Best Bus-Powered Audio Interfaces of 2025

Joseph Hubbard Avatar
Joseph Hubbard
Last Updated: Jan 4, 2025

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Bus-powered audio interfaces are compact and portable devices that allow musicians and producers to record high-quality audio on the go. These interfaces draw power directly from the computer's USB or Thunderbolt port, eliminating the need for an external power source. They typically feature a variety of inputs and outputs, including mic preamps, instrument inputs, and headphone outputs, as well as MIDI connectivity. Despite their small size, bus-powered audio interfaces offer professional-grade sound quality and can be used with a variety of digital audio workstations. They are ideal for musicians and producers who need to record on location or in small home studios.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Focusrite Clarett+ 2Pre USB-C Audio Interface Cover #TOP 1
Focusrite Clarett+ 2Pre USB-C Audio Interface
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Antelope Audio Zen Quadro Cover #TOP 2
Antelope Audio Zen Quadro
ftb score rating icon 9.8
PreSonus AudioBox 96 Cover #TOP 3
PreSonus AudioBox 96
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Bus-Powered Audio Interfaces

#TOP 1

Focusrite Clarett+ 2Pre USB-C Audio Interface

AMS-CLARETT-PLUS-2PRE
Red / Black
Focusrite Clarett+ 2Pre USB-C Audio Interface Cover
Focusrite Clarett+ 2Pre USB-C Bus-Powered Audio Interface for Music Production, with Two Professional Quality Pre-Amps and Powerful and Transparent Headphone Outputs/Instrument Inputs

The Focusrite Clarett+ 2Pre USB-C Audio Interface is designed to produce high-quality recordings with its professional-grade preamps, all-analogue Air, improved A-D and D-A converters, and JFET instrument inputs. The USB-C connection provides bus power and the improved headphone output ensures flat frequency response at all output levels with any type of headphones. The software for PC, Mac and iOS devices gives complete control over all aspects of Clarett+.

What We Like
Professional-grade preamps for clear and powerful recordings
All-analogue Air for making vocals shine
Improved A-D and D-A converters for more accurate recordings
Powerful and transparent headphone output for creating best mixes and recordings
Dedicated JFET instrument inputs for capturing natural tone of guitars
#TOP 2

Antelope Audio Zen Quadro

Zen Quadro Synergy Core
Antelope Audio Zen Quadro Cover
Antelope Audio Zen Quadro Synergy Core — 4-Channel Dual USB-C Bus Powered Audio Interface w/Discrete Preamps, Real-Time DSP+FPGA Effects & Compatibility for Mac, iOS, Android Software — 14x10

The Antelope Zen Quadro offers exceptional audio quality with high-fidelity conversion, ensuring your recordings sound clear and professional. With four discrete preamps providing 75dB gain, you can capture every detail of your performance, whether it's vocals or instruments. The real-time DSP+FPGA processing feature allows you to track and monitor with nearly no latency, giving you the ability to enjoy authentic vintage tones in your mixes. Additionally, the interface includes 37 vintage-inspired effects, adding warmth and character to your projects, making it an ideal choice for audio professionals seeking creativity and precision.

What We Like
High-fidelity audio conversion
Four discrete preamps
Near-zero latency processing
37 built-in vintage effects

PreSonus AudioBox 96

AUDIOBOX 96K 25TH
Black
PreSonus AudioBox 96 Cover
PreSonus AudioBox 96 25th Anniversary USB Audio Interface with Studio One Artist DAW Recording Software

The PreSonus USB Audio Interface is a value-packed 2-channel USB 2.0 interface that is perfect for personal and portable recording. With its high-quality Class-A mic preamps, you can easily achieve a great sound. It also features high-headroom instrument inputs, allowing you to record guitar, bass, and other line-level devices, as well as MIDI I/O. The studio-grade converters support up to 24-bit/96 kHz recording and playback, ensuring professional-level audio quality. Plus, it comes with over $1000 worth of recording software, including Studio One Artist, Ableton Live Lite, and the Studio Magic Plug-In suite. The USB bus-power makes it mobile friendly, and the onboard mixer control allows you to monitor with zero latency. With its high-powered headphone output and balanced ¼” TRS outputs, this audio interface is a versatile and convenient tool for any recording setup. The +48V phantom power accommodates studio condenser microphones, making it suitable for a wide range of recording applications.

What We Like
Value-packed
High-quality sound
MIDI I/O
#TOP 4

Solid State Logic SSL 2+ MKII Audio Interface

Solid State Logic SSL 2+ MKII Audio Interface Cover
Solid State Logic SSL 2+ MKII - 2x4 USB Audio Interface

The SSL 2+ MKII Interface is perfect for producers, podcasters, and live musicians. It features two XLR mic preamps and additional line inputs, making it easy for you to connect various audio sources. With its high-quality 32-bit/192 kHz AD/DA converters, you can expect exceptional sound clarity. The device also includes zero-latency monitoring, allowing you to hear your recordings in real-time without delays. Plus, the stereo loopback function is great for streaming or recording sessions, as it lets you capture audio from multiple sources simultaneously.

What We Like
Bus powered convenience
High-quality sound conversion
Zero-latency monitoring
Stereo loopback feature
#TOP 5

Antelope Audio Zen Q Synergy Core USB-C Audio Interface

Zen Q Synergy Core USB
Antelope Audio Zen Q Synergy Core USB-C Audio Interface Cover
Zen Q Synergy Core Audio Interface, 14x10 Bus-Powered USB-C Interface For Recording Music, 2 Input Instruments, Onboard Real-Time Audio Recording Effects, USB Connectivity - Antelope Audio

The Antelope Audio Zen Q Synergy Core USB-C Audio Interface offers professional sound and stability with its highly efficient AD/DA converter chips and proprietary 64-bit AFC. It features 2 ultra-linear preamps designed with authentic console circuitry for classic warmth and sonic depth, and 2 additional analog inputs with switchable Hi-Z/Line modes. The interface also provides real-time, low latency processing of 37 included analog-modeled Synergy Core effects with 50+ optional expansions, and flexible I/O connectivity with 8 additional inputs over ADAT and stereo I/O over S/PDIF.

What We Like
Professional sound quality and stability
Real-time, low latency processing of 37 included analog-modeled Synergy Core effects with 50+ optional expansions
Flexible I/O connectivity, with additional inputs over ADAT and stereo I/O over S/PDIF
#TOP 6

Solid State Logic SSL 2 MKII Audio Interface

Solid State Logic SSL 2 MKII Audio Interface Cover
Solid State Logic SSL 2 MKII - 2x2 USB Audio Interface

The SSL 2 MKII Interface is an excellent choice for producers, podcasters, and musicians. It features two XLR mic preamps, allowing you to connect professional microphones for high-quality recordings. With two 1/4" line inputs and Hi-Z options, you can easily plug in instruments or other audio sources. The interface also offers 48V phantom power and zero-latency monitoring, ensuring that you can hear yourself in real-time without any delay. Additionally, the stereo loopback feature is perfect for live streaming or recording sessions, simplifying the process of capturing your audio.

What We Like
High-quality mic preamps
Zero-latency monitoring
Stereo loopback feature
Bus powered convenience
#TOP 7

PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 Interface Bundle

PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 Interface Bundle Cover
PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 Digital Audio Interface (Black) 96 kHz converters with USB Bus-Powered interface's Two Class A MIC/LINE/Instruments Preamps with Gravity Phone Holder and XLR Cable Bundle

The PreSonus AudioBox USB is a powerful audio and MIDI interface designed for musicians and recording enthusiasts. It connects easily through USB, making it convenient for both Mac and Windows users. With its 24-bit resolution and multiple sampling rates, you can achieve high-quality sound for your recordings. The interface features two combo mic/instrument inputs, allowing you to connect various audio sources while ensuring low noise and high performance. Plus, the 48V phantom power provides the necessary boost for condenser microphones, enhancing your recording capabilities.

What We Like
USB bus-powered convenience
High-quality sound resolution
Low-noise preamps
48V phantom power
#TOP 8

Universal Audio Volt 276 Bundle

Universal Audio
VOLT-SB276
Universal Audio Volt 276 Bundle Cover
Universal Audio Volt 276 USB Recording Studio Bundle with Audio Interface, Headphones, and Microphone

The Universal Audio Volt 276 is your all-in-one solution for creating music, livestreams, and podcasts on various devices like Mac, PC, iPad, and iPhone. You can achieve rich, full sound by utilizing the Vintage Mic Preamp mode when recording vocals and instruments. The 76 Compressor adds clarity to your audio, reminiscent of the renowned 1176 model. Along with these features, you’ll have access to top-tier software, including Ableton and Melodyne, making your production process seamless and professional.

What We Like
Comprehensive recording bundle
High-quality audio conversion
Vintage Mic Preamp mode
Access to industry-leading software
#TOP 9

Arturia MiniFuse 2 Audio Interface

MiniFuse 2
Black
Arturia MiniFuse 2 Audio Interface Cover
Arturia MiniFuse 2 Portable 2x2 USB Type-C Audio/MIDI Interface | Black Bundle with 20ft XLR Cable + Microfiber Cleaning Cloth (3 Items)

The Arturia MiniFuse 2 is a versatile audio and MIDI interface designed for musicians, producers, and podcasters. With USB Type-C connectivity, you can easily connect your devices for seamless audio transfer. It features two mic/line/instrument preamps, allowing you to record vocals and instruments with clarity. The headphone output ensures you can monitor your sound in real-time, while the stereo monitor output provides a professional listening experience. Plus, the 24-bit/192 kHz converters deliver high-quality audio, making it ideal for both home studios and on-the-go recording.

What We Like
USB Type-C connectivity
Two mic/line/instrument preamps
High-quality audio conversion
Built-in USB hub
#TOP 10

CAD Audio USB Audio Interface

AMS-CX1
Black
CAD Audio USB Audio Interface Cover
CAD Audio single Channel USB Audio Interface 24 Bit/96KHz

The CAD Audio Interface is designed for seamless audio recording with its impressive 24 Bit/96KHz resolution, ensuring high-quality sound for your projects. You can easily power it using USB, making it a convenient choice for mobile setups. With +48V phantom power, you can connect condenser microphones, enhancing your recording options. Best of all, this interface is plug-and-play, meaning you won’t need to install any drivers, allowing you to focus on your creativity without technical hassles. Plus, it works well with various recording software on both Windows and Mac systems.

What We Like
High-resolution audio
USB powered convenience
Phantom power for mics
Plug-and-play setup
Compatible with many software
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do audio interfaces need power supply?

The power supply for audio interfaces depends on their size and design. Smaller audio interfaces can be powered through the USB or Thunderbolt cable, known as bus-powered. Larger interfaces often come with an external power supply. There are also battery-powered options available for portable audio interfaces used with phones and tablets.

2. Is bus powered better?

Bus-powered audio interfaces offer the advantage of being more portable and easier to manage. They only need to connect to the computer, eliminating the need to be plugged into a wall AC outlet. This makes them a convenient option for users who require a compact and mobile audio setup.

3. Is Babyface Pro bus powered?

Yes, the Babyface Pro audio interface is designed to be incredibly efficient and can be powered by the USB 3 bus or most USB 2 ports. It does not usually require an external power supply. This makes it a convenient and reliable option for users who prefer a bus-powered audio interface.

Editor's Notes

During our bus-powered audio interface research, we found 24 bus-powered audio interface products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 22,170 customer reviews through our big data system to write the bus-powered audio interfaces list. We found that most customers choose bus-powered audio interfaces with an average price of $138.90.

The bus-powered audio interfaces are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of bus-powered audio interfaces, including Focusrite, Antelope Audio, PreSonus, Solid State Logic, Universal Audio. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 822 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Joseph Hubbard Avatar

Joseph Hubbard is a music producer and runs a musical instrument store in Chicago. Joseph is happy to help others choose the instrument that best suits their needs. He loves everything related to music and often publishes articles related to music on key websites.