In a hurry?

These are our top three picks for audio interfaces for streaming:

The best audio interfaces for streaming

1. Rode Streamer X

Key features

• 4K Video Capture
• Ultra-compact build
• Four customisable SMART pads

Pros

• Can process both video and audio
• Uses custom high-gain Revolution Preamps and Aphex audio processing for high-quality audio

Cons 

• Limited number of onboard controls

The Rode Streamer X is a super compact streaming solution for both video and audio. Despite its small size, this unit is packed with features which will enhance your streams.

For audio, it’s compatible with XLR microphones, instruments, and headset microphones as well as RØDE Series IV wireless transmitters. And for video, there’s up to 4K30 video capture and 4K60 HDR, as well as zero-latency pass-through.

The audio quality is top-notch, with custom high-gain Revolution Preamps and Aphex audio processing. This means that everything you say will be captured with the utmost quality.

There’s also a range of hands-on controls to use with four customisable SMART pads – so you can trigger audio playback or even add in voice FX. And you can use these pads to send MIDI messages to your computer – allowing you to activate keyboard shortcuts with a single touch. There are also dedicated rotary controls for microphone and headphone level.

Shop now | Rode Streamer X

2. Shure MVX2U Motiv Digital Audio Interface

Key features

• It makes any XLR mic live stream ready
• Control the mic using ShurePlus MOTIV App which includes a limiter, compressor, EQ, and presets
• Can be used with condenser and dynamic microphones

Pros

• Provides up to +60dB of gain to power mics like the SM7B
• Small and compact
• Customisable sound profiles via the ShurePlus MOTIV app
• Zero latency monitoring and playback via the 3.5m headphone output

Cons

• Can only be used with one microphone

The Shure MVX2U Digital Audio Interface is a single-channel XLR to USB adapter which allows you to easily connect any microphone to your computer for capturing high-quality professional audio. One of the most common microphones for streaming is the SHURE SM7B, however, most people like to use this mic with an additional preamp/cloudlifter. Now there’s no need as the MVX2U has 60dB of gain to power any microphone.

Along with the ShurePlus MOTIV app, the MVX2U allows you to easily take full control of your microphone by using compressors, limiters, and even your own custom presets. It can support both dynamic and condenser microphones and is a great way to make your steaming set up effortless.

Shop now | Shure MVX2U Motiv Digital Audio Interface

3. PreSonus Revelator io24 USB Audio Interface

Key features

• High headroom inputs
• Two loop-back channels
• Dedicated “Stream Mix” button

Pros

• Designed specifically for streaming
• High headroom inputs

Cons

• It doesn’t look as cool as others on this list!

The PreSonus Revelator io24 is designed with streaming in mind. It’s great if you need two microphone inputs and are looking for a professional streaming sound. Both mic inputs use XMAS-L high-headroom inputs which deliver crystal clear sound in any situation. And because they’re combi inputs, you could even stream your guitar too.

Thanks to its integrated digital mixer with two loop-back channels, you can integrate audio from multiple sources – such as online callers or backing tracks. This is perfect if you want to create a truly immersive broadcast experience for your audience.

And – making things even easier- there’s a dedicated “Stream Mix” button, which routes your custom mix straight to streaming software, without any more hardware or fiddly routing required.

As well as this, the wide range of free software available makes this a great choice for those looking to get into streaming. You won’t only have this great piece of hardware – but hundreds of pounds worth of free software too – so you can sound even better on stream.

Shop now | PreSonus Revelator io24

4. Lewitt CONNECT 6 USB-C Audio Interface

Key features

• Hardware-based DSP
• Easy to use “Auto-Setup” button
• Studio-grade preamps

Pros 

• Next-level DSP processing
• Includes an “Auto-Setup” button for a quick setup, optimised to your voice

Cons

• Some people aren’t a fan of the futuristic aesthetic

The Lewitt CONNECT 6 may look like it belongs on a spaceship. But, in actuality, it’s an ideal companion for creating quality, professional streams.

Its audio quality is on another level, with hardware-based DSP that allows you to shape your sound directly from the audio interface itself. This is made up of a number of effects like four-band EQ, compression, and expansion – which itself can add extra depth to your voice.

If you want to get started quickly though, it has an extremely handy “Auto-Setup” button, which produces optimal settings for your particular voice. Perfect if your broadcast happens to be time-critical.

And as well as this great sound, the CONNECT 6 has a plethora of connectivity options which include two USB-C connections, two XLR line inputs, and an AUX connection. Plus, the studio-grade preamps mean that even the quietest inputs are heard loud and clear, with great gain and low-noise performance.

Because of the two USB connections, you can simultaneously connect multiple devices at once to the interface. For example, you could plug both your computer and phone in at the same time and still be able to enjoy lossless audio.

Shop now | Lewitt CONNECT 6

5. Rode RodeCaster Pro II

Key features

• Mix-minus audio for phone calls
• Four Neutrik combi inputs
• Connect two devices simultaneously

Pros

• Boasts advanced Bluetooth capabilities
• Studio-grade effects include the Aural Exciter and the Big Bottom

Cons

• Quite big, so wouldn’t suit cramped desks

The Rode RodeCaster Pro II has everything you need for high-quality broadcasts – especially if you want a few more input options. Plus, to take your sound to the next level, it has onboard revolution preamps and Aphex processors. So you’ll sound great on stream at all times when using it.

With four Neutrik combi inputs, the RodeCaster Pro II is bound to become the centre of your streaming hub. It allows you to easily connect whatever microphone or instrument you want to it and lets you have multiple guests on-mic for your streams

As well as this connectivity, the RodeCaster Pro II has advanced Bluetooth capabilities, making it easy to integrate phone calls and other audio sources into your streams. And with two USB-C connections, you can connect two devices simultaneously – which adds a whole lot more flexibility to your stream.

To add a bit more to your vocals, this interface also has a range of studio-grade effects, from the Aural Exciter to the Big Bottom. Plus, built-in SMART pads allow you to trigger sounds as well as recall presets and perform other broadcast-critical tasks.

Shop now | Rode RodeCaster Pro II

6. Mackie M.Caster Studio Desktop Live Streaming Mixer

Key features

• Built-in one-knob effects
• Built-in four-pad sampler
• 3GB of sample storage

Pros

• Boasts some great, premium-level effects
• Has Bluetooth connectivity

Cons

• Limited number of inputs

As its name suggests, the Mackie M.Caster Studio Desktop Live Streaming Mixer is designed specifically for live-streaming professional-level audio. With powerful processing capabilities and a sleek, compact design, it’s the perfect addition to any desk setup. Plus, there’s Bluetooth connectivity for sending and receiving audio, and you can plug in your favourite microphone, headsets, smartphones, and even DSLRs.

Where the Mackie M.Caster Studio really shines, however, is in its effects, which are easily accessible thanks to the one-knob design. There’s StreamFX, in which you can fine-tune your vocals and change their pitch, and ContourFX which lets you pick your perfect vocal sound from a wide range of presets. These kinds of finishing touches can take vocals from sounding good to sounding perfect – customised exactly how you want them.

Better still, the mixer has a backlit four-pad sampler and 3GB of storage. This means you can load and record a vast number of samples, ready to trigger whenever you need them during your stream.

If you’re looking for something small yet powerful to mix your streaming audio, something that allows for added creativity and customisation, the Mackie M.Caster Studio is it.

Shop now | Mackie M.Caster Studio Desktop Live Streaming Mixer in Black

7. Focusrite Vocaster Two

Key features

• Streamlined design
• “Auto Gain” for easy setup
• Podcaster-approved presets

Pros

• “Auto Gain” feature makes setup very easy
• Includes podcaster-approved presets

Cons

• No line inputs, just XLR

The Focusrite Vocaster Two is made with streaming in mind. It has an economic, streamlined design which even has volume labels with “host” and “guest” written on it.

It’s no hassle to get started with this interface. Thanks to its “Auto Gain” feature, you can simply use your voice to set input levels. This only enhances the already great sound quality, with over 70dB of gain, so no external boost is needed.

And if that’s not enough, Focusrite have included multiple podcaster-approved presets for getting a brilliant vocal sound for your streams. All you do is hit the ‘enhance’ button and you’re able to cycle between four vocal presets which will make your voice sparkle for your audience.

As well as this, the Vocaster can provide a two-way connection to phones, both inputting and outputting sound – so you can broadcast phone calls directly to your stream without much hassle.

You also get a comprehensive software bundle, giving you all the tools you need to make your streams sound great.

Shop now | Focusrite Vocaster Two

8. M-GAME RGB Dual USB Streaming Gaming Interface

Key features

• Customisable RGB LED lighting
• Multiple enhanced effects
• Customise mapping with dedicated setting

Pros

• Looks great on stream
• Customisable via the M-GAME Dual dedicated software

Cons

• Might be a little too busy for non-gamers

The M-GAME RGB is the perfect choice for gamers looking to start their streaming career off on the right foot. It has both RGB LED lighting and voice-shaping – with the latter allowing you to roleplay as your favourite gaming characters on-stream.

It has a mic input with an associated fader, as well as multiple faders for your streaming content. The microphone capture can be enhanced with multiple onboard effects, including a Compressor, High-Pass Filter, Gate, EQ, and more. And with an M-Audio custom ‘Crystal Preamp’ – you can get sound with a huge dynamic range of 110dB.

Plus, you can customise multiple elements of the interface using the included M-GAME Dual dedicated software. This allows you to customise individual functions or even the mapping of the RGB lights.

One great feature of this streaming interface is the built-in sampler which allows you to assign different sounds to it – ideal for one-shot sound effects during your stream.

Shop now | M-GAME RGB Dual USB Streaming Gaming Interface

9. Zoom PodTrak P8

Key features

• High number of inputs
• LED touchscreen display
• Wide range of tone-adjustment controls

Pros

• Boasts six microphone inputs and a TRRS connection for mobile
• Easy to navigate thanks to an LED touchscreen display

Cons

• Might be a bit busy for beginners

The Zoom PodTrak P8 is perfect if you need lots of microphone inputs for your live streams. It has six microphone inputs to use, each with premium-grade Zoom mic preamps that have 48V phantom power and up to 70dB of gain.

As well as this, the PodTrak P8 has a dedicated channel for taking calls directly from your phone – just connect it via the TRRS connection. A Mix-Minus feature then eliminates echo and feedback. And you could even use the USB connection to take calls from FaceTime, Teams, or other applications.

The PodTrak P8 makes it easy to configure your livestreams with its LED touchscreen display. Interact with sliders for monitoring, adjusting settings, and more – all with just a few touches.

There’s also a range of effects available to choose from to further shape your stream’s sound. For example, you can use the low-cut filter to eliminate unwanted noise or use the Tone-Adjustment control to change how your voice sounds.

And one unique feature of this interface is its six headphone outputs. So if you have six people on mic for your stream, they’ll all be able to hear themselves.

Shop now | Zoom PodTrak P8

10. NEW Yamaha AG08 Streaming Mixer, Black

Key features

• Comprehensive selection of inputs
• Great for large setups
• Wide range of effects to enhance streams sound

Pros

• Incredibly comprehensive with a lot of flexibility
• Boasts an extensive range of connections

Cons

• Could be a little too complicated for beginners

The Yamaha AG08 is an ideal streaming interface if you require more complexity in your setup. It features a whopping eight channels, with the first two being combination inputs, and has phantom power capabilities.

In fact, the AG08 has an incredibly wide range of connections to choose from: XLR, RCA, 1/4″ jack, 3.5mm jack, and also headphone outputs. Because of this, the AG08 is especially good if you want to stream band setups – with multiple microphones and multiple instruments.

The AG08 also has a wide range of effects to further enhance your stream’s sound. And you can customise these further with the AG08 controller app. These include compression, EQ, voice changing, and much more.

Shop now | Yamaha AG08 Streaming Mixer

11. NEW! Boss GCS-5 Gigcaster 5

Key features

• FX processer for guitarists
• High-quality preamp
• Intuitive control interface

Pros

• Built-in FX processor is ideal for guitarists
• Has an easy-to-use intuitive control interface

Cons

• Aimed specifically at musicians

The Boss GCS-5 Gigcaster 5 is a perfect choice if you’re a streaming musician. Its main attraction is the built-in Boss GT-1000 guitar multi-FX modeller. This means you get amazing guitar tones on your stream without the need for any outboard effects units – just plug right in!

Each mic input has high-quality preamps and phantom power – giving you everything you need for excellent vocal quality on your stream.

The GCS-5 Gigcaster 5 is designed for easy use too. It has an intuitive control interface with five independent faders – each with mute buttons. Plus, the customisable onscreen effects pads make it easy to add audio effects to enhance your sound mid-show.

As well as this, there are other useful features such as audio ducking – so you can have background music that automatically reduces its level when you speak. How handy!

Shop now | Boss GCS-5 Gigcaster 5

Honorary mention: Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (3rd Gen)

The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 must have an honourable mention, really. Even though it might not be as fully featured as the other streaming mixers, it’s a classic, well-trusted interface.

It’s a staple of studios worldwide – and for good reason. There are two combi XLR/instrument inputs, giving you flexibility for connection. And each of these has excellent preamps with the option for 48V phantom power.

If you’re looking for a streaming interface that will just get the job done, then this one’s for you.

Shop now | Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (3rd Gen)

Honorary mention: IK Multimedia iRig Stream

The IK Multimedia iRig Stream is an affordable and compact option for livestreaming. If you’re looking for a device that will work great with your mobile device (smartphone, tablet etc.) then this is for you.

Despite its small size, the iRig Stream has a range of connectivity options for you to use. The USB, USB-C, and Lighting cables come included – so you can connect to your device straight away and get streaming.

There are also RCA inputs – perfect if you want to connect DJ equipment and mixers. If you’re a DJ looking to broadcast their sets live, the iRig – because of this – is ideal. Plus – the large level of control makes it easy to make adjustments quickly – because you often don’t have time to think while you’re streaming.

Audio quality is important when livestreaming. That’s why the iRig Stream uses 24-bit, 48kHz AD/DA converters – so you’ll get pro audio in any environment. Plus, level indicators make sure you know you’re always sounding your best.

Shop now | IK Multimedia iRig Stream

Why should I use an audio interface for streaming?

While you can just use a USB microphone or headset for streaming, an audio interface is a much better option.

Audio interfaces have better preamps to boost the mic signal and will also have higher-quality A/D converters. As well as this, you’re much less likely to have common audio issues such as distortion and glitching. You also get a lot more flexibility in controlling your audio – if you want to adjust settings.

Terms you should know

These are terms you should know about when shopping for an audio interface.

XLR input is a balanced input, used mainly for microphones, which you need an XLR cable for. A line input, on the other hand, will use a jack cable and is mostly used for instruments.

The mic preamp boosts the microphone signal – a good quality one will do this cleanly with minimal noise.

Phantom power is required to power some microphones – normally condensers – and without it, some microphones won’t work.

Stereo line outputs are often great for connecting headphones or other sources which require the use of two speakers.

Finally, loopback allows you to send and bring back sound to and from external devices like mobiles or computers.

FAQs

Can you live stream with an audio interface?

You can live stream with an audio interface. In fact, having an audio interface is a great way to enhance your stream. Many offer useful features that allow you to add vocal effects or even to connect a phone and have someone phone in.

What do professional streamers use?

Professional streamers use audio interfaces to get great sound quality on their streams. As well as this, they also use high-quality microphones for audio capture and closed-back headphones for monitoring.

How do I get streamer-quality audio?

You can get streamer-quality audio by using a high-quality microphone in combination with a high-quality audio interface. If you’re using great equipment at every part of your signal chain, you’re guaranteed a great result.

Final thoughts

If you want to start streaming, there is a wide range of audio interfaces to get started with. From the compact yet comprehensive Lewitt CONNECT 6 USB-C to the musician-focused Boss GCS-5 Gigcaster 5 – there’s something here on our list of best audio interfaces for streaming for every setup.

Want to learn more? Why not check out the 12 best microphones for streaming or the 16 best studio monitors for 2023?