As the audio production landscape continues to evolve, audio intefaces remain at the core of modern recording, mixing, and mastering workflows. In this roundtable discussion, executives and product specialists from Focusrite, Universal Audio, and PreSonus offer a behind-the-scenes look at how their companies are driving innovation in the DAW space. From hardware integration to workflow optimization and user accessibility, these industry leaders provide valuable insights into the trends and technologies shaping the next generation of music production tools.
There was a giant boom in at-home audio creation (music, podcasts, et cetera) during the Pandemic, but some feel that trend has cooled down of late. Do you feel sales of Audio interfaces in early 2025 are up, level, or down when compared to this time last year?
Lev Perrey: The pandemic certainly created a surge in home recording, and while that spike has naturally leveled, the overall baseline is still higher than pre-2020. What we’re seeing now is less about explosive growth and more about a sustained, maturing market. Users are becoming more discerning, upgrading their gear, refining their workflow, and looking for tools that integrate seamlessly into a broader creative ecosystem. So while the volume may feel different, the intent behind purchases is deeper and more considered than ever.
Adrian Haselhuber: The boom during the pandemic can partly be attributed to a broader range of customers seeking audio interfaces (home offices, non-music live streaming, et cetera). As those needs were met, the market normalized back to core interface customers. Optimism is growing in early 2025 as musicians realize the need to be content creators to stand out on social platforms. Many who once believed they didn’t need to have an audio interface for recording or live streaming are now considering one for the first time.
Laura Camacho: At Focusrite, we are pleased to see consistent growth continue in our audio interfaces over the last year. While the pandemic-induced boom of at-home audio creation may have now evolved, the demand for high-quality audio equipment remains robust. Focusrite continues to innovate and expand its product offerings, ensuring that creators have the tools they need to produce professional content.
For your brand, what specific models of interfaces are selling particularly well at the moment?
AH: The Quantum USB family launched in 2024 to fantastic reviews from both media and customers. They remain top sellers as word spreads that they’re the next evolution of PreSonus and a direct result of collaboration between PreSonus and Fender.
LC: Demand remains high for our new Scarlett 4th Generation interfaces, which have earned awards and widespread acclaim. These interfaces are designed to meet the diverse needs of both creators and professionals. With its intuitive design, superior quality, robust build, and iconic color, Scarlett is a must-have in any studio setup. And with a variety of price points and features, we continue to attract a global audience to these interfaces.
LP: We’re seeing strong engagement across multiple tiers of our product line in our Apollo and Volt families of audio interfaces, which tells us there’s healthy demand, from first-time creators to experienced professionals and everyone in between. What’s especially encouraging is how many customers are returning to us to upgrade as their needs grow, which speaks to long-term trust in the brand. Rather than focusing on one or two “best sellers,” we’re thinking in terms of customer journeys and how our portfolio supports evolving creative needs across hardware and software.
What features — functionality, size, price-point, et cetera — do you feel are appealing most to end-users in 2025?
LC: In 2025, end-users are looking for audio interfaces that strike the perfect balance between functionality, size, and price—while also enhancing their workflow. Clean mic pres and high-quality conversion are still key expectations, but creators are now asking, ‘What else can my interface do for me?’ This is where innovation comes into play. Focusrite Scarlett 4th Generation features like Auto Gain and Clip Safe are becoming increasingly valuable because they go beyond pure audio quality—they streamline the recording process, reduce technical frustrations, and ultimately make engineers’ lives easier. As workflows evolve, the demand for smart, intuitive tools will continue to shape the future of audio technology.
LP: Flexibility and ease of use continue to be major drivers. Creators want powerful tools that don’t require a manual the size of a novel to get started. Portability matters more than ever, especially for hybrid workflows, studio, stage, and on-the-go. Price sensitivity remains real, but users are also willing to invest if they see lasting value. Features like onboard DSP/plug-ins, low-latency performance, great converters, rock-solid drivers, and meaningful bundled software are all key.
AH: Superior sound quality is the foundation of any audio interface. Beyond that, it must be effortless to use and crafted with a design that looks as professional as it sounds. These features aren’t just trendy, they’ve stood the test of time.
Have you observed any “best practices” being adopted by MI retailers who are especially successful at moving Audio Interfaces?
AH: Successful retailers rely on well-trained, confident sales reps who can speak knowledgably about products. Anytime PreSonus can help train sales reps, it’s a win for the retailer and for PreSonus.
LP: The most effective retailers tend to be the ones who combine product knowledge with authentic storytelling. They understand their customers, whether it’s a new user producing beats or a seasoned pro who has been making music for decades. Providing education, not just specs; demonstrating real-world use cases; and offering post-sale support all go a long way. Online or in-store, customers gravitate to retailers who feel like trusted guides, not just order takers.
LC: The most successful dealers are those who provide customers with access to what they are looking for and do so veryquickly. A well-stocked inventory allows for quick transactions, ensuring customers can get products without delay, either picking it up themselves or getting overnight delivery. Traditional brick-and-mortar stores continue to drive traffic, alongside online retailers who use modern tools to target their audience more effectively. However, comprehensive product content remains essential, and we observe a significant amount of engagement when dealers offer robust content, whether created by them or our team.
Do you have any recent or upcoming models of interfaces you’d like to shine the spotlight on?
LP: Just recently, we refreshed our entire Apollo X lineup, from Desktop models like the Apollo Twin X and Apollo x4 to Rackmount models like the Apollo x8p and Apollo x16. These models feature a fresh look and feel, updated best-in-class mastering-grade conversion, Unison Auto-Gain, and Monitor Correction with Sonarworks® integration – to name a few highlights. We’re always iterating, and 2025 is no exception. Enhancing the audio interface experience for our customers through ongoing software development remains a top priority. We will continue to develop DSP and Native software for our interface lineups in accordance with what our customers ask us for, so there is a lot to look forward to this year and beyond!
LC: Focusrite Group brands have a robust roadmap for 2025 and beyond, but the Scarlett 4th Generation interfaces, particularly the high I/O models, are well-received and maintain significant momentum. The Scarlett 18i20 4th Generation has become even more powerful with a firmware update, unlocking 16 channels of ADAT I/O, which allows producers to expand up to 24 inputs and 28 outputs from a one box. Additionally, the Scarlett 16i16, 18i16, and 18i20 deliver a huge 122dB dynamic range, all-new remote-controlled preamps with 69dB of gain, and innovative features like Auto Gain and Clip Safe, similar to their smaller siblings (Scarlett Solo, 2i2, and 4i4).
AH: The Quantum ES and HD USB audio interfaces feature best-in-class “MAX-HD” preamps with +75 dB of clean gain, powered by our high performance converters. Plus, latency is so low, it’s virtually imperceivable.
Expectations for sales of Audio Interfaces in the coming months?
LC: Looking ahead, we anticipate steady growth of Focusrite audio interfaces. Holding a significant market share, our strong reputation and continuous innovation make us a leader in the market. Even though economic uncertainties persist, the combination of market growth and Focusrite’s strong product offerings and roadmap paints a promising picture for our audio interface sales in the coming months.
AH: The trend shows continued growth as recording and live streaming become more common among musicians and recording enthusiasts.
LP: We’re entering the year with cautious optimism. The market continues to evolve, and while macroeconomic factors always play a role, we believe the appetite for creative expression is still strong. We’re focusing less on chasing short-term volume and more on building long-term value – for users, the brand, and our retail partners. The tools may change, the platforms may shift, but the need to create is not going anywhere.
