultra-HDDA mic preamps

Cons

  • Requires external power source
  • May be too complex for beginners

16-in/8-out USB audio/MIDI interface with rackmount design

The Tascam US-16x08 is a rackmount audio and MIDI interface offering a wealth of inputs and outputs for intricate audio configurations. It features 16 inputs and 8 outputs, along with MIDI I/O for controlling synths and other MIDI gear. This interface operates at 24-bit/96kHz for high-quality audio recording and playback. It also includes eight Ultra-HDDA mic preamps for clean, quiet operation. The US-16x08 is designed with a sturdy rackmount chassis for durability and easy integration into your studio setup.

5

Why We Love It

The Behringer U-PHORIA UMC404HD is a popular choice among beginners for its affordability and features. Users appreciate the four MIDAS-designed preamps for delivering high-quality sound. The high-resolution audio and comprehensive software bundle also add to its value, making it a great choice for those new to music production.

Pros

  • Affordable
  • High-quality preamps
  • Comprehensive software bundle

Cons

  • Build quality could be better
  • Limited I/O options

USB audio interface with 4 inputs and 4 outputs.

The Behringer U-PHORIA UMC404HD is an affordable yet feature-rich audio interface, perfect for beginners. It offers 4 inputs and 4 outputs, with four MIDAS-designed preamps for high-quality sound. The interface uses 24-bit/192 kHz resolution for professional audio quality. It also includes a comprehensive software bundle, making it a great value for the price.

Product Comparison

Compare features across all products in this category

5 Features 5 Products Updated Oct 04, 2025
Product MIDI I/O Max Sample Rate Number of Inputs/Outputs Preamps Type Design Type
1 PreSonus Studio 1810c 18x8 USB-C Audio Interface
Yes 192 kHz 18x8 XMAX Class A Desktop
2 Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 (3rd Gen) USB Audio Interface
Yes 192 kHz 18x8 High-headroom Desktop
3 BEHRINGER Audio Interface, 4-Channel (UMC404HD)
Yes 192 kHz 4x4 MIDAS Compact
4 M-Audio AIR 192|14 - 8-In 4-Out USB Audio/MIDI Interface
Yes 192 kHz 8x4 High-quality Compact
5 Tascam US-16x08 Rackmount USB Audio/MIDI Interface
Yes 96 kHz 16x8 Ultra-HDDA Rackmount
1

PreSonus Studio 1810c 18x8 USB-C Audio Interface

MIDI I/O
Yes
Max Sample Rate
192 kHz
Number of Inputs/Outputs
18x8
Preamps Type
XMAX Class A
Design Type
Desktop
2

Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 (3rd Gen) USB Audio Interface

MIDI I/O
Yes
Max Sample Rate
192 kHz
Number of Inputs/Outputs
18x8
Preamps Type
High-headroom
Design Type
Desktop
3

BEHRINGER Audio Interface, 4-Channel (UMC404HD)

MIDI I/O
Yes
Max Sample Rate
192 kHz
Number of Inputs/Outputs
4x4
Preamps Type
MIDAS
Design Type
Compact
4

M-Audio AIR 192|14 - 8-In 4-Out USB Audio/MIDI Interface

MIDI I/O
Yes
Max Sample Rate
192 kHz
Number of Inputs/Outputs
8x4
Preamps Type
High-quality
Design Type
Compact
5

Tascam US-16x08 Rackmount USB Audio/MIDI Interface

MIDI I/O
Yes
Max Sample Rate
96 kHz
Number of Inputs/Outputs
16x8
Preamps Type
Ultra-HDDA
Design Type
Rackmount

Frequently Asked Questions About FireWire Audio Interfaces

What makes a firewire audio interfaces the "best"?

We evaluate products based on quality, performance, value for money, user reviews, durability, and ease of use. Our rankings are updated regularly to reflect the latest market offerings and user feedback.

How often do you update your firewire audio interfaces recommendations?

Our team continuously monitors the market for new products and updates our recommendations quarterly. We also adjust rankings based on user feedback and new testing results.

Do you test all the products you recommend?

Yes, whenever possible, we physically test products in our labs. For products we can't test directly, we rely on verified user reviews, expert opinions, and detailed specifications to make informed recommendations.

What if I'm looking for a specific type of firewire audio interfaces?

Our top 10 list covers the most popular and highly-rated options. If you have specific requirements, check our detailed product descriptions and pros/cons to find the best match for your needs.