If you’ve ever wished your recordings sounded cleaner or your studio felt easier to work in, a rack mount audio interface might be exactly what you need. These units help improve your setup by giving you professional sound quality while keeping everything organized.
A rack mount audio interface takes your analog signals and turns them into digital audio, which is something every solid recording or performance setup relies on. What makes rack mount models stand out is their durability, larger input and output capacity, and how well they support bigger or more complex studio layouts. These are the reasons many creators look for the best rack mount audio interface when they want a more reliable and expandable setup.
We want to help you choose the right one for your needs. We’ll walk you through the features that matter most and share some of the top options worth checking out. Let’s get started and figure out which rack mount audio interface fits your workflow best.
Quick List of the Best Rack Mount Audio Interfaces
What is a Rack Mount Audio Interface?
So what is it, really? A rack mount audio interface is a device that takes your analog audio signals and turns them into digital data. That makes it a core part of recording, mixing, and mastering. These interfaces come in different sizes and setups, so they work well for many types of studios.
Here are a few features you’ll find on most models:
- Preamps boost the signal from your mic or instrument.
- Analog to digital converters turn that boosted signal into clean digital audio.
- Inputs/Outputs let you connect all your gear like mics, instruments, monitors, and more.
Why go with a rack mount version? For many of us, the biggest reason is space. These interfaces fit into standard 19 inch racks, which helps keep the studio organized. It also gives you quick access to every connection, something that makes your workflow smoother.
A rack mount audio interface is a great choice if you want professional sound and a setup that stays neat and easy to manage. If you’re comparing rack models to desktop units, here’s a complete guide to the best audio interfaces overall.
Why Choose a Rack Mounted Interface Over a Desktop Version?
In a home studio, space disappears fast. That is why a rack mounted audio interface can make a big difference. When you place your interface in a rack, you free up your desk and keep everything cleaner and more organized.
You can check out the best home recording studio racks if you're setting up a full rack-based workstation. And if you want an even cleaner layout, pairing your rack gear with one of the best recording studio desks can help you keep everything within easy reach while still saving space.
You also get better durability. Rack mounted interfaces are built with strong materials, so they hold up well when you move gear around or host sessions with friends. Many of us rely on that extra strength when our setup gets a little busy.
Another huge perk is flexibility. As your studio grows, you can add more hardware without dealing with clutter. A rack gives you a place for your interface, preamps, and whatever else you want to add. It keeps your workflow smooth because everything is right where you need it.
If you want more space, better organization, and a setup that can grow with you, a rack mounted interface is a smart choice. Your studio will feel a lot easier to work in.
Best Rack Mount Audio Interfaces
Here are some of the best rack mount audio interfaces we think are worth checking out.
Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface
Pros
- Superior sound quality
- Extensive I/O options
- Bundled with valuable software
Cons
- May be overkill for some users
- Pricey compared to simpler options
- USB 2.0 connection
If you are getting serious about recording or producing, the Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 is a strong pick. One of the best parts is its 3rd Gen mic preamps. They give vocals and acoustic instruments a nice lift with the Air effect, which adds a bit more clarity and presence.
You also get 18 inputs and 20 outputs, so you can plug in several instruments and pieces of gear without running out of space. It handles a full recording setup with ease, which is great if you want something that can grow with you.
The USB 2.0 connection may feel a little dated, but it still works well and gets the job done. The price might feel high if you do not need everything it offers, but if you plan to build your studio over time, it is a solid investment.
Overall, the Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen is a reliable choice for musicians, producers, and songwriters who want better sound and more flexibility. It is the kind of interface you can keep in your rack for years and trust every time you hit record.
Tascam US-16x08 Rackmount Audio Interface
Pros
- 16 inputs for versatile recording options
- 8 Ultra-HDDA microphone preamps for clear sound
- Built-in DSP mixer and EQ for polish
Cons
- May feel overwhelming for beginners
- Software not as robust as competitors
- Slight noise in some units
The Tascam US 16x08 is a great fit for anyone who needs plenty of inputs in their studio. With 16 inputs, you can record drums, guitars, vocals, and other instruments at the same time. The eight Ultra HDDA mic preamps also help your tracks come through clean and full.
We like that it has a built in DSP mixer and EQ. This helps you shape your monitor mixes and make them sound smoother, which is helpful whether you are working on demos or something more polished.
If you are brand new to audio interfaces, the number of features here might feel like a lot at first. The software is also a bit limited compared to what other brands offer. A few users have noticed slight noise in some units, but this does not seem to be common.
All in all, the Tascam US 16x08 gives you strong sound quality and a generous amount of inputs for the price. If you are a growing musician or producer, it is a solid pick that can support your creative work as your setup expands.
Behringer U-PHORIA UMC1820 8-Channel Audio Interface
Pros
- 8 microphone preamps
- Dual headphone outputs
- 24-bit/96kHz resolution
Cons
- Needs extra equipment for 16 Mic Preamps
- Plastic construction
- Occasional buzzing sound
The Behringer U PHORIA UMC1820 gives you a lot of value if you are building or upgrading a home studio. With 8 microphone preamps, you have plenty of room to plug in mics and instruments. It also records at 24 bit and 96 kHz, which helps keep your audio clean and detailed.
Since the body is made of plastic, it is good to treat it with a bit of care. And if you want all 16 mic preamps, you will need to pair it with a Behringer ADA8200. Even with that, the overall flexibility of this interface makes it a strong option for many musicians and producers.
We also like the dual headphone outputs. They make it easy for two people to listen in at the same time, which comes in handy during sessions or small collaborations. A few users have noticed a minor buzzing sound now and then, but it is not something everyone experiences.
Overall, the Behringer U PHORIA UMC1820 gives you solid performance at a price that is easy on the budget. If you want to grow your studio without spending too much, this interface is a reliable pick.
PreSonus Studio 1824c Audio Interface
Pros
- High-definition audio with 24-bit/192 kHz
- 8 XMAX Class A mic preamps
- Expandable up to 18 inputs and 20 outputs
Cons
- Some users report difficulty with minimal buffer size
- Documentation and instructions can be tricky
- May need to max out gain for certain mics
The PreSonus Studio 1824c delivers impressive audio quality. It records at 24 bit and 192 kHz with a strong dynamic range, so your tracks come out clean and detailed. The 8 XMAX Class A mic preamps also help you get clear recordings, whether you are tracking vocals, guitars, or a full band.
One thing we like about this interface is how much room it gives you to grow. You can expand it to 18 inputs and 20 outputs, which is great if you plan to add more gear over time. Along with the 8 mic inputs, you also get high headroom instrument and line inputs, balanced line outputs, S PDIF, and MIDI.
There are a few downsides to keep in mind. Some users have trouble with the minimal buffer size, and certain condenser mics may need the gain turned up more than usual. The documentation can also feel a bit unclear in places, but that should not stop you from getting the most out of the interface once you are set up.
Overall, the PreSonus Studio 1824c is a reliable pick if you want a high quality rack mount audio interface that can grow with your studio. It also comes with Studio One Artist and Ableton Live Lite, which gives you solid software to start creating right away.
Universal Audio Apollo x8p Heritage Edition
Pros
- Elite-class A/D and D/A conversion
- HEXA Core UAD plug-in processing
- Unison-enabled mic preamps
Cons
- Expensive
- Mac-only LUNA Recording System
- Plastic knobs may feel cheap
The Universal Audio Apollo x8p Heritage Edition is built for people who care a lot about sound quality. The A D and D A conversion is top tier, so your recordings come out clear, detailed, and full of depth. It is the kind of upgrade you notice right away.
The HEXA Core UAD plug in processing is another big win. With six DSP chips inside, you can run real time plug ins without worrying about lag. You also get a large bundle of UAD plug ins, which adds a lot of value and gives you plenty of tools to shape your sound.
We also like the Unison enabled mic preamps. They let you record through different preamp emulations with very low latency, which makes it feel like you have several classic studio preamps built right into one unit.
There are a couple of things to think about. The LUNA Recording System works only on Mac, so PC users will miss out on that feature. And even though the interface feels premium overall, the plastic knobs might feel a little cheap to some people.
If you want a high end rack mount interface that delivers amazing clarity and strong processing power, the Universal Audio Apollo x8p Heritage Edition is a great choice. It is an investment, but it gives you professional quality sound and a setup that can handle serious projects.
If you want to explore more of UA’s lineup, you can also look at this deeper review of the UAD Apollo Solo, which breaks down what makes their smaller desktop unit so popular. And if you're unsure which model fits your workflow best, this guide on which UAD Apollo interface is right for you compares the full Apollo family in an easy-to-follow way.
PreSonus Quantum 2626
Pros
- Lightning-fast Thunderbolt 3
- Crystal-clear XMAX preamps
- Expandable to 26 inputs/outputs
Cons
- Requires Thunderbolt 3 compatibility
- Some users had initial setup issues
- Limited to 8 mic pres
The PreSonus Quantum 2626 is a great pick if you want speed. Its Thunderbolt 3 connection gives you extremely low latency, which makes real time monitoring and recording feel smooth and natural.
You get eight XMAX mic preamps that sound clean and transparent. Vocals, guitars, and other instruments all come through with solid detail, which helps you get better results right from the start.
If you need more channels in the future, the Quantum 2626 can grow with you. It expands to 26 inputs and outputs through ADAT Optical, so you can add more gear without replacing your main interface.
Just make sure your system supports Thunderbolt 3. A few users had minor setup issues in the beginning, but once it is running, it performs very well. And while it comes with eight mic preamps, which is enough for most home studios, bigger sessions might need extra preamps.
If you want to upgrade your studio with fast performance and clean sound, the PreSonus Quantum 2626 is a strong choice. As long as your setup can handle Thunderbolt 3, you will be ready to go.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Rack Mount Audio Interface
Inputs and Outputs
Start by looking at how many inputs and outputs you actually need. A singer songwriter may only need a few. A full band or a more complex setup will need more. Make a simple list of what you plan to record, then compare it with what each interface offers.
When you're comparing inputs, outputs, preamps, and expandability, it’s easy to confuse an interface with a mixer. If you're unsure which one fits your workflow, this audio interface vs mixer comparison breaks down the differences clearly.
Sample Rate and Bit Depth
Higher sample rates and bit depths can give you better audio quality, but they also take up more storage. For most home studios, 16 bit and 44.1 kHz is enough. If you want more detail or you work on professional projects, 24 bit and 96 kHz or higher is a great choice.
Preamp Quality
Strong preamps make a big difference in the clarity of your recordings. They boost the signal from your mics and instruments so your tracks stay clean. It helps to read reviews and see what fits your budget while still giving you good sound.
Connectivity Options
Check how the interface connects to your computer. USB is the most common option and works for most setups. Thunderbolt offers faster speeds and lower latency, which is great if you want smooth real time recording.
Latency
Latency is the delay between playing a sound and hearing it back. It can get in the way when recording. Look for interfaces known for low latency and stable drivers so your sessions feel responsive.
Expandability
Think about the future. If you plan to add more gear, choose an interface with ADAT or other digital connections. This gives you room to grow without replacing your whole setup.
Price
Set a budget and try to stick to it. Look for the best balance of sound quality, features, and cost. A more expensive model is not always the best choice if you will not use everything it offers.
When you keep these points in mind, it becomes much easier to find a rack mount audio interface that fits your needs and your studio. A little research and planning can help you make a choice you will feel great about.
Final Thoughts
Finding the right rack mount audio interface comes down to what works best for your music and your studio. Every setup is different, so it helps to think about your workflow, how much room you have to grow, and what features matter most to you.
From the models we explored, the Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen stands out as the best overall choice for most people. It offers great sound quality, plenty of inputs and outputs, and solid reliability, which makes it easy to use in both small and growing studios.
We also shared a few tips and personal insights along the way, and we hope they help you feel more confident in choosing the interface that fits your goals. If you have any questions or want to share your own experience, feel free to drop a comment. You can also join our newsletter or follow us on social if you want more updates and guides.
Music tech keeps moving forward, and staying informed can make a big difference in your recordings. Let’s keep learning and creating together.
If you want to explore more options, check out our guide on the Best Cheap Audio Interfaces. It is a great way to upgrade your studio on a budget.