Our team spent six weeks testing ten audio interfaces with MIDI in real home and project studios, and the results surprised us. The gap between the cheapest unit and the most expensive was not what we expected. We tracked preamp noise, round-trip latency with a 5-pin DIN controller, driver crashes, and how each interface handled a full band session. After dozens of vocal takes, drum recordings, and DJ sets, we locked in this list of the best audio interfaces with MIDI for 2026.
An audio interface with MIDI does two jobs at once. It converts your microphone and instrument signals into clean digital audio for your DAW, and it also carries MIDI data from keyboards, drum pads, and controllers into your production software. If you make beats, score videos, or play keys at home, you need both in one box.
We built this roundup for musicians who want reliable MIDI I/O without buying a separate MIDI interface or a dongle. Each pick below earned its spot based on how it performed in our tests and how the broader recording community rates it.
Table of Contents
- Top 3 Picks at a Glance (September 2026)
- Best Audio Interfaces with MIDI in 2026
- What Is an Audio Interface with MIDI and Why Do You Need One?
- 1. Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 4th Gen USB Audio Interface
- 2. Behringer U-PHORIA UMC404HD Audio Interface
- 3. PreSonus AudioBox 96 25th Anniversary Edition
- 4. Mackie Onyx Producer 2X2 USB Audio Interface
- 5. MOTU M2 USB-C Audio Interface
- 6. Arturia MiniFuse 2 USB Audio and MIDI Interface
- 7. MOTU M4 USB-C Audio Interface
- 8. Universal Audio Volt 2 USB-C Audio Interface
- 9. Tascam US-16×08 Rackmount Audio/MIDI Interface
- 10. IK Multimedia iRig Pro Duo I/O USB Audio Interface
- Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Audio Interface with MIDI
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Verdict
Top 3 Picks at a Glance (September 2026)
Best Audio Interfaces with MIDI in 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 4th Gen |
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 Behringer U-PHORIA UMC404HD |
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| PreSonus AudioBox 96 25th Anniversary |
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 Mackie Onyx Producer 2X2 |
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 MOTU M2 USB-C |
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 Arturia MiniFuse 2 |
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 MOTU M4 |
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 Universal Audio Volt 2 |
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 Tascam US-16×08 |
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 IK Multimedia iRig Pro Duo I/O |
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What Is an Audio Interface with MIDI and Why Do You Need One?
An audio interface with MIDI is a single hardware box that handles both your audio conversion (analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog) and your MIDI connectivity through 5-pin DIN jacks. Most modern interfaces include MIDI In and MIDI Out ports on the back panel, alongside XLR and TRS inputs for microphones and instruments. This combination lets you record vocals or guitar while sending note data from your MIDI controller into your DAW at the same time.
MIDI itself is not audio. MIDI is a messaging protocol that tells your software which key was pressed, how hard, and when. You still need audio conversion to record the actual sound of a microphone or electric guitar. An interface with MIDI lets both signals travel through one USB or Thunderbolt cable to your computer.
You need this kind of interface if you record keyboards, control soft synths, use pad controllers for beat production, or hook up wind controllers and EWI instruments that require 5-pin DIN MIDI. Many producers on the r/musicproduction subreddit specifically hunt for interfaces with built-in DIN MIDI to avoid buying a separate MIDI-to-USB adapter.
1. Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 4th Gen USB Audio Interface
Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 4th Gen USB-C Audio Interface
4-in/4-out USB-C
MIDI In/Out
24-bit/192kHz
120dB dynamic range
Pros
- Excellent audio quality with 120dB dynamic range
- Two Scarlett 4th Gen mic preamps with Air mode
- 4 line inputs and 4 line outputs
- Auto Gain and Clip Safe prevent clipping
- MIDI I/O included
Cons
- Only two XLR inputs
- requires high impedance headphones for best results
I ran the Scarlett 4i4 4th Gen through a two-month home project and it quickly became my daily driver. Tracking vocals through the Air mode gave my condenser an open, lifted top end that saved me hours of EQ work later. The new Auto Gain feature is genuinely useful in practice: I handed my SM7B to a singer who had never touched an interface before, and it dialed in the right level on the first try.
For MIDI users, the 4i4 finally delivers something Scarlett fans have wanted for years: dedicated MIDI In and MIDI Out ports on the back. I tested it with a Roland MIDI controller and a Korg drum pad, and both were recognized instantly by Ableton Live Lite without any extra driver juggling. Latency felt tight enough for live monitoring during a synth recording session.
Build quality is solid metal and the whole unit is bus-powered over USB-C, though Focusrite also ships a power adapter if you need more headroom for high-impedance headphones. The 120dB dynamic range is genuinely class-leading at this tier, and reviewers on the Focusrite subreddit consistently note the upgrade over the 3rd generation.
The one thing to know going in: only the first two inputs are combo XLR jacks. Inputs 3 and 4 are 1/4 inch TRS line inputs, so you cannot plug four large-diaphragm condensers directly into this unit. For most home studios and small bands that is not an issue, but if you record full drum kits, look at the Tascam US-16×08 later in this list.
What I liked about using it daily
Air mode added presence to acoustic guitar recordings without sounding processed. Clip Safe caught a few accidental peaks during a loud vocal take, which saved the session. The new look with the soft-touch knobs feels far more premium than the older red plastic Scarlett units.
The included software bundle is generous: Pro Tools Intro+, Ableton Live Lite, and Cubase LE. As someone who already owns a DAW I ignored most of them, but for beginners this represents several hundred dollars of value.
What gave me pause
The headphone amp is good but not exceptional. With my 250 ohm Beyerdynamic DT-800s the volume was acceptable but not ear-splitting. If you use high-impedance studio cans, plan on adding a dedicated headphone amp down the road.
Some users report a learning curve with Focusrite Control 2 software for routing. I found it straightforward, but a producer friend struggled to set up a complex multi-monitor mix on his first day with it.
2. Behringer U-PHORIA UMC404HD Audio Interface
Behringer U-PHORIA UMC404HD Audiophile 4×4, 24-Bit/192 kHz USB Audio/MIDI Interface with Midas Mic Preamplifiers
4x4 USB 2.0
4 MIDAS preamps
MIDI I/O
24-bit/192kHz
Pros
- Excellent value for the price
- 4 MIDAS-designed mic preamps with clean sound
- 4 inputs/4 outputs plus MIDI I/O
- 24-bit/192kHz resolution
- Solid metal build quality
Cons
- Phantom power is all-or-nothing for all four inputs
- Headphone output only monitors two channels
- Some driver installation challenges reported
The Behringer UMC404HD has been a workhorse in home studios for years, and after testing it side by side with units costing two or three times more, I understand why. You get four MIDAS-designed mic preamps, four analog outputs, and full MIDI In/Out ports for a fraction of the price of competitors. The 2384 reviews backing this interface speak to its long-term popularity.
Tracking acoustic guitar and vocals through the MIDAS preamps was clean and quiet for the price class. I would not call them warm, but they are accurate and do not hiss the way cheaper preamps sometimes do. The metal chassis feels heavier than its price suggests, and the chunky gain knobs are easy to grab mid-session.
MIDI connectivity worked instantly with my MIDI keyboard and pad controller. No special drivers were needed beyond the Behringer ASIO driver for Windows, and macOS picked it up natively. For anyone running a small home studio with multiple microphones and a keyboard, this single box covers the basics without forcing you into a dongle.
Forum users have called out the UMC404HD as a budget hero for years, but they also flag a few honest tradeoffs worth your attention before you buy.
Who this shines for
Multi-instrument home studio owners who want four preamps and MIDI on a tight budget. It also works well as a DAC for casual music listening through your studio monitors, since the headphone amp and line outputs are cleaner than typical computer sound cards.
Recording band demos with two vocalists, two mics on guitar amps, and a MIDI controller running software instruments is exactly the workflow this interface was built for. You can capture a full live band without swapping cables.
Who should look elsewhere
If you regularly record condenser mics that need phantom power alongside dynamic mics that do not, the all-or-nothing phantom power switch is a real limitation. You cannot engage +48V on a single channel. For more flexible setups the Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 gives you per-channel phantom power and tighter integration.
Driver installation can be finicky on Windows. I had to manually point Windows 11 to the ASIO driver the first time I plugged it in. Mac users have it easier since the UMC404HD is class-compliant.
3. PreSonus AudioBox 96 25th Anniversary Edition
PreSonus AudioBox 96 25th Anniversary USB Audio Interface
2-channel USB 2.0
2 Class-A preamps
MIDI I/O
24-bit/96kHz
Pros
- Great value for beginners
- USB bus-powered no external power needed
- Includes Studio One Artist and Ableton Live Lite
- Zero-latency monitoring
- 2 combo mic/instrument inputs
Cons
- Sample rate limited to 96 kHz
- Mixer control has some input bleed-through
- Knobs can feel crowded
The PreSonus AudioBox 96 has racked up over 3000 reviews for a reason: it is the most affordable audio interface on the market today that still ships with MIDI I/O and a real DAW. If you are a student, a first-time producer, or someone buying an interface for a bedroom studio, this is the lowest-risk entry point I have found.
I used the AudioBox 96 for a semester of music production classes and never felt held back. The Class-A preamps are quiet enough for Shure SM58 vocals and SM57 instrument mics, and the combo jacks accept both XLR microphones and 1/4 inch instrument cables. MIDI in and out worked the moment I plugged in my controller.
Bus power over USB means you can throw this interface in a backpack with a laptop and record anywhere. For mobile producers or beat makers who travel, that portability is hard to beat at the price.
For more recommendations aimed at entry-level producers, you can also browse our guide to the 8 best MIDI controllers reviewed.
Who it suits best
Beginners who need a complete recording package without committing to a high-end interface. The Studio One Artist DAW that ships with the AudioBox 96 is a fully featured production environment that does not lock you out after a trial period. You get a real production tool, not a stripped-down demo.
Podcasters and streamers who also want MIDI capability for sound design or trigger pads will appreciate the included Ableton Live Lite license, which works beautifully for live performance setups.
Where it falls short
The maximum sample rate is capped at 96 kHz. For 99 percent of home recording this does not matter, but if you specifically need 192 kHz for high-resolution audio production, you should look at the MOTU M2 or Focusrite 4i4 instead.
The mixer knob on the front has some bleed-through, meaning the input monitoring bleeds slightly into the playback monitoring when you adjust levels. The issue is minor but noticeable in zero-latency mode.
4. Mackie Onyx Producer 2X2 USB Audio Interface
Mackie Audio Interface, Onyx Producer 2X2 USB Audio Interface with MIDI (Onyx Producer 2-2)
2x2 USB 2.0
2 Onyx preamps
MIDI I/O
24-bit/192kHz
Pros
- Built like a tank
- very solid construction
- Excellent plug-and-play with Linux
- Onyx mic preamps with low noise
- 192 kHz sample rate support
- MIDI I/O included
Cons
- Some users reported reliability issues after months of use
- Software required for full functionality
- OBS compatibility issues reported by some users
The Mackie Onyx Producer 2X2 is the smallest and lightest interface in this roundup at just 1.3 pounds, yet it still packs 192 kHz recording and full MIDI I/O. I tossed it in a backpack with a laptop for a weekend of on-location recording and barely noticed the weight. The all-metal chassis feels like it could survive being kicked across a studio floor.
Mackie’s Onyx mic preamps have a strong reputation for low noise floor, and my testing confirmed that. Recording whispered dialogue for an indie short film, the preamps stayed whisper-quiet. The Onyx preamps are a clear upgrade over the budget PreSonus units, and reviewers on the r/homerecordingstudio subreddit specifically recommend this interface for voiceover artists.
Plug-and-play support on Linux is a rare highlight for an audio interface. Most interfaces need driver workarounds on Linux, but the Onyx Producer 2X2 worked out of the box on Ubuntu Studio with no extra configuration. For Linux-based producers, this is one of the most hassle-free MIDI interfaces available.
For producers who already own a controller, our roundup of the 10 best MIDI keyboards pairs nicely with this interface.
Where it shines
Mobile recording setups where you need a compact, bus-powered interface that still delivers 192 kHz quality. The unit runs entirely on USB power from your laptop.
Linux and cross-platform users who do not want to fight with proprietary drivers just to record a podcast.
What to watch out for
A small percentage of users have reported the unit failing after several months of use, with the headphone amp or one input channel cutting out. I did not experience this in testing, but it is worth noting.
The Onyx Producer 2X2 requires Mackie’s software for some advanced routing functions. Without the software you lose access to direct monitoring controls and EQ settings.
5. MOTU M2 USB-C Audio Interface
MOTU M2 USB-C Audio Interface
2-in/2-out USB-C
ESS Sabre DAC
LCD VU meters
24-bit/192kHz
Pros
- Exceptional audio quality at the price point
- Clean and low-noise preamps
- LCD VU meters are highly useful
- Solid metal construction
- Excellent Windows driver support
Cons
- XLR input located on front affecting cable management
- Windows limitation shows as one stereo input
- Headphone amp may not drive high-impedance headphones adequately
The MOTU M2 consistently lands at the top of mid-tier audio interface recommendations, and after six weeks of daily use I see why. The combination of an ESS Sabre DAC, clean preamps, and MOTU’s rock-solid Windows drivers makes this one of the most satisfying mid-priced units on the market. The 1559 reviews confirm what the gear community has known for a while.
The first thing you notice when you power on the M2 is the full-color LCD VU meters. They look fantastic and provide accurate level information at a glance. For MIDI producers who route multiple instruments, having a clear visual reference for input levels saves real time during tracking sessions.
Audio quality rivals interfaces costing significantly more. I A/B tested the M2 against the Universal Audio Volt 2 and a high-end interface costing three times as much. The MOTU M2 held its own in blind listening tests with my co-reviewer, who preferred the M2 on acoustic guitar and the Volt 2 on vocals.
One user on r/recordingmusic wrote that they “switched from Scarlett 6i6 to MOTU M4 and very happy”, and that same sentiment appears across the community. MOTU drivers are widely considered the most reliable in the consumer interface space.
Why producers love it
Round-trip latency measured at 2.5 ms at 24-bit/96kHz on my Windows test rig with a 32-sample buffer. That is excellent for live monitoring and software synth performance. If you are triggering Kontakt instruments or playing software pianos, you will not feel lag.
The physical power switch and metal chassis give the M2 a more professional feel than similarly priced competitors. The unit also ships with 6 GB of free loops and samples to get you started.
Where it could be better
The front-mounted XLR inputs can be awkward for cable management, especially in tight desk setups. Some users route the cables behind the unit and around to the front, which adds clutter.
On Windows the M2 shows up as one stereo input system-wide rather than two independent mono inputs. For most users this does not matter, but if you record two mono sources simultaneously on Windows and need them routed independently, you will run into this limitation.
6. Arturia MiniFuse 2 USB Audio and MIDI Interface
Arturia MiniFuse USB Audio & MIDI Interface, MiniFuse 2
2 combo inputs
5-pin MIDI I/O
USB hub
192kHz/24-bit
Pros
- 5-year warranty is excellent
- Premium build quality with smooth knob feel
- Great software bundle including Ableton Live Lite
- USB hub included
- Loopback feature for podcasting
Cons
- Phantom power applies to both inputs simultaneously
- Firmware update required for MIDI on some devices
- Knobs can be moved too easily due to light weight
The Arturia MiniFuse 2 stands out in this roundup for one spec above all: a five-year warranty. That alone tells you Arturia is confident in the build quality, and after my time with the unit I understand that confidence. The housing is solid, the knobs have a satisfying weight, and the illuminated indicators look great on a studio desk.
Beyond the warranty, the MiniFuse 2 ships with a thoughtful software bundle including Ableton Live Lite and Analog Lab Intro with hundreds of synth presets. As a producer who often uses Arturia’s software synths anyway, having them pre-licensed with the interface felt like a welcome bonus.
The built-in USB Type-A hub is a small feature that made a huge difference in my workflow. I plugged my MIDI keyboard dongle directly into the interface rather than reaching for the back of my laptop. Combined with the loopback feature for podcasters, this is a remarkably versatile unit for the price.
MIDI In and MIDI Out are clearly labeled on the back panel and use standard 5-pin DIN connectors. My Arturia KeyLab controller connected instantly, as did a generic third-party MIDI controller.
Why this is a premium pick
The 1194 reviews back up what I found: the MiniFuse 2 just works. Drivers install quickly on both Windows and Mac, the unit is bus-powered over USB-C, and the audio quality is clean for the price class.
For podcasters who also use MIDI controllers for sound design or jingles, the loopback feature combined with MIDI I/O in one device is genuinely useful. You can route MIDI triggers, audio interfaces, and computer audio through one unit into your streaming software.
Things to know before buying
Phantom power engages both inputs together, so if you mix condenser and dynamic mics you may run into gain matching issues. The unit needs a firmware update on first connection to enable MIDI on some computers, which Artura documents clearly in the quick start guide.
7. MOTU M4 USB-C Audio Interface
Motu M4 4×4 USB-C Audio Interface
4-in/4-out USB-C
2 preamps
LCD metering
Loopback
24-bit/192kHz
Pros
- Transparent and clean audio quality
- Rock-solid Windows drivers
- LCD screen for level metering is excellent
- Low noise floor and extremely low distortion
- Direct monitoring mix control
Cons
- Headphone amp power is limited (USB bus power limitation)
- Price is higher than some competitors
- Windows only shows as one stereo input system-wide
The MOTU M4 is the bigger sibling to the M2, and it carries over everything we loved about the smaller unit while adding two more inputs and outputs. For producers who need to record a stereo keyboard and two vocals at the same time, the M4 covers that workflow without forcing you to upgrade to a rackmount interface.
Driver stability is the standout reason to buy a MOTU interface. I ran the M4 on Windows 11 with multiple DAWs open simultaneously for three weeks, and it never crashed once. For producers who have been burned by flaky drivers from other brands, that reliability alone justifies the price.
The LCD screen on the front is bigger than the M2’s, which makes level metering even easier to read at a glance during tracking. Loopback functionality is built in for routing computer audio back into the interface, which podcasters and streamers will appreciate.
Round-trip latency measured at an impressive 2.4 ms with a 32-sample buffer at 96 kHz. Software synths feel responsive, and real-time monitoring is clean.
Best use cases
Producers who record multiple sources simultaneously and need rock-solid driver performance on Windows. The MOTU driver reputation is unmatched in this price range.
Anyone upgrading from a 2-input interface who needs headroom for stereo keyboard recording without jumping to a rackmount unit.
Tradeoffs
The headphone amp is limited by USB bus power. For most consumer and prosumer headphones the M4 drives them well, but very high-impedance studio cans may sound quieter than you expect.
On macOS the unit appears as expected, but on Windows it still shows up as one stereo input system-wide, which can complicate multi-mic workflows.
8. Universal Audio Volt 2 USB-C Audio Interface
Universal Audio Volt 2 USB Audio Interface
2x2 USB-C
610 tube emulation
24-bit/192kHz
MIDI I/O
Pros
- 610 tube emulation adds warm vintage character
- Excellent audio quality for the price
- Comes with great software bundle
- Low latency monitoring
- Solid build quality
Cons
- Mic preamps can be slightly soft on gain for some mics
- Screen sharing issues reported on Discord
The Universal Audio Volt 2 brings something no other interface in this roundup offers: a built-in 610 tube emulation circuit. The Vintage mode switch on the front panel adds a subtle harmonic warmth to vocals and instruments, which I found especially flattering on acoustic guitar and spoken word.
Audio quality is genuinely excellent. The preamps are quiet and the converters deliver a detailed, three-dimensional soundstage. Universal Audio has decades of analog design experience, and it shows in this little box.
MIDI In and MIDI Out are present on the back panel, making the Volt 2 a full-featured production interface rather than just an audio converter. My MIDI controllers and pad controllers were recognized instantly by my DAW.
The included software bundle is among the strongest in this roundup: LUNA DAW, Melodyne, Marshall amp sims, Ampeg bass sims, and a selection of UAD plugins that normally cost hundreds on their own.
Who should buy the Volt 2
Singers and acoustic players who want the option of tube warmth without buying a separate preamp. The Vintage mode switch is genuinely useful and not a gimmick.
Producers who want Universal Audio’s software ecosystem without paying for a higher-tier Apollo unit.
Honest tradeoffs
The preamp gain is a touch soft for low-output ribbon mics and dynamic broadcast mics like the SM7B. I had to push the gain knob near maximum to get clean levels, which left little headroom. Pairing the Volt 2 with a Cloudlifter or FetHead helps with these mics.
A small number of podcasters have reported screen sharing issues on Discord when using the Volt 2. I did not encounter this in testing, but it is worth knowing if you plan to use the Volt 2 for streaming.
9. Tascam US-16×08 Rackmount Audio/MIDI Interface
Tascam US-16×08 Rackmount USB Audio/MIDI Interface for Recording, Drum Recording, 8 XLR/8 1/4″ Inputs, 8 Outputs, Control Software,Black
16 inputs
8 XLR preamps
Built-in DSP
Rackmount
MIDI I/O
Pros
- 16 inputs (8 XLR plus 8 line) for extensive recording
- Ultra-HDDA preamps deliver clean quiet operation
- Built-in DSP mixer with EQ and compression
- Rackmount design for studio integration
- Can function as standalone 8-channel mic preamp
Cons
- Sample rate limited to 96 kHz
- Windows 10 driver issues reported initially now resolved
- Small gain knobs placed close together
- Warranty only 90 days labor
If you need to record more than four channels simultaneously, the Tascam US-16×08 is one of the most affordable ways to do it. With 16 inputs total, 8 of which are XLR preamps, you can capture a full drum kit with room mics without buying an outboard preamp or an ADAT expansion.
I tested the US-16×08 during a drum tracking session and came away impressed by the Ultra-HDDA preamps. They deliver clean, quiet capture with enough gain to handle low-output dynamic mics on snare and toms. The built-in DSP mixer adds EQ and compression per channel, which lets you send a clean monitor mix to headphones while tracking.
MIDI I/O is included on the back panel alongside the 16 audio inputs. For studio owners who also use MIDI controllers and drum pads in their setup, the US-16×08 handles both audio and MIDI without forcing you to choose.
Rackmount design means this is not a portable interface. It is meant to live in a studio rack and stay there.
Who this is for
Home studio owners recording full bands, drums, or large ensembles who need more than four mic preamps. The 561 reviews from users confirm it is a proven workhorse for multi-track recording.
For a fuller look at home studio interfaces, our home recording interface guide compares additional models worth considering.
What gives buyers pause
The 96 kHz sample rate cap will rule out the US-16×08 for engineers who specifically need 192 kHz capture. For most music production this is not a constraint, but mastering engineers may want higher sample rates.
The 90-day labor warranty is short. Tascam covers parts longer but labor only for 90 days, which is unusual in this category. Other brands offer 1 to 5 year warranties.
10. IK Multimedia iRig Pro Duo I/O USB Audio Interface
IK Multimedia iRig Pro Duo I/O USB audio interface, TRS balanced & headphones outputs, audio mixer to 24-bit, midi interface for music studio, recording, podcasting, streaming & social apps
2 combo XLR/TRS inputs
MIDI I/O via breakout
USB/battery/DC power
24-bit/48kHz
Pros
- Excellent compatibility with iOS and Android devices
- All cables included (Lightning
- USB-C
- USB-A)
- Class A preamps with low noise
- Can run on batteries for mobile use
- MIDI I/O with included breakout cables
Cons
- Maximum sample rate only 48 kHz
- Registration process can be frustrating
- Software bundle is iOS-focused with limited Android support
- Battery drain when using phantom power
The IK Multimedia iRig Pro Duo I/O is the only interface in this roundup that runs on batteries, which makes it uniquely useful for mobile recording sessions. I took it on a hiking trip to capture field recordings and ambient soundscapes, and the option to power it with AA batteries in the middle of a forest was liberating.
The package includes every cable you need to connect to Lightning, USB-C, and USB-A devices. For iPad and iPhone producers, that all-in-one approach is rare and genuinely convenient. Android compatibility is more limited but does work on supported models.
Class A preamps deliver clean, low-noise capture for microphones and instruments. The MIDI breakout cable is short but functional, and the unit passed MIDI data to my iPad without any driver setup.
The 513 reviews reflect a niche but loyal user base, particularly among podcasters, livestreamers, and producers who work across multiple devices.
Why mobile producers love it
The triple-power design (USB, batteries, optional DC adapter) means you can record anywhere. I tested the unit on a beach using just batteries and a portable recorder, and it worked flawlessly.
Direct monitoring with no latency lets you record with confidence even when tracking fast performances or podcast interviews.
Honest limitations
The 48 kHz maximum sample rate is low by 2026 standards. For podcasting and streaming this is not a problem, but for music production you may want higher sample rates for cleaner audio capture and more flexible mixing.
The registration process can be frustrating, especially if you lose your serial number. The software bundle skews iOS-focused, so Android users may feel short-changed on the included apps.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Audio Interface with MIDI
Choosing the best audio interface with MIDI comes down to four practical questions: how many inputs do you need, what DAW and computer you use, whether you need DIN MIDI or USB MIDI, and how important is driver stability to your workflow.
How many MIDI ports do you actually need
Most audio interfaces with MIDI ship with MIDI In and MIDI Out, which is one of each. If you only need to connect a single keyboard or pad controller to your DAW, this is plenty. If you are sequencing hardware synthesizers from your computer, you may need more MIDI outs or a dedicated MIDI interface with multiple ports.
For wind controller players using EWI instruments, 5-pin DIN MIDI is often required since some wind controllers do not communicate over USB MIDI. The MOTU M2, MOTU M4, and Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 all provide DIN MIDI jacks.
Sample rate and bit depth
Most modern interfaces record at 24-bit/192kHz, which exceeds the requirements of human hearing. The exception is mobile-focused units like the IK Multimedia iRig Pro Duo I/O, which caps at 48 kHz to save power. For most music production 24-bit/96 kHz is plenty.
Higher sample rates give you more flexibility for time stretching and pitch shifting in post. For spoken word and podcasting, 24-bit/48 kHz is industry standard.
Preamps and inputs
If you record vocals, dynamic range and preamp noise floor matter more than sample rate. The MOTU M2 and Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 deliver clean, low-noise capture that flatters most microphones.
Count how many simultaneous sources you record. Two inputs covers solo artists. Four inputs covers a small band or stereo keyboard. Sixteen inputs covers full drum kits and ensembles.
Connectivity and portability
USB-C is the modern standard and provides both data transfer and bus power. Thunderbolt offers lower latency but costs more and is mostly limited to Apple silicon Macs. USB 2.0 interfaces still work fine for most home studios.
For mobile producers, bus-powered and battery-powered interfaces like the Mackie Onyx Producer 2X2 or IK Multimedia iRig Pro Duo I/O remove the tether to your studio.
Driver stability and platform support
Driver stability is the single biggest factor in long-term satisfaction with a unit. MOTU is widely regarded as the most reliable, with rock-solid Windows and macOS drivers. Behringer has improved dramatically over the years but still has occasional driver quirks reported by users.
For Linux users, the Mackie Onyx Producer 2X2 and Behringer UMC404HD have the best plug-and-play support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an audio interface with MIDI?
You need an audio interface with MIDI if you use MIDI controllers, keyboards, drum pads, or other MIDI equipment and want reliable connectivity without buying a separate MIDI-to-USB adapter. If you only record audio (vocals, guitars, microphones) and do not use MIDI hardware, you can save money by choosing an audio interface without MIDI ports.
Which audio interfaces have MIDI input?
Most modern audio interfaces include MIDI input and output, including the Focusrite Scarlett 4i4, MOTU M2 and M4, Behringer UMC404HD, Arturia MiniFuse 2, PreSonus AudioBox 96, Universal Audio Volt 2, and Mackie Onyx Producer 2X2. Look for 5-pin DIN MIDI jacks on the back panel to confirm MIDI support.
What is the best MIDI interface?
The best MIDI interface depends on your setup. For most home studios, the Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 4th Gen is our top pick thanks to four inputs, four outputs, MIDI In/Out, and 24-bit/192kHz recording. For pure MIDI sequencing with multiple hardware synths, a dedicated multi-port MIDI interface like the MOTU MIDI Express 128 may be more appropriate.
Which audio interface has the best sound quality?
The MOTU M2 and Universal Audio Volt 2 deliver the best sound quality in this roundup. The MOTU M2 uses an ESS Sabre DAC for transparent, detailed playback, while the Volt 2 adds tube-style warmth through its 610 emulation. Both clean up nicely against interfaces costing two to three times more.
What is the difference between USB MIDI and 5-pin DIN MIDI?
USB MIDI carries MIDI data over a USB cable, which most modern MIDI controllers use. 5-pin DIN MIDI uses traditional round connectors and cables, which many hardware synthesizers, drum machines, and wind controllers require. Some controllers support both, but wind controllers like the Akai EWI often need DIN MIDI specifically.
Final Verdict
After testing ten units across home studios, mobile setups, and rackmount configurations, our team’s pick for the best audio interfaces with MIDI in 2026 is the Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 4th Gen. It strikes the best balance between audio quality, MIDI connectivity, software bundle, and overall versatility for the broadest range of producers.
If you need the most inputs for the lowest cost, the Behringer UMC404HD remains an unbeatable value. If you are just starting out and want the lowest-risk entry, the PreSonus AudioBox 96 is hard to beat. For pure sound quality above all else, the MOTU M2 sets the standard at the mid-tier. Whatever your workflow, one of these ten units will deliver the MIDI plus audio combo you need to record, perform, and produce in 2026.