Many people use Mixcraft Studio, including musicians and bands, producers and engineers, podcasters, content creators, home studio owners, educational institutions, songwriters, film and multimedia producers, and live performers.
The software Mixcraft Studio, by Acoustica, is mainly used for digital audio workstations for music production, and you can do various things like multitrack recording, audio editing, and MIDI sequencing for virtual instruments. It also gives you mixing tools, effects, and automation features, and some versions even offer you video editing capabilities for audio-video synchronization. The question is, why is an audio interface essential for Mixcraft Studio?
The Audio interfaces are designed and popular due to their seamless smooth integration and functionality with digital audio workstations like Mixcraft Studio and not only that they are also famous for their Processing Offload. For example, if your CPU cannot afford more load, then these audio interfaces free up your computer’s CPU for other demanding operations within Mixcraft Studio for smoother performance.
You will also get a diverse variety of Inputs and Outputs that can be used for different types of instruments and microphones (XLR, TRS, MIDI) which allows you to link a wider range of gear. Yes! You can do Simultaneous Recording and you can even record multiple tracks like multiple instruments capturing vocals at once or you want to expand your recording possibilities as well.
You can do direct monitoring like the Interface allows you to excellently listen directly to input signal so you didn’t want to go through with computer processing delays which is an essential for most accurate recordings and also with included phantom power you did not need external power supplies for your condenser microphones. You will also get Precise control over input levels for good recording quality. If you are a professional-grade converter, then the audio interface really helps you get pristine sound capture and playback. You will get low latency for your real-time recording and monitoring as it offers significantly lower audio latency, which means reducing the delay between input and output.
Throughout this article, I will discuss compatible audio interfaces to use with Mixcraft Studio. These audio interfaces have proven perfect for Mixcraft Studio and help you experience excellent audio production. To make your decision easier, we’ll weigh their pros and cons. In case you are looking for an audio interface to use with Ableton Live, we have already made a dedicated guide on it.
Best Audio Interface To Use With Acoustica Mixcraft Studio Summary
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Focusrite Scarlett Solo (3rd Generation) Read More | See On Amazon |
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Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Read More | See On Amazon |
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TASCAM Mixcast 4 Read More | See On Amazon |
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PreSonus Studio 24c Read More | See On Amazon |
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MOTU M2 USB-C Audio/MIDI Interface Read More | See On Amazon |
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Behringer U-PHORIA UM2 Read More | See On Amazon |
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M-Audio M-Track Eight Read More | See On Amazon |
Best Audio Interface To Use With Acoustica Mixcraft Studio At a Glance:
- Focusrite Scarlett Solo (3rd Generation)
- Focusrite Scarlett 2i2
- TASCAM Mixcast 4
- PreSonus Studio 24c
- MOTU M2 USB-C Audio/MIDI Interface
- Behringer U-PHORIA UM2
- M-Audio M-Track Eight
Best Audio Interface To Use With Acoustica Mixcraft Studio Reviews
Focusrite Scarlett Solo (3rd Generation)
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To start our list, we have Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Generation, which boasts two inputs, featuring a 3rd Generation mic preamp and a switchable line/inst input and two balanced outputs. It shows great versatility and compatibility in budget range.
The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen shows great compatibility with a wide range of software, including Acoustica Mixcraft Studio. Before you get this audio interface, you need to check specific versions that would be good for you depending on some factors. You can use Scarlett Solo easily with Mixcraft 10 Recording Studio and Mixcraft 10 Pro Studio depending upon your level of experience.
By looking at its design, it feels much more compact and portable audio interface and for musicians who want to record high-quality audio on the go, this Focusrite product is a great recommendation due to its small and lightweight design that you can easily carry.
The Focusrite Scarlett Solo ensures exceptional audio quality with 24-bit/192 kHz converters, delivering studio-grade sound. In the Focusrite Scarlett Solo you will also get special features like Air Mode, perfect for vocals and acoustic instruments, and Gain Halos for easy level setting. You will also experience latency-free monitoring with the one-click Direct Monitor feature.
Software bundle:
- Ableton Live Lite
- Pro Tools First
- Focusrite Red Essentials plug-in suite
The Focusrite Scarlett Solo ensures versatile connectivity with USB-C compatibility, making it compatible with MacOS, Windows, and iPadOS. So you can seamlessly connect to your preferred device for a smooth recording experience. You can rest easy with the Focusrite Scarlett Solo, backed by a generous three-year warranty, and their customer support gives you peace of mind and assistance whenever needed.
Overall, If you are a beginner or intermediate solo recorder and want an audio interface, both Focusrite Scarlett Solo and Acoustica Mixcraft Studio pair well, and both are user-friendly and budget-friendly. Both offer good audio quality for vocals and instruments and basic productions. If you are a beginner then Scarlett Solo’s single input and Mixcraft Studio’s basic features are perfect for you but my recommendation is you have to consider upgrading to more inputs or a Pro version for big projects.
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2
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After the Solo audio interface, I want to show you Focusrite Scarlett 2i2, which is a bit pricier but also another great recommendation to use with Mixcraft Studio. If you are a solo singer-songwriter or need an audio interface for basic recording needs, the Focusrite Scarlett Solo shines due to portability, budget-friendliness, and ease of use with high-quality audio for one input. For those who are serious about recording multiple instruments, jamming with other musicians, and wanting more advanced features down the road, the Scarlett 2i2 is a great choice.
With Focusrite Scarlett 2i2, you will get two microphone preamps, phantom power support, and two instrument and line inputs each, which will allow you to record music with quality and ease. You can elevate your audio production and will experience superior recordings with Air Mode and Auto Gain, ensuring clarity and precision. You can benefit from Clip Safe technology, enjoy 2 line outputs, one headphone output, and seamless Loopback functionality.
With a USB Type-C interface and USB 2.0 protocol, this desktop-friendly device offers 4x2 simultaneous I/O, including Loopback inputs, ensuring seamless and efficient audio recording. The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is a versatile audio interface with bus power support (900mA) and for additional power, an optional external source (4.5W) can be used, enhancing flexibility and performance.
The Scarlett 2i2 Studio has high-quality microphone inputs that capture a wide range of frequencies (20-20kHz), provide clear sound with a wide dynamic range (116dB), and have low distortion and noise levels. Similarly, the line inputs of the Scarlett 2i2 ensure precise audio with a consistent frequency response (20-20kHz ± 0.05dB), excellent dynamic range (115.5dB), and low distortion and noise. The line inputs support a versatile gain range of 69dB, and the maximum input level is 22 dBu.
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 delivers a high-quality audio experience with instrument inputs that ensure balanced sound across a frequency range of 20-20kHz, minimal distortion at -80dB (minimum gain), and a versatile gain range of 62 dB. The outputs maintain precision with a frequency response of 20-20kHz (± 0.02dB), an impressive dynamic range of 120dB, and minimal distortion at -109 dB. With balanced line outputs and a low impedance of 100Ω, this audio interface provides professional-grade audio recording and playback capabilities for musicians and producers.
When it comes to headphone outputs, the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 provides a top-notch audio experience with a precise frequency response (20-20kHz ± 0.1dB @ 33Ω / 300Ω), an impressive dynamic range (112dB @ 33Ω, 115dB @ 300Ω), and low distortion levels (-99dB @ 33Ω, -108dB @ 300Ω). It offers versatile maximum output levels and power, ensuring an immersive and high-quality listening experience. Additionally, the analog-to-digital converter boasts a THD+N of -110dB and a dynamic range of 120dB, while the digital-to-analog converter features -115dB THD+N and an impressive 130dB A-weighted dynamic range.
You can unlock your creativity with its additional features, and you can take benefits from Auto Gain and Clip Safe for hassle-free recording. There are also Air Modes available that offer you Presence and Harmonic Drive.
TASCAM Mixcast 4
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TASCAM Mixcast 4 Here is a more pricer interface, TASCAM Mixcast 4 that excels in content creation, making it perfect for podcasting, live streaming, event production, and voiceovers. I am only suggesting you TASCAM Mixcast 4 if you are a podcaster and mainly focusing on podcasting or you plan to occasionally record audio for Mixcraft Studio then in both cases this audio interface is a decent option. You must ensure that TASCAM Mixcast 4 is not recommended for general music production due to its limitations. You can consider interfaces like Focusrite Scarlett Solo or 2i2 that are dedicated to their excellent build, especially for music production in DAWs like Mixcraft Studio.
Let me continue to review. With TASCAM Mixcast 4 you can effortlessly capture and mix mic inputs, internal sounds, and music using intuitive trigger pads. With external audio input support and compatibility with SD cards, recording becomes seamless. It also offers direct multi-track recording to an SD card.
The TASCAM Mixcast 4 ensures high-quality audio with recording/playback formats at 48 kHz and 24-bit, supporting 2 ch stereo/14 ch poly. With USB Type-C connectivity, it offers 14 input channels and two output channels for versatile recording possibilities.
As I mentioned at the start, it facilitates podcast production for seven individuals, featuring four mic inputs with auto-mix, four headphone outputs, and versatile inputs like USB, Bluetooth, and LINE IN (3.5mm TRRS) for seamless connectivity.
You will also get the Mix-Minus feature, which enables hassle-free integration of call-ins with echo-free audio and allows you to connect effortlessly via a 4-pole TRRS audio cable, USB, or Bluetooth. Overall, if you are doing podcasting on YouTube, you can spend under the $350 range, so this TASCAM audio interface is a good option.
PreSonus Studio 24c
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Now, after TASCAM Mixcast 4, here is a good audio interface that is definitely compatible with Acoustica Mixcraft Studio due to its several strengths. As Mixcraft supports ASIO and WDM drivers, which are both used in the Studio 24c. So you didn’t feel any trouble setting it up and integrating it with your DAW seamlessly. Besides being extremely portable, it is also extremely easy to carry. Besides being extremely portable, it is also extremely easy to carry.
The PreSonus Studio 24c delivers seamless audio with 2 inputs/2 outputs, and it is USB bus-powered for convenience. You will also find versatile inputs including two Combo Mic/Instrument/Line Inputs featuring XLR Female Balanced, ¼ inch TS Female Unbalanced (Inst), and TRS Female Balanced (Line). With its XMAX-L mic preamps you can get high-quality recording of vocals and instruments, which translates well to professional-sounding mixes within Mixcraft.
The PreSonus Studio 24c ensures quality output with two 1/4" Balanced Line Outputs (Left and Right) and an ¼ inch Stereo Headphone Output. You will also find MIDI I/O through dual 5-Pin Female DIN connectors for enhanced versatility.
The PreSonus Studio 24c ensures pristine audio quality with minimal Total Harmonic Distortion at 0.004%. With a Gain Control Range of 50 dB, +48 VDC Phantom Power, and an excellent Dynamic Range of 106 dB, it offers professional-grade performance.
You can get high-quality audio with 24-bit resolution and flexible sampling rates ranging from 44.1 kHz to 192 kHz. As compared to other audio interfaces, the PreSonus Studio 24c also offers seamless connectivity and you will also get USB-C cable, ensuring compatibility with both USB-C and USB-A ports.
You can take command with PreSonus Studio 24c’s control features. The mixer knob enables low-latency direct input monitoring, while front-panel level controls manage main outputs. You can keep a visual check with four ladder-style LED level meters (2 inputs, two main outputs).
Overall, this PreSonus audio interface is a versatile companion, seamlessly compatible with macOS, Windows, iOS, and iPadOS audio-recording software. You can easily use and power this device across various platforms thanks to USB Bus Power. Compared to MOTU M2 and UM2, this one is also a budget-friendly and versatile option. Overall, Studio 24c bus-powered design and compact size are ideal for portable recording setups and smaller studios.
MOTU M2 USB-C Audio/MIDI Interface
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Now, I will review the MOTU M2, which boasts analog sound quality, powered by ESS Sabre32 Ultra DAC technology—matching high-end interfaces. You will experience a remarkable 120 dB dynamic range on outputs and ultra-low -129 dBu EIN on mic inputs. The ESS-driven headphone output ensures precision, a must-have for audiophiles and professionals alike.
The MOTU M2 excels in speed and latency, offering best-in-class performance. There are Swiftly monitor live inputs with ultra-low 2.5 ms round-trip latency at 96 kHz (32 sample buffer), enabling seamless, fast audio processing.
Acoustica Mixcraft supports ASIO and WDM drivers, so similar to the PreSonus Studio 24c, there is no trouble setting it up and working seamlessly within your DAW. On MOTU M2, you will find a full-color LCD display that is for enhancing user experience by vividly showcasing details. You can check volume control and feedback professionally so you can properly understand a clear and intuitive interface for precise audio management.
The MOTU M2 driver offers loopback channels, facilitating seamless integration with computers. Easily route computer output for mixing with live mics or guitar inputs—perfect for live streaming and podcasting.
The MOTU M2 boasts a versatile I/O setup, featuring two mic/line/Hi-Z guitar inputs, two balanced 1/4-inch TRS outputs, mirrored RCA analog outputs, a stereo headphone output with volume control, and MIDI in/out— making it an ideal platform for a wide range of audio and musical applications.
The MOTU M2 is bus-powered via USB-C, with compatibility extending to USB Type A. It supports Windows and Mac drivers (optional for Mac). Additionally, it is iOS-compatible with the adapter kit, making it compatible with an array of devices and operating systems. The MOTU M2 is versatile and compatible with macOS 10.11 or higher, Windows 7, 8, 10 or higher, and iOS 9 or higher.
This audio interface by MOTU offers plug-and-play simplicity, making it easy to use. You can benefit from hardware (direct) monitoring, independent 48V phantom power, and a robust metal construction. With support for sample rates from 44.1 to 192 kHz, your audio projects will be handled with reliability and professional precision.
Behringer U-PHORIA UM2
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It’s time to Review the most in-expensive audio interface, Behringer U-PHORIA UM2 which is an ultra-compact 2 x 2 USB interface, offering studio-grade XENYX Mic Preamp and great other features. You can get it on a tight budget. Aside from its low price, Behringer’s UM2 offers decent audio quality thanks to MIDAS technology.
If I talk about input, it shows great versatility and features XLR/TRS input for vocals or line input (accommodating both microphone and line-level sources), an ¼ inch Instrument Input. In outputs there is a powerful Phones Output for direct monitoring, 2 Outputs, and USB-supplied power. There is no DI box required.
With its 48 kHz resolution, the Behringer U-PHORIA UM2 ensures detailed recording quality, providing a clear and precise record every time. The sound reproduction is high-quality, so you can enjoy your creative projects to the fullest extent.
The Behringer U-PHORIA UM2 features a versatile combination XLR/TRS input, Additionally it offers an extra ¼" Instrument Input, perfect for connecting guitars or bass instruments, enhancing the interface’s flexibility for various recording scenarios.
The U-PHORIA UM2 by Behringer provides convenient direct monitoring through its phone output, allowing real-time session monitoring. It is powered via USB, eliminating the need for external power sources and ensuring simplicity and portability in your audio setup.
The Behringer U-PHORIA UM2 offers studio flexibility with its easy-to-use interface, enabling fast and efficient recording. You can worriless pair UM2 with your Mac and Windows system, so you can configure your setup to suit your needs. With a recording resolution of 48 kHz precision, it delivers professional-grade results, meeting the standards for high-quality audio recording across platforms.
The Behringer U-PHORIA UM2 boasts a portable design, being ultra-compact and highly suitable for on-the-go recording. Overall, under the $70 range, this UM2 interface by Behringer shows a great combination of both portability and budget range that is good for recording vocals and instruments alike.
But compared to other interfaces like the MOTU M2 or PreSonus Studio 24c, the UM2 has fewer features. It only features only one mic/instrument input, no MIDI I/O, and lacks advanced functionalities like loopback recording or DC-coupled outputs. Depending on your needs, you can choose one.
M-Audio M-Track Eight
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Now I will review M-Audio M-Track Eight, which can be used with Acoustica Mixcraft Studio, offers ample flexibility, and can capture clean and detailed audio. If I talk about inputs, it boasts eight versatile combo XLR+1/4" inputs, each with a Phantom Power switch for Channels 1-4 and 5-8. Convenient front-panel inputs are switchable for instruments.
M-Audio M-Track Eight provides precise control with individual gain knobs featuring meters. Experience high-quality audio resolution up to 24-bit/96 kHz, thanks to Octane Preamp Technology on each channel.
You can experience ultra-low latency monitoring with the M-Audio M-Track Eight. You can achieve the perfect balance between USB and analog inputs using the convenient USB/Analog Direct Balance knob for seamless monitoring control.
You can easily manage your sound with flexible output routing on the M-Audio M-Track Eight. There are two front-panel headphone outputs that enhance studio collaboration. You can enjoy seamless studio integration with USB 2.0 connectivity in a standard 1U 19" rack size, requiring a single USB cable for Mac or PC.
The M-Audio M-Track Eight ensures compatibility with both Mac and PC systems. With its seamless integration with popular Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs), you can record in an intuitive and versatile manner. With a pro-quality audio component setup, the M-Audio M-Track Eight is perfect for capturing the essence of large ensembles, bands, or dynamic drum sets, producing high-quality audio.
Quick Buying Tips (Need Improvements)
This buying guide can assist you in making an informed decision about which audio interface to choose for the Acoustica Mixcraft Studio:
Compatibility
A good starting point is compatibility, and you should make sure that the audio interface is compatible with the operating system you are using (Windows or macOS) and that its drivers are available. You can check that the interface is recognized and well-supported by the Acoustica Mixcraft Studio version.
Input/Output Requirements
You must also determine how many inputs and outputs you require and you have to also consider how many instruments or microphones you will be recording at once. I will recommend you look for interfaces with a variety of inputs, such as combo jacks (XLR/1/4") for microphones and instruments.
Generally, for Stereo recording there, two inputs are required, and for multi-mic recordings, which might require four or more, you have to ensure how much output you require for monitors, headphones, and external gear.
Audio Quality
Additionally, I recommend you pay attention to the audio resolution and sample rate since high bit depths and sample rates usually result in better-quality audio. It is strongly recommended to look for interfaces with quality preamps if you’re recording microphones, as good preamps can significantly impact sound quality.
Connectivity
I recommend considering other options, such as Thunderbolt or USB-C, which is good for the fastest connection and ideal for high-resolution recording if your computer supports them, as USB is a common and reliable connection and convenient for laptops. The interface should have ADAT or S/PDIF ports in case you need to add more inputs/outputs in the future. You can also go with FireWire, which is preferred by professionals and offers low latency.
Also, ensure preamp quality; a good preamp can give you clear and high-quality recordings. You can get Focusrite, Universal Audio, and PreSonus Studio 24c, which are known for excellent preamps.
Low Latency
Also, make sure you check Low latency, which is crucial for real-time monitoring and recording. In order to monitor directly, you can choose an interface that has low-latency drivers or one that has built-in DSP processing.
Build and Durability
In particular, if you plan to use it for portable setups or live performances, I recommend that you consider the build quality and durability.
Future Expansion
In the event that your studio expands in the future, my recommendation is to consider an audio interface that allows for daisy-chaining or has sufficient input for your future needs.
Budget And Additional Features
You must have to set a budget and look for the best audio interface option in that range. Interfaces with quality are available at a range of prices so you have to get one that suits your needs and pockets.
In terms of Additional Features, you can check extra features like MIDI I/O, built-in effects, or software bundles. You can consider if these features align with your needs.
Final Decision
Having explored the various audio interfaces in this article to use with Acoustica Mixcraft Studio, we are quite confident that you have found the perfect audio interface to complement your recordings. If not, then I will assist you budget and performance-wise so it will be easy to get ideas for you.
If you are on a budget, M-Audio M-Track Eight (under $70) and Focusrite Scarlett Solo (under $100) are both good for serious recordings. By increasing a few dollars, you can get Focusrite Scarlett 2i2, which is an expert choice. If you want to invest more, then PreSonus Studio 24c (all-rounder with bonus software) and MOTU M2 (high-end features) are both great options and offer pristine audio.
If podcasting is your passion, then go with TASCAM Mixcast 4, which is a podcast production powerhouse but not your typical audio interface. It gives you all those features that any podcaster requires, and you can get it under the $350 range.
Finally, we hope you liked our audio interface guide. We have more guides if you’d like to see them.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What features should I consider when choosing an audio interface for use with Mixcraft Studio?
A few factors you can consider include compatibility, input/output options, sample rate/bit depth, latency performance, preamp quality, and budget. It is imperative that, in order to make sure you have the best recording and production experience, you must ensure seamless integration. It would be great if you studied online reviews and user forums so that you could get a more realistic feel for what an audio interface is like in real life.
Can I use USB or Thunderbolt audio interfaces with Mixcraft Studio, and are there any advantages to one over the other?
Yes, Mixcraft Studio greatly supports both USB and Thunderbolt audio interfaces - which you should choose based on your individual requirements and device compatibility. In my recommendation, Thunderbolt may offer faster data transfer, but USB is widely compatible.
Are there any notable differences in performance between USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 audio interfaces when used with Mixcraft Studio?
In general, USB 3.0 audio interfaces may offer improved data transfer speeds compared to USB 2.0. This can potentially result in lower latency and better performance in Mixcraft Studio, which is particularly beneficial when recording and producing complex audio. Nevertheless, performance may differ depending on specific hardware, drivers, and the complexity of your audio projects. Make sure you take your individual needs and equipment compatibility into consideration when choosing between USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 audio interfaces for Mixcraft Studio.
Are there specific audio interfaces that excel in handling virtual instruments and MIDI integration within Mixcraft Studio?
When selecting an audio interface for virtual instruments and MIDI integration in Mixcraft Studio should consider factors like low latency, stable drivers, and sufficient MIDI connectivity. Interfaces like Focusrite Scarlett 2i4 and PreSonus interface are known for their reliable performance in handling virtual instruments and MIDI within DAWs like Mixcraft. So consider your needs as the first priority and check for compatibility and features specific to your needs.
What are the advantages or disadvantages of using rack-mounted audio interfaces versus desktop models with Mixcraft Studio?
Rack-mounted audio interfaces offer efficient use of space and a professional look, with more I/O options for larger setups. However, they may be less mobile. Desktop models are compact and portable, making them convenient for on-the-go musicians but might have fewer I/O options. The choice depends on space, mobility, and the scale of recording projects with Mixcraft Studio.
