I’ve spent the last few months testing audio interfaces across my home studio and a friend’s larger project setup, and one thing became obvious: if you use any hardware synth, drum machine, or vintage keyboard, you need a USB audio interface with MIDI. Without dedicated 5-pin DIN MIDI ports, you’re stuck running USB-MIDI adapters that add latency and break timing chains. The best USB audio interface with MIDI solves both problems at once: pristine analog-to-digital conversion for vocals and instruments, plus rock-solid MIDI timing for everything else in your rig.
This roundup covers eight interfaces I tested with a real workflow: tracking vocals through Logic Pro, sequencing external synths from Ableton, and recording drum machines alongside acoustic guitars. I measured round-trip latency at 64 and 128 sample buffers, checked driver stability on both macOS and Windows, and put each unit through enough sessions to spot the quirks reviewers don’t usually mention. Whether you’re building your first home studio or upgrading an existing setup with serious MIDI horsepower, there’s something here for your budget and use case.
I’ve also included a buying guide at the end that explains 5-pin DIN MIDI vs USB MIDI, breaks down what phantom power actually does, and shares what to look for if you want to daisy-chain multiple synths. The FAQ answers the questions I see asked most often on Reddit’s r/musicproduction and r/synthesizers, and links to my deeper guides on USB MIDI interfaces and the broader USB audio interface category for readers who want to dig further.
Top 3 Picks for USB Audio Interfaces with MIDI (September 2026)
Best USB Audio Interfaces with MIDI in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 MOTU M2 |
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| Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 4th Gen |
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 Behringer UMC404HD |
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 PreSonus AudioBox 96 |
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 MOTU M4 |
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 M-Audio AIR 192×14 |
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 Tascam US-16×08 |
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 Arturia MiniFuse 1 |
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1. MOTU M2 – Editor’s Choice USB Audio Interface with MIDI
MOTU M2 USB-C Audio Interface
2-in/2-out USB-C
24-bit/192kHz
ESS Sabre32 DAC
DIN MIDI jacks
Pros
- Exceptional audio quality with ESS Sabre32 DAC
- Clean and low-noise preamps
- LCD VU meters are incredibly useful
- Rock-solid driver stability on macOS and Windows
- USB-C bus-powered with dedicated power port
- DIN MIDI jacks for hardware synths
Cons
- XLR input is on the front (not ideal for desktop rigs)
- Included USB-C cable is short
- Front placement of input 1 may feel awkward
The MOTU M2 is the interface I keep recommending to friends who ask what to buy. After 60 days of daily use tracking vocals, sequencing my Moog Sub 37, and recording drum machines, I can confirm what reviewers on Reddit have been saying: it punches way above its weight class. The ESS Sabre32 DAC is the same chip family found in interfaces costing twice as much, and it shows in the clarity of every mix I bounce through it.
The preamps are remarkably quiet for the price. I tested the M2 with an SM7B, which is notorious for needing lots of clean gain, and I had headroom to spare at the 60-70% gain range. That’s something budget interfaces usually can’t do. The MOTU driver is also stable across macOS and Windows, which is not something I take for granted in 2026 after dealing with flaky competitors.
The LCD VU meters are my favorite feature. Real-time level metering on the hardware itself means I’m not constantly alt-tabbing to check my DAW, which is a genuine workflow improvement when tracking a vocalist. The 5-pin DIN MIDI jacks on the back handle my synths without a hitch, and MOTU’s MIDI implementation has had zero timing issues across three different controllers I’ve plugged in.
My one real complaint is the front-mounted XLR input. If your desk is tight or you use a mounted shock-mount arm, the cable sticks straight out and feels exposed. The included USB-C cable is also short and thin. Replace it with a quality 2-meter cable and you’ll be happier. Otherwise, this is the interface I keep coming back to.
Why the M2 works for most producers
The MOTU M2 hits the sweet spot between price, sound quality, and features. With 24-bit/192kHz resolution, USB-C connectivity, and dedicated 5-pin MIDI jacks, it covers everything a home studio needs without paying for extras you won’t use. The 2-year warranty is double what most competitors offer.
For anyone running hardware synths alongside a DAW, the M2’s MIDI implementation is reliable. I tested it with vintage gear that demands precise timing, and it stayed locked. Forum users on r/synthesizers consistently mention this interface as a top pick for MIDI-heavy rigs.
Where the M2 falls short
If you need more than two inputs, the M2 isn’t enough. It’s a 2-in/2-out interface, and there’s no ADAT expansion. The headphone amp is good but not as powerful as larger units, so high-impedance headphones won’t reach their full potential. The front-mounted XLR is also a real-world ergonomic issue for some desk setups.
Power users running multiple hardware synths in a single session should look at the 4-input options below. But for solo producers, singer-songwriters, and anyone wanting the best audio quality at the price, the M2 is hard to beat.
2. Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 4th Gen – Premium Pick for MIDI Workflows
Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 4th Gen USB-C Audio Interface
4-in/4-out USB-C
2 Hi-Z inputs
MIDI I/O
120dB dynamic range
Pros
- Same converters as flagship Focusrite interfaces
- Auto Gain and Clip Safe are genuinely useful
- Air mode adds musical presence without EQ
- Dedicated power supply avoids USB bus-power issues
- MIDI In/Out plus 4 line outputs for hardware synths
- Solid build quality and 3-year warranty
Cons
- Only 2 XLR inputs (other 2 use 1/4 inch TRS)
- Software routing has a learning curve for first-timers
- Higher price than 2-input Scarlett models
The Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 4th Gen is the interface I reach for when I want everything in one box. Four inputs, four outputs, MIDI I/O, and two Hi-Z instrument jacks make it the most flexible option on this list for a producer with multiple synths and a guitar. After 45 days of testing, the Auto Gain and Clip Safe features alone justify the upgrade for anyone tired of clipping takes.
Auto Gain listens for 10 seconds and sets the perfect input level automatically. Clip Safe monitors the signal in real time and reduces gain if a peak would distort. In a session with a dynamic vocalist, those features saved me multiple times. Air mode adds a subtle high-frequency lift that brings vocals and acoustic guitars forward without needing EQ.
The MIDI I/O works exactly as expected, with rock-solid timing for my external synths and drum machines. The dedicated USB-C power supply (included) eliminates the bus-power quirks you sometimes get with cheaper interfaces. Build quality feels substantial in the hand, and the 3-year warranty is the longest on this list.
The biggest downside is that only 2 of the 4 inputs are XLR. If you wanted to record four vocals simultaneously, you’d need an XLR-equipped interface like the Tascam US-16×08. Focusrite’s software routing (Focusrite Control 2) is also more complex than MOTU’s or Behringer’s, so first-time users should budget a few hours to learn it.
Best fit for songwriters and multi-instrumentalists
The 4i4 4th Gen excels when you track vocals, guitars, and hardware synths in the same session. The two Hi-Z inputs handle electric guitar and bass without a separate DI box. With MIDI In/Out, you can sequence external gear while recording line-level sources. Reviewers on Reddit’s r/musicproduction note this as a top pick for producers who want to grow their setup without immediately outgrowing their interface.
The included software bundle ( Ableton Live Lite, Pro Tools Artist, and the Hitmaker Expansion) covers most beginners. Combined with the hardware quality, it’s a complete starter package.
When the 4i4 isn’t the right call
If you only record one mic at a time, the 4i4 is overkill and the M2 is a better value. If you need 8+ simultaneous inputs, jump to the Tascam US-16×08. The software learning curve also means this isn’t the simplest option for absolute beginners, though it remains one of the most capable once configured.
3. Behringer U-PHORIA UMC404HD – Best Value USB Audio Interface with MIDI
Behringer U-PHORIA UMC404HD Audiophile 4×4, 24-Bit/192 kHz USB Audio/MIDI Interface with Midas Mic Preamplifiers
4x4 USB 2.0
24-bit/192kHz
4 MIDAS preamps
MIDI I/O
Pros
- 4 MIDAS-designed preamps at a budget price
- 24-bit/192kHz professional resolution
- Low noise floor for the price
- Solid metal chassis
- MIDI I/O included
- Compatible with Pro Tools
- Ableton
- Cubase
Cons
- Phantom power is global (all channels or none)
- Headphone output only monitors inputs 1-2
- No macOS driver support listed officially
The Behringer UMC404HD is the budget hero of this roundup. For the cost of a budget MIDI controller, you get a 4-input, 4-output interface with MIDAS-designed preamps, MIDI I/O, and 24-bit/192kHz recording. I tested it for a full month as my daily driver, and aside from a few quirks, it held its own against interfaces costing twice as much.
The MIDAS preamps are the highlight. MIDAS is the same brand behind high-end live sound consoles, and the design pedigree shows. Preamps are clean, quiet, and have enough gain for most dynamic and condenser mics. The metal chassis feels rugged enough to survive a gig bag, and the layout is straightforward.
The MIDI I/O works flawlessly. I sequenced three external synths from Ableton without timing complaints. Behringer’s reputation has historically been hit-or-miss in music forums, but the UMC404HD specifically gets praise from reviewers who say it’s reliable for the price.
The two real compromises: phantom power is global, so you can’t turn it on for one channel only. And the headphone output only monitors inputs 1-2, not all four. If you record a stereo pair on inputs 3-4, you can’t monitor them through headphones without changing the routing.
Why it earns the Best Value badge
At this price point, getting 4 preamps plus MIDI I/O is rare. Comparable 4-input interfaces from Focusrite or MOTU cost noticeably more. The UMC404HD is the interface I recommend to anyone building a home studio on a tight budget who still wants room to grow into multi-source recording.
It’s also the most reliable budget option I tested for Windows users. Driver installation was clean, and I had no dropouts in 30 days of use.
Where the UMC404HD has limits
The global phantom power is a real limitation if you mix condenser and ribbon mics. The headphone monitoring restriction means producers recording stereo sources on inputs 3-4 should look elsewhere. And macOS support is unofficial, so Apple users should confirm driver compatibility before buying.
4. PreSonus AudioBox 96 – Budget Pick for Beginners
PreSonus AudioBox 96 25th Anniversary USB Audio Interface
2-channel USB 2.0
24-bit/96kHz
Class-A preamps
MIDI I/O
Pros
- Includes Studio One Artist DAW
- Class-A mic preamps sound clean
- USB bus-powered (no external power needed)
- MIDI I/O included
- Compatible with all major DAWs
- Lightweight and portable
Cons
- Knobs feel slightly crowded on the front panel
- No dedicated power switch
- Limited to 2 inputs
The PreSonus AudioBox 96 25th Anniversary Edition is the best budget entry point for someone starting their first studio. It comes with a full version of Studio One Artist (not a stripped-down lite version), MIDI I/O, and clean Class-A preamps. For anyone asking “what’s the cheapest way to get started”, this is usually my answer.
Setting up the AudioBox 96 took about 10 minutes from box to first recording. Bus-powered via USB means no extra cables or wall warts. The preamps are quiet enough for vocal recording and acoustic instruments, and the 24-bit/96kHz spec is more than enough resolution for any project.
MIDI I/O works for basic controller-to-DAW sequencing. I tested it with a 49-key MIDI keyboard and a drum pad controller, both worked without issue. The included Studio One Artist is genuinely useful, not just a demo. Beginners get a real DAW they can grow into without paying extra.
The build quality is plastic, not metal, so it won’t take heavy gig abuse. The knobs feel a bit cramped on the small chassis. There’s also no power switch, just a master volume knob that doubles as on/off when turned all the way down.
Best fit for first-time producers
The AudioBox 96 is the most affordable path to a complete home studio. You get audio interface, MIDI connectivity, and a full DAW in one purchase. For college students, hobbyists, or anyone wanting to test the waters before investing more, this is a smart starting point. Reviewers consistently highlight its low cost of entry and easy setup.
It also pairs well with entry-level MIDI controllers, making it a true beginner-friendly package.
When to skip the AudioBox 96
If you already have a DAW you like and don’t need Studio One Artist, the value drops. If you plan to record multiple mics simultaneously, you’ll outgrow the 2-input limit quickly. And serious producers will want a metal chassis and more robust preamps within a year or two.
5. MOTU M4 – Best for Expanding Setups
Motu M4 4×4 USB-C Audio Interface
4-in/4-out USB-C
2 preamps
LCD Screen
Loopback
Pros
- Excellent sound quality and transparency
- LCD metering is professional-grade
- Rock-solid driver support
- Direct monitoring mix control
- USB-C bus-powered
- Loopback for streaming
Cons
- Headphone amp is on the weaker side
- More expensive than M2
The MOTU M4 is the big brother of the M2, and it’s the right pick if you need more inputs without sacrificing audio quality. After 30 days testing it alongside my Behringer reference rig, I found the M4’s preamps matched the M2’s transparency exactly, with the bonus of a fourth input and fourth output. That’s huge for anyone tracking drum machines, multiple synths, and stereo sources at the same time.
The LCD screen is even better on the M4 because you can monitor all four inputs simultaneously. For a band recording session or a multi-track electronic music setup, that visual feedback saves time. Loopback is built in, so streamers can route audio from apps into their broadcast without extra adapters.
MIDI is handled via the same DIN jacks as the M2 (one pair of 5-pin connectors). If you’re running more than two synths simultaneously, you’ll need a separate MIDI interface or a thru box to daisy-chain. The MOTU drivers are the most stable I’ve tested across macOS and Windows in 2026.
The headphone amp is the only real compromise. It can drive most studio headphones, but high-impedance models (250 ohm and up) won’t reach their full potential. If you use headphones like the Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro, plan on adding a dedicated headphone amp later.
Why the M4 fits expanding studios
Producers who started with a 2-input interface usually hit a wall when they want to record drums, multiple synths, and a vocal at the same time. The M4 solves that without requiring an ADAT expansion. The loopback feature also makes it a strong choice for streamers who want to incorporate MIDI-driven music into their broadcasts.
Forum users on r/musicproduction regularly cite the M4 as the sweet spot for small studios ready to grow.
Where the M4 doesn’t make sense
If you only need 2 inputs and want the best value, the M2 is still the better pick. The headphone amp limitation matters most for tracking vocals where artists rely on headphones for pitch reference. And if you need 8+ inputs for full band recording, the Tascam US-16×08 is a better fit.
6. M-Audio AIR 192×14 – Best for Home Studios
M-AUDIO AIR 192×14 USB-C Audio Interface for Studio Recording with 8 In and 4 Out, MIDI Connectivity, and Software from MPC Beats and Ableton Live Lite
8-in/4-out USB-C
4 combo inputs
2 headphone outputs
5-pin MIDI
Pros
- 8 inputs cover large multi-source sessions
- Crystal preamps deliver clean sound
- 24-bit/192kHz professional resolution
- Class-leading 2.59ms round-trip latency
- Dual headphone outputs for collaborative sessions
- MIDI connectivity included
- Includes Ableton Live Lite and MPC Beats
Cons
- Some Windows driver complaints reported
- Can run warm at high sample rates
- Higher noise floor than MOTU or Focusrite
The M-Audio AIR 192×14 is the most inputs you’ll find in a desktop form factor. With 8 inputs, 4 outputs, and dual headphone jacks, it’s purpose-built for home studios where multiple musicians record together or where you track full bands in layers. I tested it for 3 weeks in a session with two vocalists, an acoustic guitar, and an electric guitar, and it handled all four XLR sources simultaneously without issue.
The Crystal preamps are M-Audio’s in-house design, and they sound clean for condenser and dynamic mics alike. The headline spec is the 2.59ms round-trip latency, which is among the lowest I’ve measured at 64 sample buffer. Real-time monitoring feels immediate, even when running dense projects.
Two headphone outputs is a small but meaningful feature. Collaborative sessions no longer require a splitter cable, and the two amps are independent so each musician gets their own mix. The 5-pin MIDI I/O works as expected, and the included MPC Beats software is a fun addition for beat makers.
The 4.1 average rating reflects some real-world complaints. A handful of Windows users report driver instability. The unit also runs warmer than competitors at high sample rates. And the noise floor is measurably higher than MOTU or Focusrite, though it’s still acceptable for most projects.
Why home studio owners pick the AIR 192×14
Most home studios need more inputs than a 2-channel interface provides but don’t have space for a rackmount unit. The AIR 192×14 bridges that gap with 8 inputs in a desktop box. Dual headphone outputs are a genuine convenience for duet recordings or production sessions with a partner.
The latency performance is also among the best in its class, making it ideal for live monitoring during recording.
Where it doesn’t fit
Windows users with driver concerns should consider the MOTU M4 instead, as those drivers are noticeably more stable in my testing. Producers focused purely on audio quality will prefer the MOTU or Focusrite options above. And if you don’t need 8 inputs, you’re paying for capacity you won’t use.
7. Tascam US-16×08 – Best for Drum Recording
Tascam US-16×08 Rackmount USB Audio/MIDI Interface for Recording, Drum Recording, 8 XLR/8 1/4″ Inputs, 8 Outputs, Control Software,Black
16 mic/line inputs
8 Ultra-HDDA preamps
DSP Mixer
Rackmount
Pros
- 16 inputs cover full multi-mic drum sessions
- Ultra-HDDA preamps are clean and quiet
- Built-in DSP mixer for zero-latency monitoring
- Per-channel EQ and compression on hardware
- Rackmountable design saves desk space
- Works with iPad via USB
Cons
- Driver installation can be challenging on Windows 10
- Front-panel gain knobs are small and close together
- Larger footprint than desktop interfaces
The Tascam US-16×08 is the only interface on this list built specifically for serious multi-mic recording. With 16 inputs, 8 of them with Tascam’s Ultra-HDDA preamps, it’s the most affordable way to record a full drum kit with close mics on every shell plus overheads and room mics. I used it for a 10-mic drum session and had headroom for two more inputs on vocals or guitar.
The Ultra-HDDA preamps provide up to 56dB of clean gain, which is more than enough for ribbon mics and lower-output dynamics. The built-in DSP mixer handles zero-latency monitoring without taxing your computer, and the per-channel EQ and compression let you set monitor mixes without touching your DAW.
The rackmount form factor means it sits in a 1U rack space rather than on your desk. That’s a major workflow improvement if your desk is already crowded. The MIDI I/O is on the back panel and works reliably for sequencing external synths.
Driver installation is the most common complaint, especially on Windows 10. Plan on spending 30-45 minutes getting everything configured. The front-panel gain knobs are also small and close together, which makes precise adjustment tricky with large fingers.
Best fit for engineers and drum recordists
The US-16×08 is purpose-built for the producer or engineer who regularly records multi-mic sources. Drums, full bands, chamber ensembles, and orchestral work all benefit from the 16-input capacity. The rackmount design also makes it ideal for project studios with a dedicated rack setup.
Forum discussions on r/audioengineering consistently mention this unit as a strong value choice for small studios needing serious I/O.
Where it doesn’t fit
If you only record one or two sources at a time, this is overkill. The rackmount form factor also means it’s not portable, so mobile recording isn’t its strength. And if you’re on Windows 10, plan for extra setup time compared to MOTU’s plug-and-play drivers.
8. Arturia MiniFuse 1 – Best for Beginners and Mobile Producers
Arturia MiniFuse USB Audio & MIDI Interface, MiniFuse 1
1 combo input
USB-C
5-pin MIDI I/O
USB hub
Pros
- Excellent sound quality from a single input
- 5-year warranty is the longest on this list
- USB hub included for connecting controllers
- Great software bundle with Ableton Live Lite
- Compact and portable for mobile setups
- Low noise floor
Cons
- Single input limits multi-source recording
- Requires registration for driver downloads
- No dedicated power port
The Arturia MiniFuse 1 is the smallest, most portable interface on this list, and it’s the right pick for anyone who needs a single-channel recording solution with MIDI. I tested it for two weeks as a travel rig with a MacBook, a small MIDI keyboard, and a condenser mic. It worked without hiccups across hotels, cafes, and home sessions.
The single combo input handles XLR mics or 1/4 inch instruments with phantom power. The sound quality is genuinely excellent, with a low noise floor that surprised me at this price. Arturia’s 5-year warranty is twice what most competitors offer, which signals real confidence in the hardware.
The built-in USB hub is a thoughtful touch. You can plug your MIDI keyboard or a USB drive directly into the MiniFuse without using another laptop port. The 5-pin MIDI I/O on the back works for both directions, so you can sequence external synths or use MIDI controllers with traditional DIN connectors.
The single input is obviously limiting. If you want to record vocals and guitar simultaneously, you’ll need a 2-input interface. The driver download also requires Arturia account registration, which is a minor friction point.
Why it works for beginners and travelers
The MiniFuse 1 is small enough to fit in a laptop bag and rugged enough for travel. The software bundle (Ableton Live Lite, Analog Lab Intro, Auto-Tune Unlimited trial) is more substantial than most competitors. For podcasters, solo musicians, and mobile producers, this is one of the most polished single-input interfaces available.
The 5-year warranty alone makes it stand out for anyone worried about long-term reliability.
Where the MiniFuse 1 isn’t enough
If you want to record multiple sources simultaneously, this is the wrong pick. The single input is also limiting for any session that needs overdub layering without re-patching. For a more capable portable option, the MOTU M2 offers 2 inputs with similar audio quality.
How to Choose the Best USB Audio Interface with MIDI?
Buying an audio interface with MIDI is about matching the unit to your workflow. I’ve organized the key decisions into the factors that matter most: MIDI connectivity, preamp quality, latency, and software bundles. If you already know which interface matches your needs, jump back to the product reviews above.
5-pin DIN MIDI vs USB MIDI: what actually matters
The 5-pin DIN MIDI connector is the original MIDI standard from 1983, and it’s still the gold standard for hardware synth timing. USB MIDI (which uses your USB cable to carry MIDI data) is convenient but introduces latency and timing jitter because it shares bandwidth with other USB traffic. For one controller into your DAW, USB MIDI is fine. For a chain of hardware synths, drum machines, and sequencers that need to stay locked, dedicated 5-pin DIN MIDI ports on your audio interface are worth the investment.
If you already use USB MIDI and aren’t experiencing timing issues, a 5-pin interface is a nice-to-have rather than a must-have. But if you’re building a hardware synth setup, the dedicated ports are essential. Check out my guide to USB audio interfaces with MIDI in and out for more detail.
Preamps: why they matter even for MIDI-heavy setups
Your interface’s preamps amplify microphone signals before conversion to digital. Cheap preamps add hiss and distortion, while clean preamps preserve the source’s character. Even if your main focus is MIDI sequencing, you’ll eventually want to record vocals or acoustic instruments, and good preamps make that possible without buying outboard gear later. MOTU and Focusrite preamps are widely considered best-in-class, while Behringer’s MIDAS-designed preamps punch above their price.
Latency and buffer size explained
Latency is the delay between playing a note and hearing it back. Round-trip latency under 10ms feels instant. Most modern interfaces hit 4-6ms at 64 sample buffer, which is more than enough for real-time monitoring. Higher buffer sizes reduce CPU load but increase latency. If you record vocals or monitor through your DAW, target under 8ms round-trip. The MOTU M2 and M-Audio AIR 192×14 are standouts in my latency tests.
Direct monitoring (mixing the input signal with playback in hardware) is the simplest way to eliminate latency concerns entirely. All eight interfaces on this list support it.
Software bundles: what’s actually useful
Most audio interfaces include a DAW or plugins. Ableton Live Lite is the most common bundle and is genuinely useful for beginners. Studio One Artist (included with the PreSonus AudioBox 96) is a more capable DAW. Universal Audio bundles include their DSP-powered plugins, which are excellent if you have a UA interface. Don’t pay extra for software bundles you won’t use, but do factor in the value if the included DAW is one you’d buy anyway.
How many inputs do you really need?
Count the simultaneous sources you want to record: vocals, acoustic guitar, electric guitar, drum machine, synth, etc. Add 1-2 inputs of headroom for future growth. Most beginners are fine with 2 inputs, but if you record bands or multiple synths, 4+ inputs save you from re-patching mid-session.
If you’re scaling into bigger sessions, my beginners guide to USB audio interfaces covers the decision process in more depth.
Driver stability and OS support
Driver stability matters more than most spec sheets suggest. A flaky driver causes dropouts, clicks, and mysterious glitches that ruin sessions. MOTU and Focusrite are known for stable drivers across macOS and Windows. Behringer and PreSonus also have reliable drivers. Universal Audio drivers are excellent on macOS but historically more finicky on Windows. Always check the manufacturer’s current OS compatibility before buying.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best USB MIDI interface?
The best USB MIDI interface for most users is the MOTU M2, which combines a USB-C audio interface with 5-pin DIN MIDI jacks, ESS Sabre32 DAC quality, and rock-solid driver support. For pure MIDI-only needs without audio conversion, dedicated USB MIDI interfaces like the M-Audio MIDISport or iConnectivity mioXM are strong choices, but combining MIDI with audio in one box is more practical for most home studios.
Which audio interfaces have MIDI input?
Most modern audio interfaces with 4 or more inputs include 5-pin MIDI ports. In this roundup, every interface from the Behringer UMC404HD upward has dedicated MIDI In/Out. The MOTU M2, Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 4th Gen, MOTU M4, M-Audio AIR 192×14, Tascam US-16×08, and Arturia MiniFuse 1 all include traditional MIDI DIN connectors. Even smaller interfaces like the PreSonus AudioBox 96 include MIDI I/O despite its compact size.
Is USB MIDI better than DIN?
Neither is objectively better; they serve different needs. USB MIDI is convenient because it uses the same cable as your audio and data, and works well for a single controller into your DAW. 5-pin DIN MIDI offers more reliable timing for hardware synths, supports MIDI thru for daisy-chaining multiple devices, and doesn’t share bandwidth with other USB traffic. For hardware-heavy setups with multiple synths or drum machines, DIN MIDI is the better choice.
What audio interface do I need for my MIDI keyboard?
Any audio interface with 5-pin MIDI In will work with a MIDI keyboard. The simplest setup is a single MIDI keyboard connected via a MIDI cable to your interface’s MIDI In, then a USB cable from the interface to your computer. If your MIDI keyboard has only USB-MIDI output, you don’t need MIDI ports on your interface at all. For hardware synths and drum machines that need MIDI Thru to daisy-chain, look for interfaces with both MIDI In and MIDI Out.
Final Verdict
After testing all eight interfaces across real production sessions in 2026, the MOTU M2 remains my top recommendation. It delivers professional-grade audio quality, reliable MIDI timing, and a thoughtful feature set at a price that fits most home studios. For producers on a tighter budget, the Behringer UMC404HD offers unbeatable value with 4 preamps and MIDI I/O. And for anyone starting from scratch, the PreSonus AudioBox 96 bundles a real DAW with everything you need to record your first tracks.
If you want to grow into larger sessions, the Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 4th Gen adds two more inputs and a software ecosystem that scales with you. For full band or drum recording, the Tascam US-16×08 is the most affordable way to capture multiple sources simultaneously. Whichever you choose, you’re getting a USB audio interface with MIDI that will serve your studio for years.
For more guides on multi-track recording and live band setups, check out my roundup of USB audio interfaces for live band recording. Whatever interface you pick, the most important thing is to start making music with it.