Best Podcast Audio Interfaces Compared: Focusrite, MOTU, and More
TL;DR: The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen) at $180 is the best choice for most podcasters—reliable, great-sounding, with excellent software included. The MOTU M2 ($200) wins for creators who prioritize ultra-low latency and precise visual metering.
Table of Contents
- What Is an Audio Interface?
- Top Audio Interfaces for Podcasting
- Focusrite Scarlett 2i2: Best Overall
- MOTU M2: Best for Low Latency
- Budget Options Worth Considering
- How to Choose the Right Interface
- FAQ
What Is an Audio Interface?
An audio interface converts your microphone's analog signal into digital audio your computer can record. Think of it as the translator between your XLR microphone and your recording software.
Why do podcasters need one?
If you're using an XLR microphone (which typically sounds better than USB alternatives), you need an interface to connect it to your computer. Interfaces also provide:
- Preamp gain: Amplifies quiet microphone signals cleanly
- Phantom power: Powers condenser microphones that need it
- Headphone monitoring: Listen to yourself while recording
- Better conversion: Higher-quality analog-to-digital processing than built-in sound cards
Top Audio Interfaces for Podcasting
Here's how the leading options stack up:
| Interface | Price | Inputs | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen) | ~$180 | 2 XLR/TRS | Most podcasters |
| MOTU M2 | ~$200 | 2 XLR/TRS | Low latency needs |
| Focusrite Scarlett Solo (4th Gen) | ~$130 | 1 XLR + 1 TRS | Solo podcasters |
| PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 | ~$100 | 2 XLR/TRS | Budget setups |
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2: Best Overall
The Scarlett 2i2 has dominated the home studio market for years, and the 4th generation represents a significant upgrade. It's the world's best-selling audio interface for good reason.
What Makes It Special
Clean preamps with serious gain: The 4th Gen offers up to 56dB of gain—enough for demanding microphones like the Shure SM7B without needing a cloudlifter in most cases.
Auto Gain feature: New podcasters often struggle with setting proper levels. Auto Gain analyzes your voice and sets optimal input levels automatically—a genuine timesaver.
Air mode: Adds a subtle high-frequency lift and harmonic enhancement that many podcasters find flattering. It's like a free polish on your voice.
Loopback recording: Route computer audio alongside your microphone—essential for recording calls, adding sound effects during live streams, or capturing game audio for gaming podcasts.
Software Bundle
Focusrite includes substantial software:
- Ableton Live Lite
- Pro Tools Intro+ (perpetual license)
- 6-month FL Studio Producer Edition
- Various plugins and virtual instruments
Even if you use free software like Audacity, this bundle adds value if you ever want to experiment.
Specifications
- Inputs: 2 XLR/TRS combo jacks
- Outputs: 2 balanced TRS, 1 headphone
- Preamp gain: 56dB
- Sample rates: Up to 192kHz/24-bit
- Connection: USB-C
MOTU M2: Best for Low Latency
The MOTU M2 aims for precision where the Scarlett goes for character. If you need the absolute best latency performance or love visual feedback, this is your interface.
What Makes It Special
Unmatched latency: MOTU's driver optimization delivers the lowest round-trip latency we've measured in this price range. If you're monitoring yourself while recording, you'll hear zero delay.
LCD metering: A bright, colorful display shows input and output levels at a glance. Podcasters love being able to check levels without looking at their computer screen. This visual feedback helps maintain consistent audio throughout recordings.
Higher gain ceiling: 60dB of clean gain handles even the most demanding microphones without external boosters.
Individual phantom power: Two separate switches let you enable 48V for one input while keeping the other off—useful for mixed condenser/dynamic setups.
The Trade-off
The MOTU M2's sound is clinically accurate, which some find less flattering than the Scarlett's slightly colored output. Neither is objectively "better"—it's preference. The software bundle is also less impressive than Focusrite's offerings.
Specifications
- Inputs: 2 XLR/TRS combo jacks
- Outputs: 4 balanced TRS, 1 headphone
- Preamp gain: 60dB
- Sample rates: Up to 192kHz/24-bit
- Connection: USB-C
Budget Options Worth Considering
Focusrite Scarlett Solo (4th Gen) - ~$130
If you're a solo podcaster who only needs one microphone input, the Scarlett Solo provides the same preamp quality as the 2i2 at a lower price. You lose loopback and one input, but gain the same core audio quality.
PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 - ~$100
A solid entry point for budget-conscious podcasters. Two inputs, decent preamps, and reliable performance. You sacrifice some build quality and gain compared to pricier options, but it records clean audio.
How to Choose the Right Interface
Consider Your Input Needs
- Solo podcast: 1 input is enough (Scarlett Solo)
- Two hosts or guest + host: 2 inputs minimum (Scarlett 2i2, MOTU M2)
- Panel discussions: Consider 4+ input options (Scarlett 4i4, MOTU M4)
Consider Your Microphone
High-gain microphones like the Shure SM7B benefit from interfaces with more headroom:
| Interface | Max Gain | SM7B Compatible? |
|---|---|---|
| Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen) | 56dB | Yes, usually |
| MOTU M2 | 60dB | Yes |
| PreSonus AudioBox | 52dB | May need cloudlifter |
Consider Your Workflow
- Need loopback for calls/streaming? Scarlett 2i2
- Want visual level metering? MOTU M2
- Budget is primary concern? PreSonus AudioBox
Scarlett 2i2 vs MOTU M2: Head to Head
| Feature | Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen) | MOTU M2 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | ~$180 | ~$200 |
| Sound Character | Slightly musical | Clinically accurate |
| Preamp Gain | 56dB | 60dB |
| Latency | Excellent | Best-in-class |
| Metering | LED rings | LCD display |
| Special Features | Air mode, Auto Gain | Extra outputs, MIDI |
| Software Bundle | Excellent | Basic |
The verdict: For most podcasters, the Scarlett 2i2 offers better value with its superior software bundle and beginner-friendly features. Choose the MOTU M2 if latency-free monitoring or precise visual metering matters more to your workflow.
FAQ
Do I need an audio interface for podcasting?
Only if you're using an XLR microphone. USB microphones have audio interfaces built in. However, XLR setups with dedicated interfaces typically offer better sound quality, more flexibility, and a clearer upgrade path as your podcast grows.
How much gain do I need for podcasting?
Most dynamic microphones used in podcasting (Shure SM58, Rode PodMic, Audio-Technica AT2040) work fine with 50dB+ of gain. Gain-hungry microphones like the Shure SM7B or Electro-Voice RE20 benefit from 60dB+ or an inline preamp booster.
Can I use an audio interface with recording software like Audacity?
Yes, all major audio interfaces work with Audacity, GarageBand, Adobe Audition, and other recording software. The interface appears as an input device in your software's audio settings. Most interfaces are class-compliant, meaning they work without special drivers on Mac, and include Windows drivers that install automatically.
Ready to make your podcast archive searchable? Try PodRewind free and find any moment across your episodes in seconds.
Photo by Caught In Joy on Unsplash