Choosing an audio interface with ADAT input gives your studio a practical way to add microphone preamps, expand channel count, and build a setup that can grow with your recording needs.
We compare 10 strong options across connectivity, I/O, conversion, workflow, and expansion potential so you can find the right fit for home recording, project studios, or more demanding production systems.
Best 10 Audio Interface with Adat Input Picks for 2026
Best Value Expansion Hub
- 18x20 USB audio/MIDI I/O with ADAT
- Eight MIDAS mic preamps with phantom power
- 24-bit/96 kHz support and broad software compatibility
Best For: Multichannel home and project studios needing affordable expansion
Premium Analog Character
- Eight low-noise Clarett+ preamps
- ADAT input adds eight digital expansion channels
- 24-bit/192 kHz conversion and Air circuitry
Best For: Producers seeking premium recording quality and expandable I/O
Dedicated ADAT Preamp
- Eight-channel microphone preamp
- Midas preamps with ADAT optical connectivity
- 24-bit conversion at 44.1/48 kHz
Best For: Adding eight mic inputs to an existing ADAT-compatible system
Modern Workflow Pick
Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 4th Gen
- 18-in/20-out interface with ADAT and Word Clock
- Eight preamps and 24-bit/192 kHz converters
- Auto Gain, Clip Safe, MIDI, and S/PDIF included
Best For: Growing studios needing versatile I/O and streamlined recording tools
Studio Expansion Pick
- ADAT optical input
- 192kHz/32-bit converters
- Four independent foldback mixes
Best For: Growing studios needing flexible monitoring and digital expansion
Versatile Connectivity Pick
Focusrite Scarlett 18i16 4th Gen
- 18-in/16-out operation
- ADAT, S/PDIF, and MIDI I/O
- Auto Gain and Clip Safe
Best For: Producers needing broad analog and digital connectivity
High-Channel-Count Pick
- 26-in/30-out configuration
- Eight mic preamps with 75dB gain
- Low-latency driver and re-amp outputs
Best For: Larger studios recording multiple sources and complex routings
Best Overall Expansion Hub
- 16 inputs and 16 outputs with ADAT, S/PDIF, and MIDI
- 24-bit/192kHz converters with 122dB dynamic range
- Auto Gain, Clip Safe, Air modes, and bundled software
Best For: Producers building a flexible, expandable project studio
Best High-Input-Count Value
- 18x20 operation with 24-bit/96kHz audio
- Optical ADAT, coaxial S/PDIF, analog, and MIDI support
- Midas mic preamps and broad recording-software compatibility
Best For: Multi-device studios needing extensive simultaneous I/O
Best Compact Starter Interface
- Compact two-input USB interface for voice, guitar, and synths
- MIDI I/O, loopback, headphone output, and USB hub
- Includes Ableton Live Lite and other creative software
Best For: Beginners and mobile creators who do not need ADAT expansion
Best Value Expansion Hub – Behringer UMC1820
If you need an audio interface with ADAT input for expanding a home or project studio, the Behringer UMC1820 offers 18 inputs and 20 outputs, eight MIDAS-designed mic preamps, and 24-bit/96 kHz operation. Its USB connectivity supports Mac and Windows computers and popular recording software.
Best For: Multichannel recording setups that need substantial I/O and ADAT connectivity at a value-oriented price.
Pros:
- 18×20 USB audio/MIDI interface with ADAT I/O
- Eight MIDAS-designed mic preamps with +48V phantom power
- Supports up to 24-bit/96 kHz recording
- Compatible with software including Pro Tools, Ableton Live, and Cubase
Cons:
- Does not offer the 192 kHz maximum sample rate found on some competing models
- Its larger 24.35-inch width may require dedicated rack or desk space
The UMC1820 is a practical choice when you want plenty of analog channels, MIDI, and ADAT expansion without moving to a premium-priced interface. It is especially suitable for recording several microphones and instruments at once.
Premium Analog Character – Focusrite Clarett+ 8Pre
The Focusrite Clarett+ 8Pre is an audio interface with ADAT input aimed at producers who want eight high-quality preamps, extensive line outputs, and high-resolution conversion. Its USB-C connectivity, Air circuitry, and ADAT expansion make it a flexible centerpiece for a modern studio.
Best For: Producers and engineers prioritizing quiet, high-headroom preamps, premium conversion, and expandable studio I/O.
Pros:
- Eight Clarett+ preamps with low noise, low distortion, and substantial headroom
- ADAT optical input provides eight channels of digital expandability
- 24-bit/192 kHz operation with independent A-D and D-A converters
- Air mode adds analogue-style high-frequency presence to recordings
Cons:
- Its premium feature set may be more than a basic recording setup requires
- At 19 inches wide, it is best suited to a rack or spacious workstation
With eight preamps, two Hi-Z inputs, ten balanced outputs, and two headphone outputs, the Clarett+ 8Pre is built for involved tracking and monitoring workflows. It is a strong fit if sound quality and future ADAT expansion matter more than minimizing cost.
Dedicated ADAT Preamp – Behringer ADA8200
Behringer ADA8200 Audiophile 8 In/8 Out ADAT Audio Interface with Midas Mic Preamplifiers
Check Price On AmazonFor a straightforward audio interface with ADAT input or output expansion, the Behringer ADA8200 focuses on eight microphone preamps and ADAT connectivity. Its 24-bit converters operate at 44.1 or 48 kHz, making it a practical way to add multiple analog inputs to a compatible digital setup.
Best For: Studios that need eight additional microphone inputs through an ADAT optical connection.
Pros:
- Eight-channel microphone preamp design
- Includes Midas preamps
- 24-bit AD/DA conversion at 44.1/48 kHz
- Provides ADAT optical connectivity for compatible equipment
Cons:
- Maximum sample rate is limited to 48 kHz
- Its primary focus is adding channels rather than serving as a full USB computer interface
The ADA8200 makes sense when your existing interface or digital mixer already supports ADAT and you mainly need more microphone inputs. Its limited sample-rate range is worth considering before pairing it with a higher-resolution setup.
Modern Workflow Pick – Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 4th Gen
The fourth-generation Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 is an audio interface with ADAT input designed for larger recording systems. It combines eight mic preamps, two Hi-Z inputs, ADAT, S/PDIF, MIDI, and Word Clock with 24-bit/192 kHz converters and workflow tools such as Auto Gain and Clip Safe.
Best For: Home and project studios that want broad connectivity, high-resolution recording, and convenient level-management tools.
Pros:
- 18 inputs and 20 outputs with eight mic preamps
- Includes ADAT, S/PDIF, MIDI, and Word Clock connectivity
- 24-bit/192 kHz converters with a stated 122 dB dynamic range
- Auto Gain and Clip Safe simplify recording level management
Cons:
- Its extensive I/O may be unnecessary for smaller, simple setups
- The rack-style unit requires dedicated desk or rack space
The Scarlett 18i20 4th Gen is a well-rounded centerpiece for a growing studio. Its combination of ADAT expansion, digital synchronization options, eight preamps, and included software gives it room to support both recording and production workflows.
Studio Expansion Pick – SSL 12
The SSL 12 is a strong choice if you need an audio interface with ADAT input and a compact USB workflow for recording and mixing. Its four mic preamps, high-resolution converters, flexible headphone monitoring, and built-in talkback system suit a growing project or professional studio.
Best For: Producers and recording setups that need ADAT expansion, multiple headphone mixes, and hands-on monitoring features.
Pros:
- ADAT optical input for adding compatible digital equipment
- 192kHz/32-bit converters with more than 120dB of dynamic range
- Up to four independent, near-zero-latency foldback mixes
- Built-in talkback microphone and comprehensive monitoring system
Cons:
- Limited to four mic preamps
- Requires SSL 360 software for the software mixer workflow
The SSL 12 stands out for monitoring flexibility and studio-oriented control. It is especially appealing when ADAT expansion and several independent headphone mixes matter more than a very large analog input count.
Versatile Connectivity Pick – Focusrite Scarlett 18i16 4th Gen
The Scarlett 18i16 4th Gen is a practical audio interface with ADAT input for producers who want extensive connectivity in a USB-C setup. With four mic preamps, two Hi-Z inputs, eight line inputs, MIDI, S/PDIF, and 18-in/16-out operation, it can accommodate a broad range of recording tasks.
Best For: Producers who need many analog and digital connections, guitar-friendly inputs, and straightforward workflow tools.
Pros:
- 18 inputs and 16 outputs with ADAT, S/PDIF, and MIDI I/O
- Four mic preamps with up to 69dB of gain
- Two Hi-Z inputs and eight line inputs for flexible source connection
- Auto Gain and Clip Safe help manage recording levels
Cons:
- Uses an external power supply
- Its extensive I/O may be more than a basic recording setup needs
With its combination of analog inputs, ADAT support, and digital studio connections, the Scarlett 18i16 is one of the most adaptable options here. The bundled recording software and three-year manufacturer warranty add practical value for a new or expanding setup.
High-Channel-Count Pick – PreSonus Quantum HD 8
The PreSonus Quantum HD 8 is worth considering as an audio interface with ADAT input when you need a larger recording system built around eight mic preamps and high channel counts. Its USB-C connection, 32-bit/192kHz design, low-latency driver, and digitally controlled preamps target demanding tracking workflows.
Best For: Larger recording setups needing eight mic inputs, low-latency operation, and re-amping options.
Pros:
- 26-in/30-out configuration for complex studio routing
- Eight MAX-HD mic preamps with up to 75dB of gain
- 32-bit/192kHz recording capability and a custom low-latency driver
- Includes re-amp outputs, Auto Gain, and a Studio One Pro perpetual license
Cons:
- At 19 inches wide, it is less suited to very compact desktop setups
- Its larger channel count may be unnecessary for simple recording needs
The Quantum HD 8 is the most substantial option for a multi-source studio workflow. Its eight preamps, extensive I/O, and re-amp outputs make it particularly useful for recording bands, instruments, and complex routing setups.
Best Overall Expansion Hub – Scarlett 16i16 4th Gen
If you need an audio interface with ADAT input for a growing home or project studio, the Focusrite Scarlett 16i16 combines broad I/O with modern workflow features. It provides 16 inputs and 16 outputs, including ADAT, S/PDIF, MIDI, two mic preamps, two Hi-Z inputs, and six line inputs.
Best For: Producers who need flexible expansion, multiple connection formats, and high-resolution recording in a compact desktop interface.
Pros:
- 16-in/16-out configuration with ADAT, S/PDIF, and MIDI I/O
- 24-bit/192kHz converters with a stated 122dB dynamic range
- Auto Gain and Clip Safe help simplify level setting and prevent clipping
- Includes Air modes and a substantial software bundle
Cons:
- Only two mic preamps are built in
- Requires an external power supply
The Scarlett 16i16 is a strong fit when expansion and connectivity matter more than having a large number of onboard mic preamps. Its ADAT support, high-resolution converters, and gain-assistance tools make it a versatile centerpiece for a developing studio.
Best High-Input-Count Value – Behringer UMC1820
The Behringer U-PHORIA UMC1820 is a practical audio interface with ADAT input for recording setups that need many simultaneous connections. It supports 18×20 operation, 24-bit/96kHz audio, Midas mic preamps, and simultaneous analog, coaxial S/PDIF, optical ADAT, and MIDI signals.
Best For: Home studios and recording projects that need extensive I/O and simultaneous digital and analog connectivity.
Pros:
- 18×20 interface configuration for larger recording setups
- Includes optical ADAT, coaxial S/PDIF, and MIDI connectivity
- Uses Midas mic preamps
- Works with popular software such as Pro Tools, Ableton Live, and Cubase
Cons:
- Maximum sample rate is 96kHz rather than 192kHz
- The supplied notes do not specify detailed preamp gain or converter dynamic-range figures
For users prioritizing connection count, the UMC1820 offers a broad feature set without focusing on premium high-resolution specifications. Its ADAT, S/PDIF, and MIDI support makes it especially useful in a multi-device studio environment.
Best Compact Starter Interface – Arturia MiniFuse 2
The Arturia MiniFuse 2 is a compact USB interface for straightforward recording, but it is not an audio interface with ADAT input. Its two combo mic/instrument/line inputs, MIDI I/O, loopback, and included software make it suited to simple vocal, guitar, synth, and content-creation workflows.
Best For: Beginners, guitarists, vocalists, and mobile home-studio users who need a small interface rather than ADAT expansion.
Pros:
- Compact 1.1-pound design with two combo inputs and two balanced outputs
- Includes MIDI input and output plus a USB Type-A hub
- Loopback supports capturing voiceovers alongside in-app or in-game audio
- Includes Ableton Live Lite, Analog Lab Intro, effects, and other creative software
Cons:
- No ADAT input, so it cannot expand digitally like the other listed interfaces
- Only two analog inputs
- Designed for compact setups rather than high-channel-count recording
The MiniFuse 2 is a good choice when portability and simplicity outweigh expansion. If ADAT is a firm requirement, choose a different model; for basic computer recording and MIDI work, its compact layout and software bundle are useful advantages.
How We Picked the Best Audio Interface with Adat Input
We focused on interfaces that provide ADAT connectivity or work naturally with an ADAT-equipped expander. The lineup covers compact and full-size USB interfaces, from straightforward home-studio models to higher-channel-count systems for recording bands, rehearsal spaces, and commercial-style project studios.
Our comparisons consider analog input and output count, ADAT capacity, preamp quality, USB connectivity, monitoring features, driver and control software support, sample-rate compatibility, and overall expandability. We also looked for practical differences that matter during setup, such as front-panel access, headphone outputs, MIDI, direct monitoring, and rack-friendly design.
Quick Comparison
| What to Compare | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Analog inputs | Determines how many microphones, instruments, or line sources you can connect without an expander. |
| ADAT I/O | Lets you add compatible eight-channel preamps or converters, usually over optical cable. |
| USB connection | Influences computer compatibility, bandwidth, and ease of integration with a modern studio. |
| Monitoring and outputs | More line outputs support multiple monitor pairs, headphone mixes, and external hardware. |
| Software and drivers | Reliable routing tools and stable drivers can make a major difference in daily use. |
Key Buying Factors for an Audio Interface with Adat Input
Channel Count and Expansion Headroom
Start with the number of sources you record at the same time. An interface with eight analog inputs may be enough for a small band, while larger systems benefit from 16 or more onboard inputs. ADAT can add up to eight channels per optical connection at common sample rates, although available channel count may change at higher rates.
Preamp Quality and Gain Range
Built-in preamps should provide enough clean gain for your microphones and instruments without excessive noise. If you plan to add an external ADAT preamp, check whether it offers the features you need, such as pad switches, phantom power, combo inputs, or remote control.
Connectivity, Latency, and Workflow
USB-C labeling does not automatically mean identical performance, so confirm operating-system support, driver requirements, and included cables. Low-latency monitoring, flexible routing, multiple headphone outputs, and MIDI can be more useful than headline specifications alone.
Clocking and Compatibility
ADAT devices must share a reliable digital clock. Check whether the interface supports optical input, output, or both, and verify sample-rate behavior before mixing components from different brands. You may also need to configure one device as clock master and the other as slave.
Who Should Buy Which Audio Interface with Adat Input?
Choose an all-in-one rack interface if you want substantial analog I/O, MIDI, and ADAT expansion in one central unit for a growing studio. Models with eight or more microphone inputs suit drum tracking and ensemble recording.
Choose a more refined midrange interface if you value preamp character, monitoring control, and polished software alongside expansion. These are strong choices for producers who record regularly but do not need a large commercial console replacement.
Choose a dedicated ADAT expander if your current interface already has excellent conversion and only lacks additional microphone inputs. This can be the most economical upgrade, provided the interface has compatible ADAT input and adequate clocking options.
Choose a compact interface if portability and simplicity matter more than maximum channel count. Smaller models can work well for mobile production, overdubbing, and modest setups, but confirm that they actually provide the optical expansion you require before buying.