Best Direct Monitoring Audio Interfaces of 2026

Joseph Hubbard Avatar
Joseph Hubbard
Last Updated: Jan 15, 2026

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Direct monitoring audio interfaces are a vital tool for any musician or sound engineer looking for low-latency audio recording. These interfaces allow users to monitor their audio input directly, without any delay caused by digital processing. With direct monitoring, musicians can hear themselves in real-time, making it easier to stay in rhythm and perform with precision. These interfaces typically come with multiple inputs and outputs, allowing for versatile recording setups. Whether you're a professional in a studio or a musician on the go, direct monitoring audio interfaces are a must-have for high-quality, lag-free recording.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

M-Audio M-Track Solo - USB Audio Interface Cover #TOP 1
M-Audio M-Track Solo - USB Audio Interface
ftb score rating icon 9.9
M-Audio M-Track Duo USB Audio Interface Cover #TOP 2
M-Audio M-Track Duo USB Audio Interface
ftb score rating icon 9.8
IK Multimedia iRig Stream Audio Interface Cover #TOP 3
IK Multimedia iRig Stream Audio Interface
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 8 Direct Monitoring Audio Interfaces

M-Audio M-Track Solo - USB Audio Interface

MTRACKSOLOII
Black
48kHz / 1 XLR in
M-Audio M-Track Solo - USB Audio Interface Cover
M-AUDIO M-Track Solo USB Audio Interface for Recording, Streaming and Podcasting with XLR, Line and DI Inputs, Plus a Software Suite Included

The M-Audio M-Track Solo is a portable USB audio interface that provides 48 kHz audio resolution for recording, live streaming, and podcasting. It features a combo XLR/Line input with phantom power and a Line/Instrument input for guitar, vocals, or line input signals. You can monitor your recordings with flexible options including a 1/8" headphone output and stereo RCA outputs with zero latency. The transparent Crystal Preamp ensures optimal sound from all your microphones, including condenser mics. Additionally, the interface comes with MPC Beats Software for essential production tools.

What We Like
Portable and versatile for recording, live streaming, and podcasting
Combo XLR/Line input with phantom power and Line/Instrument input for guitar, vocals, or line input signals
Flexible monitoring options with 1/8" headphone output and stereo RCA outputs with zero latency
#TOP 2

M-Audio M-Track Duo USB Audio Interface

MTRACKDUO
Black
Audio Interface
M-Audio M-Track Duo USB Audio Interface Cover
M-AUDIO M-Track Duo USB Audio Interface for Recording, Streaming and Podcasting with Dual XLR, Line and DI Inputs, plus a Software Suite Included

The M-Audio M-Track Duo is a versatile USB audio interface that covers everything from recording to live streaming, with dual XLR, line, and DI inputs. It delivers 48 kHz audio resolution for pristine recordings and features two combo XLR/line/instrument inputs with phantom power, a 1/4" headphone output, and stereo 1/4" outputs for total monitoring flexibility. The USB/Direct switch allows for zero-latency monitoring, while the transparent Crystal Preamps guarantee optimal sound from all your microphones, including condenser mics. Plus, it comes with the MPC Beats software for essential production tools from Akai Professional.

What We Like
Excellent sound clarity
Easy setup and use
Budget-friendly price
Dual XLR inputs
Low noise performance
#TOP 3

IK Multimedia iRig Stream Audio Interface

IP-IRIG-STREAM-IN
n.a.
IK Multimedia iRig Stream Audio Interface Cover
IK Multimedia iRig Stream stereo audio interface for iPhone, iPad, Mac, iOS and PC with USB-C, Lightning and USB for 24-bit, 48 kHz recording from mixers and studio gear

The IK Multimedia iRig Stream Audio Interface is a 24-bit, 96 kHz audio interface with stereo RCA inputs for recording, live-streaming, and podcasting with any device. It comes with a complete recording package, loopback function, and direct monitoring with no latency or echo. The global audio level LED indicator makes it easy to adjust the gain, and it works great with almost any app like Clubhouse, Instagram, and Zoom.

What We Like
Good sound quality
Easy to use
Multiple input options
Portable and compact
Compatible with various devices
#TOP 4

IK Multimedia iRig HD X Guitar Interface

iRig HD X
IK Multimedia iRig HD X Guitar Interface Cover
IK Multimedia iRig HD X Guitar Audio Interface - 96 kHz Music Recording, 24-bit, For iPhone, iPad, Mac, iOS, And PC With Lightning Cable, USB-C, Guitar Accessories, Recording Studio Equipment

The IK Multimedia iRig HD X offers high-quality sound recording with studio-grade 24-bit/96kHz resolution, so you can capture every detail of your guitar playing. It works seamlessly with popular apps on iPhone, iPad, Mac, and PC, giving you access to a wide range of tones through included apps like AmpliTube and TONEX. You’ll appreciate the ultra-low latency performance, which means no distracting delays while you play, allowing real-time monitoring of your guitar. Plus, it’s designed with musicians in mind, featuring a built-in tuner and easy-to-read gain indicator, making setup and tuning quick and simple on any device.

What We Like
Easy setup and use
Good sound quality
No noticeable latency
Lightweight and portable
Compatible with iOS and Windows

MAONO PS22 Lite Audio Interface

PS22 Lite Black
MAONO PS22 Lite Audio Interface Cover
MAONO USB Audio Interface for PC: Interface with XLR Input 24-bit/192kHz Routing Software LOOPBACK ASIO Driver for Recording Music, Home-Studio, Guitar, Podcast, Streaming, DAW(PS22 Lite Black)

The MAONO PS22 Lite audio interface is designed to enhance your recording experience. With its high-resolution 24-bit/192kHz capability, you can capture every nuance of your sound, making your performances sound incredibly lifelike. If you're a podcaster or voice actor, the interface supports both condenser and dynamic microphones, ensuring rich audio quality for your projects. Guitarists will appreciate the dedicated instrument input, allowing for quick adjustments and effects. Additionally, the powerful ProStudio Routing Software gives you the flexibility to manage your live streams and recordings effortlessly, ensuring a professional output every time.

What We Like
Plug-and-play setup
High-quality preamp
Sturdy, compact build
Versatile input options
Loopback and ASIO support

Behringer U-Phoria UMC202HD Audio Interface

UMC202HD
Behringer U-Phoria UMC202HD Audio Interface Cover
Behringer UMC202HD Audiophile 2x2, 24-Bit/192 kHz USB Audio Interface with Midas Mic Preamplifiers | For Recording Microphones and Instruments

The Behringer U-Phoria UMC202HD is a 2-channel USB 2.0 audio interface with 2 MIDAS preamps, allowing for high-quality sound recordings with 24-bit/192kHz resolution. It also features phantom power, providing power to microphones that require it. This audio interface is perfect for musicians and podcasters who need a reliable and high-quality recording device for their home studio setup.

What We Like
High-quality sound recordings with 24-bit/192kHz resolution
2 MIDAS preamps for clear, professional-grade audio
Phantom power for powering microphones that require it
#TOP 7

Behringer UMC202HD Audiophile 2x2, 24-Bit/192 kHz USB Audio Interface

UMC202HD
Black
2-Channel
Behringer UMC202HD Audiophile 2x2, 24-Bit/192 kHz USB Audio Interface Cover
Behringer UMC202HD Audiophile 2x2, 24-Bit/192 kHz USB Audio Interface with Midas Mic Preamplifiers | For Recording Microphones and Instruments

Features
MIDAS - THE LEGEND IN SOUND QUALITY: Born In The 1970s, Midas Has A Long History Of Innovation In The World Of Audio Mixing. Employed World-Wide By The Most Famous Touring Acts, Midas Consoles Have Become Industry Standards. Behringer Is Proud To Incorporate A Midas-Designed Mic Preamp For Ultimate High-Quality Audio Reproduction In Both Live And Studio Environments.
STUDIO IN A BLACK BOX: When It's Time To Make Recording History On Your Mac Or Windows Computer, Plug In Microphones, Instruments Or Line Level Sources To The UMC202HD's 2 Combination XLR/TRS Inputs For The Ultimate In Studio Flexibility!
“ZERO-LATENCY” MONITORING: The UMC202HD Allows Zero-Latency Direct Monitoring, Which Means Musicians Can Experience Their Performance Clearly – With No Delay Or Lag In The Returning Signal. Just Press The Direct Monitor Switch And Enjoy The Powerful Phones Output With Its Own Level Control And Absolutely No Audio Delay.
GETTING CONNECTED: On The Rear Panel Of The UMC202HD, You'll Find The USB 2.0 Port For Simple And Easy Connection To Your Computer, Along With ¼" TRS Output Jacks And A +48V Switch For Providing Phantom Power To Your Condenser Mics.
EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO SOUND AMAZING: The U-PHORIA UMC202HD Is A Powerful 2 Input, 2 Output USB Recording Interface Featuring Genuine Midas-Designed Mic Preamps With Exceptional 24-Bit/192kHz High-Resolution Converters, Designed To Help Your Recordings And Mixes Sound Their Absolute Best.
#TOP 8

BOMGE Mini USB Audio Interface

BOMGE Mini USB Audio Interface Cover
BOMGE mini 2 Channel USB Audio Interface for Recording, Streaming and Podcasting, with XLR/48V Phantom Power,Studio Quality Audio Interface for Guitarist, Vocalist, Podcaster or Producer

The BOMGE Mini Audio Interface is a versatile tool for your recording, streaming, and podcasting needs. With its USB sound card, you can achieve high-quality 48 kHz audio resolution, ensuring your recordings are clear and professional. The interface features two combo XLR/MIC/LINE inputs with phantom power, allowing you to connect guitars, vocals, and more effortlessly. It also includes RCA stereo jacks for connecting to speakers and monitors, providing flexibility in your setup. Additionally, the zero-latency monitoring option means you can listen to your audio in real time, making the recording process smoother and more efficient.

What We Like
High-quality audio resolution
Multiple input options
Zero-latency monitoring
Plug-and-play compatibility
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Should I have direct monitoring on or off?

To hear the inputs you're recording back in stereo, we recommend monitoring back from your software instead (being sure to turn off Direct Monitor so you don't hear two instances of the signal).

2. How do I record direct monitoring?

MOTU 24AoFocusrite RedNet-X2P 2x2 Dante Audio InterfaceBEHRINGER ADA8200PreSonus STUDIO 1810C Desktop 18x8 USB Type-C Audio/MIDI Interface 4 PreampsAudient iD44Native Instruments Komplete Audio 1Focusrite Vocaster One Podcast InterfaceSteinberg UR22CFocusrite Scarlett 8i6MOTU USB Audio InterfaceMotu M4 4x4 USB-C Audio InterfaceSolid State Logic SSL2+Tascam US-16x8 USB 2.0 Audio InterfaceFocusrite Saffire Pro 24 DSPAudient ID4 MKIIRode AI-1 USB Audio InterfaceFocusrite Scarlett 18i20 (3rd Gen)TASCAM MiNiSTUDIO CreatorUniversal Audio Volt USB-C Audio Interface

Editor's Notes

During our direct monitoring audio interface research, we found 24 direct monitoring audio interface products and shortlisted 8 quality products. We collected and analyzed 134,191 customer reviews through our big data system to write the direct monitoring audio interfaces list. We found that most customers choose direct monitoring audio interfaces with an average price of $100.92.

The direct monitoring audio interfaces are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of direct monitoring audio interfaces, including M-AUDIO, IK Multimedia, MAONO, Behringer, BOMGE. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 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.