Best 8 Channel Audio Interfaces: 2024 Update!

(Last Updated On: June 28, 2023)

If you’re considering buying an 8-channel audio interface, you’re probably at a point in your production where things are getting more complex, and you need a solid, high-quality interface to get the job done. There are many high-quality 8-channel audio interfaces on the market built and designed by the most reputable audio companies in the world.

And considering there are likely dozens upon dozens of interfaces to choose from, how do you determine which one will best serve your needs? Fortunately, we’ve done the legwork of limiting these choices and selected the top 8 audio interfaces that will undoubtedly improve your recordings.

Whether you’re looking for an affordable, industry-standard audio interface or a high-end, more expensive one designed for professional recording studios, we’ve got you covered.

Best 8 Channel Audio Interfaces [Product Reviews]

These highly versatile interfaces allow for simultaneous multi-track recording, making them ideal for recording bands, drum kits, ensembles, and multi-instrumentalists. Let’s start with the winner on our list, the Universal Audio Apollo x8 Heritage Edition.

1. Universal Audio Apollo x8 Heritage Edition

The UA Apollo x8 Heritage Edition is a powerful 8-channel audio interface that delivers warm and pristine sound, powered by Unison technology that is ideal for professional recording and mixing.

Main features/specifications:

• Four Unison-enabled preamps.
• 24-bit/192 kHz A/D and D/A conversion with 129dB dynamic range.
• 6-Core HEXA core processing.
• Thunderbolt connectivity.
• 2 headphone outputs.
• Complete plug-in collections from Teletronix,® Fairchild,® Pultec,® Helios,® and UA.
• 4 XLR (mic/line), 2 1/4″ (Hi-Z), and 8 1/4″ (line) analog inputs. 2 1/4″ (monitor), and 8 1/4″ analog outputs.
• 1 (S/PDIF) and 2 (ADAT/SMUX) digital inputs and outputs.
• Compatible with Mac and PC.

Pros:

• Great build quality.
• Unison-enabled mic preamps for powerful, realistic, clear, high-quality sound.
• Zero latency.
• Easy to use.
• Smooth workflow.
• Features several high-end free plugins.

Cons:

• Expensive.

If you’re looking for an 8-channel audio interface, go no further than the Apollo x8 Heritage Edition. Eight Unison-enabled mic preamps, six-core real-time UAD processing, and a suite of vintage analog emulation plugins from companies like Teletronix, Pultec, and Helios are just a few of the features that will elevate your productions and help you create professional-quality sounds.

2. Focusrite Clarett 8Pre

The Focusrite Clarett 8Pre audio interface is the third and last interface in the “Clarett range” by Focusrite. It is a powerful and extremely effective interface that delivers exceptional results with nearly zero latency.

Main features/specifications:

• 24-bit/192 kHz A/D and D/A conversion for maximum performance and pristine sound.
• Eight Clarett⁺ preamps with “Air mode.”
• 8 XLR-1/4″ combo (mic/line) analog inputs and 10 1/4″ (line) outputs.
• 1 (S/PDIF) and 2 (ADAT/SMUX) digital inputs and outputs.
• 2 headphone outputs.
• Super-low latency.
• Low noise and high SPL capability of 118dB.
• Compatible with Mac and PC.
• Exclusive software bundle from Focusrite.
• 3-month subscription to Avid Pro Tools Artist.
• Access to Ableton Live Lite.

Pros:

• Affordable.
• Great build quality.
• High-quality preamps that deliver powerful and pristine sound.
• Easy to use.
• Super low latency and distortion.
• Focusrite AIR mode.
• Easy connectivity.

Cons:

• None.

As far as 8-channel audio interfaces go, the Focusrite Clarett 8Pre is among the best you’ll find at any price point. Its eight Clarett preamps and updated A/D and D/A converters guarantee that your recordings will sound crisp, clear, and powerful.

3. Behringer U-PHORIA UMC1820

The Behringer U-PHORIA UMC1820 is a fantastic budget audio interface that is surprisingly packed with features for its price. It’s one of the best home studio audio interfaces you can find on the market.

Main features/specifications:

• 24-bit/96 kHz A/D and D/A conversion for maximum performance and pristine sound.
• Eight Midas preamps.
• 8 XLR-1/4″ combo analog inputs. 2 1/4″ TRS (main out) and 8 1/4″ TRS (line out) analog outputs.
• 1 Coax (S/PDIF) and 1 Toslink (ADAT) digital inputs and outputs.
• 2 headphone outputs.
• Nearly zero latency.
• Compatible with Mac and PC.

Pros:

• Pretty affordable.
• Great sound quality.
• Loads of digital inputs and outputs.
• Easy to use.
• Super low latency.
• Easy connectivity.
• Surprisingly versatile for the price.

Cons:

• Build quality is okay.

The U-PHORIA UMC1820 excels as a low-cost audio interface without sacrificing quality. It offers high-quality Midas-designed preamps, +48V phantom power, I/O support for S/PDIF, S/MUX, and ADAT formats, 18 inputs and 20 outputs, and 24-bit/96kHz converters guaranteeing an accurate and crystal-clear sound.

4. Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen

Who hasn’t heard of the Scarlett series by Focusrite? Scarlett is one of the most popular and well-respected audio interfaces in the audio world and is often the first interface an aspiring producer invests in.

Main features/specifications:

• 24-bit/192 kHz A/D and D/A conversion for maximum performance and pristine sound.
• Eight Scarlett⁺ preamps with “Air mode.”
• 2 XLR-1/4″ combo (mic/ Hi-Z) and 6 XLR-1/4″ combo (mic/line) analog inputs. 10 1/4″ (line) outputs.
• 1 (S/PDIF) and 2 (ADAT/SMUX) digital inputs and outputs.
• 2 headphone outputs.
• Super-low latency and noise.
• Word Clock Out.
• Virtual loopback.
• Compatible with Mac and PC.
• Exclusive software bundle from Focusrite.
• 3-month subscription to Avid Pro Tools Artist and Splice Sounds.
• Access to Ableton Live Lite.

Pros:

• Affordable.
• Great build quality.
• Slick design.
• High-quality preamps that deliver powerful and pristine sound.
• Easy to use.
• Super low latency and distortion.
• Focusrite AIR mode.

Cons:

• None.

The Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen has quickly become a favorite among audio professionals and home studio producers due to its versatility, ease of use, and excellent build quality. Additionally, it provides incredible sound quality at a very affordable price, giving you tremendous value for your money.

5. RME Fireface UCX II

When it comes to creating professional-quality music, nothing beats the RME Fireface UCX II audio interface. It’s an upgraded version of the original Fireface UCX that is highly versatile in compact form.

Main features/specifications:

• 24-bit/192 kHz A/D and D/A conversion for maximum performance and pristine sound.
• Two mic/line preamps.
• 2 1/4″ (line/instrument), 2 XLR-1/4″ combo (mic/line), and 4 1/4″ (line) analog inputs. 6 1/4″ (line) outputs.
• 1 Optical Toslink (ADAT) and S/PDIF digital input and output.
• 1 headphone output.
• Super-low latency.
• Word Clock Out.
• Compatible with Mac and PC.
• Exclusive DigiCheck and TotalMix FX software.
• 3-month subscription to Antares Autotune Unlimited

Pros:

• Great build quality.
• High-quality sound.
• Compact design.
• Easy to use.
• Super low latency and distortion.
• Highly versatile with plenty of I/O.
• Stand-alone functionality.

Cons:

• Expensive.
• Only 2 preamps and 1 headphone port.

The RME Fireface UCX II is a powerful, intuitive, and easy-to-use audio interface. It offers a sturdy design, excellent sound quality with nearly zero latency, free software for mixing and monitoring, and a whopping 40 channels for recording and playback.

6. MOTU 8pre-es

The MOTU 8pre-es is an upgraded version of the 8pre but with a slightly higher price tag reflecting its additional features and capabilities. It is known for its transparent sound and a durable all-metal body.

Main features/specifications:

• 24-bit/192 kHz A/D and D/A conversion for maximum performance and pristine sound.
• Eight mic/line preamps.
• Dynamic range of 123dB.
• 8 XLR-1/4″ combo analog inputs. 8 1/4″ (line) outputs.
• 1 Optical Toslink (ADAT) digital input and output.
• Onboard DSP Effects.
• Time code support.
• 2 headphone outputs.
• Super-low latency.
• Built-in Talkback Mic.
• Compatible with Mac and PC.
• AudioDesk® workstation software.

Pros:

• Robust metal build quality.
• High-quality sound.
• Excellent ESS Sabre32™ DAC technology converters.
• Easy to use.
• Almost zero latency.
• Highly versatile with plenty of I/O. 

Cons:

• A bit expensive.
• No S/PDIF or Word Clock.

The MOTU 8pre-es is an excellent choice if you’re looking to upgrade your studio. It is highly versatile and offers extensive routing options, built-in DSP effects, and high-quality converters and preamps, producing a transparent sound with almost zero latency.

7. Roland OCTA-CAPTURE

The OCTA-CAPTURE is a superb audio interface by Roland with top-notch driver technology, extremely low latency, and versatile routing, making it ideal for recording vocals and instruments in a studio or live setting.

Main features/specifications:

• 24-bit/192 kHz A/D and D/A conversion for maximum performance and pristine sound.
• Eight preamps. (VS PREAMP)
• 2 Combo (Mic/Hi-Z) and 6 Combo (Mic/Line) analog inputs. 2 TRS (Main), 6 TRS, and 1 TRS (Headphones) analog outputs.
• 1 S/PDIF (Coax) digital input and output.
• Super-low latency (VS STREAMING driver.)
• AUTO-SENS function.
• 4 software-controlled Direct Mixers.
• Compatible with Mac and PC.
• Ableton Live Lite software.

 Pros:

• Affordable.
• High-quality and transparent sound.
• Solid build quality.
• Easy to use.
• Almost zero latency.
• Highly versatile with plenty of I/O.

Cons:

• No ADAT or MIDI connectivity.
• The headphone amp isn’t powerful enough.

Don’t be fooled by the low price tag of this interface. Even though some users may be disappointed that it does not have built-in effects or a MIDI connection, it is still a great option for professional audio production and mixing.

8. PreSonus Studio 1824c

If you’re a producer looking for a flexible, feature-packed, and powerful audio interface, go no further than the PreSonus Studio 1824c. Due to its high-quality audio and flexible routing options, it’s a great and affordable choice for recording and mixing.

Main features/specifications:

• 24-bit/192 kHz A/D and D/A conversion for maximum performance and pristine sound.
• Eight XMAX preamps.
• Super-low latency.
• 2 XLR-1/4″ combo (mic/line/Hi-Z) and 6 XLR (mic/line) analog inputs. 8 1/4″ TRS (line) and 2 1/4″ (main out) analog outputs.
• 1 Optical (ADAT) and 1 Coax (S/PDIF) digital input and output.
• 2 headphone outputs.
• Word Clock Out.
• LED metering.
• Compatible with Mac and PC.
• Studio One Artist and UC Surface software.

Pros:

• Affordable.
• High-quality sound.
• Easy to use.
• Low latency.
• Highly versatile.

Cons:

• No onboard DSP.
• Might run into static noise issues.

The Studio 1824c is one of PreSonus’ most versatile audio interfaces. It definitely packs a lot of punch for such a compact design, making it the ideal choice for anybody looking for a high-quality and stylish audio interface.

Buying Guide

When buying an 8-channel audio interface, there are several important factors to consider. Let’s look at the most important ones:

1. Number of Analog Inputs and Outputs

Naturally, if you’re looking for an 8-channel audio interface, you’ll want to verify the number of analog inputs the interface offers. The interface needs to include at least eight analog XLR/TRS combo inputs so you may connect your microphones and instruments and enjoy your multitrack recording.

2. Sound Quality

The second step is to select an interface with high-quality preamps and converters that will allow you to capture your performances with maximum clarity and accuracy.

Check the interface’s technical specifications to see if it supports a resolution of up to 24-bit/192kHz. You can also find resolutions up to 24-bit/96kHz and 24-bit/48kHz. However, the higher sampling rates and bit depths, the less noise and distortion your interface will provide, and the more accurately the analog signal will be represented, resulting in a higher-quality digital recording.

3. Compatibility

The next thing to consider is to check if the audio interface is compatible with your computer. You’ll want to ensure sure your computer has USB, Thunderbolt, or FireWire ports so that you can connect the audio interface. If you don’t know how to connect audio interface with computer? check out here!

Most computers/laptops will have these ports, but it never hurts to double-check. You’ll also want to make sure that the audio interface is compatible with your operating system (macOS, Windows, etc.) and the recording software you intend to use. (Ableton Live, Pro Tools, etc.)

4. Latency

The term “latency” is used to describe the lag or delay that occurs between an audio signal entering the interface and the output of that signal. In other terms, latency refers to the time it takes for a musician to hear their voice through the speakers or headphones after singing into a microphone.

When making music, it’s best to have as little latency as possible so that the musicians may play comfortably and accurately while being monitored. It will be more challenging to perform in time if the latency is too high, affecting the overall quality of the performance.

The computer’s processing power, the rate at which the interface’s converters process the signal, and the buffer size, all have an impact on the latency. 

Try to aim for a latency of 3ms or less if you want to have a smooth workflow while recording and performing live.

5. Frequency Response

The audible range for a human being is around 20 Hz to 20 kHz. So you’d want to look for an interface with a frequency response of 20Hz-20kHz or even wider to capture and reproduce audio signals within the range of human hearing. This will result in an accurate and clear reproduction of audio signals.

If the frequency range isn’t wide enough, sounds can be too bright or dull or lacking in clarity and depth in specific frequency ranges, which is extremely challenging while producing and mixing music.

6. Durability

When shopping for an audio interface, you should prioritize products with high build quality and durability to ensure the device serves you well for many years to come.

Whether you’re using your interface in a recording studio or on the road with a band, an audio interface may be subjected to heavy use, constant transportation, and even extreme weather conditions. An interface that is poorly made or easily destroyed may not be able to handle this level of use and will likely experience technical difficulties or malfunction, which can interrupt recording sessions or live performances and result in expensive repairs.

So it’s crucial to avoid audio interfaces made with cheap materials such as plastic and look for well-built and durable ones, preferably all-metal or with metal casings.

7. Budget

When looking for an audio interface, it’s important to consider your budget, as there are many options available in every price range.

In general, more expensive interfaces typically come with more features, greater build quality, and better sound quality. But just because you might not have a large budget doesn’t mean you can’t find a great audio interface that meets your requirements. There are many excellent interfaces available at a wide range of prices that will produce professional-sounding recordings, so don’t worry too much about the cost.

FAQs

What interface is better than Scarlett?

It's up to you and your budget to determine what audio interface would work best for you. The Clarett series, which is also made by Focusrite, offers a step up in quality from the Scarlett and could be an option if you have the means. There are also many other well-known brands available, such as PreSonus, Universal Audio, and Apogee.

Is PreSonus better than Focusrite?

Both PreSonus and Focusrite are known for producing high-quality and dependable audio interfaces. While Focusrite is known for its high-quality preamps and converters, PreSonus is recognized for its vast variety of connectivity options, such as MIDI I/O, that some Focusrite interfaces seem to lack. Ultimately, it's up to your preferences to determine which option is ideal.

What audio interface has the best audio quality?

There are several audio interfaces that offer pristine audio quality. We mentioned many of them today, including the Universal Audio Apollo x8 Heritage Edition, Focusrite Clarett 8Pre, and RME Fireface UCX II. Feel free to browse these companies’ websites to look for the best audio interface in that line or series.

Conclusion

To sum up, there are many excellent 8-channel audio interfaces on the market that come with great and versatile features designed to help you record high-quality productions from multiple audio sources. However, finding the perfect audio interface depends on your needs, budget, and preferences.

For example, When recording an entire band or orchestra, it’s helpful to have access to as many inputs and outputs as possible; certain audio interfaces provide this more comprehensively than others. In comparison, some audio interfaces feature more powerful preamps and converters, producing a more accurate and clear sound. Therefore, it all depends on your preferences.

We’ve selected the top 8-channel audio interfaces available today, spanning a wide range of prices, all of which are guaranteed to make your workflow smoother and easier while delivering pristine sound. Feel free to pick any of the interfaces we recommended based on your needs. We’re confident you won’t be disappointed with any of them.