By Thir13een Team | Last updated: October 25, 2026
Quick answer: A good audio interface for singers has at least one clean microphone preamp with phantom power (+48V), direct monitoring and enough gain for your microphone. Three solid starting points are the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen), the Audient EVO 4 and the Universal Audio Volt 2. All three work with Logic Pro and GarageBand on Mac. Pick by your microphone and your budget, not by sample-rate numbers.
What an audio interface does for vocals
An audio interface is the box between your microphone and your computer. It does three jobs. The preamp raises the mic signal to a usable level. The converter turns it into digital audio. The headphone output lets you hear yourself with no delay. A laptop's built-in input does none of these well, which is why an interface is the first upgrade after a microphone.
If you use a USB microphone, you do not need one. See our guide to the best microphone for recording vocals to decide which type you need.
What to look for
- Microphone inputs: one is enough for a solo singer. Two lets you record a vocalist and a guitar, or two singers.
- Phantom power (+48V): required for condenser microphones. Dynamic microphones do not need it.
- Gain: a low-output dynamic microphone, such as the Shure SM7B, needs a preamp with a lot of clean gain. Check the manufacturer's gain figure against your microphone's output.
- Direct monitoring: lets you hear your voice in the headphones straight from the interface, without waiting for the computer. This removes the delay that makes singing difficult.
- Mac compatibility: check that the interface lists macOS and your Logic Pro or GarageBand version in its support page.
- Headphone output: a loud, clean output helps you hear pitch while you record.
Three interfaces worth considering
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen)
Two combo inputs that take microphones, instruments or line signals, each with a mic preamp, and two outputs. It is the most common recommendation for a first interface and expert reviews tend to rank it first in this price class. Choose it if you want a safe default with a lot of community support.
Audient EVO 4
A smaller, lower-priced interface that reviewers describe as a good choice for beginners. It has high-quality preamps and low latency. Choose it if you record one vocal at a time and want to spend less.
Universal Audio Volt 2
Two preamps with a Vintage mode based on the classic Universal Audio 610 tube preamp design. Choose it if you want a warmer colour from the preamp before any plug-ins. Check the current price and specifications on the maker's site, since models and prices change.
If you already own or plan a higher-end setup, read our comparison of Universal Audio Apollo Solo vs Twin.
How to set up an interface for vocals in Logic Pro or GarageBand
- Install the manufacturer's software if it asks for it, then connect the interface by USB.
- In Logic Pro, open Logic Pro, Settings, Audio and select the interface as the input and output device. In GarageBand, open GarageBand, Settings, Audio/MIDI and pick the same devices.
- Connect the microphone with an XLR cable. Turn on +48V only for a condenser microphone.
- Create an audio track and set its input to the channel your microphone uses.
- Sing the loudest line and set the gain so the peaks sit around -12 to -6 dBFS, with no red clipping light.
- Use the interface's direct-monitor control to hear yourself. If you monitor through the DAW instead, lower the buffer size (for example 64 or 128 samples) while you record, then raise it for mixing.
After you record
An interface gives you a clean recording. A finished sound comes from the chain after it. Follow the Logic Pro vocal chain guide or how to mix vocals in GarageBand.
Skip the building, or study a finished chain.
Want a finished chain instead of building one? Start with the free Toronto Warmth vocal preset for Logic Pro X. Then compare the Logic Pro Starter Pack ($19, three best sellers), the GarageBand Starter Pack ($19) and the Vocal Preset Mega Bundle for Logic Pro X ($49). You can also browse the Logic Pro vocal presets and GarageBand vocal presets collections.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an audio interface to record vocals?
You need one for an XLR microphone. A USB microphone connects directly to the computer.
Can GarageBand use an audio interface?
Yes. Choose the interface in the audio settings. GarageBand records one or more inputs from it.
How many inputs do I need as a singer?
One for a solo vocalist. Pick two if you record vocal and guitar together.
Does a more expensive interface make my voice sound better?
The difference between mid-priced interfaces is small. Microphone choice, room and technique matter more.
What gain should I set?
Set the gain so your loudest sung phrase peaks at around -12 to -6 dBFS in the DAW meter, without clipping. This leaves headroom for the plug-ins.
