VERY open ended audio interface question...

[rockabilly69]

RME Babyface, small form factor, ridiculously good drivers, bundled software (totalmix) is great, nice sounding preamps.

[PerryE]

I have used a Focusrite 2i2 for a while but last week I bought an Audient ID44. Main reason was that the micamps on the 2i2 became noisy but still were not strong enough for my low signal output small diaphragm condenser mics from line audio. I also needed more inputs but for your situation the ID22 should work fine. Built like a tank!

Last night I concluded a recording session with 5 layers of guitar and one layer of bass - the additional Audient ID44 software was really helpful when setting up the different scenarios

[Cocobolo Kid]

After owning on several others, I have settled on RME. They seem to have the most stable Windows drivers.

[Andy Howell]

The Audients would certainly be on my list if I was considering a new mic.

[KarenB]

I have a Focusrite Clarett 4pre. Great unit.

[KevWind]

Originally Posted by mniels

OK, so...

What, in your opinion, is the best 2 input/2 or 4 out audio interface for quality and features???

This would be used in conjunction with a control surface. At the moment only using one pair of monitors.

As always, thanks for the input!

Probably best to post an actual dollar amount budget range , because unfortunately "Let's say that there is a pretty high ceiling on price, been saving for a bit for this stuff ". is still vague and definitely relative to the individual

For example example lets say that "pretty high ceiling" is $25,000 for a home studio . In that case then in a USB interface (In my opinion) one of if not the best 2 in 4 out you can get, is Prism Sound Lyra 2
Arguably the best converters and pres you will find in a combo interface

https://vintageking.com/prism-sound-lyra-2

[Wrighty]

I have had an Scarlett 212 but replaced it with a used Audient ID14 which I find better / warmer

[GuitarLuva]

If you're on a budget you can't beat the Behringer UMC404 HD for price and features. I was sceptical when I bought it years ago but it has plenty of hours logged on it now and I absolutely love it. That particular model has 4 inputs (midas preamps to).

[paulp1960]

Originally Posted by GuitarLuva

If you're on a budget you can't beat the Behringer UMC404 HD for price and features. I was sceptical when I bought it years ago but it has plenty of hours logged on it now and I absolutely love it. That particular model has 4 inputs (midas preamps to).

I retired my RME Babyface recently after buying a UMC404. I've also got a UMC202HD I bought around 18 months ago.

I'm not saying the UMC Midas pre-amps are better than the Babyface ones but it suits my workflow better to have a bass guitar, electric guitar and condenser mic at the ready using 3 inputs of the UMC404. Also the headphone output is louder than the Babyface.

The Behringer UMC series run without any drivers under Apple OS-X and they will run at 32 samples latency on my 2 computers.

[Johnny K]

Originally Posted by GuitarLuva

If you're on a budget you can't beat the Behringer UMC404 HD for price and features. I was sceptical when I bought it years ago but it has plenty of hours logged on it now and I absolutely love it. That particular model has 4 inputs (midas preamps to).

It’s the price. I was skeptical too, as I had a Scarlett Solo that I paid more for than the 404.

So far, no complaints. I like the 4 inputs, I use it to track drums as well as guitar and bass. The extra inputs lets me set up a sound on sound rig using multiple amps.

[GuitarLuva]

Originally Posted by Johnny K

It’s the price. I was skeptical too, as I had a Scarlett Solo that I paid more for than the 404.

So far, no complaints. I like the 4 inputs, I use it to track drums as well as guitar and bass. The extra inputs lets me set up a sound on sound rig using multiple amps.

The more inputs the better. You will find a use for them even if you think you won't.

[Andy Howell]

It all depends on your budget. Focusrite are great value as are Audient and RME and Apollo!

[Johnny K]

Originally Posted by GuitarLuva

The more inputs the better. You will find a use for them even if you think you won't.

You're darn skippy! I'm about to pull the trigger on an X-Touch control surface and an ADA8200, which I think should let me piggy back onto the 404 to give me 12 channels. Need to add at least 4 more mics on my drum kit.

You can see the 404 off to my left. It is a workhorse

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cT1A6ThIgVU

[Ty Ford]

Originally Posted by Mbroady

I was looking into a RME ADI-2 Pro FS 2-in/4-out AD/DA Converter.
Looks great on paper and seems to have loads of operational flexibility
Runs around 2 grand. If my current set up ever goes..........
For twice the price you can get a Antelope Audio’s Eclipse 384, but it does not have the DSP facilities

Pretty sure it doesn't have preamps and guitar level isn't enough, but does have lots of flexibility.

Regards,

Ty Ford

[kathyson]

Behringer UMC404 HD. Midas pre's and super low latency.