Sound quality can make or break a production for audio enthusiasts and professionals alike. Whether you’re a musician, podcaster, or content creator, achieving superior sound quality is paramount. At the heart of many high-quality audio setups lies the XLR interface, a crucial component for capturing pristine audio.
This article will delve into the intricacies of XLR interfaces, explaining their significance and why they remain the gold standard in the industry. You’ll learn what XLR means, how these connectors work, and why they are preferred over other types of audio connections.
Additionally, we will guide you through selecting the best XLR-compatible audio interfaces, ensuring you make an informed decision tailored to your needs.
What Is XLR?
When selecting an XLR connector, it’s crucial to ensure that the cable is compatible with both your microphone and audio interface. The primary advantage of XLR connectors is their balanced signal, which effectively isolates noise and maintains sound integrity.
Professional audio content creators, including streamers and musicians, prefer XLR for its superior sound quality. While many audio interfaces also support USB inputs, XLR remains the preferred choice for top-tier audio recording due to its consistent performance and durability.
What Is An Audio Interface?
An audio interface converts instrument and microphone signals into a format that your computer and software can process.
This device acts as a bridge, allowing for the seamless transfer of high-quality audio data between analog equipment and digital systems. Additionally, audio interfaces can route audio from your PC to studio monitors and headphones, ensuring precise playback and monitoring.
While some audio interfaces connect to your computer via Thunderbolt, Firewire, or Ethernet, USB connections are the most common due to their ease of use and widespread compatibility.
Before You Buy
Several important factors should be considered when selecting an audio interface that accommodates XLR connections. Here’s a concise buyer’s guide to help you make an informed decision.
Intention
Start by clarifying what you intend to do with the audio interface. Whether you’re recording in a studio, podcasting, or creating music demos, knowing your specific needs will help determine your best option.
Make a detailed list of all the activities you plan to undertake with the audio interface.
Connection Format
Consider how your audio interface will connect to your computer. Common connection formats include USB, Thunderbolt, and Firewire. Some audio interfaces are hybrids and support multiple connection types. Knowing your computer’s compatibility will help narrow down your choices.
Multitasking
Think about the number of signals you need to connect simultaneously. For musicians, this might include a microphone, guitar, and drum kit all connected to one interface.
Consider other connections, such as microphone preamps, monitors, and headphone feeds. Listing all required inputs and outputs, along with their formats, ensures you choose an interface that meets your needs.
Sound Quality
However, differences in audio and tonality can vary between manufacturers and depend on the quality of the equipment used with the interface. Ensuring compatibility and optimal performance will significantly impact your recordings.
Best Audio Interfaces With XLR
Now that you understand what to consider before purchasing an audio interface, it’s time to explore some of the best options available. Here, we have compiled a list of top-rated audio interfaces that feature XLR compatibility.
Each audio interface listed below offers unique features and benefits, ensuring high-quality sound and reliable performance.
Whether you are a beginner, an intermediate user, or a professional, these interfaces will provide the functionality and quality required for various recording applications.
Beginner
These audio interfaces with XLR provide all the basic features an interface should have. They are cost-effective models yet deliver excellent sound quality. Typically, they offer one or two inputs and support a pair of headphones and monitors.
| Best Value  | User-Friendly  | Premium Sound  |
| 4.7 | 4.4 | 4.6 |
| $199.99 | $89.99 | N/A |
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen)
- Features: Two inputs for microphone, line, or instrument, excellent preamps, headphone output, and speaker level control. The 4th generation includes new features like Auto-Gain and Clip-Safe mode for automated level adjustment.
- Benefits: This model is known for its reliability, ease of use, and compact size, making it perfect for home studios and beginners. It also includes software bundles for an all-in-one recording solution.
PreSonus AudioBox USB 96
- Features: Two XLR/TRS combo inputs, MIDI I/O, bundled with Studio One Artist DAW software.
- Benefits: This rugged and portable interface is ideal for home studios and mobile recording setups. It supports high-quality audio recording and provides MIDI connectivity, making it versatile for various recording needs.
Audient iD4 MkII
- Features: One XLR combo input, one JFET DI input, dual headphone outputs, and scroll control for software integration.
- Benefits: The iD4 MkII offers high-quality preamps and converters, making it an excellent choice for beginners seeking professional sound quality. Its compact design and USB 3.0 connectivity make it highly portable and user-friendly.
Intermediate
These audio interfaces have more features than beginner models, offering enhancements like multiple inputs, cue mixes, onboard DSP, and higher-quality electronics.
They often connect to computers via USB, Thunderbolt, or both, providing greater flexibility and performance for more advanced users.
| Top Pick  | Performance  | Great Clarity  |
| 4.5 | 4.4 | 4.5 |
| N/A | $599.99 | $678.99 |
UAD Apollo Twin MKII
- Features: Two mic/line inputs, one guitar/bass input, onboard DSP, and a suite of plugins including classic compressors, reverb, amp simulators, and equalizers.
- Benefits: The Apollo Twin MKII is renowned for its high-quality sound and versatile functionality. Its onboard DSP allows for real-time UAD plugin processing, making it a powerful tool for intermediate users. The interface can also be expanded with additional UAD interfaces as your studio grows.
PreSonus Quantum 2626
- Features: Eight mic/line inputs, sixteen digital inputs, eight analog outputs, sixteen digital outputs, dual headphone outputs, volume control for studio monitors, and MIDI support.
- Benefits: The Quantum 2626 offers ultra-low latency and high-quality audio performance. It is equipped with extensive I/O options, making it suitable for complex recording setups. Its Thunderbolt connectivity ensures fast and reliable data transfer.
Focusrite Clarett+ 4Pre
- Features: Four mic/line/instrument inputs, four additional line inputs, onboard Air mode for enhanced high frequencies, ADAT expansion, and MIDI I/O.
- Benefits: The Clarett+ 4Pre delivers exceptional audio clarity and dynamic range. Its versatile connectivity and robust build quality make it a reliable choice for intermediate users. The Air mode provides a unique sonic character, enhancing vocal and acoustic recordings.
Professional
These interfaces are top-of-the-line, professional-quality audio equipment. They feature high-quality converters and advanced functionalities, making them perfectly suitable for sophisticated recording studios.
These devices often have USB, Thunderbolt, or Ethernet connection ports and may include special ProTools HDX systems connectors.
| Pro Quality  | Top Integration  | High-End  |
| 4.3 | 4.1 | 4.0 |
| $2,799.00 | $4,199.99 | $1,495.00 |
Universal Audio Apollo x8p
- Features: Eight Unison-enabled mic preamps, HEXA Core processing, Thunderbolt 3 connectivity, 7.1 surround sound monitoring, and extensive plugin support.
- Benefits: The Apollo x8p is known for its high-end analog sound quality and powerful DSP processing capabilities. It is a top choice for professionals seeking premium audio performance and advanced features.
Focusrite Red 8Pre
- Features: Eight mic/line inputs, dual Thunderbolt 2 ports, Pro Tools | HD and Dante network audio connectivity, 24-bit/192kHz conversion.
- Benefits: The Red 8Pre offers seamless integration with Pro Tools | HD systems and Dante networks, providing flexibility and high-quality audio for professional studios. Its comprehensive connectivity options and superior sound quality make it a standout choice.
Apogee Symphony Desktop
- Features: Two mic preamps, two instrument inputs, ten line outputs, ADAT/SMUX I/O, and built-in DSP for real-time effects processing.
- Benefits: The Symphony Desktop provides Apogee’s flagship conversion technology in a compact form. It delivers pristine audio quality and flexible connectivity, making it suitable for professional studios and mobile recording.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between balanced and unbalanced audio connections?
Balanced connections use three conductors for noise reduction; unbalanced connections use two and are more susceptible to interference.
How do I know if my audio interface supports phantom power?
Check for a “48V” or “phantom power” label on the interface or its specifications.
Can I use multiple audio interfaces simultaneously?
Yes, by setting up an “aggregate device” on macOS or using ASIO4ALL on Windows.
What is the role of onboard DSP in audio interfaces?
Onboard DSP processes effects in real-time, reducing CPU load and enabling low-latency monitoring.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to audio interfaces with XLR, it’s important to consider everything before making your purchase.
Hopefully, this article will help you choose the perfect sound equipment for you and your recording needs.
