Top Budget Audio Interfaces for PC Outputs 2024

Struggling to get the best sound quality from your PC setup? Whether you're a podcaster, musician, or streamer, an audio interface for PC outputs can unlock the full potential of your audio, providing clarity and control that built-in sound cards simply can’t match. 

The need for high-quality audio in content creation, music production, and streaming is more essential than ever. Whether you're a musician, podcaster, or streamer, investing in a good audio interface can dramatically improve your sound. An audio interface is an essential tool that allows you to connect professional microphones, instruments, or studio monitors to your computer. In this article, we'll explore what audio interfaces are, how they work, and highlight the best budget audio interfaces for PC outputs in 2024. Let’s dive into how these budget-friendly devices can transform your sound game in 2024!

What Is an Audio Interface for PC Outputs?

An audio interface is a hardware device that enhances the sound quality of your PC's audio by converting analog signals (like those from a microphone or an instrument) into digital signals that your computer can understand. It also does the reverse, converting digital signals from your PC into analog signals that can be output through speakers, headphones, or other equipment.

The core function of an audio interface is to provide better sound quality than your computer's built-in sound card, giving you cleaner, clearer recordings and playback. For anyone serious about audio—whether it’s recording music, streaming live, or podcasting—an audio interface is a must-have piece of gear.

How Do I Output Audio from an Interface to My Computer?

Connecting an audio interface to your computer is a simple process. Most budget audio interfaces for PC outputs connect via USB or USB-C. Once plugged in, the interface will typically require drivers or software to ensure proper functionality. After installation, you can route audio from the interface to your DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) or other recording software.

Here are the steps to output audio from your interface:

1. Connect the audio interface to your PC using a USB cable.
2. Install any necessary drivers or software.
3. Configure your PC or DAW settings to recognize the interface as the default input/output device.
4. Connect your headphones, speakers, or studio monitors to the output ports on the audio interface.

How Do I Add More Outputs to My Audio Interface?

Many budget audio interfaces come with a limited number of inputs and outputs. If you need additional outputs, there are a few ways to expand:

• Upgrade to a higher-end interface: Some interfaces come with more outputs, but these models are typically more expensive.
• Use an external ADAT expander: This allows you to add more outputs by connecting an external digital audio converter to your interface via ADAT (Alesis Digital Audio Tape).
• Audio interface daisy-chaining: Some interfaces allow multiple units to be connected, expanding the number of inputs and outputs.

Does an Audio Interface Affect Output Quality?

Yes, the audio interface has a direct impact on the quality of both recording and output. A high-quality audio interface will provide better digital-to-analog conversion, cleaner sound, lower latency, and improved signal processing. Budget interfaces can still significantly improve sound quality over the computer’s built-in sound card, but premium interfaces offer even more detailed and professional audio output.

Is It Better to Plug Headphones into an Audio Interface?

Plugging your headphones into an audio interface is typically better than plugging them directly into your computer. Audio interfaces have built-in headphone amplifiers that provide cleaner, more powerful sound compared to the often weak and noisy headphone jacks on computers. This makes it easier to monitor your recordings and mixes with precision. For real-time monitoring, you can also check out these headphones from Maono for a reasonable price.

FAQs

1. What Are the Best Budget Audio Interfaces in 2024?

When choosing a budget audio interface, it’s essential to find one that offers excellent sound quality, ease of use, and durability without breaking the bank. Here are seven of the best budget audio interfaces for 2024:

1. MaonoCaster Lite AM200

2. MaonoCaster AM100

3. Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (3rd Gen)

4. PreSonus AudioBox USB 96

The AudioBox USB 96 is a versatile, reliable budget interface offering 24-bit/96 kHz recording quality. Its compact design and easy setup make it a solid option for home studios or mobile recording setups.

5. Behringer UMC22

One of the most affordable options on this list, the Behringer UMC22 offers two inputs and 48V phantom power for condenser microphones. Despite its low price, it provides decent sound quality and ease of use.

6. M-Audio M-Track Solo

This compact audio interface is great for solo artists and podcasters on a tight budget. It offers a single XLR/line input with a high-quality preamp and a USB connection to ensure easy recording and playback.

7. Steinberg UR12

2. What Is a recommended audio interface from Maono for Better Sound Quality and Durability?

The MaonoCaster AM100 is one of the most highly recommended audio interfaces from Maono for those seeking improved sound quality and durability. This interface is built specifically for content creators and podcasters, offering multiple inputs and customizable sound effects. Its durable design and user-friendly interface make it an excellent option for both beginners and more experienced users who want to enhance their sound.

3. For Beginners, What Type of Devices Do You Connect to the Audio Interface?

Beginners can connect a wide range of devices to an audio interface, depending on their recording needs. Common devices include:

• Microphones: XLR microphones are typically connected to the audio interface for recording vocals or instruments. Some interfaces also support USB mics.
• Instruments: Electric guitars, keyboards, and other instruments can be plugged directly into the interface’s instrument or line inputs.
• Headphones: Monitoring your audio in real-time is crucial for accurate recording, and most interfaces come with a headphone output.
• Speakers or Studio Monitors: These provide playback for your recordings, allowing you to hear your work with precision.
• MIDI Controllers: Some audio interfaces have MIDI inputs, allowing you to connect MIDI keyboards or other controllers for music production.

For beginners, understanding what devices you plan to use will help you choose the best audio interface. Many budget-friendly options, like the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 and MaonoCaster AM100, offer versatile inputs and outputs that can accommodate a range of devices.

Conclusion

Picking the right audio interface is essential for anyone looking to enhance their PC's audio capabilities, whether it’s for podcasting, music production, or live streaming. In 2024, there are plenty of budget-friendly options that provide excellent sound quality without breaking the bank.

From versatile options like the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 to specialized models like the MaonoCaster Lite AM200 or the AM100, these audio interfaces offer features that meet the needs of both beginners and professionals. Whether you're looking for portability, ease of use, or high-quality sound output, the seven models mentioned in this article are among the best budget audio interfaces you can buy in 2024.