Top 10 Best Thunderbolt Audio Interfaces

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Our team studied on 44583 reviews available online for Thunderbolt Audio Interfaces, chose the finest ones and prepared Thunderbolt Audio Interfaces Reviews for you. It was very difficult to shortlist the ideal Thunderbolt Audio Interfaces from thousands of products online. However, We tried to make sure that you get only the Best Thunderbolt Audio Interfaces from our suggestions. Check our listings-:

Best Thunderbolt Audio Interfaces
Disclaimer: As An Amazon Associate I Earn From Qualifying Purchases.

Comparison Chart for Best Thunderbolt Audio Interfaces

In this article we've included our suggestions for the Thunderbolt Audio Interfaces after analyzing 44583 reviews.

NoProductScoreAction
1Antelope Audio Zen Q Synergy Core 14x10 Bus-Powered Thunderbolt 3 Audio Interface with Onboard Real-Time Effects and Expandable I/O9.6Check Prize On Amazon
2Universal Audio Apollo Twin X Quad Thunderbolt 3 Audio Interface9.6Check Prize On Amazon
3Universal Audio Apollo Twin X DUO Heritage Edition9.6Check Prize On Amazon
4Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (3rd Gen) USB Audio Interface with Pro Tools - First9.4Check Prize On Amazon
5Focusrite Scarlett Solo (3rd Gen) USB Audio Interface with Pro Tools - First9.2Check Prize On Amazon
6Amazon Basics 4K Mini DisplayPort to DisplayPort Cable - 3 Feet8.8Check Prize On Amazon
7Apogee ELEMENT 88 - Thunderbolt Audio Interface with 8 World-Class Apogee Mic Preamps w/ Phantom Power and Line Level Inputs8.6Check Prize On Amazon
8MOTU M4 4x4 USB-C Audio Interface8.6Check Prize On Amazon
9Universal Audio Apollo Solo Heritage Edition8.4Check Prize On Amazon
10PreSonus Quantum 2626 26x26 Thunderbolt 3 Audio Interface M1 Chip Compatible8.2Check Prize On Amazon

Table Of Content:

1. Antelope Audio Zen Q Synergy Core 14×10 Bus-Powered Thunderbolt 3 Audio Interface with Onboard Real-Time Effects and Expandable I/O

  • Thunderbolt 3 interface with advanced audio driver for optimized streaming, playback, and low-latency recording.
  • Professional sound and stability via highly efficient AD/DA converter chips and proprietary 64-bit AFC (Acoustically Focused Clocking).
  • 2 Discrete ultra-linear preamps designed with authentic console circuitry for classic warmth and sonic depth, with switchable mic / Line IN / Hi-Z modes; 2 additional analog inputs, with switchable Hi-Z/Line modes.
  • Real-time, low latency processing of 37 included analog-modeled Synergy Core effects with 50+ optional expansions.
  • Flexible I/O connectivity, with 8 additional inputs over ADAT, and stereo I/O over S/PDIF

2. Universal Audio Apollo Twin X Quad Thunderbolt 3 Audio Interface

  • Apollo Twin X allows musicians and producers to easily track, overdub, and mix with Elite-class A/D and D/A conversion, two Unison-enabled preamps, and available DUO or QUAD Core Real Time UAD plug-in processing — all in a desktop Thunderbolt 3 audio interface for Mac or PC.
  • Built upon UA’s 60-year heritage of audio craftsmanship, Apollo Twin X confidently outperforms everything in its class, with 127 dB D/A dynamic range and an included bundle of UAD analog emulation plug-ins, giving you a fully-stocked analog studio, right on your desktop.
  • Includes FREE download of LUNA Recording System, which transforms all Thunderbolt equipped Apollo and Arrow interfaces into a full-featured music creation, recording, and analog-style production system for Mac.
  • Apollo Twin X includes the “Real Time Analog classics” UAD plug-in bundle, other UAD plug-ins sold separately.
  • Record and mix with Elite-class A/D and D/A conversion — with the widest dynamic range and lowest noise of any desktop interface.
  • Two Unison-enabled preamps — track with near-zero latency through preamp emulations from Helios, Neve, API, Manley, and more*.
  • Onboard UAD QUAD Core processing lets you track and mix with UAD plug-ins like the included Teletronix LA‑2A and 1176 Compressors, Pultec EQs, and 610‑B Tube Preamp & EQ.
  • Cascade up to 4 Apollo interfaces and 6 UAD-2 devices over Thunderbolt, adding DSP and I/O as your studio grows.
  • 1 Year Manufacturer’s Warranty if purchased from an Authorized UA Retailer

3. Universal Audio Apollo Twin X DUO Heritage Edition

  • A special edition of UA’s acclaimed Apollo Twin X interface — with a premium suite of 5 award-winning plug-in titles from Teletronix, Pultec, and UA — a $1,300 value.
  • Elite-class A/D and D/A conversion derived from Apollo X rackmount interfaces paired with 2 Unison mic preamps deliver stunning models of classic tube and transformer-based mic preamps and guitar amps.
  • 2 Unison mic preamps offer stunning models of classic tube and transformer-based mic preamps and guitar amps.
  • UAD DUO Core Processing for tracking through vintage compressors, EQs, tape machines, mic preamps, and guitar amp plug-ins with near-zero latency.
  • Produce with LUNA Recording System — a fully-integrated recording application made for Apollo (Mac only).
  • Runs UAD Powered Plug-Ins via VST, AU, and AAX 64 formats in all major DAWs including Logic Pro, Pro Tools, Cubase, Ableton Live, and more.
  • Front-panel Unison-enabled Hi-Z instrument input and headphone out and built-in Talkback mic for communication with studio talent and recording slate cues.
  • Dedicated monitor functionality including monitor remote functions and Mono, Mute, DIM, and ALT monitor controls.
  • Up to 8 channels of additional digital input via optical ADAT/SPDIF input
  • Also includes “Realtime Analog Classics” UAD plug-in bundle featuring UA 610-B Tube Preamp Legacy Pultec EQ, LA-2A and 1176 compressors, Marshall Plexi Classic, Ampeg SVT-VR Classic, and more.

4. Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (3rd Gen) USB Audio Interface with Pro Tools - First

  • Pro performance with the finest pre-amps – Achieve a brighter and a more open recording thanks to the best performing mic pre-amps the Scarlett range has ever seen.
  • Get the perfect guitar and vocal take – There’s no need to sacrifice your tone with two high-headroom instrument inputs to plug in your guitar or bass so that they shine through.
  • Low-noise for crystal clear listening – Two low-noise balanced outputs provide clean audio playback.
  • Studio quality recording for your music and podcasts – You can achieve professional sounding recordings with Scarlett’s high-performance converters which enable you to record and mix at up to 24-bit/192kHz.
  • Easy Start – It’s easier than ever to get up and running with your Scarlett with our online tool, Easy Start.
  • All the tools you need to start recording right, now – We’ve partnered with our favourite industry partners to provide you with plenty of sound content and software so that you can create and record music right away.

5. Focusrite Scarlett Solo (3rd Gen) USB Audio Interface with Pro Tools - First

  • Pro performance with the finest pre-amps – Achieve a brighter and a more open recording thanks to the best performing mic pre-amps the Scarlett range has ever seen.
  • Get the perfect guitar take – There’s no need to sacrifice your tone with the high headroom instrument input when recording your guitar and basses.
  • Studio quality recordings for your music and podcasts – You can achieve professional sounding recordings with Scarlett’s high-performance converters which enable you to record and mix at up to 24-bit/192kHz.
  • Low-noise for crystal clear listening – Two low-noise balanced outputs provide clean audio playback.
  • Easy Start – It’s easier than ever to get up and running with your Scarlett with our online tool, Easy Start.
  • All the tools you need to start recording right, now – We’ve partnered with our favourite industry partners to provide you with plenty of sound content and software so that you can create and record music right away.

6. Amazon Basics 4K Mini DisplayPort to DisplayPort Cable – 3 Feet

  • IN THE BOX: 3-foot Mini DisplayPort to DisplayPort Cable
  • CONVENIENT: Transmits audio and video from computer or tablet to HD display
  • AUDIO/VIDEO: Seamless audio for uncompressed digital 7.
  • DURABLE DESIGN: Gold-plated connectors, bare copper conductors, and foil-and-braid shielding for strength and reliable connectivity.
  • USER FRIENDLY: Easy-grip treads for a secure hold; low-profile design
  • SPECIFICATIONS: Compliant to version 1.

7. Apogee ELEMENT 88 – Thunderbolt Audio Interface with 8 World-Class Apogee Mic Preamps w/ Phantom Power and Line Level Inputs

  • 16 in x 16 Out Thunderbolt audio I/O Box
  • 8 analog inputs with world-class mic preamps and selectable 48V phantom power for connecting microphones, instruments or line-level devices.
  • Single port Thunderbolt connectivity to Mac for ultra-low latency performance.
  • Element control software for Mac provides all control of hardware parameters including input gain, output level and low latency monitoring.
  • Multi-unit Thunderbolt support – connect any two element audio I/O boxes directly to Thunderbolt Ports on your computer.
  • AD/DA conversion for recording up to 192kHz/24-bit

8. MOTU M4 4×4 USB-C Audio Interface

  • Speed: The M4 provides best-in-class speed for monitoring live inputs (mic, guitar or keyboard) through your computer, thanks to MOTU’s expertly engineered USB drivers, which deliver class-leading, ultra-low 2.
  • Metering: When recording and mixing, nothing is more critical than achieving optimum levels.
  • Loopback: The driver provides convenient loopback channels to your host computer, so you can easily route computer output back to the computer, where you can mix it with live mics and/or guitar inputs from the M4 in your host software for live streaming or podcasting.
  • A Tradition of Engineering Excellence: Decades of award-winning product engineering for hit songs, mega tours, primetime shows and blockbuster movies goes into every MOTU audio interface.
  • Workstation Software, Virtual Instruments and Loops: Connect the M2 to your Mac or PC and start laying down tracks with the included Performer Lite or Live Lite production software, plus hundreds of loops, one-shots and sounds from industry leaders Big Fish Audio, Lucidsamples and Loopmasters.

9. Universal Audio Apollo Solo Heritage Edition

  • A special edition of UA’s popular Apollo Solo interface — with a premium suite of 5 award-winning plug-in titles from Teletronix, Pultec, and UA — a $1,300 value.
  • UAD SOLO Core Processing for tracking through vintage compressors, EQs, tape machines, mic preamps, and guitar amp plug-ins with near-zero latency.
  • Unison mic preamp and guitar amp emulations from Neve, API, Avalon, Manley, Marshall, Fender, and more.
  • Produce with LUNA Recording System — a free, fully-integrated recording application made for Apollo (Mac only).
  • Runs UAD Powered Plug-Ins via VST, AU, and AAX 64 formats in all major DAWs
  • Compatible with Logic Pro, Pro Tools, Cubase, Ableton Live, and more
  • Best-in-class headphone amplifier for loud, detailed, low-noise monitoring
  • Bus-powered connection to Mac and Windows systems for easy portability and reduced cable clutter
  • Uncompromising analog design, superior components, and premium build quality
  • Free, industry-leading technical support — on the phone and online — from knowledgeable audio engineers.

10. PreSonus Quantum 2626 26×26 Thunderbolt 3 Audio Interface M1 Chip Compatible

  • The fastest Thunderbolt 3 audio interface around, with round-trip latency of less than 1 ms.
  • 8 front-mounted ultra-transparent XMAX analog mic preamps give pristine quality.
  • 24-bit/192kHz digital converters deliver amazingly clean sound with 120dB of dynamic range
  • Comes with over $1000 worth of recording software including Studio One Artist, Ableton Live Lite, and Studio Magic plug-in suite.
  • Equipped with 2 combo mic/instrument inputs and 6 mic/line inputs.
  • 2 direct outputs with dedicated line-level returns for inserting output gear.
  • Up to 26-in/26-out when expanded via dual ADAT Optical.
  • Contains ¼” TRS Left and Right main outputs and 8 ¼” TRS line outputs, DC-coupled.
  • 2 ¼” headphone outputs with dedicated volume.
  • Dual ADAT Optical, S/PDIF, MIDI, and BNC word clock I/O

How To Choose The Best Thunderbolt Audio Interfaces

Does the thought of finding a great Thunderbolt Audio Interfaces stress you out? Has your mind been juggling between choices when it comes to buying Thunderbolt Audio Interfaces in general, specifically regarding which model to choose?
If that’s the case, know that you’re not alone. Many people find it tough to buy the perfect Thunderbolt Audio Interfaces for themselves. We understand the stress associated with the buying process!

Since you’re here, you are obviously curious about Thunderbolt Audio Interfaces. You’ve been bombarded with information, so you need to find a reputable source with credible options before you make any decisions on which product would be best for your needs.

There are many sources that’ll provide you with that information- buying guides or ratings websites, word-of-mouth testimonials from friends or family members, online forums where users share their personal experiences, product reviews specifically found all over the internet and YouTube channels. Only thorough research will ensure that you get the right product.

But that’s not always easy, right? That's why we've taken time to compile a list of the best Thunderbolt Audio Interfaces in today's market, on your behalf, so that there will be no more worries for you.

How did we come up with the list, you ask? How did we create this buying guide?

  • First, our algorithms collected as much information available about these products from trusted sources.
  • We employed both Artificial Intelligence and large data volume to validate all collected information.
  • Then our AI ranked them on their quality-to-price ratio using industry-standard criteria that let us pick the best Thunderbolt Audio Interfaces currently on the market!
The products aren’t chosen randomly. We consider several criteria before assembling a list. Some of the criteria are discussed below-

  1. Brand Value: What happens when you go for a not-so-reputable brand just because the price seems cheap? Well, the chance of getting a short-lasting product goes higher. That’s because the renowned brands have a reputation to maintain, others don’t.


Top Thunderbolt Audio Interfaces brands try to offer some unique features that make them stand out in the crowd. Thus hopefully, you’ll find one ideal product or another in our list.

  1. Features: You don’t need heaps of features, but useful ones. We look at the features that matter and choose the top Thunderbolt Audio Interfaces based on that.
  2. Specifications: Numbers always help you measure the quality of a product in a quantitative way. We try to find products of higher specifications, but with the right balance.
  3. Customer Ratings: The hundreds of customers using the Thunderbolt Audio Interfaces before you won’t say wrong, would they? Better ratings mean better service experienced by a good number of people.
  4. Customer Reviews: Like ratings, customer reviews give you actual and trustworthy information, coming from real-world consumers about the Thunderbolt Audio Interfaces they used.
  5. Seller Rank: Now, this is interesting! You don’t just need a good Thunderbolt Audio Interfaces, you need a product that is trendy and growing in sales. It serves two objectives. Firstly, the growing number of users indicates the product is good. Secondly, the manufacturers will hopefully provide better quality and after-sales service because of that growing number.
  6. Value For The Money: They say you get what you pay for. Cheap isn’t always good. But that doesn’t mean splashing tons of money on a flashy but underserving product is good either. We try to measure how much value for the money you can get from your Thunderbolt Audio Interfaces before putting them on the list.
  7. Durability: Durability and reliability go hand to hand. A robust and durable Thunderbolt Audio Interfaces will serve you for months and years to come.
  8. Availability: Products come and go, new products take the place of the old ones. Probably some new features were added, some necessary modifications were done. What’s the point of using a supposedly good Thunderbolt Audio Interfaces if that’s no longer continued by the manufacturer? We try to feature products that are up-to-date and sold by at least one reliable seller, if not several.
  9. Negative Ratings: Yes, we take that into consideration too! When we pick the top rated Thunderbolt Audio Interfaces on the market, the products that got mostly negative ratings get filtered and discarded.
These are the criteria we have chosen our Thunderbolt Audio Interfaces on. Does our process stop there? Heck, no! The most important thing that you should know about us is, we're always updating our website to provide timely and relevant information.

Since reader satisfaction is our utmost priority, we have a final layer of filtration. And that is you, the reader! If you find any Thunderbolt Audio Interfaces featured here Incorrect, irrelevant, not up to the mark, or simply outdated, please let us know. Your feedback is always welcome and we’ll try to promptly correct our list as per your reasonable suggestion.

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