The best bass guitar audio interface depends on where and how you record. The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen is a strong fit for bass players who want a clearly stated instrument input and recording up to 24-bit/192kHz. The Scarlett Solo 4th Gen suits singer-songwriters seeking updated sound features, while the M-Audio M-Track Solo is a practical choice for simple monitoring. For mobile creators, consider the MAONO P1 or the compact JOYO MOMIX CAB.
| Interface | Best For | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen | Bass and vocal recording | Instrument inputs; up to 24-bit/192kHz |
| Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen | Songwriters | 120dB dynamic range and Air mode |
| M-Audio M-Track Solo | Basic home recording | USB/Direct monitoring switch |
| MAONO P1 | Multidevice creators | Dual USB connectivity |
| JOYO MOMIX CAB | Phone-based recording | Pocket-size direct monitoring |
Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen
The Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen is best for bassists who want an interface with instrument inputs and the option to record vocals or another source. Its listed features include two high-headroom instrument inputs for guitar or bass, mic preamps, and Gain Halos that help show when input levels may clip. Recording and mixing are supported at up to 24-bit/192kHz.
Choose this model if you want to record bass alongside a microphone and value input-level indicators. Its switchable Air mode is described as adding clarity to acoustic instruments. A limitation is that the supplied details do not specify software amp simulation or effects, so check your recording setup if those are essential.
Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen
The Scarlett Solo 4th Gen is best for a songwriter or home-recording musician who wants to capture a microphone and guitar through a compact interface. Focusrite lists a 120dB dynamic range and converters used in its flagship interfaces. Its improved Air mode is designed to add presence and harmonic drive to vocals and guitars.
Choose this generation if those sound features are priorities for your recording workflow. The product information is aimed at mic-and-guitar recording and does not detail the instrument-input specifications for bass, so verify the connection requirements before buying specifically for bass use.
M-Audio M-Track Solo
The M-Track Solo is best for players who want a straightforward USB interface for recording and monitoring. It offers one combo XLR/line input with phantom power and one line/instrument input, so the listed connection options include an instrument input for a bass. The interface supports recording at 48kHz and has a 1/8-inch headphone output plus stereo RCA outputs.
Its USB/Direct switch enables zero-latency monitoring, which can help when listening to an input without waiting for computer processing. Choose it for basic bass takes, voice recording, or streaming. The stated 48kHz resolution may be limiting for buyers who specifically want the higher sample-rate options listed for some competing interfaces.
MAONO P1 USB Audio Interface
The MAONO P1 is best for creators who want to move between computer recording and phone-based streaming. Its dual USB ports are described as supporting simultaneous computer and phone or iPad connections. The listed device support includes Mac, PC, iPhone, Android, and cameras. The interface also advertises recording up to 24-bit/192kHz and up to 70dB of gain.
For a bassist who records covers or streams, features such as independent mute controls and Auto-Gain may be useful for managing a creator workflow. Choose this option if multidevice connectivity matters more than a minimal desktop setup. Its many streaming controls may be unnecessary if you only need to record bass into a computer.
JOYO MOMIX CAB Phone Interface
The JOYO MOMIX CAB is best for bassists who want a pocket-size way to record or practice with a phone. It has a 6.35mm instrument input, a 3.5mm headphone output, direct monitoring, and USB-C or Lightning connections. The product is described as plug-and-play, with no charging, driver installation, or software required.
Choose it for capturing ideas or playing along with app audio while traveling. Its key limitation is important: the dry instrument signal cannot be muted. The product information says it is not designed for real-time software amp sims or effects processing, so avoid it if you need to hear only processed sound in your headphones.
Buying Guide: How To Choose A Bass Guitar Audio Interface
Which input should a bass player look for?
Look for an instrument or instrument/line input that accepts your bass connection. The M-Audio M-Track Solo lists a line/instrument input, while the Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen explicitly lists instrument inputs for guitar or bass. Check the exact input details for any model whose product description does not specifically mention bass.
Do you need a microphone input too?
A mic input is useful if you plan to record vocals, a microphone, or another source in addition to bass. The Scarlett Solo models are presented for mic-and-instrument recording, and the M-Audio lists a combo XLR/line input with phantom power. If you only record bass directly, prioritize a suitable instrument connection and monitoring.
How important are recording resolution and monitoring?
Higher stated resolution may matter if it is part of your recording workflow: the Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen and MAONO P1 list up to 24-bit/192kHz, while the M-Track Solo lists 48kHz. Monitoring also matters. The M-Audio offers a USB/Direct switch, and the JOYO provides direct monitoring but does not let you mute its dry signal.
Should you choose a desktop or mobile interface?
Choose a desktop-oriented USB interface if you mainly record at a computer and want conventional connections. Consider the MAONO P1 if connecting a computer and mobile device is central to your workflow. The JOYO MOMIX CAB is the most pocket-focused option in this selection, but its stated dry-signal limitation makes it a poor match for software amp-sim monitoring.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I record bass guitar through an audio interface?
Yes. Use an interface with an instrument input or another input explicitly suitable for your bass connection, then record through compatible recording software.
Is an instrument input different from a microphone input?
Yes. They are different input types intended for different signal sources. Check the interface specifications and connect your bass to an input identified for instruments.
Do I need an audio interface with direct monitoring?
Direct monitoring can let you hear an input without relying entirely on software monitoring. It is useful when you want to reduce monitoring delay, but check whether the interface lets you control or mute the direct signal.
Can a phone interface record bass?
Some can. The JOYO MOMIX CAB lists a 6.35mm instrument input and phone connections, while the MAONO P1 lists support for phones and other devices. Confirm the connection and monitoring behavior suits your intended recording method.