Choose an audio interface by counting the XLR microphones you need now, checking how you will listen, and deciding which computer sounds must reach your stream. A second socket is not necessarily a second microphone input. If you already use a USB microphone, you may not need an interface at all.
The examples below compare published manufacturer specifications, not hands-on sound tests. Check the exact model, generation, operating-system support and included cables before buying.
Start with microphones and headphones
One person with one XLR microphone needs one suitable microphone input. For two people speaking into separate XLR microphones at the same time, look for two microphone inputs with individual gain controls. Count headphone outputs too: one output can feed a splitter, but that does not give each listener an independent mix.
| Example | What to check |
|---|---|
| Scarlett Solo, 4th Gen | One XLR microphone input; the separate jack is for line or instrument signals, not a second XLR mic. |
| Scarlett 2i2, 4th Gen | Two XLR microphone inputs; using a front jack disables its corresponding mic input. |
| Arturia MiniFuse 2 | Two combo mic/line/instrument inputs; one stereo headphone output. |
See the manufacturer specifications for the Scarlett Solo, Scarlett 2i2 and MiniFuse 2. Each example has one headphone output, so check how a second local guest will listen.
Gain and phantom power: match your microphone
Gain raises the microphone signal before it reaches the computer. Compare your microphone manufacturer’s requirements with the interface’s available gain; the number alone does not prove how quiet or loud your own recording will be. Some condenser microphones require 48 V phantom power. Switch it on only when the connected microphone or compatible accessory requires it, and follow the equipment manuals.
Loopback is a route, not separate controls for every app
Loopback makes computer playback available as an input for recording or streaming. Check exactly which mix it carries: for the Scarlett Solo and 2i2 fourth generation, Focusrite documents different audio-capture, video-call and stream modes; the mix and available input channels depend on the selected mode. That does not itself create separate game and Discord tracks. Avoid sending the returned signal back into the same loop, which can create feedback.
For those two fourth-generation Scarlett models, the practical choice in current Focusrite Control 2 is:
- Audio capture: the microphone/instrument and computer-playback mix uses USB inputs 3–4; analogue inputs remain separate on 1–2.
- Video call: analogue inputs use 1–2 without computer playback, so callers are not sent their own voices again.
- Stream: analogue inputs and computer playback are mixed onto 1–2.
If those modes are missing, update Focusrite Control 2 first. Check whether your recording app exposes the required input channels. To edit game, microphone and Discord separately, follow our OBS audio-track guide; a combined loopback mix does not replace that routing.
Direct monitoring lets you hear a microphone through the interface without waiting for the full software path. If you hear your voice twice, check whether direct monitoring and software monitoring are both active. Our USB versus XLR guide explains the complete signal chain and costs.
Before ordering
- Confirm the number of microphone inputs and headphone outputs for your actual guests.
- Check gain, phantom power, monitoring and the exact loopback routing against your microphone and software.
- Check operating-system compatibility, power requirements, XLR cables and any headphone adapter or splitter.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an interface for a USB microphone?
Usually not: a USB microphone connects directly to the computer. Check your microphone and software requirements before buying extra hardware.
Can I connect two XLR microphones to a Scarlett Solo 4th Gen?
No. The Solo has one XLR microphone input; its other input accepts a line or instrument signal.
