Best Audio Interface 2018 For Mac

Computer Audio Interface 2018 Shootout
Best Usb Audio Interface 2018
Best Audio Interface 2018 For Mac
Best Audio Interface For Mac 2018

Whether you want to call it an audio interface or a soundcard, if you make music on a Mac, PC, iPad or even iPhone, it makes sense to get the best box of I/O tricks that you possibly can. But how do you decide which USB audio interface you should buy in 2018, or even if you should buy a ThunderBolt.

With NAMM 2018 just around the corner, we are starting to see some major new music production product announcements. Arturia has been busy unveiling the next generation MiniBrute synthesizers and Universal Audio’s most affordable new Thunderbolt interface is now available for purchase. While the higher-end Universal Audio options rank among our favorites in the price range, Focusrite is also revealing its latest I/O hardware with the new Clarett USB devices…

Computer Audio Interface 2018 Shootout

Packed with both traditional USB and USB-C connections, these new interfaces are ready for your Mac or PC right out of the box. There are three models that make up the new line including the Clarett 2Pre USB, 4Pre and 8Pre. As the names suggest, each model will come with a successive number of inputs along with some additional features.

Along with a series of included amp simulators and effects plug-ins, we are talking about low-noise (-128dB EIN) mic pres with a 119dB dynamic range and 24-bit/192kHz analog-to-digital conversion rates.

According to Focusrite, these inputs offer a “low distortion, ultra-linear design that guarantees a clean, open and transparent sound, giving accurate representation of the original performance.”

The compact Clarett 2Pre USB interface comes with a pair of mic/line/instrument combo inputs, four outputs,MIDI connection and additional digital I/O via ADAT. The larger models include additional mic inputs, S/PDIF and a couple of headphone jacks with discreet volume control.

Best Usb Audio Interface 2018

While it would have been nice to see some extra bells and whistles on the new Claretts, like iOS integration, the older Scarlett interfaces have been a solid choice for anyone looking at affordable Mac I/O for a while now.

Along with what is more than likely a solid sounding mic pre and USB-C integration, there’s no reason the Clarett USB line won’t be even better. The new interfaces are capable of reproducing “the input impedance, clarity and frequency response curve” of the company’s original ISA mic preamp, according to Focusrite.

Already available for purchase at Amazon and elsewhere, here is the official pricing for each model:

Clarett 2Pre USB $399.99
Clarett 4Pre USB$599.99
Clarett 8Pre USB$799.99