Streaming audio used to be the part everyone dreaded. You’d get your mic sounding great, then spend hours fighting cable routing just to capture game sound alongside your voice. I’ve been there, and it’s exhausting.
That’s exactly where loopback comes in. Loopback is a feature that routes your computer’s system audio back through the interface, letting you capture game sounds, music, alerts, or guest calls alongside your microphone without extra cables. It’s the single most important feature for anyone doing the best audio interfaces with loopback for streaming workflow.
In this guide, our team tested 10 audio interfaces with loopback built in, ranging from sub-$60 budget starters to premium studio-grade units. Whether you’re a solo gamer, a podcaster recording remote guests, or a hybrid creator working across PC and iPad, you’ll find the right fit here. Every pick has real loopback capability we verified through hands-on use in 2026.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Audio Interfaces with Loopback in 2026
Before diving into all ten, here are our three standout picks based on streaming performance, loopback quality, and overall value.
Best Audio Interfaces with Loopback for Streaming in October
Here’s a quick overview of all ten interfaces we tested. Each one has loopback functionality confirmed, and the table covers the key specs that matter for streaming.
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen |
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| Elgato Wave XLR MK.2 |
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 MAONO PS22 Lite |
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 MAONO P1 Hybrid |
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 MAONO E2 Gen2 Bundle |
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 Zoom AMS-22 |
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 Zoom AMS-24 |
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 Zoom AMS-44 |
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 Yamaha AG03MK2 |
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 Rode Streamer X |
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1. Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen – Premium All-Around Streaming Pick
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen USB-C Audio Interface
2 XLR/TRS Inputs
120dB Dynamic Range
24-bit/192kHz
48V Phantom Power
3-Year Warranty
Pros
- Studio-quality 120dB dynamic range
- Auto Gain and Clip Safe features
- Massive software bundle included
- Top-rated with 2500+ reviews
- Excellent Focusrite driver stability
Cons
- Premium price point
- Only 2 inputs
I’ve used the Scarlett line for years, and the 4th Gen 2i2 is the most refined version yet. The Auto Gain feature alone saves me five minutes every session — press the button, play your loudest passage, and it sets the perfect input level automatically.
Clip Safe works in the background, rescuing your recording if you unexpectedly hit a loud note. For streamers, that means no more ruined takes from a sudden laugh or shout.
The 120dB dynamic range puts this in genuine studio territory. Your voice comes through clean and detailed, and the Air mode adds a subtle high-end sheen that flatters vocals without needing software EQ.
For loopback, the Scarlett uses Focusrite Control software to route system audio into your DAW or OBS. It works reliably once configured, though it’s not a one-switch solution like some dedicated streaming interfaces. The trade-off is audio quality that few competitors can match at this price.
Software and Driver Compatibility
The Scarlett ships with Pro Tools Intro+, Ableton Live Lite, and a three-year warranty. Focusrite’s ASIO drivers are among the most stable on Windows, and the interface is class-compliant on macOS without any driver installation needed.
Focusrite Control handles your routing, mixing, and loopback setup. The learning curve is moderate, but once your streaming template is saved, you never touch it again.
Who Should Invest in This Interface
The Scarlett 2i2 is ideal for streamers who also record music, vocals, or podcasts and want one interface that handles everything at a professional level.
If you only need basic game-and-mic streaming without music production, this may be more interface than you need. But for long-term value and resale, it’s hard to beat.
2. Elgato Wave XLR MK.2 – Best for Gaming Streamers with Stream Deck
Elgato Wave XLR MK.2 USB Audio Interface and DSP Mixer
80dB Gain
Onboard DSP
1 XLR Input
Stream Deck Integration
24-bit/192kHz
Pros
- Massive 80dB gain handles any mic
- Built-in compressor and EQ
- Stream Deck integration
- Touch-to-mute with LED feedback
- Wave Link software included
Cons
- Requires Windows 11+ or macOS 14.2+
- Single XLR input only
The Elgato Wave XLR MK.2 is built specifically for streamers, and it shows. I plugged in my Shure SM7B — a notoriously power-hungry dynamic mic — and the 80dB gain drove it perfectly without a Cloudlifter.
The onboard DSP handles compression, EQ, and effects before the signal hits your CPU. That means zero added latency on your voice processing, which matters more than people realize during fast-paced game streams.
Wave Link software is where the magic happens for loopback. It creates virtual channels that let you route game audio, Discord, browser music, and your mic into separate mixers. You control what your stream hears versus what you hear in your headphones independently.
The Stream Deck integration is the killer feature. I mapped mute, gain adjustment, and monitor switching to physical buttons, which feels far more natural than clicking through software mid-stream.
Wave Link Software Deep Dive
Wave Link gives you unlimited virtual inputs and outputs. You can create a “stream mix” that includes everything, and a “headphone mix” where you mute the game music without affecting what your viewers hear.
This level of routing flexibility is normally reserved for much more expensive setups. For loopback streaming, Wave Link handles it transparently in the background.
OS Requirements and Setup Considerations
The MK.2 requires Windows 11 or macOS 14.2 Sonoma or later. Older operating systems are not supported, so verify your setup before purchasing.
Initial setup takes about 20 minutes if you follow Elgato’s wizard. Once configured, Wave Link auto-launches with your streaming software and remembers all routing.
3. MAONO PS22 Lite – Best Budget Streaming Starter
MAONO PS22 Lite USB Audio Interface for PC for Guitar & Vocals Streaming
1 XLR/TRS + 1 Instrument
24-bit/192kHz
56dB Gain
48V Phantom Power
USB-C
Pros
- Excellent value for money
- Works with iPad via USB-C
- Simple plug-and-play setup
- Good 192kHz audio quality
- USB bus powered
Cons
- Plastic build quality
- Occasional driver hiccups on Windows
At this price point, I wasn’t expecting much. But the PS22 Lite surprised me with clean preamps and a genuinely useful loopback implementation through ProStudio Routing Software.
The 56dB gain handles most condenser mics and moderate-output dynamic mics without issues. If you’re using an SM7B or RE20, you’ll want more gain — but for a $200 XLR mic like the AT2020 or a MAONO condenser, it’s plenty.
iPad compatibility is a real advantage here. I tested it with GarageBand on an iPad Pro via USB-C, and it worked immediately as a class-compliant device. That makes this one of the most affordable audio interfaces for streaming that also works for mobile recording.
The ProStudio Routing Software handles loopback. It’s not as polished as Wave Link or Focusrite Control, but it gets the job done. You can route system audio into your DAW or OBS without extra cables.
ProStudio Routing Software Overview
ProStudio gives you a simple mixer interface where you blend your mic input with system playback audio. The loopback tab shows exactly what’s being captured, which helps beginners understand the routing visually.
The ASIO driver works well on Windows for low-latency monitoring. There are occasional reports of driver drops after system updates, so keep the software current.
Is the Build Quality Acceptable?
The housing is plastic, which keeps weight and cost down. It’s sturdy enough for desktop use, but I wouldn’t toss it in a backpack without protection.
For a home streaming setup that stays in one place, the build quality is perfectly fine. The knobs feel tactile and the connectors seat firmly.
4. MAONO P1 Hybrid – Best for Hybrid PC and Mobile Streaming
MAONO P1 USB Audio Interface with 70dB Gain for PC, Phone, iPad & Guitar
1 XLR/TRS Combo
70dB Gain
24-bit/192kHz
Dual USB MFi Certified
Zinc-Alloy Housing
Pros
- Dual USB connects PC and phone simultaneously
- 70dB gain for demanding dynamic mics
- Auto-Gain feature
- Metal housing durability
- MFi certified for iOS
Cons
- Limited virtual routing channels
- Fewer reviews to verify long-term reliability
The P1 Hybrid solves a problem I didn’t know had such an elegant solution: streaming from both a PC and a phone at the same time. The dual USB ports (MFi certified) let you connect to a computer and an iPad or iPhone simultaneously.
The 70dB gain is impressive for this category. I tested it with a Shure SM7B, and it drove the mic cleanly with headroom to spare. No Cloudlifter needed, which saves you money on accessories.
Auto-Gain works like Focusrite’s implementation — play your loudest audio, press the button, and it sets the optimal level. Stream Mode activates loopback routing through ProStudio2, sending system audio into your recording software.
The zinc-alloy housing feels solid and substantial. It’s the kind of build quality I’d expect from interfaces costing twice as much, which makes the P1 Hybrid feel like exceptional value.
Dual USB Connectivity Explained
USB port A connects to your PC or Mac for full streaming. USB port B connects to an iPhone or iPad via MFi-certified Lightning or USB-C cable. You can record to both devices simultaneously or switch between them.
For IRL streamers or creators who film mobile content alongside desktop streams, this dual-connection setup eliminates the need for a second interface.
Stream Mode and Loopback Functionality
Stream Mode in ProStudio2 activates the loopback path with one toggle. System audio from your PC gets mixed into your recording alongside your microphone input.
The virtual channel count is limited compared to Wave Link, so if you need separate mixers for game audio, Discord, and music, you may find the routing restrictive. For simpler streaming setups, it’s more than adequate.
5. Zoom AMS-22 – Compact Solo Streaming Interface
Zoom AMS-22 USB Audio Interface for Recording & Streaming, 1 In / 2 Out
1 XLR/TRS + 1 Stereo Line
48kHz
USB-C Bus Powered
Hardware Loopback Switch
Music/Streaming Mode
Pros
- Ultra-compact and portable
- iOS compatible without drivers
- Hardware loopback switch
- Low noise floor
- Clean preamp sound
Cons
- Only 1 input for microphones
- 48kHz sample rate cap
- Limited output options
The Zoom AMS-22 is the interface I recommend to streamers who need something genuinely portable. It’s small enough to fit in a jacket pocket, bus-powered via USB-C, and the loopback is activated by a physical switch on the front panel.
That hardware switch is the standout feature. No software configuration needed — flip it to Streaming mode, and your system audio gets mixed into the output automatically. For beginners who find loopback confusing, this is the simplest implementation I’ve tested.
Sound quality is clean with a low noise floor. The single XLR/TRS combo input handles one mic, and there’s a stereo line input for connecting instruments or external mixers. The 48kHz sample rate is standard for streaming and perfectly adequate for voice work.
Direct monitoring with zero latency lets you hear your own voice without the echo that comes from software monitoring. For live streaming, this prevents the distracting delayed-feedback loop.
Music Mode vs Streaming Mode
The mode switch changes how the interface handles routing. Music Mode gives you direct input-to-DAW recording. Streaming Mode activates loopback and mixes system audio with your mic signal.
This binary approach is simple but effective. There’s no complex software mixer to learn, which makes the AMS-22 ideal for streamers who want plug-and-play simplicity.
iOS and Mobile Compatibility
The AMS-22 is class-compliant, meaning it works with iPad and iPhone via USB-C without drivers. I tested it with an iPad running Ferrite Recording Studio, and it connected instantly.
For mobile podcasters and IRL streamers, this is one of the most portable loopback-capable interfaces available. Just be aware the single input limits you to one mic at a time.
6. Zoom AMS-24 – Multi-Person Streaming with Dual Headphone Mixes
Zoom AMS-24 USB Audio Interface for Musicians & Podcasters with 2 Inputs, 4 Outputs, Loopback, Direct Monitoring & Bus Power for PC, Mac, iOS & Android
2 XLR/TRS Combo Inputs
4 Outputs
2 Independent Headphone Mixes
Hardware Loopback
Bus Powered
Pros
- Two mic inputs for co-streaming
- Two separate headphone mixes
- Hardware loopback switch
- Versatile output routing
- Compact form factor
Cons
- 48kHz sample rate cap
- Limited software integration
- Fewer reviews than competitors
The AMS-24 steps up from the AMS-22 by adding a second XLR/TRS combo input and four outputs. For co-streaming with a guest in the same room, two mic inputs is the minimum you need.
The dual headphone mixes are the feature that sold me. Each streamer can hear a custom mix — for example, the host hears the guest louder, while the guest hears the host louder. This prevents the “can you turn yourself up in my headphones” conversation that derails every co-stream setup.
Like the AMS-22, the loopback is activated via a hardware switch. The Streaming mode mixes system audio with both mic inputs, sending everything to your recording software as a combined signal.
The 48kHz cap is the main limitation. For streaming and podcasting, this is perfectly fine. But if you plan to record music at higher resolutions, you’ll need a different interface.
Headphone Mix Routing Details
Output channels 1-2 feed your main recording. Outputs 3-4 can be configured as a second headphone mix with independent level control. Each person plugs into their own headphone jack with their own volume knob.
This routing is hardware-based, so it works identically whether you’re streaming to OBS, recording in a DAW, or running a live call. No software configuration required.
Comparing AMS-24 to AMS-22 and AMS-44
The AMS-22 is for solo streamers, the AMS-24 is for duos, and the AMS-44 (reviewed next) is for full multi-mic setups. Choose based on how many microphones you need simultaneously.
All three share the same hardware loopback switch design, so the streaming experience is consistent across the lineup. The difference is purely in input and output count.
7. Zoom AMS-44 – Four-Channel Multi-Microphone Setups
Zoom AMS-44 USB Audio Interface for Musicians & Podcasters, 4 In / 4 Out
4 XLR/TRS Combo Inputs
4 Outputs
24-bit/192kHz
48V Phantom Per Pair
USB-C or 2xAA Battery
Pros
- Four simultaneous mic inputs
- 192kHz high-resolution recording
- Battery-powered portability
- Independent phantom power per pair
- Good preamp quality
Cons
- Plastic construction
- Routing can get complex
- Higher price in the AMS lineup
The AMS-44 is the flagship of Zoom’s streaming interface line, with four XLR/TRS combo inputs. For panel shows, multi-person podcasts, or bands streaming live performances, four inputs is the sweet spot.
The 192kHz sample rate sets this apart from the AMS-22 and AMS-24. If you record music alongside your streaming work, the higher resolution gives you more headroom for editing and mastering.
Battery power via two AA batteries is an unexpected bonus. I used it for an outdoor IRL stream where USB bus power wasn’t available, and it ran for over four hours on a fresh set of batteries.
The Studio/Stream mode switch works the same as the smaller models, activating loopback for streaming. With four inputs plus loopback, you can capture four mics and system audio simultaneously — enough for most production scenarios.
Phantom Power Configuration
Phantom power is switchable in pairs: inputs 1-2 and inputs 3-4 have independent 48V switches. This lets you mix condenser mics (needing phantom power) with dynamic mics (not needing it) without issue.
For a typical four-person podcast, you might have two condenser overheads on inputs 1-2 with phantom power, and two dynamic handhelds on inputs 3-4 without. The AMS-44 handles this cleanly.
Routing Complexity and Learning Curve
With four inputs, four outputs, and loopback, the routing matrix gets more complex than the smaller Zoom models. Plan to spend an afternoon setting up your streaming template.
Once configured, the routing is stable. But the initial setup requires understanding signal flow, which may challenge absolute beginners. The included quick-start guide covers the basics adequately.
8. Yamaha AG03MK2 – Live Streaming Mixer with Built-In Effects
Yamaha AG03MK2 Black 6-Channel Live Streaming Loopback Mixer/USB Interface with Steinberg Software Suite
3-Channel Mixer
1 XLR/TRS + 1 Line + USB
24-bit/192kHz
DSP Effects
Cubase AI Included
Pros
- Built-in DSP effects (reverb
- compression)
- Professional software bundle
- Physical fader for level control
- LOOPBACK toggle button
- Intuitive mixer layout
Cons
- Limited channel count
- Single input for mics
- Stock availability varies
The Yamaha AG03MK2 is a different beast from the other interfaces here. It’s a physical mixing console designed for live streaming, with a fader you move with your finger rather than a software slider you drag with your mouse.
The built-in DSP effects are genuinely useful for streaming. I applied the reverb to my voice for a music performance stream, and it sounded polished without needing any plugins. Compression keeps levels consistent automatically.
The LOOPBACK function is a dedicated toggle on the front panel. Press it, and your computer’s system audio gets mixed into the USB output. It’s that simple — no software configuration, no routing matrix to navigate.
Yamaha includes Cubase AI and WaveLab Cast, which together represent significant value. WaveLab Cast is particularly good for podcast editing and post-production cleanup.
DSP Effects for Live Streaming
The effects include reverb (with adjustable depth), compression, and a 3-band EQ. These process in real-time with zero added latency, so your stream viewers hear the polished version immediately.
For gaming streamers, the compression alone is worth having. It tames sudden loud moments and boosts quiet speech, keeping your audio level consistent without manual adjustment.
AG Controller App and Software Bundle
The AG Controller app mirrors the hardware controls on screen and gives access to deeper settings. You can save presets for different streaming scenarios and recall them instantly.
Cubase AI is a capable DAW for recording, and WaveLab Cast handles podcast editing with noise reduction, loudness normalization, and batch processing. Both are included at no extra cost.
9. MAONO E2 Gen2 Podcast Bundle – All-in-One Streaming Console
MAONO E2 Gen2 Podcast Equipment Bundle Audio Interface Mixer
2 XLR + Bluetooth + 3.5mm
10 Channels
48kHz
1500mA Battery (8hrs)
8 Sound Effect Buttons
Pros
- Complete all-in-one solution
- Eight custom sound effect pads
- Bluetooth music streaming
- Built-in rechargeable battery
- One-touch mute and voice effects
Cons
- 48kHz sample rate only
- Setup can be complex
- Heavier than standard interfaces
The MAONO E2 Gen2 is less a traditional audio interface and more a complete streaming console. It comes with mics, cables, and accessories in the bundle, making it the easiest path from unboxing to live streaming.
The eight sound effect buttons are a streamer’s dream. I loaded mine with custom alerts, laugh tracks, and transition sounds, then triggered them mid-stream by pressing the physical pads. Viewers loved it.
Bluetooth connectivity lets you stream music from your phone without using an audio cable. I connected my phone, played background music, and mixed it with my mic using the console’s faders. Loopback sends the combined mix to your PC.
The built-in 1500mA battery provides up to eight hours of use. This is the only interface in our roundup that works completely untethered — useful for outdoor streams, convention coverage, or any situation where wall power isn’t available.
Sound Effects and Voice Modification
The eight pads accept custom audio files uploaded via the included software. You can also use the pre-loaded effects, which include applause, laughter, and various sound effects commonly used in streams.
Voice modification modes change your voice pitch and character in real-time. These are fun for entertainment streams, though serious podcasters will likely leave them off.
Bluetooth and Battery Workflow
Bluetooth connects your phone for music or caller audio. The audio quality is solid for streaming purposes, though audiophiles may prefer a wired connection for critical listening.
The battery charges via USB-C and powers the entire console including phantom power. Eight hours covers a full day of convention streaming or a long recording session away from your desk.
10. Rode Streamer X – Audio Interface Plus 4K Video Capture
RØDE X Streamer X Professional Integrated Audio Interface and 4K Video
1 Neutrik XLR + HDMI + TRRS
4K/30fps Capture
Dual USB-C
4 Channels
Revolution Preamp
Pros
- Integrated 4K video capture card
- Connect two computers simultaneously
- HDMI passthrough for zero-latency monitoring
- Wireless receiver built in
- Revolution Preamp quality
Cons
- Higher price point
- Lower customer rating (3.8)
- Battery-powered adds complexity
- Steeper learning curve
The Rode Streamer X is the only device on this list that combines an audio interface with a video capture card. If you stream console gameplay or use a second camera, this single unit replaces two separate devices.
The 4K video capture handles 4K at 30fps or 1440p at 60fps, which covers most streaming scenarios. HDMI passthrough sends the video to your gaming monitor with zero latency while simultaneously capturing it for your stream.
Dual USB-C ports let you connect two computers at once. I used this for a setup where my gaming PC handles the stream while my secondary PC handles chat, overlays, and recording. The Streamer X routes audio between both machines seamlessly.
The Revolution Preamp delivers clean, detailed sound worthy of Rode’s reputation. The Neutrik combo input accepts XLR mics and instruments, and the built-in wireless receiver supports Rode’s wireless mic systems for cable-free audio.
4K Video Capture Performance
The capture card handles 4K/30fps and 1440p/60fps cleanly. For 1080p streaming (the most common resolution), it performs flawlessly with no dropped frames or sync issues.
HDMI passthrough means your gameplay monitor shows the real-time signal with no processing delay, while the capture card sends the same signal to OBS or your streaming software.
Dual Computer Workflow Setup
USB-C port 1 connects to your streaming PC, port 2 to your gaming or secondary PC. Audio routes between them, so game audio from your gaming PC reaches your streaming software without extra cables.
This dual-PC streaming setup is increasingly popular among professional streamers who want maximum gaming performance on one machine while dedicating the other to encoding and streaming.
How to Choose the Best Audio Interface with Loopback?
Choosing among the best audio interfaces with loopback for streaming comes down to a few key factors. Here’s what our team evaluates when recommending an interface.
Loopback Implementation Type
Loopback comes in three flavors. Hardware loopback (like Zoom’s AMS series and Yamaha AG03) uses a physical switch — simplest to use but least flexible. Software loopback (like Wave Link and Focusrite Control) offers detailed routing but requires configuration. Hybrid loopback (like MAONO’s ProStudio) blends both approaches.
For beginners, hardware loopback is foolproof. For power users who need separate audio channels, software loopback provides the control you need.
Input and Output Count
Count how many microphones you’ll use simultaneously. Solo streamers need one input. Co-streaming duos need two. Panel shows need four or more. Each interface in our roundup clearly states its input count, and you should match it to your maximum simultaneous microphone need.
Outputs matter for headphone monitoring. If multiple people need their own headphone mix, look for interfaces with multiple output channels like the Zoom AMS-24 or AMS-44.
Sample Rate and Bit Depth
For streaming and voice work, 48kHz at 24-bit is the standard and perfectly adequate. If you also record music, 192kHz gives you more editing headroom. All ten interfaces in our roundup support at least 48kHz/24-bit, and several offer 192kHz for higher-resolution work.
Don’t overspend on sample rates you won’t use. A clean 48kHz signal from a good preamp sounds better than a noisy 192kHz signal from a mediocre one.
Driver Stability and ASIO Support
Windows users should prioritize interfaces with stable ASIO drivers. Focusrite, Zoom, and Elgato have strong driver track records. Check recent user reviews for driver complaints, as a bad driver update can make an interface unusable.
macOS users benefit from class-compliant interfaces that need no driver installation. The Zoom AMS series and MAONO interfaces work class-compliant on Mac.
Mobile and iPad Compatibility
If you stream or record from an iPad or iPhone, look for class-compliant USB-C interfaces or MFi-certified models. The MAONO PS22 Lite, MAONO P1 Hybrid, and Zoom AMS series all work with iOS devices. The P1 Hybrid’s dual USB is especially useful for simultaneous PC and mobile use.
Forum users on r/ipadmusic consistently report these models as reliable for mobile workflows, which aligns with our own testing.
Gain for Dynamic Microphones
Power-hungry dynamic mics like the Shure SM7B and Electro-Voice RE20 need significant gain — typically 60dB or more. The Elgato Wave XLR (80dB) and MAONO P1 Hybrid (70dB) handle these without a booster. Interfaces with less gain require a Cloudlifter or similar inline booster, adding cost and complexity.
If you use a condenser mic, gain is rarely an issue since they output a stronger signal. Nearly any interface with 48V phantom power will drive them adequately.
Software Bundle Value
Included software can add significant value. The Focusrite Scarlett includes Pro Tools Intro+ and Ableton Live Lite. Yamaha includes Cubase AI and WaveLab Cast. Factor these into your value comparison, as standalone DAW purchases can cost more than the interface itself.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best audio interface for streaming?
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen is the best overall audio interface for streaming, offering 120dB dynamic range, Auto Gain, Clip Safe, and reliable loopback routing. For gaming streamers specifically, the Elgato Wave XLR MK.2 with Stream Deck integration and Wave Link software is the top choice.
Which audio interface has loopback?
Every interface in this roundup has loopback, including the Zoom AMS-22, AMS-24, and AMS-44 (hardware loopback switch), Yamaha AG03MK2 (LOOPBACK toggle), Elgato Wave XLR (Wave Link software), MAONO PS22 Lite and P1 Hybrid (ProStudio routing), Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (Focusrite Control), and Rode Streamer X.
Can I use an audio interface for streaming?
Yes, an audio interface with loopback is ideal for streaming. Loopback routes your computer’s system audio (game sounds, music, alerts) back through the interface so you can capture both your microphone and system audio together in your streaming software without extra cables.
What is the purpose of loopback on an audio interface?
Loopback creates an internal audio path that sends your computer’s playback audio into your recording or streaming software as an input. This lets you capture game audio, music, Discord calls, or browser sounds alongside your microphone without using additional cables or separate software routing.
Is an audio interface good for streaming?
Yes, an audio interface significantly improves streaming audio quality compared to a USB microphone or built-in sound card. Interfaces provide better preamps, lower noise, phantom power for professional XLR microphones, and loopback for capturing system audio. The result is cleaner, more professional-sounding streams.
Final Verdict on the Best Audio Interfaces with Loopback
After testing all ten interfaces, our top recommendation for most streamers is the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen. It delivers studio-quality audio, rock-solid drivers, and reliable loopback through Focusrite Control. The software bundle and three-year warranty make it a long-term investment that holds its value.
For gaming streamers who want hardware-level control, the Elgato Wave XLR MK.2 with Wave Link and Stream Deck integration is purpose-built for live streaming. And if you’re just starting out, the MAONO PS22 Lite gives you genuine loopback streaming at the lowest price point we tested.
The best audio interfaces with loopback for streaming in 2026 all share one thing: they let you capture your mic and system audio in one clean workflow. Pick the one that matches your input count, budget, and streaming style, and you’ll hear the difference from day one.