Thunderbolt audio interface connections are the gold standard in audio data transfer. They're much faster than a USB connection, and the Thunderbolt interfaces that exist now will continue to grow in popularity, while more will hit the market going forward.
As we look through some of these interfaces, Apple computers will be our assumption and our context, though USB-C connections will also be compatible with PCs that have supporting hardware.
Read more: The difference between Thunderbolt and USB-C
Thunderbolt and USB-C are very closely related with some technical differences, but for the purpose of this article, we'll treat them interchangeably.
The pairing of a Thunderbolt audio interface and a Mac computer is one of the music industry's most popular technical couplings, providing users with the following benefits:
- Onboard DSP (effects processing)
- Number of inputs/outputs
- TRS inputs (for guitar, of course)
- Monitor and headphone outputs
Thunderbolt truly does it all, from the home recording studio setup all the way to the professional audio engineer. We'll look at the industry's best Thunderbolt audio interfaces within a wide range of prices. Here are a few features we'll keep an eye on:
- Onboard DSP (effects processing)
- Number of inputs/outputs
- TRS inputs (for guitar, of course)
- Monitor and headphone outputs
Best Thunderbolt Audio Interfaces
Interface | Name | Buy |
|---|---|---|
  | Focusrite Clarett+ (USB-C instead of Thunderbolt) (This is your BEST option for the money!) | |
 | Universal Audio Apollo Twin X | |
 | Universal Audio Apollo x6 | |
 | Antelope Audio Orion Studio | |
 | Antelope Audio Zen Tour |
1. Focusrite Clarett+ (USB-C)
BEST FOR: Any situation (bedroom to professional studio), guitars, vocals and drum kit recordings.
- Several different versions for varying needs
- Low latency
- Software, plugins included
- 4Pre and up have two independent headphone jacks
- Limited connectivity with fewer channels in the 2Pre and 4Pre
Focusrite's Clarett and Scarlett series have a ton of different USB 2.0 and USB-C audio interfaces to choose from, accommodating a wide range of i/o requirements. Previously, the Clarett series used a Thunderbolt connection, which has now been replaced by a USB-C connection, the benefits of which are the same.
The Clarett+ 2Pre audio interface is one of the most affordable options. Image via Kairos Multi
The difference between each Clarett model is a matter of scope, meaning those needing a larger recording capacity (studios and professional environments) will want to opt for Clarett models that support more inputs and outputs. Do you need to record drum kits with each element mic'd individually, a lot of vocalists, or perhaps several layers of guitar? In that environment, you should for something larger, like the 8Pre which has more inputs. This is obviously going to be more useful and applicable for a professional recording studio where you might need to track a lot of different channels at once.
Cheap USB Alternative
Focusrite's Scarlett Solo, with a USB connection, is far cheaper. The interface on the front panel of the Scarlett Solo is slightly different, replacing the two multi-purpose inputs with a single mic and TRS jack. It "feels" cheaper than the Clarett, but in fairness, you should expect this given the significant price difference. Thunderbolt and USB-C interfaces are not cheap. Of the entire Focusrite Clarett series, the 4Pre is our favorite.
2. Universal Audio Apollo Twin X
The Apollo Twin is a small Thunderbolt audio interface, designed for desktops and home studio spaces. Sporting a perfectly square shape, it's a far cry from its older rackmounted sibling. With the smaller size, inputs are limited to one TRS jack on the front and two multi-function inputs on the back panel. This is enough for a simple setup with one or two instruments. One of Universal Audio's flagship features is its simulated analog tone, meant to replicate some of the company's classic analog recording equipment.
The Apollo series is one of the most popular Thunderbolt interface lineups. Image via Haway Guitar Shop
This comes in the form of plug-ins (they work with all major DAWs) that give you more of an authentic analog recording experience. Fans of tube preamps, vocal limiting and vintage recording gear will be particularly pleased with this feature. The analog to digital conversion and emulation are the primary attractions involved with this particular Thunderbolt audio interface.
A cheaper USB alternative?
The Apollo interfaces are far from budget-friendly. However, if you don't need the professional edge or the Thunderbolt connection, the Steinberg URMKII is a good cheaper alternative. It's only two channels, but for smaller recording environments or solo work, it'll do the job.
The Steinberg URMKII audio interface
BEST FOR: Small studios that plan to get bigger, semi-professional recording outfits and anyone who prefers analog recording gear
- Incredibly low latency
- Emulates vintage and analog gear
- Can be easily cascaded with larger units
- Desktop friendly
- Professional-grade monitoring features
- Professional-grade monitoring features
3. Universal Audio Apollo x6 and 8 series
As we get into Universal Audio's high-end Thunderbolt audio interfaces, their good standing in the recording industry market is quickly apparent. The Apollo x6 is one of the standard-bearers when it comes to professional recording, giving you all the perks we saw in the Apollo Twin, along with a increased flexibility and expanded i/o. This unit is a big investment, but it'll give your studio an air of professionalism that can't be obtained with smaller devices. Here are a few producers and artists who use the Apollo series:
- Fab Dupont (Jennifer Lopez, Shakira)
- Dan Auerbach (The Black Keys)
- Mick Guzauski (Daft Punk, Eric Clapton)
- Andrew Dawson (Kanye West, Fun)
- Dave Pensado (Justin Timberlake, Maroon 5)
- Tony Platt (AC/DC, Buddy Guy)
The Apollo Thunderbolt interface series is the real deal. Pro level. Image via Chris (iaresee)
There's also a Firewire version, which we won't delve into here, since this article is focused on Thunderbolt audio interfaces. The four listed are all Thunderbolt 2 devices, while differences between each one are largely a matter of i/o numbers. However, keep in mind that the Apollo 8 Duo and Quad version is simply referring to processor type. Otherwise, the Quad and Duo are the exact same unit. Thus, you're primarily dealing with two different options: The 8 and 8P.
IDEAL FOR: Semi-pro to pro recording studios. Anyone who needs a lot of microphone preamps/inputs, drum kit recording and large number of vocalists.
- Incredibly low latency
- Emulates vintage and analog gear
- Can be easily cascaded with larger units
- Used by a ton of professional producers
- Professional-grade monitoring features
- 6 line ins and two mic ins
- Expensive
4. Antelope Audio Orion Studio
On the Orion interface, the front panel includes two preamp and two headphone outputs, along with four mic inputs, which can be added to the eight you'll see on the back of the device. That gives you a total of 12 microphone and line inputs on one rack unit, one of the larger numbers you'll see without a cascading connection. On the back of the unit you've got four total monitor outputs and the Thunderbolt 3 connection. Antelope throws in a high-speed USB connection as well.
IDEAL FOR: Semi-pro to professional recording studios.
- Incredibly low latency
- Lots of inputs
- Vintage guitar FX and amp modeling in software form
- USB connection, in addition to Thunderbolt compatible
- Sleek-looking exterior
- Expensive
5. Antelope Audio Zen Tour
As far as small Thunderbolt audio interfaces go, the Zen Tour might be one of the most complete and powerful units available. Even though it's billed as a "portable" interface, the Zen Tour has no trouble fitting in as a professional-grade recording solution. Professional studios and large-scale recording projects are not outside of its scope. The connectivity is substantial for such a small box.
Seems like the Zen Tour lives up to its name. Probably runs warm too. Image via Bolt
This review by Pro Tools Expert takes you through some of the finer details.
IDEAL FOR: Semi-pro to pro recording studios, portability or non-rack setups.
- Incredibly low latency
- Lots of inputs
- Vintage guitar FX and amp modeling in software form
- USB connection, in addition to Thunderbolt compatible
- Expensive
6. Antelope Audio Goliath
The Antelope Audio Goliath is no longer in production, though we have left this section up for reference and have linked to used options on Reverb.
The Goliath is well-named as it boasts one of the most accommodating connectivity interfaces with 16 line/mic preamps on the back panel and additional instrument inputs (Hi-Z) on the front. Both Thunderbolt and high-speed USB connections are supported, along with dual headphone outputs and a talkback button.
IDEAL FOR: Semi-pro to professional recording studios and any situation where a lot of inputs are needed
- Incredibly low latency
- 36 total in, 32 total out
- Vintage guitar FX and amp modeling in software form
- USB connection, in addition to Thunderbolt compatible
- Expensive
Thunderbolt Audio Interface Features to Focus on
When assessing Thunderbolt audio interface costs, microphone and line inputs are the big ticket features to focus on. Upgrading them is what increases cost the most. So choosing from this list should primarily depend on that number, how many inputs you need now and how many you expect to need in the future.
For example, if you run a smaller studio and intend to expand your connectivity capabilities to facilitate a wider variety of clientele, the larger interface that can handle more mics and instruments is the way to go.
An exact count of what you'll need will vary depending on your situation.
Figuring this out ahead of time will give you some perspective on what you should expect to pay. For anything that resembles a professional-grade recording environment, $2000 is not a big expenditure. Assume that you'll need to spend some money to get up and running and to be accommodating to all potential clients.
Is Thunderbolt only for Mac users?
As mentioned earlier in the article, USB-C has opened up Thunderbolt benefits to PCs as well as the MacOS.
Still, using a PC with a Thunderbolt audio interface is still not as common. Apple computers and products continue to be a staple of the music-production community, both amateur and professional.
For a PC connection, just make sure you have a video card that supports USB-C and a corresponding audio interface.
Your Questions
Have thoughts about the best Thunderbolt audio interfaces or questions about what we've listed here? If so, leave it in the comments section. I'll help out as much as possible. Thanks for reading.
More Audio Interface Roundups
Written by Bobby Kittleberger on Interfaces & Roundups
Written by Guitar Chalk on Interfaces & Roundups
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It is my understanding that the Clarett 4pre is not compatible with thunderbolt 3
Rich – thanks for this info. Would you mind providing a link to confirm?
I like your work! So I like Spotify. Macbook Pro 10.10.5 Yosemite-USB-Audioquest Dragonfly DAC-Studio monitors- pretty good sound. My Mac is Thunderbolt 2 compatible with the Clarett and UAD Apollo. Can I simply connect Thunderbolt 2 to one of these and stream Spotify with much improved quality retiring the little Dragonfly DAC? I will also use the software plug ins with guitar. Can’t find any solid advice other than just connecting with Thunderbolt 2 which seems too easy.
I would think you could go from your Mac, straight to the monitors (if they have an 1/8″ jack) and bypass the Clarett. Otherwise, you’d go Mac -> (thunderbolt connection) Clarett -> Monitors and then set your audio output to the Clarett.
Hope this helps.