The Best 8 Channel Audio Interfaces You Can Buy This Year

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Yet another article related to audio interfaces, and I must say that I haven’t written as many details as I have in these kinds of articles.

Audio interfaces come along with many details especially if they consist of inputs for mics, headphones, and instruments, that will mean that except for the overall specifications, there should also be included the specifications for instruments, mics, and headphones input.

But, as you know already, I’m here to cover you up, and when it comes to giving you the best and most accurate information, I’m not lazy ass whatsoever.

So, in this article, I have listed 5 of the best audio interfaces which consist of 8 channels. Let’s get into them so you can understand better what I’m actually talking about. Here I go! 

A Quick Look at My Favorite 8 Channel Audio Interfaces

ImageProductFeaturesPrice
The Most Versatile 
M-Audio M-Track 8X4M

M-Audio M-Track 8X4M

10
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The Most Durable
Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen

Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen

9
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The Most Portable 
PreSonus Studio 1824c 18x20

PreSonus Studio 1824c 18x20

8.5
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The Most Featured 
Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen

Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen

8.8
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The Best Overall 
Behringer U-PHORIA UMC1820

Behringer U-PHORIA UMC1820

8.6
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Key Takeaways

  • Eight-channel audio interfaces are the greatest and the most potent devices one can find.
  • If you work in a recording studio, the best eight-channel audio interface for you would be PreSonus Studio 1824c. You will love it!
  • Are you on the hunt for the most outstanding eight-channel audio interfaces? I present Behringer U-PHORIA UMC1820 as it is the best overall. 
  • The number of inputs, the audio resolution, and the frequency range will help you choose the best eight-channel audio interface.
  • You will find the eight-channel audio interfaces a bit pricey, but every penny you spend is worth it.

Top 5 Best 8 Channel Audio Interfaces

5. M-Audio M-Track 8X4M – Most Versatile 

M-Audio is a very famous name for audio interfaces, and one of them is always found in audio-interface articles. That’s because they know what they’re doing, and everybody would love to own an M-Audio audio interface, just like M-Track 8X4M!

The design of this audio interface is ergonomic, as it is easy to use and has all the buttons on top that allow quick adjustments of whatever you need. This audio interface looks good and will be with you for a long-time regarding durability because of its metal chassis.

Besides the eight inputs that this audio interface has, you will be surprised by the XLR and TRS inputs and how good the connection they offer is. Yet again, we have the USB as the primary connection, which is compatible with different laptops and PCs. The incredible connection this audio interface has makes it one of the most versatile devices you can use.

Whenever you use this audio interface, you will easily distinguish and notice the fantastic quality that it provides you with. There is the 24bit/192kHz resolution of audio which will bring the best out of everything you use it for.

Why Should You Buy It?

Based on the connectivity part of this audio interface, you are more than free to choose it because of its versatility. It has a perfect connection and is compatible with everything you may want to connect it to.

Audio Resolution24-bit/192kHz
Frequency response20Hz-20kHz
ConnectionUSB
Size9.36 x 2.4 x 7.68 inches
Weight3 pounds

Pros

  • Made of Metal Chassis
  • Perfect Inputs
  • Good-Looking
  • Easy to Use
  • Sounds Good

Cons

  • Complicated to Set Up

4. Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen – Most Durable 

Another super-famous name in the world of audio interfaces is Focusrite, with their Scarlet audio interfaces such as the 18i8. I am pretty sure that you will be thrilled to use this eight-channel audio interface as it brings out outstanding features.

Just like it is listed, this audio interface is one of the most durable ones you can find, as it includes a fantastic build quality, all based on the material it is made of, which includes mostly metal. This audio interface also looks very good as it comes covered in red. The buttons for control are found on the front part.

This audio interface is one of the greatest ones when it comes to the eight channels that it owns. Besides them, you will find different optical and analog inputs that allow connection with microphones, instruments, or any other thing you might use. There is again the USB as the main connection regarding computers, and also, there are XLR cables.

Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 is the audio interface that knows how good sound should be and how great a combination of frequencies should be. It has a frequency range many people search, which is impressive on the lows.

Why Should You Buy It?

If you are searching for an audio interface that will stay with you for a lifetime, you definitely should check out Focusrite Scarlett 18i8, as it is the most durable one you can find. Also, it will bring out the excellent sound quality.

Audio Resolution24-bit/192kHz
Frequency response20Hz-20kHz
ConnectionUSB
Size9.49 x 6.28 x 2.4 inches
Weight1 pound

Pros

  • Super-Rugged
  • Analog and Optical Inputs
  • Great Frequency Range

Cons

  • Pricey

3. PreSonus Studio 1824c 18×20 – Best for Most People

If the two brands above are famous, PreSonus is a celebrity! It is the name of many speakers that audio professionals use in their studios. They cannot be left unmentioned regarding the amazing PreSonus 1824c 18X20 audio interface, as it is fantastic.

The PreSonus Studio 1824c is a big audio interface, and I say that because you shouldn’t expect to take it wherever you go. Anyways, its durability covers the non-portable part, as it is made of a combination of metal and plastic.

There is the connection part where this audio interface shines, and it is a fact of the eight channels/inputs it has and the fantastic USB connection with computers in general. There are microphone preamps and a headphone jack, so you can use them efficiently.

The audio resolution of this audio interface is the same as the ones already mentioned, working at 24bit/192kHz. It generally offers the excellent sound quality, with outstanding clarity and frequency range.

Why Should You Buy It?

PreSonus Studio 1824c is the audio interface that you can choose and use if you love to work in a recording studio. It is a choice for many people, and I am pretty sure that it will do a perfect job for you as well. 

Audio Resolution24-bit/192 kHz
Frequency response20Hz-20kHz
ConnectionUSB
Size5.51 x 19.02 x 1.73 inches
Weight4.8 pounds

Pros

  • Durable
  • Great Inputs and Outputs
  • Excellent Quality of Sound

Cons

  • Big
  • Heavy

2. Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen – Most Feature-Packed

I know I mentioned a Focusrite audio interface above, but while talking about the second one, you can quickly find out how good they are and what remarkable audio interfaces Focusrite brings to the market. Scarlett 18i20 is an upgrade from the one mentioned earlier, but with more amazing features.

Focusrite surely knows how to bring beautiful audio interfaces, and the 18i20 is one of them. It is again made of metal, a device that can accompany you and work with you for an extended period.

The eight channels of this audio interface allow use with different microphones and other devices. As the primary connection of this audio interface, you will find USB Type-C, which will offer compatibility with any device that possesses the plug. Anyways, you will find there is an output for headphones as well.

Focusrite refers to this audio interface as the crystal clear one regarding good accuracy and clarity, as it generally brings out a fantastic audio resolution. You will notice how outstanding the sound is when you use this audio interface.

Why Should You Buy It?

This audio interface is indeed impressive! It has everything on point and will definitely become one of your favorite eight-channel audio interfaces, as it is mine. You will be more than glad to use this audio interface for a long time.

Audio Resolution24-bit/192kHz
Frequency response20Hz-20kHz
ConnectionUSB Type-C
Size10.23 x 19 x 1.83 inches
Weight3.87 pounds

Pros

  • Easy-to-Use
  • High Audio Resolution
  • Super-Professional

Cons

  • Not Portable

1. Behringer U-PHORIA UMC1820 – Best Overall 

Last but not least, no other than the name Behringer! This brand offers some of the most excellent audio interfaces, and it comes with U-PHORIA UMC1820 as the best overall regarding eight-channel audio interfaces. I am pretty sure that you will love to use this one!

This audio interface also takes part in the group of big audio interfaces, assuring that the portability isn’t on point. However, in a studio, this Behringer audio interface is the best one you can choose as it is aimed at professional use. It is durable enough to get you covered in everything.

In this audio interface with eight channels, you can plug microphones, instruments, or any other device you may use, also your professional headphones. Again and again, it works with a USB to connect to your PC, but you will find the XLR TRS inputs too.

Behringer U-PHORIA UMC1820 surely sounds good enough to be known as the best overall audio interface with eight channels. It offers a good range of frequency regarding sound, while the audio resolution differs totally from the device mentioned above as it works at 69kHz, which is suitable for whatever use.

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Why Should You Buy It?

There is nothing better than using Behringer U-PHORIA UMC1820, which is the best overall eight-channel audio interface! It offers everything that anybody of you can search for.

Audio Resolution50mm
Frequency response20Hz-20kHz
ConnectionUSB
Size9.36 x 2.4 x 7.68 inches
Weight3 pounds

Pros

  • Good-Looking
  • Strong
  • Perfect for Studios
  • Sounds Excellent

Cons

  • None

Buying Guide

It is always tricky when you have to buy anything, and that’s because there are a few things that a person should consider whenever they have to choose. It goes the same on the best eight channels audio interfaces, as you should check out a few things before you purchase one. Now, let’s talk about some other important aspects!

Number of Channels

Based on what you are here for, the number of channels an audio interface has is the first thing you should check and keep in mind. There are many audio interfaces on the market, but as you search for the ones with eight channels, the first thing to check out is the number of channels so that you don’t confuse yourself with the others.

Audio Resolution

The audio resolution of an audio interface will always tell you how it will deliver the sound to you based on bits and kHz. Most audio interfaces that have eight channels come at 24bit/192kHz and 24bit/96kHz, and you can be more than sure that they are great to use.

Frequency Response

If you are a professional in audio or just an audiophile, you definitely know how vital the frequency response is, as it refers to the quality again. When choosing an audio interface, you should check out its frequency range so that you will be aware of how it sounds while noticing the lows, mids, and highs.

Connectivity

The connection of an audio interface is always something to have in mind and check before choosing the best one for you. I am sure that nobody wants an audio interface that cannot get connected to anything, and that’s why it is essential. The primary connection that audio interfaces have is the USB type, but you may still find the XLR cables and some others.

Size and Weight

I know that size and weight aren’t the most important things for some people, yet again, a compact and lightweight audio interface will tell you how much you can travel. By traveling, I mean how portable the audio interface is and whether it can accompany you wherever you may go and whether it is made to come with you.

Price

The famous price is always something to consider before choosing anything, in this case, an eight-channel audio interface. As I always say, it is better if you first have a price range in mind and then go and search for the device. It will help you clear your ideas on choosing the best eight-channel audio interface for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the point of using 8-channel audio interfaces?

The number of channels in an audio interface will tell you how its inputs are and how they will work. An eight-channel audio interface means using a device that can connect to many things and accepts headphones, instruments, microphones, and others.

Will I have to pay a lot for a good audio interface?

All audio interfaces come at different price tags, and you will never find one at the same, especially if you consider some essential and professional brands. As you are here for eight-channel audio interfaces, you should be aware that they are pricier, but everything you spend on them is worth it. 

Can I use any other device with audio interfaces?

As I mentioned above, you can connect different things to your audio interface, especially the eight-channel ones. However, if you need a specification regarding other devices, you would like to use a laptop or PC, speakers or specific studio monitors, and mixers as well.

Which are the best brands for audio interfaces?

I would gladly say that all the brands and audio interfaces mentioned in this article are definitely the best ones for audio interfaces and undoubtedly the favorite of many people. They include Behringer, PreSonus, Focusrite, and M-Audio as well.

Final Words

Now that I’ve come to the end of this article, I would like to finish it with a recommendation, which is not a usual thing I do! I would like to kindly ask you to read the article carefully, just so as to be sure that you won’t miss any of the interfaces’ details and features. It will be better for you if you take it slowly and read each product carefully and with full attention.

I’m not making anything up here, so you better listen to me!

Further Reading

As always, we have to continue further, and by continuing further I mean, read even more articles that would come in handy and would provide you with specific information, such as the best audio interface for Cubase, or the best audio interface for audacity, or if you happen to be into headphones, the best audio interface for DT 990 or the best interface for AT 2020.

I think those articles will come in handy enough, so I’m just going to stop writing here, and leave you in peace to read all that material because believe me they will need your full attention and time.

Whether you’re looking for information on audio equipment, looking to learn more about how things work in the music field, or looking for reviews of products, we got you covered!

 
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