3 Best XLR Interfaces for Dual PC Setups
When setting up dual PCs for audio work in 2025, choosing the right XLR interface can feel like walking a tightrope between sound quality and seamless integration. You need something robust enough to handle high-resolution 24-bit/192 kHz recordings, yet flexible enough to switch smoothly between systems without latency hiccups. The best options combine high-performance preamps, reliable connectivity, and user-friendly features—so your workflow stays clean and professional. Curious about how these choices stack up? Let’s explore what they bring to the table.
Focusrite Scarlett 18i16 USB-C Audio/MIDI Interface Bundle with XLR Cables
- The producer's interface: Scarlett 18i16 features 18 inputs and 16 outputs, including four mic preamps, Hi-Z, line inputs, ADAT, S/PDIF, and MIDI I/O.
- Capture everything: The 4th Generation preamps provide 69dB of gain, with two Hi-Z inputs and eight line inputs for versatile connectivity.
- Audio quality beyond its class: Equipped with 24-bit, 192kHz converters from our flapship RedNet range, offering a 122dB dynamic range for detailed recordings.
If you want to set up a dual PC system for recording music or making sound, the Focusrite Scarlett 18i16 USB-C Audio/MIDI Interface Bundle is a good choice. It provides reliable connections and great sound quality. The interface has 18 inputs and 16 outputs, so you can connect many microphones, instruments, or other devices at the same time. It includes four mic preamps, line inputs, Hi-Z for guitars, ADAT, S/PDIF, and MIDI ports. This makes it very flexible for different setups.
The bundle comes with two XLR cables and two MIDI cables. These help you easily hook up microphones and synths without buying extra cables. The sound quality is top-notch, thanks to 24-bit, 192kHz converters from RedNet. You get clear, professional sound even when recording at high accuracy. The preamps give 69dB gain, which is enough for most microphones, and the Air mode adds a warm, vintage sound to your recordings.
This interface is best for musicians, producers, and audio engineers who want a dependable, high-quality device for recording on two PCs. Its wide range of connections helps you set up many different instruments and devices easily.
However, it is a bit on the higher-priced side, so it might not be ideal for beginners or casual users. The many features can also be a lot to learn at first. Plus, it is quite large, so you will need a dedicated workspace with easy access to the ports.
In short, the Focusrite Scarlett 18i16 USB-C bundle is a powerful and flexible choice for serious sound projects. It offers plenty of inputs and outputs, great sound quality, and useful features to make recording easier and more reliable.
PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 Bundle — USB Audio Interface with XLR for Guitar and PC/Mac Recording Package
- PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 Audio Interface – High-fidelity 2x2 / 24 bit / 96 kHz Audio Interface.
- Professional Recording Software Included - Studio One Pro perpetual license
- PreSonus Eris 3.5 Studio Monitors – 3.5-inch media reference monitors packed with low-end punch and studio-quality sound.
The PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 Bundle is a great choice for people who want to record music or sounds at home. It is small, strong, and easy to carry. It has 2 input ports and 2 output ports. It records audio with clear sound at 24-bit, 96 kHz. This means your recordings will sound professional.
The bundle comes with Studio One Pro software. This makes it simple to record, edit, and make music. Even if you are new, you can learn it fast. The bundle also includes PreSonus Eris 3.5 monitors and HD7 headphones. These help you hear your music accurately so your mixes sound just right. The M7 MKII microphone is also part of the bundle. It works well for recording vocals and instruments with good clarity.
This device works with Windows and Mac computers. You can switch between systems easily, with no problems. It is perfect for musicians, home studio users, and content creators who want a solid, all-in-one recording tool.
Good Things:
- Small and easy to move or set up
- High-quality sound with 24-bit, 96 kHz
- Comes with software that helps you record and produce music
Things to Know:
- Only has 2 inputs and 2 outputs, so it may not suit very big recording projects
- You might need more gear if you want to add more features
- Beginners may need some time to learn how to use it
This bundle gives you everything you need to start recording. It is reliable, simple to use, and has good sound quality. Whether you are just starting or want a portable setup, this kit can work well for you.
M-AUDIO M-Track Duo USB Audio Interface
- Podcast, Record, Live Stream, This Portable Audio Interface Covers it All – USB sound card for Mac or PC delivers 48 kHz audio resolution for pristine...
- Be ready for anything with this versatile M-Audio interface - Record guitar, vocals or line input signals with two combo XLR / Line / Instrument Inputs with...
- Everything you Demand from an Audio Interface for Fuss-Free Monitoring – 1/4” headphone output and stereo 1/4” outputs for total monitoring flexibility;...
The M-AUDIO M-Track Duo USB Audio Interface is a good pick if you use two computers. It works well for recording and streaming. The interface has two combo inputs. These can take microphones, guitars, or other line signals. It has phantom power, which is good for condenser microphones. The audio quality is clear with a 48 kHz resolution. You can listen with the 1/4” headphone jack or use the stereo outputs. The USB/Direct switch helps you hear yourself in real-time with no delay. It’s small and simple to set up. This makes it easy to add to your dual PC setup or streaming setup.
Best for: People who want a small, easy-to-use audio interface. It is good for dual PC setups, podcasts, streaming, or recording with different instruments and mics.
Pros:
- Has two combo XLR/Line/Instrument inputs with phantom power. You can connect mics or guitars easily.
- Supports high-quality sound at 48 kHz for clear recordings.
- Features zero latency monitoring with the USB/Direct switch. You hear yourself instantly.
Cons:
- Only has two inputs. This might not work for big recordings with many mics or instruments.
- No built-in effects or processing. You can’t shape your sound inside the interface.
- Small size means it doesn’t have many controls like bigger interfaces.
This interface is simple but works well for users who need a reliable, compact device to record and stream from two PCs.
Factors to Consider When Choosing XLR Interfaces for a Dual PC Setup
When choosing XLR interfaces for your dual PC setup, you’ll want to consider the available input and output options—more than a few ports can make switching between devices smoother, like having a dedicated lane in traffic. Audio quality standards matter too; you need clarity without distortion, especially if you’re recording or mixing for clients or your own sanity. Finally, compatibility with your existing hardware, connection options (like USB or Thunderbolt), and how seamlessly the software integrates will determine how hassle-free your setup really is—after all, who needs more tech headaches?
Input/Output Variety
To make sure your XLR interface works well with two PCs, you need to check its connections. It should have enough XLR inputs to connect all your microphones at once. This way, you won’t need to switch cables all the time, which can be a hassle. You also want multiple outputs. This helps you send different sounds to each PC or monitor without tangled cables.
Make sure the interface can handle both input and output at the same time. This helps your audio stay smooth and avoids delays or issues. Compatibility is also key. Check if it works with your computer’s operating system and if it can run multiple drivers. This is important if you have two PCs working together.
Finally, look at the quality of the inputs. Good preamps give you clear sound and low noise. Nobody likes a noisy microphone or bad audio, especially when recording or broadcasting. Keep these points in mind, and your setup will run better and sound great.
Audio Quality Standards
Have you ever wondered why one XLR interface sounds better than another, especially if you’re using two computers? It all comes down to audio quality. Higher settings, like 24-bit/192kHz, make the sound richer and more detailed. This is great if you do music or voice work.
The converter’s dynamic range is important too. It’s measured in decibels, and it shows how well quiet and loud sounds are reproduced. A good interface has a wide range, so sounds stay clear no matter their volume.
Preamps also matter. Good preamps have low noise and minimal distortion. They make your sound clearer and avoid hissing or muddy sounds.
Latency, or delay, in monitoring is another key point. Low latency means you hear yourself in real time when recording. This helps you stay on pitch and timing.
Finally, digital standards like AES3, S/PDIF, and ADAT help keep signals clean and compatible. Following these standards makes sure your gear works smoothly together.
In short, better audio quality comes from higher bit rates, good converters, clean preamps, low latency, and solid digital standards. These things make your sound clearer, richer, and more professional.
Compatibility Compatibility
Picking the right XLR interface for a dual PC setup is important. You want it to work smoothly with both computers. First, check if the interface works with your operating system, whether it’s Windows, macOS, or Linux. You don’t want to find out it doesn’t work during a recording.
Next, look at the sound quality options. Make sure it supports the sample rates and bit depths you need. This keeps your audio clear and prevents dropout issues. Also, see if it connects via USB or Thunderbolt. Some interfaces let you switch between computers easily or use both at the same time.
Driver software is important too. It should be stable, regularly updated, and compatible with both PCs. Finally, check if your audio software and DAWs can easily work with the interface. This helps your workflow stay smooth without any glitches.
Keeping all these points in mind will help you pick an XLR interface that works well with multiple PCs and your setup.
Connection Options
When picking an XLR interface for a dual PC setup, connection options are very important. You want interfaces with multiple USB or Thunderbolt ports. This makes it easy to switch between your computers without unplugging cables all the time. Think of it like a simple handshake between your two machines. Some models can send audio to two outputs or have multiple routing options. This way, each PC can work separately but still share the same interface. Using USB-C is a good choice because it is faster and more reliable. This helps during live sessions or when recording a lot of sound. Some interfaces have extra channels, MIDI inputs, or digital optical connections. These features give you more flexibility. They help share audio or data smoothly between systems. Your goal is to find a setup that is strong and flexible. This way, you won’t fight your tech — instead, you can focus on making music.
Software Integration
Making sure your XLR interface works well with two PCs is simple if you pay attention to a few software details. First, pick an interface that can connect smoothly with the recording programs on both computers. This helps you switch between systems easily and keeps things running smoothly.
Check that the drivers and firmware are always up to date. Old or out-of-date software can cause crashes or audio dropouts, which nobody wants. Look for features like on-board mixing or DSP effects. These help you process sound in real time without putting too much strain on your computer’s CPU.
Finally, make sure the control software and apps work well with both Windows and Mac. It doesn’t matter how good your setup is if the software gives you trouble. Keep everything updated and compatible for the best experience. That way, your dual PC setup will run smoothly and keep your recordings flowing without issues.
Latency Management
Managing latency is key to keeping your dual PC setup working smoothly. Latency is the small delay between an action and when you hear or see the result. Too much delay can cause problems, especially when recording or monitoring audio.
Using fast data transfer methods like USB-C or Thunderbolt helps reduce latency. These connections send data quickly, making your setup more responsive. Also, features like direct monitoring allow you to hear your audio in real-time. This means there is no noticeable delay, which is very important when recording vocals or mixing live.
The buffer size setting in your audio interface also affects latency. Smaller buffers can lower delays, but they put more stress on your computer. If your system is slow, small buffers may cause glitches or pops. Larger buffers are safer but increase delay.
Tools for audio routing and synchronization can help keep everything in sync. They help align audio between your two computers. Balancing data transfer, buffer size, and these tools helps keep your workflow smooth. It also ensures your sound stays clear and professional, even with multiple devices working together.
Build Durability
If you use two computers and share audio equipment, the build quality of your XLR interfaces matters a lot. Choose models made with strong materials like metal shells or thick plastic. These will handle daily use, moving around, and accidental bumps better. A tough build helps protect the inside parts from damage if you drop or bump the device. Look for sturdy connectors and heavy-duty cables, too. They last longer and stand up to tough jobs. Dust, moisture, and temperature changes can also wear out weak devices faster. Things that are known for resisting damage in reviews tend to last longer. A well-made interface is not just nice to have. It helps prevent sudden failures that can cost a lot to fix. So, pick a durable model to keep your setup running smoothly and last for a long time.
Price and Budget
When picking an XLR interface for a dual PC setup, price matters a lot. Budget models can cost less than $100. They are good if you are just starting or have a tight budget. But these cheaper options usually lack features like multiple outputs or high-quality converters. This can limit how much you can grow or the quality of your recordings later.
More expensive units cost over $500. They often have better build quality and premium preamps. They also have lower latency, which is important for smooth performance in a dual PC setup. Look for deals or bundles. These can save you money on additional accessories or units.
Choosing the right XLR interface depends on balancing your budget and your needs. This helps you get a setup that is both affordable and good quality.
FAQs
How Do XLR Interfaces Affect Latency in Dual PC Configurations?
XLR interfaces can introduce slight latency in dual PC setups, but quality models minimize delays through efficient conversion and processing. You notice minimal latency, especially when optimized with proper drivers and configuration, ensuring smooth, real-time audio performance.
Can Multiple XLR Interfaces Be Connected Simultaneously for Expanded Inputs?
Yes, you can connect multiple XLR interfaces simultaneously for expanded inputs. You typically link them via USB or audio mixer setups, allowing you to combine their channels seamlessly, expand your input capacity, and optimize your audio workflow efficiently.
Are There Compatibility Issues With Specific Operating Systems or Software?
You might encounter compatibility issues with certain OS or software, especially older versions. To avoid problems, check the manufacturer’s specifications and verify your system drivers and firmware are up-to-date before connecting your XLR interface.
What Is the Typical Maximum Hardware Sample Rate Supported?
Most XLR interfaces support maximum hardware sample rates of 96 kHz or 192 kHz, providing high audio fidelity. Always verify the specific model’s specs, but generally, these rates ensure professional sound quality for your dual PC setup.
How Do Power Requirements Vary Between Bus-Powered and Powered XLR Interfaces?
Bus-powered XLR interfaces draw power directly from your computer via USB, so they consume less electricity but might have limited features. Powered interfaces use an external power source, offering higher stability, more features, and better performance but need a power outlet.
Last update on 2025-12-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
