10 Best Audio Interfaces With Loopback for Recording and Streaming in 2026

The best audio interface with loopback makes it easier to combine microphones, instruments, system audio, and streaming software without complicated routing. The right model can simplify podcasts, live broadcasts, remote lessons, and music production.

Our 2026 roundup compares 10 options across input count, monitoring, connectivity, sound quality, portability, and workflow features so you can choose an interface that fits your setup and budget.

Best 10 Audio Interface with Loopback Picks for 2026

Best Budget Pick – PIYONE Q2 Alloy Red 2×2 Interface

If you want an audio interface with loopback for basic recording, streaming, or mobile creation, the PIYONE Q2 offers a compact 2-in/2-out setup with USB-C connectivity and a monitor mix/loopback function. Its class-compliant design works with Mac and PC without additional drivers, while 24-bit/192kHz conversion supports high-resolution recording.

Best For: Home recordists and mobile creators who want a portable, plug-and-play interface with loopback and flexible combo inputs.

Pros:

• 24-bit/192kHz recording with two XLR/TRS combo inputs
• USB-C handles data and bus power without an external supply
• Includes monitor mix/loopback, direct monitoring, 48V phantom power, and a 3.5mm headphone jack

Cons:

• Only two input channels are available
• Supplied details list Windows compatibility, while broader mobile support is described generally

The Q2 is a practical choice when portability and simple setup matter most. Its loopback and monitoring controls add useful flexibility for content creation, while the two-channel layout keeps the interface straightforward for solo recording.

Best for First-Time Producers – Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen

The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen is a strong starting point for musicians who need a reliable two-channel audio interface with loopback-related streaming potential through compatible recording software. It combines 24-bit/192kHz conversion, two mic preamps, two Hi-Z instrument inputs, and included software for recording, mixing, and mastering.

Best For: Beginners and musicians recording vocals, guitars, or other two-source setups on Mac, Windows, or iOS.

Pros:

• 120dB dynamic range and 24-bit/192kHz support for studio-quality recording
• Auto Gain and Clip Safe help manage recording levels
• Includes Air modes and a substantial software bundle with Pro Tools Intro+, Ableton Live Lite, Cubase LE, and Hitmaker Expansion

Cons:

• It has two channels, so it is less suited to larger recording sessions
• The supplied notes do not specifically identify a hardware loopback control

The 2i2 stands out for its guided recording features and bundled software. Choose it if ease of use, instrument connectivity, and a long manufacturer warranty are more important than having four inputs or a clearly specified built-in loopback function.

Best Yamaha Option – Yamaha UR22MK3 2×2 USB-C Interface

The Yamaha UR22MK3 is a focused audio interface with loopback for recording, monitoring, and streaming across Windows, macOS, and iOS. Its two combo inputs, UR mic preamps, phantom power, direct monitoring, and dedicated mute buttons cover the essentials in a compact metal enclosure.

Best For: Creators who want a durable two-channel interface with straightforward controls, loopback, and cross-platform compatibility.

Pros:

• 24-bit/192kHz support with two combo inputs
• Provides direct monitoring, loopback, and mute buttons
• Works with Windows, macOS, and iOS and includes a Steinberg software suite

Cons:

• Limited to two analog input and output channels
• The warranty is one year and has authorized-retailer requirements

The UR22MK3 is well suited to compact recording or streaming rigs where physical mute and monitoring controls are useful. Its cross-platform support and metal casing add practical appeal, although larger setups will need more I/O.

Best for More Inputs – MOTU M4 4×4 USB-C Interface

The MOTU M4 is the most expandable choice here for buyers seeking an audio interface with loopback. Its 4-in/4-out USB-C design provides more connection capacity than a typical 2×2 model, while hardware monitoring, an LCD screen, MIDI I/O, and Mac/PC/iOS support make it useful for recording, podcasting, and mixing.

Best For: Musicians, podcasters, and creators who need four inputs and outputs plus low-latency monitoring and loopback.

Pros:

• 4-in/4-out USB-C connectivity with two microphone preamps
• Includes hardware monitoring, an LCD screen, and loopback
• Adds MIDI I/O, low-latency monitoring, and compatibility with Mac, PC, and iOS

Cons:

• Its larger I/O setup may be unnecessary for simple solo recording
• The supplied notes do not specify phantom-power details or individual input types

The M4 is the strongest fit when a 2×2 interface feels restrictive. Four-in/four-out connectivity gives you more room for multiple sources, while the screen, loopback, and hardware monitoring support a more capable recording or podcasting workflow.

Versatile Yamaha Recording Hub – UR22MK3 USB-C Interface

The Yamaha UR22MK3 is a practical audio interface with loopback for musicians, podcasters, and streamers who need two inputs, direct monitoring, and broad device compatibility. Its two combo inputs, UR mic preamps, phantom power, and Hi-Z support cover microphones and instruments in a compact metal enclosure.

Best For: Home recording, streaming, and mobile setups needing two-channel I/O and loopback.

Pros:

• Supports 24-bit/192 kHz recording with 2-in/2-out analog I/O.
• Includes direct monitoring, loopback, and mute buttons.
• Works with Windows, macOS, and iOS, with Steinberg software included.
• Compact, lightweight metal casing weighs 310 g.

Cons:

• Provides two channels rather than the four inputs offered by some competing interfaces.
• Warranty coverage is tied to purchases from authorized Yamaha retailers in the United States.

Choose the UR22MK3 if you want a portable, straightforward audio interface with loopback and enough flexibility for two microphones, instruments, or a mixed setup. Its cross-platform support also makes it useful beyond a fixed desktop studio.

Studio-Ready Songwriter Pick – Scarlett Solo 4th Gen

The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen is a compact audio interface with loopback for solo musicians who record one microphone and one instrument. It pairs a 1 XLR mic preamp and Hi-Z input with 24-bit/192 kHz conversion, 120 dB dynamic range, and an Air mode designed to add presence to vocals and guitars.

Best For: Songwriters, vocalists, and guitarists who want a simple two-input recording interface with included software.

Pros:

• Offers 24-bit/192 kHz audio and a 120 dB dynamic range.
• Combines one XLR mic input with one Hi-Z instrument input.
• Air modes can add presence and harmonic drive to vocals and guitars.
• Includes Pro Tools Intro+, Ableton Live Lite, Cubase LE, and Hitmaker Expansion.

Cons:

• Its single mic preamp is less suitable for recording multiple microphones at once.
• The supplied notes do not specify a dedicated loopback control or loopback workflow.

The Scarlett Solo is a strong fit when your setup centers on one vocalist or instrumentalist. It delivers capable specifications and a useful software bundle, but buyers specifically prioritizing clearly documented loopback controls may prefer an interface whose notes explicitly describe that function.

Streaming-Focused Multitrack Choice – Zoom AMS-44 USB Interface

The Zoom AMS-44 is a flexible audio interface with loopback built for musicians and podcasters who need four inputs and four outputs. Its dedicated Loopback switch combines input audio with computer playback, while Studio and Streaming modes simplify routing for either DAW recording or livestreaming.

Best For: Multichannel recording, livestreaming, and portable setups using microphones or instruments.

Pros:

• Provides four XLR/TRS combo inputs, four low-noise preamps, and 48V phantom power.
• Offers one-switch loopback and direct monitoring without extra software.
• Studio and Streaming modes support independent routing or combined livestream audio.
• Can run from USB-C, an external power supply, or two AA batteries.

Cons:

• Its listed frequency response is 96 kHz, despite support for a maximum 192 kHz sample rate.
• The supplied operating-system details list macOS, so buyers on other platforms should verify compatibility before purchase.
• It weighs 320 g, making it slightly heavier than the Yamaha option in this roundup.

The AMS-44 stands out when loopback is central to your streaming workflow and four simultaneous inputs are useful. Its physical mode and loopback controls reduce routing complexity, while battery support adds flexibility for mobile recording.

Classic-Tone Starter – Volt 2

The Universal Audio Volt 2 is a practical two-channel choice if you want an audio interface with loopback for music recording, podcasting, or streaming. Its 610-style Vintage mode, 24-bit/192 kHz support, MIDI, and compatibility with Mac, Windows, iPad, and iPhone make it versatile, although the supplied notes do not specify a built-in loopback feature.

Best For: Musicians and creators prioritizing preamp character, high-resolution recording, and broad device compatibility.

Pros:

• Two-channel USB-C interface with 610 tube-emulation Vintage mode.
• Supports recording quality up to 24-bit/192 kHz.
• Includes MIDI and works with Mac, Windows, iPad, and iPhone.
• Integrates with LUNA and supports listed software such as Ableton and Melodyne.

Cons:

• Loopback is not identified among the supplied features.
• Mobile recording may require an external Volt power supply and Apple Lightning adapter.

The Volt 2 is strongest when preamp tone and detailed music capture matter more than dedicated streaming routing. Choose it for a compact recording interface with a polished, analog-inspired feature set.

Simple Streaming Pick – AMS-22

The Zoom AMS-22 is a straightforward audio interface with loopback for solo musicians, podcasters, and streamers. Its dedicated Loopback switch combines input audio with computer playback without extra software, while Direct Monitor and Music/Streaming modes simplify recording and live content creation.

Best For: Portable solo streaming, podcasting, and simple two-input recording setups.

Pros:

• Dedicated Loopback switch combines inputs with computer playback.
• Direct monitoring supports real-time input monitoring without extra software.
• Offers one XLR/TRS combo input, a stereo 3.5mm input, and two outputs.
• USB-C bus power and 230 g weight suit mobile setups.

Cons:

• Maximum sample rate is 48 kHz.
• Its one-channel XLR/TRS input is less suited to multi-microphone recording.

For buyers specifically searching for an audio interface with loopback, the AMS-22 is one of the clearest fits here. It favors convenience and software-free streaming over high-channel-count studio expansion.

Hybrid Creator Hub – MAONO P2

The MAONO P2 is an audio interface with loopback aimed at creators who record and stream across computers, phones, and tablets. Dual USB connectivity, dual XLR inputs, 24-bit/192 kHz recording, and built-in routing through ProStudio 2 support podcasts, covers, tutorials, and live streams.

Best For: Creators who need simultaneous computer-and-mobile connectivity with flexible voice, instrument, and desktop-audio routing.

Pros:

• Dual USB ports connect a computer and phone or iPad simultaneously.
• Built-in loopback can combine instrument, voice, backing tracks, and desktop audio.
• Dual XLR inputs support condenser and dynamic microphones with up to 56 dB gain.
• 24-bit/192 kHz recording, ASIO support, and independent mute and monitoring controls.

Cons:

• Advanced routing and VST features depend on the ProStudio 2 software workflow.
• The supplied notes do not specify the unit’s weight or detailed operating-system requirements.

The P2 is the most feature-rich option for hybrid content workflows, particularly when mobile and desktop recording need to coexist. It is a strong choice for creators who value routing flexibility and hands-on stream controls.

How We Picked the Best Audio Interface with Loopback

We focused on interfaces that support practical loopback workflows, whether through built-in routing, software mixing, or clearly documented computer-audio integration. We also considered preamp quality, converter specifications, input and output count, USB connectivity, direct monitoring, device compatibility, and ease of use.

The selection covers compact two-channel models for solo creators, larger interfaces for musicians and co-hosted shows, and portable options for recording with a laptop, phone, or tablet. Because loopback implementation varies, check each model’s software requirements and operating-system support before buying.

Quick Comparison

Best For	Look For	Typical Configuration
Solo streaming and podcasting	Simple loopback, clear monitoring, one or two preamps	1–2 inputs, 2 outputs
Music production	Low-latency drivers, quality preamps, MIDI or expanded I/O	2–4 inputs, 4+ outputs
Co-hosted shows and small sessions	Multiple mic inputs and independent monitoring	4 inputs, 4 outputs
Mobile recording	USB-C, bus power, iOS or Android compatibility	Compact 1–2 input design

Key Buying Factors for an Audio Interface with Loopback

Loopback Routing

Confirm what the loopback feature actually does. Some interfaces provide dedicated virtual channels, while others rely on a companion mixer application. Look for separate controls for microphone, instrument, and computer playback levels, plus the ability to prevent echo or feedback.

Inputs, Outputs, and Monitoring

Two combo inputs are enough for many solo creators, but four inputs are more flexible for multiple microphones, instruments, or a stereo source. Headphone outputs, balanced monitor outputs, mute controls, and independent volume adjustment can make daily use much easier.

Sound and Latency

Higher sample-rate support is useful, but preamp noise, gain range, driver stability, and latency matter more in normal recording. Direct monitoring helps you hear incoming audio without computer delay, while reliable drivers are essential for live streaming.

Compatibility and Power

Check support for your computer and mobile devices, along with USB-C requirements, included cables, and bus-power limitations. Mobile users should verify whether an external power source or adapter is needed.

Who Should Buy Which Audio Interface with Loopback?

Choose a compact two-input interface if you mainly record one person, a guitar, or a stereo source. It is usually the simplest and most affordable route for streaming and podcasting. Step up to a four-input model if you regularly use several microphones, record small ensembles, or need more flexible routing.

Musicians should prioritize clean preamps, low-latency monitoring, stable drivers, and enough outputs for their monitor or headphone setup. Streamers and podcasters should give extra weight to intuitive loopback controls, mute options, and independent headphone monitoring. If you travel or record from a phone or tablet, favor a bus-powered USB-C model with confirmed mobile compatibility.