Choosing an audio interface with MIDI input can simplify a studio setup by combining microphone recording, instrument connections, and hardware MIDI control in one device.
This roundup compares 10 options across channel counts, connectivity, recording quality, monitoring features, and overall flexibility, from compact 2×2 models to expandable multichannel interfaces.
Best 10 Audio Interface with Midi Input Picks for 2026
Best for Expanding Home Studios
- 18x20 USB audio/MIDI interface with ADAT I/O
- Eight MIDAS-designed mic preamps with phantom power
- Supports 24-bit/96 kHz recording and popular DAWs
Best For: Multi-microphone recording and expandable studio setups
Best All-Around MIDI Hub
Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 4th Gen
- Includes MIDI In/Out, four inputs, and four outputs
- Adds Auto Gain, Clip Safe, and Air modes
- Records at up to 24-bit/192 kHz
Best For: Producers connecting varied instruments and MIDI hardware
Best Budget Compact Option
- Portable 2x2 USB-C interface with bus power
- Two combo inputs and 48V phantom power
- 24-bit/192 kHz recording with direct monitoring
Best For: Beginners and mobile creators recording one or two sources
Best for Solo Musicians
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen
- Two mic preamps and two Hi-Z instrument inputs
- 24-bit/192 kHz recording with 120 dB dynamic range
- Auto Gain, Clip Safe, and Air modes simplify tracking
Best For: Solo vocalists, guitarists, and compact home studios
Flexible 4-Channel Choice
- 4x4 USB audio with MIDI I/O
- Four MIDAS mic preamps with phantom power
- 24-bit/192 kHz recording support
Best For: Multi-source home recording with MIDI hardware
Portable Premium Sound
- 24-bit/192 kHz recording support
- Vintage mode inspired by UA 610 preamps
- Works with computers and compatible iOS devices
Best For: Solo and mobile recording with MIDI devices
Bus-Powered Studio Pick
- Two combo mic/line/Hi-Z inputs
- 2x2 USB audio with MIDI I/O
- Bus-powered with zero-latency monitoring
Best For: Portable two-input musician setups
Best Value
- Two mic preamps, instrument inputs, and MIDI I/O
- 24-bit/96 kHz recording with USB bus power
- Includes Studio One Artist, Ableton Live Lite, and plugins
Best For: Portable home recording and beginner MIDI setups
Best for Larger Setups
- Six-in/four-out design with MIDI I/O
- Four combo inputs plus dedicated line connections
- 32-bit/192 kHz audio and DSP-powered monitoring
Best For: Multi-source recording and performance rigs
Best for Expanding Home Studios – Behringer UMC1820
If you need an audio interface with MIDI input and substantial recording capacity, the Behringer UMC1820 offers 18 inputs and 20 outputs over USB. Its eight MIDAS-designed microphone preamps, ADAT I/O, and support for up to 24-bit/96 kHz audio make it suited to multi-microphone and instrument recording setups.
Best For: Home studios recording multiple microphones, instruments, or external hardware at once.
Pros:
- 18×20 USB audio/MIDI connectivity supports larger recording and routing setups.
- Eight microphone preamps include +48V phantom power.
- ADAT I/O provides expansion options, and it works with popular recording software.
Cons:
- The larger feature set may be more than a simple two-input setup requires.
- Its maximum sample rate is 96 kHz, below some newer compact interfaces.
The UMC1820 is a practical choice when channel count matters more than portability. It is especially compelling for users building a broader studio system or recording several sources simultaneously.
Best All-Around MIDI Hub – Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 4th Gen
The Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 4th Gen is a flexible audio interface with MIDI input and output, two mic preamps, two Hi-Z inputs, four line inputs, and four line outputs. It combines 24-bit/192 kHz recording with practical features such as Auto Gain, Clip Safe, and Air modes.
Best For: Musicians connecting microphones, guitars, synths, drum machines, and MIDI equipment in a compact studio.
Pros:
- Offers MIDI I/O alongside four inputs and four outputs.
- Two Hi-Z inputs accommodate guitar and other instrument sources.
- Auto Gain and Clip Safe help simplify level setting and prevent clipping.
- Includes Ableton Live Lite, Cubase LE, Pro Tools Intro+, and additional software.
Cons:
- Its four-input design is less suitable for very large recording sessions.
- It has more routing capacity than a basic solo vocal-and-guitar setup may need.
With its combination of MIDI connectivity, line inputs, instrument inputs, and workflow-focused controls, the Scarlett 4i4 is a strong middle-ground option for producers who expect their setup to grow.
Best Budget Compact Option – PIYONE Q2 Alloy Red
The PIYONE Q2 is a compact 2×2 audio interface with MIDI-friendly studio potential, USB-C connectivity, and 24-bit/192 kHz recording. Its two combo inputs, 48V phantom power, direct monitoring, and loopback function make it useful for basic vocal, guitar, and streaming setups.
Best For: Mobile creators and beginners who need a portable two-input interface for Mac, PC, or iOS recording.
Pros:
- USB-C handles data and bus power without a bulky external supply.
- Two XLR/TRS combo inputs support microphones and instruments.
- Offers 24-bit/192 kHz recording, direct monitoring, and loopback.
- Illuminated gain controls and a 3.5mm headphone connection suit compact workspaces.
Cons:
- Only two channels are available for recording at once.
- The supplied notes do not list dedicated MIDI In/Out ports, so verify MIDI requirements before buying.
- Windows is the only operating system specifically listed in the details.
The Q2 focuses on portability and straightforward two-channel recording rather than extensive studio expansion. It can be a sensible low-cost starting point, but dedicated MIDI hardware users should confirm the connection method they need.
Best for Solo Musicians – Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen is a straightforward two-input audio interface with MIDI-oriented home-studio appeal, two mic preamps, and two Hi-Z instrument inputs. It supports 24-bit/192 kHz recording and adds Auto Gain, Clip Safe, and Air modes for easier vocal and instrument tracking.
Best For: Solo musicians recording vocals, guitar, or another instrument through a compact desktop interface.
Pros:
- Two mic preamps and two Hi-Z inputs cover common vocal and guitar setups.
- 120 dB dynamic range and up to 24-bit/192 kHz recording support detailed captures.
- Auto Gain and Clip Safe help manage recording levels.
- Includes Ableton Live Lite, Cubase LE, Pro Tools Intro+, and production plugins.
Cons:
- Its two-input design limits simultaneous recording of larger ensembles.
- The supplied notes do not list MIDI In/Out ports, so it may not suit users needing direct MIDI hardware connections.
The Scarlett 2i2 is easy to place at the center of a small recording setup and offers useful safeguards for beginners. If MIDI input is essential rather than incidental, compare its connectivity carefully with interfaces that explicitly provide MIDI ports.
Flexible 4-Channel Choice – Behringer UMC404HD
If you need an audio interface with MIDI input for recording several sources at once, the Behringer UMC404HD offers four inputs, four outputs, and dedicated MIDI I/O. Its 24-bit/192 kHz capability, four MIDAS-designed preamps, and metal chassis make it a feature-rich option for computer-based recording.
Best For: Home studios recording multiple microphones or instruments while connecting MIDI hardware.
Pros:
- Four inputs and four outputs for flexible recording and monitoring.
- Includes MIDI input and output alongside USB connectivity.
- Four mic preamps with +48V phantom power support condenser microphones.
- Supports up to 24-bit/192 kHz audio and popular recording software.
Cons:
- Larger and heavier than the two-channel alternatives in this roundup.
- Its listed operating-system compatibility includes older Windows versions, so verify current computer support before buying.
The UMC404HD is the strongest fit here when channel count matters. It gives a growing setup room for multiple microphones, instruments, and MIDI gear without requiring a separate interface.
Portable Premium Sound – Universal Audio Volt 1
The Universal Audio Volt 1 is a compact audio interface with MIDI input compatibility for solo recording setups. It combines up to 24-bit/192 kHz conversion with a Vintage mode inspired by UA’s classic 610 preamps, and it supports computers, iPad, and iPhone recording.
Best For: Solo musicians and mobile creators who want a compact interface for microphones, guitar, and MIDI devices.
Pros:
- Compact, lightweight design at about 544 g.
- 24-bit/192 kHz recording quality with Vintage preamp mode.
- Compatible with Mac, Windows, iPad, and iPhone setups.
- Includes access to LUNA and listed recording plug-ins and instruments.
Cons:
- Its two-channel configuration is less suitable for recording several sources simultaneously.
- Mobile use requires an external Volt power supply and, where applicable, an Apple Lightning to USB Camera Adapter.
Choose the Volt 1 if portability and UA’s recording ecosystem matter more than a high input count. It is a focused option for solo work, mobile sessions, and MIDI-equipped setups.
Bus-Powered Studio Pick – Mackie Onyx Producer 2X2
Mackie Audio Interface, Onyx Producer 2X2 USB Audio Interface with MIDI (Onyx Producer 2-2)
Check Price On AmazonFor a straightforward audio interface with MIDI input, the Mackie Onyx Producer 2X2 pairs two recording inputs with MIDI I/O in a compact, bus-powered design. Its combo inputs accept microphone, line, or Hi-Z sources, while direct monitoring helps keep input latency low.
Best For: Musicians who want a portable two-input interface for microphones, instruments, and MIDI equipment.
Pros:
- Two combo inputs accommodate mic, line, and Hi-Z instrument signals.
- Provides MIDI input and output with 2×2 USB connectivity.
- Onyx preamps include +48V phantom power for condenser microphones.
- Bus-powered design needs no power adapter and includes direct monitoring.
Cons:
- Two inputs limit simultaneous recording compared with four-channel interfaces.
- Its supplied software and compatibility details should be checked against your preferred current setup.
The Onyx Producer 2X2 is a practical middle ground for musicians who need MIDI and flexible analog inputs without a larger four-channel unit. Its bus-powered construction also suits mobile recording.
Best Value – PreSonus AudioBox 96
The PreSonus AudioBox 96 is a practical audio interface with MIDI input for personal recording, portable setups, and beginner-friendly home studios. It combines two mic preamps, instrument inputs, MIDI I/O, bus power, and a useful software bundle in a compact enclosure.
Best For: Home recordists and musicians who want an affordable, portable two-channel interface with MIDI connectivity.
Pros:
- Two Class-A mic preamps, instrument inputs, and MIDI I/O.
- Supports recording and playback up to 24-bit/96 kHz.
- USB bus-powered design, zero-latency mixer control, and headphone output.
- Includes Studio One Artist, Ableton Live Lite, and the Studio Magic Plug-In suite.
Cons:
- Only two input channels are available for recording at once.
- Global +48V phantom power may be less flexible for mixed microphone setups.
The AudioBox 96 prioritizes value and simplicity rather than extensive I/O. Its MIDI ports, portable USB-powered design, and included software make it a strong starting point for compact recording rigs.
Best for Larger Setups – Yamaha URX44C
The Yamaha URX44C is a versatile audio interface with MIDI input for musicians who need more analog connectivity and onboard monitoring tools. Its six-in/four-out layout, four combo inputs, DSP effects, and USB-C connection suit more involved recording and performance setups.
Best For: Musicians and creators who need multiple inputs, flexible outputs, MIDI I/O, and latency-free DSP monitoring.
Pros:
- Six analog inputs and four analog outputs with MIDI I/O.
- Four XLR/TRS combo inputs include Class-A D-PRE preamps and +48V phantom power.
- Supports up to 32-bit integer/192 kHz audio via USB 3.0.
- DSP-powered monitoring includes REV-X reverb, Channel Strip, and Guitar Amp Classics.
Cons:
- Its expanded I/O and DSP features may be more than a simple two-channel setup requires.
- The listed software bundle centers on Cubase AI and Steinberg tools.
The URX44C is the most expandable option in this group. Its combination of multiple inputs, dedicated line connections, MIDI, and DSP monitoring makes it a better fit for larger project studios than minimalist recording desks.
Best Budget MIDI Pick – Behringer UMC204HD
The Behringer UMC204HD is a budget-friendly audio interface with MIDI input for recording microphones, instruments, and external MIDI hardware. It offers two combo inputs, Midas-designed mic preamps, four outputs, inserts, and high-resolution conversion for a flexible desktop setup.
Best For: Budget-conscious home studios that need MIDI connectivity, two recording inputs, and additional routing options.
Pros:
- Two combination XLR/TRS inputs with Midas-designed mic preamps.
- Built-in MIDI I/O supports keyboards and other MIDI hardware.
- Provides four outputs, RCA playback, and two analog inserts for external effects.
- Supports up to 24-bit/192 kHz recording and playback.
Cons:
- It has two input channels, limiting simultaneous microphone or instrument recording.
- The supplied compatibility details list Windows rather than a broad cross-platform operating-system range.
The UMC204HD stands out when routing flexibility matters more than a large channel count. Its MIDI I/O and inserts give a compact studio more connection options while keeping the core recording setup straightforward.
How We Picked the Best Audio Interface with Midi Input
We focused on interfaces that include dedicated MIDI input and output alongside useful audio connections. The selection covers compact 2×2 units, four-channel models, and larger interfaces suited to recording multiple microphones or expanding with external converters. We also considered preamp quality, instrument inputs, driver and connection requirements, monitoring controls, phantom power, sample-rate support, and suitability for home studios.
Because needs vary considerably, the best choice is not necessarily the interface with the highest channel count. A compact model may be easier to use and more affordable, while a larger unit can prevent costly upgrades when your setup grows.
Quick Comparison
| Setup type | Recommended configuration | What to prioritize |
|---|---|---|
| Solo recording | 2-in/2-out | Good preamps, direct monitoring, and a Hi-Z input |
| Synth or drum-machine setup | 2-in/4-out or 4-in/4-out | MIDI I/O, multiple line inputs, and flexible routing |
| Small band or multi-mic recording | 4-in/4-out or larger | Mic preamp count, phantom power, and headphone monitoring |
| Expandable studio | 8-in or more | ADAT expansion, stable drivers, and line-level connectivity |
Key Buying Factors for an Audio Interface with Midi Input
Audio Inputs and Outputs
Count how many sources you will record simultaneously, not just how many instruments you own. Combo XLR/TRS inputs are versatile for microphones, guitars, keyboards, and line-level gear. Extra outputs are useful for multiple monitor pairs, external effects, or separate headphone mixes.
MIDI and Hardware Compatibility
Verify that the interface has both MIDI In and MIDI Out if you need two-way communication with synthesizers, controllers, drum machines, or older rack equipment. USB-C may describe the connector rather than a guaranteed performance advantage, so also check operating-system support and included cables.
Recording Quality and Monitoring
24-bit recording and sample rates up to 192 kHz are common, but preamp noise, gain range, latency, and monitoring design matter more in everyday use. Direct monitoring can reduce distracting latency while recording vocals or instruments. DSP effects can also help performers monitor with a more polished sound, although they are not essential for every setup.
Expansion and Power
Bus-powered interfaces are convenient for mobile recording, while larger models may require external power. If you expect to add more microphones later, ADAT or additional line inputs can be more valuable than a smaller price tag today.
Who Should Buy Which Audio Interface with Midi Input?
Choose a compact 2×2 interface if you mainly record one or two sources at a time and want a straightforward desktop setup. Choose a 4×4 model if you use several synthesizers, need more line inputs, or want additional routing flexibility. Choose an eight-input interface for drums, ensembles, multiple microphones, or a studio likely to expand. For guitarists and vocalists, prioritize clean preamps, Hi-Z inputs, and easy monitoring; for electronic-music producers, MIDI connectivity and line-level I/O should lead the decision.