🎧 Top 5 Affordable Audio Interfaces with Phantom Power (2025)
- Music Trendz
- Sep 8, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 23
Finding an affordable audio interface with phantom power can be tricky if you're new to home recording. We've tested the best budget options so you don't waste money on features you don't need.
🛠️ Looking for an Affordable Audio Interface with Phantom Power?
Quick Links
Focusrite Scarlett Solo (3rd Gen) – Best for Podcasters
PreSonus AudioBox GO – Best for Portability
Behringer UM2 Audio Interface – Best Budget Option
Audient Audio Interface iD4 MKII – Best for Studio Sound Quality
🔌 Why Phantom Power Is a Must for Studio-Quality Sound
Phantom power is a critical feature for condenser microphones, powering them for professional-level vocal and instrument recordings. An audio interface with phantom power enables you to capture clear, crisp sound right from your home studio setup.
🎧 Top 5 Affordable Audio Interfaces with Phantom Power (2025)
1. Focusrite Scarlett Solo (3rd Gen)
The Focusrite Scarlett Solo is a best-seller for a reason. It features a single XLR input with 48V phantom power, crystal-clear preamps, and incredibly low latency. It's compatible with both Mac and Windows, and the included software bundle makes it a go-to choice for beginner musicians and podcasters alike.
📦 Best for: Solo vocalists, guitarists, or anyone starting their first home studio
💡 Key features:
1 mic input with phantom power
USB bus-powered
Zero-latency direct monitoring
Includes Ableton Live Lite + Pro Tools First bundle
2. PreSonus AudioBox GO
The PreSonus AudioBox GO is compact, affordable, and ready to travel. Despite its small size, it includes phantom power and solid preamps for recording vocals or instruments. The interface is USB-C powered and comes bundled with Studio One Prime, making it a great all-in-one solution for mobile creators and beginners. 📦 Best for: Musicians on the go and entry-level home studio setups
💡 Key features:
1 XLR input with 48V phantom power
1 instrument input
USB-C powered
Includes PreSonus Studio One Prime DAW
3. Behringer UM2 – Best Budget Option
If you're looking for the cheapest audio interface with phantom power, the Behringer UM2 is your pick. It delivers solid sound for vocals and instruments with its built-in 48V phantom power and is plug-and-play on both Mac and Windows. It doesn’t come with bundled DAWs, but for under $50, it’s hard to beat.
📦 Best for: Budget-conscious beginners and small home setups
💡 Key features:
1 Midas-designed XLR input with phantom power
1 instrument input
Aluminum chassis
Plug-and-play with most DAWs
4. Audient iD4 MKII – Best for Studio Sound Quality
The Audient iD4 MKII is a bit more of an investment but offers exceptional audio quality for its price. It includes phantom power, a world-class Audient mic preamp, and a JFET DI input that rivals professional studio gear. This is ideal for anyone wanting premium sound while staying under $200.
📦 Best for: Artists who care about audio fidelity and long-term quality
💡 Key features:
1 XLR input with 48V phantom power
Audient console-grade mic preamp
High-performance headphone amp
USB-C powered, zero-latency monitoring
5. Arturia MiniFuse 1 USB-C Audio Interface
The Arturia MiniFuse 1 is stylish, compact, and incredibly beginner-friendly. It delivers crystal-clear sound, 48V phantom power, and a sleek design perfect for modern setups. What makes it stand out is its excellent software bundle, including Ableton Live Lite and FX tools to kickstart your recordings.
📦 Best for: New creators, students, and those who value design and bundled software
💡 Key features:
1 XLR input with phantom power
USB-C connectivity
Zero-latency monitoring
Includes Ableton Live Lite + Arturia FX Suite
People Also Ask: Audio Interfaces with Phantom Power
Q: What is phantom power and why do I need it?
A: Phantom power is a voltage (usually 48V) that powers condenser microphones. It’s essential for professional vocal and instrument recordings.
Q: Can I use a dynamic mic with phantom power?
A: Yes. Phantom power won’t harm dynamic mics — they simply don’t use it.
Q: What’s the cheapest interface with phantom power that still sounds good?
A: The Behringer UM2 and M-Audio M-Track Solo are both affordable, beginner-friendly options under $100.
Comments