MAONOUSB 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(PS22 Lite Black)

My previous review on this product was not a happy one. I connected it to multiple devices, had the biggest problem with crackles and pops and as much as it did what it was supposed to, it just wouldn't do it smoothly.I initially tried to contact support through Maono's website to figure out what was going on. No answer. Initially my review on this product was 2 stars, 3 for a product that kind of works with a lot crackle and pops and bringing it down to a 2 for not getting an answer from support.Despite the support not being available through their website, I recommend reaching out to the email listed on the website as well. Between the efforts of both Amazon and the support on the email I sent to separately, I can now re-review this product and am very grateful I got a new one sent out to do so.The new product is great! It is everything you would expect from an interface at this low of a price and more! It is the only interface worth getting at this price point. Is this the highest quality interface you can get? No. If you're willing to spend about twice as much, you can get the Audient devices which I personally consider to have fantastic sound quality, especially at their price. But this is PERFECT for it's price. That said, there are a few things to note. Imagine my disappointment when I plugged in the new interface, and it also crackled and popped. But this time, doing tests on multiple devices, I found it wasn't the interface itself, not strictly.Before I get into more about the crackles and pops, the device itself has an instrument in port and an XLR port, allowing for two inputs. Each has its own gain knob. There are also two outputs, one for a monitor and one for headphones. Each of these also has its own knob. It is pretty straightforward. It has a switch to direct monitor or just receive the full mix on output. It has a 48v phantom power for any condenser mics that might need it.As with any interface, I recommend downloading and installing the driver when you get it. That said, please read on to see one of the issues I had with the driver and the easy process on how to fix it. Another part that I really like and didn't think about being unique before, but got pointed out in a review by Obscure Mics, which I recommend going to check out his review of it on YouTube, is the lighting. The lights on this are really cool, modern and unique. If you start to clip, it even turns red to show you. Really nice job here.Now, for the snap, crackles and pops. Okay, not the snap, but I couldn't resist. There are four causes for crackles and pops on this device, and I had the fortune of being able to find all four causes to now be able to assess how to deal with them:1) The first device I received was having internal issues. This seems to be an infrequent thing to happen with their products where I just got unlucky, so I can't hold that against them. The new device doesn't have this issue. No problem.2) When I received the new device, it still had an issue on my main computer. I had an idea though. What if, by chance, it was the driver causing the issue? Easy enough to test. I tested the same exact inputs and outputs, but this time I used ASIO4ALL. And wouldn't you believe it worked JUST fine. No issues. No crackles and pops. Occasionally some weird ASIO4ALL issues, but that's not relevant to this interface. So I tried reinstalling the driver. And this fixed it! No more crackles and pops. So if you're having an issue, and it's only when using the Maono driver, I recommend trying to reinstall. But I also recommend that Maono look at why this happens and work on fixing it for future users.3) Use USB-C. On some devices I still had an issue running the interface through USB. USB is outdated, and this device uses USB-C for a reason. If you're having issues, use USB-C.4) Use a hub with a phone. If you want to connect this to a phone, which you can, get a hub that has both pd charging and a USB-C out data port then plug it into your phone and make sure it's charging while the interface is plugged in to the data port. This will provide a stable power source for the interface when connected to a phone and will work fine at this point!Positives:Great device for the price!It works and works pretty well once the bugs are figured out and dealt with!The input, output, dial and switch options are really nice on a device of this price range.The driver works well and provides low latency.The option for 96 khz is really great! It helps it keep up with the times, as well as using USB-C.Speaking of USB-C, the provided USB-C to USB cord is nice. I just don't really recommend using it unless you absolutely have to, and you've tested and know it will work for your setup.Recommendations for Improvement:A bit of additional quality control probably wouldn't hurt.Please fix whatever issue I had with the driver if it's something that can happen again to someone else.Provide an option for additional power straight to the device for more consistent power.Improve the pre-amps. This is half the price of the Audient devices I mentioned before, but the pre-amps do sound like it. I would love to see this device redone at the same price with improved pre-amps.Create more budget interface devices at reasonable prices. Include the improved pre-amps. Behringer has an 8-input interface at $180. I challenge Maono to do the same but cheaper with the higher quality pre-amps. Maybe even include ADAT ports or have devices with them? Maybe we can get it down to $100? Think about how much of a market that could take over!Extra buld quality like being made of metal would be nice, but at this price, is it really a major concern? Not for me.Overall, I really like this product for the price. And if you need a budget interface to start out with or to carry around, this is a great one for you. I currently have this rated at four stars, but if this device is still working great after a month, I'll make sure to give it five at that time.Edit:5 Stars after a month of usage! Still works fine without crackle issues!

The media could not be loaded. One of the standout features of the MAONO USB Audio Interface is its user-friendly design. The setup process is remarkably straightforward. Upon unboxing, I found that connecting the interface to my PC was as simple as plugging in the USB cable. It is truly a plug-and-play device; my computer recognized it immediately without the need for any complicated drivers or extensive configuration.The interface features an XLR input, which is essential for connecting professional-grade microphones like the PS22 Lite. This allows users to easily switch between different microphones or instruments, providing versatility for various recording situations. The controls are intuitively laid out, with clearly labeled knobs for gain, volume, and other essential functions. This design ensures that even those new to audio recording can navigate the interface with confidence.The routing software included with the MAONO interface adds another layer of convenience. The LOOPBACK feature is particularly beneficial for streamers and podcasters, as it allows for easy mixing of audio from multiple sources. This feature can be set up quickly, enabling users to capture both their voice and system audio without hassle. The ASIO driver support further enhances the user experience by minimizing latency, which is crucial for real-time monitoring during recordings.In terms of construction, the MAONO USB Audio Interface is built to last. The body of the device is made from durable materials that feel solid and reliable. It has a compact design that takes up minimal desk space. The robust build quality is evident in the weight and feel of the interface, which instills confidence that it can withstand regular use without issue.The interface features high-quality components, including a well-designed preamp that enhances the sound quality of connected microphones. This attention to detail in construction ensures that users receive clean, professional-grade audio in their recordings. Additionally, the knobs and buttons are responsive and provide a satisfying tactile feedback, making adjustments easy and precise.The Audio Interface excels in both ease of use and construction quality. It’s designed with the user in mind, allowing for quick setup and seamless operation, while its sturdy build ensures longevity. This combination makes it an ideal choice for anyone looking to elevate their audio recording experience, whether for music production, podcasting, or streaming.

Simple device and all I needed for my Video Editing Workstation.Replaces connecting to the analog headphone jack with a digital connection via USB-C cable.Connects to my speakers and Headset.Wish it had a mute switch but I simply turn down the volume.

I believe the item is very easy to use and the customer support is extremely helpful. However, sometimes there is a bit of popping and scratchy sounds but they offer to send a new one free of cost.

great budget interface. good for an entry level audiophile or someone who needs a low powered interface on the go! I own 2 ssl2+, a yamaha mg10xu and 6xu, and couple of focusrite scarletts and a mackie big knob. With all that said for 69 bucks this thing holds its own! clean pre-amps

Used this to mix self recorded backing track. Mixed out in sterio and was pretty easy to use.

Does everything I need it to and is easy to use. I like that it has software with it but do wish it would come with a CD or a link to the software with a QR code or something. Latency is great using the ASIO drivers w/ FL Studio. The only real gripes I have are being nit picky. I wish the headphone jack was not on the side and rather in the front. The other thing I have is that the small notches on the knob that tells you what level you are at should have a different color. With the background lit up, it's kind of hard to easily see the small black notch on the knobs. I bought some white nail polish and put it on the notches. Also wish there was a mute button for the micI've just been using the 48v button to mute my mic and am unsure if that is harmful to the mic or not.