10 Best Audio Interfaces With MIDI Input in 2026 for Recording and Music Production

The best audio interface with MIDI input lets you connect microphones, instruments, and MIDI hardware through one streamlined setup. The right model can simplify home recording while giving you enough inputs, outputs, and monitoring control to grow.

We compared 10 options across compact desktop interfaces and higher-channel-count models, focusing on connectivity, recording quality, workflow, and value for different types of musicians and producers.

Best 10 Audio Interface with Midi Input Picks for 2026

Best for Expansive Recording Rigs – Behringer UMC1820

The Behringer UMC1820 is a strong choice when an audio interface with MIDI input also needs substantial I/O for microphones, instruments, and larger recording setups. Its 18×20 USB connectivity, eight MIDAS-designed mic preamps, ADAT I/O, and 24-bit/96 kHz support make it suited to multi-source recording.

Best For: Home studios, bands, and producers who need many simultaneous inputs and expandable digital connectivity.

Pros:

• 18 inputs and 20 outputs over USB 2.0
• Eight mic preamps with +48 V phantom power
• ADAT I/O supports system expansion
• Works with popular software such as Pro Tools, Ableton Live, and Cubase

Cons:

• Larger and heavier than compact interfaces
• 96 kHz maximum sample rate is lower than some newer models

Choose the UMC1820 if channel count and expandability matter more than a small footprint. It offers considerably more routing capacity than the other options here, making it a practical foundation for a busy studio.

Best for Monitoring and Podcasting – MOTU M4

The MOTU M4 is a compact audio interface with MIDI input for musicians, podcasters, and creators who want 4×4 USB-C connectivity without a bulky desktop setup. It combines two microphone preamps, hardware monitoring, an LCD screen, and loopback functionality.

Best For: Small recording rigs, podcasting, and users who value clear metering and low-latency monitoring.

Pros:

• 4-in/4-out USB-C connectivity
• Includes MIDI I/O and low-latency monitoring
• Built-in LCD screen provides hardware metering
• Supports recording, mixing, and podcasting workflows

Cons:

• Only two microphone preamps
• Offers less total I/O than the UMC1820

The M4 is a balanced middle ground for users who need MIDI and flexible routing but do not require a large number of microphone inputs. Its screen and loopback support are particularly useful for hands-on monitoring and spoken-word production.

Best for DSP-Enhanced Compact Recording – Yamaha URX22C

The Yamaha URX22C is a compact audio interface with MIDI input designed for two-channel recording. It pairs two XLR/TRS combo inputs and Class-A D-PRE preamps with 32-bit/192 kHz support, DSP-powered monitoring, and included effects for a streamlined desktop workflow.

Best For: Solo musicians, vocalists, and guitarists who want durable construction and latency-free monitoring effects.

Pros:

• 32-bit/192 kHz USB 3.0 audio support
• Two combo inputs with Class-A D-PRE preamps
• DSP monitoring includes REV-X reverb and channel effects
• Rugged full-metal housing

Cons:

• Limited to two analog input channels
• Less suitable for recording several sources at once

The URX22C makes sense when recording simplicity, sturdy hardware, and onboard monitoring effects are priorities. Its two-input layout is focused rather than expandable, but it covers many solo recording and instrument-tracking needs.

Best for Feature-Rich Home Studios – Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 4th Gen

The Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 4th Gen is a versatile audio interface with MIDI input for home producers who connect microphones, guitars, synths, and drum machines. It provides two mic preamps, two Hi-Z inputs, four line inputs, four outputs, and helpful recording features such as Auto Gain, Clip Safe, and Air mode.

Best For: Home-studio musicians who want flexible connections, high-resolution recording, and guided level-setting tools.

Pros:

• 4-in/4-out design with MIDI In/Out
• Two mic preamps, two Hi-Z inputs, and four line inputs
• 120 dB dynamic range with up to 192 kHz operation
• Includes Auto Gain, Clip Safe, Air mode, and production software

Cons:

• More expensive-looking feature set may be unnecessary for simple two-input recording
• Requires a separate power supply when used with the included USB-C power setup

The Scarlett 4i4 is a well-rounded choice for a growing home studio. Its combination of MIDI, line connectivity, instrument inputs, and automatic recording aids gives producers room to connect varied gear without moving to a much larger interface.

Best Value 4×4 – Behringer U-PHORIA UMC404HD

If you need an audio interface with MIDI input and enough connections for a small recording setup, the Behringer U-PHORIA UMC404HD offers four inputs, four outputs, and MIDI I/O. Its 24-bit/192 kHz support, four MIDAS-designed mic preamps, and rugged metal chassis make it a flexible choice for home studios.

Best For: Home recording setups that need four mic or instrument inputs plus MIDI connectivity.

Pros:

• Provides 4×4 USB audio and 1x MIDI I/O.
• Includes four mic preamps with +48V phantom power.
• Supports up to 24-bit/192 kHz recording.
• Uses an impact-resistant metal chassis.

Cons:

• Its larger 4-input design may be more than needed for a simple vocal-and-guitar setup.
• Supplied operating-system information is limited to Windows XP or higher and Mac OS X compatibility.

The UMC404HD is a practical pick when MIDI and multiple simultaneous inputs matter more than a compact footprint. It also supports popular software such as Pro Tools, Ableton Live, and Cubase.

Best for Easy Recording – Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen

The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen is a compact interface for recording microphones and instruments, with two inputs and USB connectivity. While the supplied specifications do not list a MIDI input, its Auto Gain, Clip Safe, Air mode, and included software make it a straightforward option for getting started.

Best For: Solo musicians and creators recording up to two microphones or instruments at a time.

Pros:

• Offers two mic preamps and two Hi-Z instrument inputs.
• Includes Auto Gain and Clip Safe to help manage recording levels.
• Provides a 120 dB dynamic range and 24-bit/192 kHz support.
• Comes with Pro Tools Intro+, Ableton Live Lite, Cubase LE, and Hitmaker Expansion.

Cons:

• The supplied notes do not identify a MIDI input, so it is not the best match for a MIDI-focused setup.
• Two channels provide less simultaneous input capacity than larger interfaces.

Choose the Scarlett 2i2 when simple, high-quality two-channel recording is the priority. Its compact 1.3-pound design and broad computer and mobile compatibility suit portable recording, but MIDI users should verify their connectivity requirements first.

Best for Expanded I/O – Yamaha URX44C USB-C Interface

For an audio interface with MIDI input and more routing flexibility, the Yamaha URX44C combines MIDI I/O with six inputs and four outputs. It adds four XLR/TRS combo inputs, two line inputs, DSP-powered monitoring effects, and 32-bit/192 kHz support for a more capable studio setup.

Best For: Musicians and small studios that need several analog inputs, multiple outputs, MIDI, and low-latency monitoring.

Pros:

• Provides 6×4 analog I/O plus MIDI I/O.
• Includes four Class-A D-PRE preamps with +48V phantom power.
• Offers latency-free DSP monitoring with reverb, channel strip, and guitar amp effects.
• Supports 32-bit integer/192 kHz operation and Windows, macOS, and iOS.

Cons:

• Its expanded I/O and DSP feature set may be unnecessary for basic two-channel recording.
• The supplied warranty information specifies one year and authorized-retailer purchase requirements in the United States.

The URX44C is the strongest fit here for users who expect their setup to grow. Its combination of MIDI, four combo inputs, dedicated line inputs, and DSP monitoring gives it useful flexibility for recording and live-monitoring workflows.

Studio-Ready Choice – Volt 2

The Universal Audio Volt 2 is a strong audio interface with MIDI input for musicians, podcasters, and streamers who need two-channel recording, high-resolution audio, and a more polished preamp character. Its Vintage mode, 24-bit/192 kHz support, and compatibility with LUNA and included software make it a versatile desktop option.

Best For: Home-recording setups that need two inputs, MIDI connectivity, and a classic preamp flavor.

Pros:

• Two-channel USB-C interface with MIDI support.
• Vintage mode emulates the character of UA’s classic 610 preamps.
• Supports recording at up to 24-bit/192 kHz.
• Works with Windows, macOS, iPad, and iPhone setups.

Cons:

• Mobile use may require an external Volt power supply and Apple Lightning adapter.
• Its two-channel design may be limiting for larger recording sessions.

The Volt 2 is a well-rounded choice when sound quality, MIDI support, and flexible computer or mobile recording matter more than having a large input count.

Budget Recording Pick – M-Track Duo

The M-AUDIO M-Track Duo is a practical audio interface with MIDI input for beginners who want a portable setup for recording, podcasting, or streaming. It offers two combo inputs, phantom power, direct monitoring, and a straightforward 48 kHz workflow for Mac or PC.

Best For: Entry-level recording, streaming, and podcasting with microphones, instruments, or line sources.

Pros:

• Two combo XLR/line/instrument inputs with phantom power.
• USB/Direct monitoring switch supports zero-latency monitoring.
• Includes MPC Beats and Ableton Live Lite software.
• Compact and lightweight at approximately 0.3 kg.

Cons:

• Maximum sample rate is 48 kHz, below higher-resolution alternatives.
• The supplied notes do not specify a dedicated MIDI input or MIDI ports.

The M-Track Duo is appealing for accessible two-input recording and monitoring, but shoppers specifically seeking hardware MIDI connectivity should verify the port layout before buying.

Compact MIDI Option – Volt 1

The Universal Audio Volt 1 is a compact audio interface with MIDI input for solo musicians who want a focused recording setup. It combines a single-input design with Vintage 610 preamp emulation, 24-bit/192 kHz recording, and compatibility with computers, mobile devices, and MIDI equipment.

Best For: Solo vocalists, guitarists, and producers who need one primary recording input plus MIDI-device compatibility.

Pros:

• Compact and lightweight design for portable recording.
• Vintage mode adds classic 610 preamp coloration.
• Supports up to 24-bit/192 kHz audio.
• Compatible with Windows, macOS, iPad, and iPhone systems.

Cons:

• One primary input provides less flexibility than the Volt 2.
• Mobile recording may require additional power and an Apple Lightning adapter.

The Volt 1 makes sense when portability and sound character are priorities and you typically record one source at a time, while its listed MIDI-device compatibility supports a compact production rig.

How We Picked the Best Audio Interface with Midi Input

We selected interfaces that combine USB audio connectivity with built-in MIDI input and output, then compared them by channel count, preamp availability, converter specifications, monitoring features, driver and software support, and overall practicality. The list includes compact two-channel models for solo recording, four-channel options for small setups, and larger interfaces suited to bands, drum machines, and expandable studios.

Specifications such as 24-bit or 32-bit recording and high sample-rate support matter, but they are only part of the decision. Reliable controls, useful outputs, low-latency monitoring, and a layout that fits your workflow can have a greater day-to-day impact.

Quick Comparison

Best For	Recommended Type	What to Prioritize
Solo vocals, guitar, or podcasting	Compact 2-in/2-out interface	Good preamps, direct monitoring, simple controls
Keyboard and synth setups	Audio interface with MIDI input and output	Stable MIDI timing, suitable line inputs, MIDI ports
Small bands or multiple microphones	4-in or larger interface	More preamps, headphone monitoring, output flexibility
Electronic music and hardware rigs	4-in/4-out or larger model	Multiple line outputs, MIDI I/O, low-latency routing
Expandable recording studios	Eight-channel interface with expansion	ADAT support, extensive I/O, driver stability

Key Buying Factors for an Audio Interface with Midi Input

MIDI Connectivity

Confirm that the interface includes both MIDI input and MIDI output if you need to control external synthesizers, drum machines, or keyboards. USB MIDI alone may not replace traditional five-pin DIN connections for hardware setups.

Inputs and Outputs

Count your microphones, guitars, keyboards, and other sources before choosing. Combo inputs provide flexibility, while dedicated line inputs are useful for stereo synths and mixers. Additional outputs help connect monitor controllers, headphones, outboard gear, or multiple speaker pairs.

Monitoring and Latency

Direct monitoring can reduce distracting delay while recording. DSP mixing and effects may provide more flexible monitoring, but check how the software works with your computer and preferred digital audio workstation.

Audio Quality and Preamps

Modern interfaces generally offer clean, detailed conversion. Focus on preamp gain, noise performance, phantom power, and whether the unit can handle microphones and instruments you already own. Higher sample-rate support is useful, but it should not outweigh connectivity and usability.

Compatibility and Expansion

Check operating-system support, USB-C or USB compatibility, power requirements, and bundled software. If you expect to add more microphones later, ADAT expansion or a higher input count can prevent an expensive upgrade.

Who Should Buy Which Audio Interface with Midi Input?

Choose a compact two-input model if you mainly record one or two sources at a time and want the simplest desktop setup. A four-input interface is a better fit for producers using stereo keyboards, drum machines, or occasional multiple-microphone sessions.

Musicians recording ensembles should look toward higher-channel-count interfaces, especially models with ADAT expansion. Hardware-focused producers should prioritize several line outputs and dependable MIDI timing, while beginners should favor clear controls, direct monitoring, and accessible software over advanced routing features.