Audio Interfaces
Updated 2026-04-06
PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 logo

PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 Review 2026

A 2x2 USB interface under $100 with Class A preamps, MIDI in/out, and a steel chassis that can take a beating. Ships with Studio One Artist and a plugin bundle, so you can start recording without buying extra software. The preamps are basic but clean enough for podcasting. Note: the original blue model is being phased out at some retailers; the 25th Anniversary Edition (black) is the current variant.

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Pricing

AudioBox USB 96

$95/

  • 2 Class A preamps
  • MIDI I/O
  • Steel chassis
  • Studio One Artist included
  • 48V phantom power

Pros

  • Hard to beat at this price
  • MIDI ports that most budget interfaces skip
  • Steel build feels solid
  • Studio One Artist DAW included

Cons

  • USB 2.0 connector (need an adapter for newer laptops)
  • Tops out at 96kHz sample rate
  • Preamps are functional but nothing special

Best For

  • Beginners who don't want to spend much
  • Anyone who needs MIDI ports on a budget
  • Simple mobile recording rigs

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Turn Episodes Into Content

PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 handles the audio. PodRewind turns your episodes into a searchable archive you can chat with—then generates show notes, social clips, and blog posts automatically.