The best audio interface depends on how you record: a solo vocal or instrument, a co-hosted podcast, or a stream that mixes computer and phone audio. These five MAONO options range from a compact PC-focused interface to hybrid connections and podcast mixers, so compare inputs and workflow features before choosing.
Quick Top Products
MAONO PS22 Lite USB Audio Interface
- Records at 24-bit/192kHz for music, vocals, and streams.
- XLR preamp offers up to 56 dB gain and 48V phantom power.
- ProStudio software adds virtual channels and loopbacks.
Best For: Solo musicians, podcasters, and streamers who want a compact interface for a computer-based setup.
MAONO P1 USB Audio Interface
- Provides up to 70dB gain for high-gain dynamic microphones.
- Dual USB ports connect a computer and phone or iPad simultaneously.
- Built-in loopback captures voice, instrument, backing tracks, and desktop audio.
Best For: Creators using a dynamic microphone who want to connect a computer and phone or tablet in one setup.
MAONO P2 Hybrid USB Audio Interface
- Dual USB ports connect a computer and phone or iPad simultaneously.
- Dual XLR supports condenser and dynamic microphones, with 56dB gain.
- Loopback captures instrument, voice, backing tracks, and desktop audio.
Best For: Musicians and podcasters who want two XLR inputs and simultaneous computer-to-phone connectivity.
MAONO MaonoCaster E2 Gen2
- Two XLR combo inputs and preamps with up to 60dB gain.
- Eight customizable sound effect buttons hold up to 20 seconds each.
- Built-in 1500mA battery offers up to 8 hours of use.
Best For: Podcast co-hosts who want two XLR combo inputs, onboard sound effects, and portable operation.
MAONO MaonoCaster AME2
- Provides 11 customizable sound pads for podcast audio.
- XLR preamps offer up to 60dB gain and 48V phantom power.
- Includes a 6.35mm instrument input for guitar or bass.
Best For: Podcasters, streamers, and guitarists who want multiple sound pads, voice effects, and instrument input.
Compact PC Recording
MAONO PS22 Lite USB Audio Interface for PC: Interface with XLR Input 24-bit/192kHz Routing Software LOOPBACK ASIO Driver for Recording Music, Home-Studio, Guitar, Podcast, Streaming, DAW(Black)
The PS22 Lite is a straightforward fit for a home recording setup built around a computer. It records at 24-bit/192kHz, has an XLR input with up to 56 dB of preamp gain and 48V phantom power, and includes a dedicated instrument input for guitar.
ProStudio Routing Software adds virtual channels and loopback for streaming, while a direct monitoring switch keeps setup simple. Its small, light design is appealing where desk space matters.
Check the input count and connection needs before buying: this interface centers on a single XLR input, and the package includes a USB cable and manual.
Best For: Solo musicians, podcasters, and streamers who want a compact interface for a computer-based setup.
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Choose the PS22 Lite for a solo voice or instrument setup that benefits from compact hardware, direct monitoring, and software loopback. The dedicated instrument input and phantom power cover common guitar and microphone workflows.
It is less suited to recording two XLR microphones at once, so a co-hosted show should consider an interface with dual inputs. Before buying, confirm that your DAW can use the MAONO ASIO driver if you need its low-latency routing.
High-Gain Hybrid Recording
MAONO P1 USB Audio Interface with 70dB Gain for PC, Phone, iPad & Guitar
The P1 combines hybrid connections with a high-gain preamp aimed at creators working with dynamic microphones. It provides up to 70dB gain and supports recording at 24-bit/192kHz, with dual USB ports for connecting a computer and phone or iPad simultaneously.
Auto-Gain can set a microphone level for OBS Studio, and built-in loopback helps combine a voice or instrument with desktop audio. Direct monitoring, headphone and monitor controls, and signal indicators support recording and streaming.
Its software features add flexibility, but check that the routing workflow suits your chosen apps and devices.
Best For: Creators using a dynamic microphone who want to connect a computer and phone or tablet in one setup.
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Pick the P1 if your recording flow moves between a computer and a phone or tablet, or if your dynamic microphone benefits from its up to 70dB gain. Auto-Gain and loopback speak to streaming and creator workflows, while direct monitoring supports instrument or voice recording.
The available details do not make its XLR input count clear, so verify that it fits your microphone setup before purchase. Also check the included cable connections against the devices you plan to use.
Dual-XLR Mobile Streaming
MAONO P2 Hybrid USB Audio Interface Dual XLR for PC Phone iPad Guitar
The P2 pairs dual XLR inputs with a hybrid connection setup for creators who record on a computer and stream or upload from a phone or iPad. It supports 24-bit/192kHz recording, offers 56dB of gain, and includes loopback for combining instrument, voice, backing tracks, and desktop audio.
Independent mute and headphone and monitor controls help manage a session, while direct monitoring and signal indicators support level checks. Its compact, tilted desk design and aluminum-alloy housing suit a creator workspace.
Check the specific software routing and mobile-device compatibility you need before choosing it.
Best For: Musicians and podcasters who want two XLR inputs and simultaneous computer-to-phone connectivity.
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The P2 is a practical match for creators who need two XLR microphone connections and want computer-to-mobile hybrid connectivity. Its loopback, direct monitoring, and independent controls cover streaming as well as recording.
The tradeoff is its rated 56dB gain, so compare microphone needs before choosing an interface. Confirm your phone or tablet connection and software routing before buying.
Two-Person Podcast Mixer
MAONO Podcast Equipment Bundle: Audio Interface mixer with Dual XLR Input for Podcast Streaming - MaonoCaster E2 Gen2
The E2 Gen2 is a podcast mixer built around two XLR combo inputs, making it a natural fit for co-hosts recording together. Its preamps provide up to 60dB gain, and eight customizable sound buttons can each hold up to 20 seconds of audio.
Loopback supports computer streaming, while USB-C and 3.5mm ports connect phones and computers. A built-in 1500mA battery offers up to 8 hours of use.
This bundle emphasizes podcast controls and effects rather than a minimal recording interface, so consider whether its sound pads, pitch effects, and connection options suit your production style.
Best For: Podcast co-hosts who want two XLR combo inputs, onboard sound effects, and portable operation.
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Choose the E2 Gen2 for co-hosted podcasts where two XLR combo inputs, quick mute access, and configurable sound effects are useful during a show. The battery adds flexibility when a powered desk setup is inconvenient, and loopback supports computer streaming.
It is a more specialized podcast mixer than the compact interface. Check your DAW recording format requirements before buying, since the available details do not give its bit depth or sample rate.
Sound-Pad Podcast and Guitar Mixer
MAONO Audio Interface, MaonoCaster 10-Channel Podcast mixer with Pro-preamp, 48V Phantom Power, Bluetooth, 11 Customize sound pads for Recording, Streaming, Youtube, TikTok, PC, Guitar (AME2)
The AME2 is a feature-rich podcast mixer that also accommodates guitar and bass through a 6.35mm instrument input. Its XLR microphone preamps support 48V phantom power and up to 60dB gain, while 11 customizable sound pads provide effects and recorded audio for a show or stream.
It also offers six reverb modes, pitch controls, Bluetooth, and loopback switches. Multiple connection options support computer, smartphone, tablet, and camera workflows.
USB microphones are not supported, so check that your microphone uses a compatible analog connection before choosing this mixer.
Best For: Podcasters, streamers, and guitarists who want multiple sound pads, voice effects, and instrument input.
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The AME2 fits creators who want hands-on podcast effects and sound pads, with an instrument input available for guitar or bass. Its XLR microphone support and mobile streaming connections make it more mixer-oriented than a compact computer interface.
USB microphones are not supported, so check your mic connector before buying. If you mainly need a straightforward solo recording path, compare its effects-heavy controls with a simpler interface workflow.
How to Choose Audio Interfaces
How We Picked Best Audio Interfaces
These options all serve computer recording, streaming, or podcasting, but they address different workflows. The PS22 Lite is the compact PC-focused choice with an instrument input and routing software.
The P1 and P2 add hybrid computer-to-mobile connections, while the E2 Gen2 and AME2 focus more on podcast mixer controls, sound effects, and live use.
The selection favors real differences that affect setup: XLR input arrangements, stated preamp gain, instrument support, loopback, mobile connections, sound pads, and portability features. Check which inputs you need at the same time and whether you plan to record into a DAW, stream from a computer, or capture content on a phone.
Comparing Best Audio Interfaces
For one microphone and an instrument, the PS22 Lite offers a dedicated instrument input and a compact setup. For higher stated gain, the P1 offers up to 70dB, while the P2 pairs 56dB gain with dual XLR inputs.
The available details do not confirm the P1's XLR count, so verify it if you plan to connect more than one microphone.
Podcast hosts who want onboard show controls can compare the E2 Gen2's eight sound buttons and built-in battery with the AME2's 11 pads, reverb modes, pitch controls, and guitar input. The E2 Gen2 clearly lists two XLR combo inputs; each mixer's remaining connection details should be checked against the intended microphones and devices.
| Product | Standout features | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| MAONO PS22 Lite USB Audio InterfaceCheck Price |
| Solo musicians, podcasters, and streamers who want a compact interface for a computer-based setup. |
| MAONO P1 USB Audio InterfaceCheck Price |
| Creators using a dynamic microphone who want to connect a computer and phone or tablet in one setup. |
| MAONO P2 Hybrid USB Audio InterfaceCheck Price |
| Musicians and podcasters who want two XLR inputs and simultaneous computer-to-phone connectivity. |
| MAONO MaonoCaster E2 Gen2Check Price |
| Podcast co-hosts who want two XLR combo inputs, onboard sound effects, and portable operation. |
| MAONO MaonoCaster AME2Check Price |
| Podcasters, streamers, and guitarists who want multiple sound pads, voice effects, and instrument input. |
Choosing an Audio Interface for Podcasting or Music
Start with the number and type of sources you will record at once. Two XLR microphones make the E2 Gen2 or P2 more directly suited to a co-host setup.
A solo microphone and guitar can fit the PS22 Lite, while the AME2 also includes a 6.35mm instrument input and offers controls for shaping a live show.
Consider phantom power when using a condenser microphone, and check gain needs for your particular mic. The PS22 Lite has up to 56 dB and 48V phantom power; the AME2 offers up to 60dB with 48V phantom power.
The P1's up to 70dB figure may interest users of dynamic microphones, but confirm its connection layout before purchase.
Mobile Streaming and Audio Routing
Hybrid USB connectivity matters when a session moves from a computer to a phone or tablet. Both the P1 and P2 list dual USB ports and MFi-certified connectivity for simultaneous connections.
The AME2 and E2 Gen2 also offer phone-oriented ports or outputs, while the PS22 Lite emphasizes computer recording with software routing and loopback.
For a stream that mixes voice, instrument, and desktop playback, check for loopback and software routing support. The P1 and P2 describe loopback capture and ProStudio software routing; the PS22 Lite includes ProStudio routing software and loopbacks.
Make sure the selected interface supports the apps and connections in your planned workflow.
Who Should Buy Which Audio Interface
Choose the PS22 Lite for a compact computer setup centered on one microphone or guitar. Pick the P1 when high stated gain and simultaneous computer-to-mobile connections fit your workflow, after confirming input count.
Choose the P2 for dual XLR and mobile streaming in one device.
For podcast co-hosts who want onboard sound effects and battery operation, consider the E2 Gen2. For a show with more sound pads, reverb and pitch controls, or a guitar input, the AME2 is the more feature-rich mixer.
In every case, verify microphone compatibility, required ports, and software routing before ordering.