10 Best Audio Interfaces With Loopback in 2026 for Streaming and Recording

The best audio interface with loopback makes it easier to combine microphones, instruments, computer audio, and streaming software in one workflow. That matters for podcasters, musicians, educators, and creators who need clean routing without complicated workarounds.

We selected 10 options ranging from compact two-input models to more capable USB-C interfaces. The right choice depends on your input needs, monitoring preferences, operating system, and how much control you want over digital audio routing.

Best 10 Audio Interface with Loopback Picks for 2026

Best All-Rounder – MOTU M4

The MOTU M4 is a strong choice if you need an audio interface with loopback for recording, mixing, podcasting, or streaming. Its 4×4 USB-C connectivity, MIDI I/O, LCD metering, and low-latency hardware monitoring give it useful flexibility for a desktop or mobile setup.

Best For: Musicians, podcasters, and creators who need four-in/four-out connectivity and clear monitoring.

Pros:

• 4-in/4-out USB-C connectivity with loopback
• Two microphone preamps, MIDI I/O, and hardware monitoring
• Supports recording at up to 192 kHz and includes a two-year warranty

Cons:

• Its larger I/O set may be more than a basic two-input setup requires
• The supplied operating-system details list Windows 10, macOS 10.11, and iOS 9

The M4 is a versatile pick for users who expect their routing needs to grow. Its combination of loopback, metering, and multiple inputs makes it particularly practical for podcasting and content production.

Best Budget 2×2 – PIYONE Q2 Alloy Red

This PIYONE Q2 is a compact audio interface with loopback for straightforward PC, Mac, or mobile recording. It pairs two combo inputs with USB-C bus power, 24-bit/192 kHz conversion, direct monitoring, and a monitor mix function.

Best For: Home recordists, guitarists, and mobile creators who want a simple two-input interface.

Pros:

• Class-compliant USB-C connection with no drivers required for Mac and PC
• Two XLR/TRS combo inputs with Hi-Z support and 48V phantom power
• Monitor mix/loopback function and a built-in 3.5mm headphone jack

Cons:

• Only two channels are available
• The supplied operating-system details specifically list Windows, while the product copy also references Mac and mobile use

The Q2 focuses on essential recording features in a portable 2×2 format. It is a sensible fit for solo recording and simple streaming setups, but users needing more simultaneous inputs should look elsewhere.

Best for Vintage-Style Tones – Universal Audio Volt 2

The Universal Audio Volt 2 is a compact 2×2 interface aimed at musicians, podcasters, and streamers who value character as well as clean recording. Its 610 preamp Vintage mode, 24-bit/192 kHz support, MIDI, and broad computer and mobile compatibility make it a flexible small-format option.

Best For: Musicians and creators who want vintage-style preamp coloration in a portable interface.

Pros:

• 610 tube-emulation Vintage mode for a richer preamp sound
• Up to 24-bit/192 kHz recording with crystal-clear converters
• Supports Mac, Windows, iPad, and iPhone recording, with MIDI included

Cons:

• The supplied notes do not identify a dedicated loopback function
• Mobile use may require an external Volt power supply and, for some Apple devices, a Lightning camera adapter
• Includes a one-year manufacturer warranty

The Volt 2 stands out more for its Vintage preamp mode and software ecosystem than for loopback-specific routing. Consider it if tonal character and mobile compatibility matter more than expanded I/O.

Best for Streaming and Instruments – Fender Quantum LT 4

The Fender Quantum LT 4 is an audio interface with loopback designed for creators who need flexible monitoring and instrument connectivity. It offers four inputs, two MAX-HD microphone preamps, dual instrument inputs, balanced outputs, a headphone amp, and USB-C connection for Mac and PC.

Best For: Guitarists, bassists, streamers, and podcasters who need multiple inputs and loopback routing.

Pros:

• 4×2 USB-C design with loopback audio routing
• Two 75 dB MAX-HD mic preamps and two dedicated instrument inputs
• Balanced TRS outputs, headphone amp, and low-latency drivers
• Includes access to Fender amp and effects software after registration

Cons:

• Four inputs are routed to two outputs
• Fender Studio software access requires registration
• It is primarily specified for macOS and Windows systems

The Quantum LT 4 is especially well suited to hybrid music-and-content setups. Its dual instrument inputs and loopback routing make it more adaptable than a basic two-input interface for live creation and streaming.

Studio-Ready Pick – Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen

The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen is a versatile choice for an audio interface with loopback shoppers who also prioritize recording quality. It provides two mic preamps, two Hi-Z instrument inputs, 24-bit/192kHz support, and useful level-management features for recording vocals, guitars, and other sources.

Best For: Musicians who need two inputs for home recording and want a broad software bundle.

Pros:

• Two mic preamps and two Hi-Z instrument inputs support flexible recording setups.
• 120dB dynamic range, 24-bit/192kHz conversion, Auto Gain, and Clip Safe are useful for detailed, controlled takes.
• Air modes and the included Pro Tools Intro+, Ableton Live Lite, Cubase LE, and Hitmaker Expansion add recording and production value.

Cons:

• The supplied notes do not list a dedicated loopback function.
• It has a USB connection rather than a broader range of connectivity options.

Choose the 2i2 when two simultaneous inputs matter more than built-in loopback. Its recording-focused features and included software make it a strong all-around home-studio interface.

Loopback Specialist – Yamaha UR22MK3 W

The Yamaha UR22MK3 W is the clearest fit for shoppers specifically seeking an audio interface with loopback. Along with 2-in/2-out USB audio, it combines direct monitoring, mute buttons, two combo inputs, and cross-platform support in a compact metal enclosure.

Best For: Creators who need loopback for computer-based audio workflows and want two analog inputs.

Pros:

• Explicitly includes a loopback function and direct monitoring.
• Two combo inputs offer flexible microphone and instrument connectivity, with phantom power and one Hi-Z input.
• Supports 24-bit/192kHz audio and works with Windows, macOS, and iOS.

Cons:

• The supplied notes identify a Steinberg software suite but do not specify its exact name or version.
• Its warranty is listed as one year and has authorized-retailer and geographic conditions.

For streaming, online sessions, or other setups where loopback is a must-have, the UR22MK3 W is the most directly aligned option in this group. Its two-in/two-out design keeps the setup straightforward without sacrificing high-resolution support.

Compact Solo Pick – Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen

The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen suits buyers who want a compact audio interface with loopback-style computer workflows but primarily record one microphone and one instrument at a time. It pairs a single XLR mic preamp with a Hi-Z input, 24-bit/192kHz support, and a generous software package.

Best For: Solo musicians and songwriters who value a small, lightweight interface for mic-and-guitar recording.

Pros:

• One XLR mic preamp and one Hi-Z instrument input cover a typical solo recording setup.
• 120dB dynamic range, 24-bit/192kHz support, and improved Air mode support detailed recording.
• Compact 14.4-ounce design and compatibility with Mac, Windows, and iOS improve portability.

Cons:

• The supplied notes do not list a dedicated loopback function.
• Only one audio input is provided for microphones, limiting multi-mic recording.

The Solo is a practical entry point for one-person recording, especially when desk space and portability matter. If loopback is essential rather than incidental, the Yamaha option is the better match; otherwise, the Solo keeps the setup simple and affordable in scope.

Best Hybrid Creator Interface – MAONO P2

The MAONO P2 is a strong choice if you need an audio interface with loopback for podcasts, livestreams, music, and mobile content creation. Its dual USB connections support simultaneous computer and phone or iPad workflows, while built-in loopback can combine voice, instruments, backing tracks, and desktop audio.

Best For: Creators who stream, record, and publish across computers and mobile devices.

Pros:

• Built-in loopback and routing through MAONO ProStudio 2
• Dual XLR inputs with 56dB gain and 24-bit/192kHz recording
• Dual USB connectivity for computer and phone or iPad workflows
• Independent mute and monitoring controls for streaming flexibility

Cons:

• Its creator-focused routing features may be more than simple recording setups require
• Mobile and advanced software workflows may require additional setup

The P2 stands out for flexible streaming and content workflows rather than basic two-channel recording alone. If loopback and multi-device connectivity are priorities, it offers the most feature-rich setup in this group.

Best Simple Studio Pick – Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen

The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen is a straightforward option for anyone seeking an audio interface with loopback-style streaming needs but primarily focused on clean vocal, guitar, and podcast recording. It provides one XLR mic preamp, one Hi-Z instrument input, Air mode, and recording up to 24-bit/192kHz.

Best For: Solo musicians, podcasters, and home recordists who want a compact, dependable interface.

Pros:

• High-performance preamp with switchable Air mode
• Dedicated mic and high-headroom instrument inputs
• 24-bit/192kHz converters for studio-quality recording
• Includes several recording and production software packages

Cons:

• Only one XLR mic input limits two-microphone recording
• The supplied notes do not specify a built-in loopback feature

Scarlett Solo is better suited to focused recording than complex audio routing. Choose it for established Focusrite hardware, simple vocal-and-instrument sessions, and included software; choose the MAONO P2 when native loopback is essential.

Best Budget Two-Input Option – M-AUDIO M-Track Duo

The M-AUDIO M-Track Duo is a practical entry-level interface for podcasting, recording, and live streaming. Although the supplied specifications do not identify a built-in loopback function, its two combo inputs, phantom power, and USB/Direct monitoring switch cover the essentials for simple computer-based audio work.

Best For: Budget-conscious users who need two inputs for microphones, instruments, or line sources.

Pros:

• Two combo XLR, line, and instrument inputs
• Phantom power supports compatible condenser microphones
• USB/Direct switch enables zero-latency monitoring
• Includes MPC Beats and supports common recording software

Cons:

• Maximum sample rate is 48kHz
• The supplied notes do not specify a built-in loopback feature
• Its one-year warranty is shorter than some competing options

M-Track Duo makes sense when affordability and two-input flexibility matter more than high-resolution recording or advanced routing. For a true audio interface with loopback, the MAONO P2 is the safer match from these three products.

How We Picked the Best Audio Interface with Loopback

We compared these interfaces by looking at practical recording and streaming features rather than specifications alone. Key considerations included loopback availability, input and output count, microphone preamp quality, instrument compatibility, USB connectivity, monitoring latency, portability, and ease of use. We also considered whether each model suits a particular type of buyer, from first-time home recordists to creators managing multiple audio sources.

Loopback implementation can vary by model and software. Some interfaces provide a dedicated loopback function, while others rely on bundled control software or platform-specific routing. Check the manufacturer’s current compatibility information before buying, especially if you use iOS, macOS, Windows, or a mobile streaming setup.

Quick Comparison

Best For	Recommended Options	What to Look For
Solo recording	Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd or 4th Gen	Simple controls, one microphone input, compact size
Two-person podcasts	Focusrite Scarlett 2i2, Universal Audio Volt 2	Two preamps, independent gain control, headphone monitoring
Streaming and routing	Yamaha USB-C model, MOTU M4	Loopback support, flexible outputs, low-latency monitoring
Multiple sources	Fender Quantum LT 4	More inputs, instrument connectivity, expandable workflow
Budget setups	M-AUDIO M-Track Duo, MAONO P2	Affordable dual-input design and basic monitoring features

Key Buying Factors for an Audio Interface with Loopback

Input and Output Capacity

Count the sources you will record at the same time. One mic may be enough for solo content, while interviews, stereo instruments, or multiple performers require two or more inputs. Extra outputs are useful for speakers, headphones, mixers, or external hardware.

Loopback and Software Routing

Loopback sends computer playback back into recording or streaming software. Confirm how the interface handles system audio, microphone signals, and monitoring. A straightforward loopback function can save time, but flexible routing software may be more valuable for advanced setups.

Audio Quality and Latency

24-bit/192kHz support is common, but real-world results also depend on preamps, drivers, buffer settings, and your microphone. Look for stable low-latency performance and direct monitoring if you need to hear yourself without distracting delay.

Connectivity and Compatibility

USB-C may describe the connector rather than a specific performance standard, so check included cables and device compatibility. Mobile creators should verify iOS or tablet power requirements. Also confirm support for your operating system and preferred recording or streaming applications.

Who Should Buy Which Audio Interface with Loopback?

Choose the Scarlett Solo if you want an uncomplicated interface for one microphone or instrument. The Scarlett 2i2 and Volt 2 are better for two-person podcasts, stereo recording, or two simultaneous inputs. Consider the MOTU M4 or Yamaha model if loopback, metering, and more flexible monitoring are central to your workflow.

For larger home-studio sessions, the Fender Quantum LT 4 offers additional input capacity. The MAONO P2 and M-Track Duo make sense when keeping costs low is the priority, while the generic 2X2 interface may suit buyers seeking basic high-resolution recording on a tight budget. Before ordering, prioritize the connections and routing features you will use every week—not merely the highest sample-rate number.