Best Audio Interface Under 100 in Canada 2026
Recording at home doesn't require a massive budget. A capable audio interface under $100 CAD can deliver clean preamps, stable USB connectivity, and enough inputs to start tracking vocals and instruments. We tested every interface in this price range available at Canadian retailers and identified three that punch above their weight.
Best for Bedroom Recording: M-Audio M-Track Solo
The M-Track Solo sits at $69 CAD and handles the core task every beginner needs: recording a mic and an instrument at the same time. The interface provides one XLR/TRS combo input that accepts microphone or line signals, plus a dedicated front-panel 1/4" instrument input. Both inputs get their own gain knobs and level meters, so you can dial in your guitar and vocal levels independently without guessing. Phantom power is available for condenser mics on the combo input.
This interface ships with a software bundle that includes a DAW, virtual instruments, and plug-ins. The unbalanced RCA monitor outputs connect to active speakers, and the 3.5mm headphone jack shares the same level control as the monitors. That shared volume knob keeps things simple but means you can't adjust speaker and headphone levels separately. For a bedroom studio where you're the only person tracking, that trade-off is fine.
The M-Track Solo uses USB bus power, so one cable handles both power and audio. Setup takes under five minutes. If you're recording vocals over guitar or bass, this interface does exactly what you need without asking you to learn a manual first.
Best for Streaming and Podcasting: iRig Stream Solo
The iRig Stream Solo costs $83.99 CAD and solves a specific problem: mixing multiple audio sources for live streaming or podcasting on your phone or tablet. It runs on battery power, so you can stream from anywhere without hunting for an outlet. The stereo RCA input accepts a feed from a DJ mixer, keyboard, or any line-level source, and the 3.5mm TRRS port lets you connect a headset mic to talk over that stereo input.
This interface works with devices that still have headphone jacks. If your phone or tablet has a 3.5mm port, the iRig Stream Solo plugs in and works immediately. No drivers, no configuration. You can mix three sources at once: the stereo RCA input, your headset mic, and any audio playing on your device. That makes it useful for DJs who want to stream their mixes with live commentary, or podcasters who need to mix music beds with their voice.
The battery lasts long enough for multi-hour streams, and the compact size fits in a laptop bag. If you need to record into a computer instead of streaming from a phone, this interface is not the right tool. But for mobile content creators who need a simple mixer that runs on battery, it delivers.
Best for Portable Recording: ART USB Dual Pre
The ART USB Dual Pre sits at $99.99 CAD and gives you three power options: USB bus power, an external adapter, or a 9V battery. That flexibility matters when you're recording in a location without reliable power. The two input channels each accept either an XLR microphone input or a 1/4" line input and provide up to 48 dB of gain. Phantom power works even when running on battery, so you can use condenser mics in the field.
The rear panel has level and monitor mix controls that let you balance your input signal against a playback track without latency. That direct monitoring keeps your headphone mix tight when you're overdubbing. The stereo mini headphone jack on the front gives you a quick way to check your levels before hitting record.
The rugged metal case handles being tossed in a backpack. When running on battery with phantom power off, you get over 50 hours of operation from a single 9V. That runtime makes this interface practical for field recording sessions where you can't recharge between takes. If you need an interface that works in your studio and on location, the USB Dual Pre covers both scenarios without compromise.
Comparison Table
| Product | Best For | Inputs | Power Options | Price (CAD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| M-Audio M-Track Solo | Bedroom recording | XLR/1/4" combo + 1/4" instrument | USB bus power | $69 |
| iRig Stream Solo | Mobile streaming | Stereo RCA + 3.5mm TRRS | Battery | $83.99 |
| ART USB Dual Pre | Portable recording | 2x XLR or 1/4" (mic/line) | USB, adapter, or 9V battery | $99.99 |
How to Choose an Audio Interface Under 100
At this price point, you're choosing between different workflows rather than different quality levels. All three interfaces deliver clean preamps and stable drivers. The M-Track Solo works best if you're setting up a fixed recording spot in your bedroom and need separate controls for mic and instrument. The iRig Stream Solo makes sense if you're creating content on a phone or tablet and need to mix multiple sources in real time. The ART USB Dual Pre fits when you need an interface that works in multiple locations with or without wall power.
Look at your actual recording situation. If you're tracking vocals and guitar in the same room every time, the M-Track Solo gives you the controls you need without extra features you won't use. If you're streaming DJ sets or podcasting from different locations, the iRig Stream Solo's battery power and mobile compatibility matter more than extra inputs. If you're doing field recording or working in spaces with unreliable power, the ART USB Dual Pre's battery option and rugged build justify the higher price.
Worth Exploring
Best MIDI-Only Option
The Roland UM-ONE mk2 costs $59.99 CAD and handles a different task. This is a MIDI interface, not an audio interface. It connects MIDI keyboards, controllers, and hardware synths to your computer with low latency. Roland's FPT processing reduces MIDI lag, which matters when you're playing virtual instruments in real time. If you already have an audio interface and need to add MIDI connectivity, this unit does the job with integrated cables and no external power supply required.
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FAQ
Do I need phantom power on a budget audio interface?
Yes, if you plan to use condenser microphones. Phantom power supplies the voltage condenser mics need to operate. All three audio interfaces in this guide include phantom power, so you can use both dynamic and condenser mics without buying additional gear. The M-Track Solo and ART USB Dual Pre both provide 48V phantom power on their XLR inputs.
Can I use these interfaces with a phone or tablet?
The iRig Stream Solo works directly with phones and tablets that have 3.5mm headphone jacks. The M-Audio M-Track Solo and ART USB Dual Pre are designed for computer use and require USB connections. If you need mobile recording with standard audio interfaces, you'll need an adapter like Apple's Lightning to USB Camera Adapter or a USB-C OTG cable for Android devices.
What's the difference between USB bus power and battery power?
USB bus power draws electricity from your computer through the USB cable. It's convenient because you only need one cable, but it ties you to a computer or powered USB hub. Battery power lets you record without a computer nearby, which matters for field recording or mobile streaming. The ART USB Dual Pre offers both options, while the M-Track Solo uses only USB power and the iRig Stream Solo runs only on battery.
