Best Audio Interface that can be Powered by the iPad?
Hello guys,
First of all, let me apologize if this subject has been addressed elsewhere already... I've been searching the forum and I could only find old topics about this that have become outdated due to tech evolution.
So I was wondering, is there's anyone out there using "self" powered audio interfaces to busk?
So far the only unit I've found that fits in this category is the Scarlet 2i2, but it seems a bit limited in terms of output options and also it only has RCA out connections... not a fan... for no particular reason, maybe it's just prejudice 
Is anyone using one of these?
I've also come across some good reviews about the Behringer UMC204HD, which is very cheap and provides a very decent range of options when it comes to connectivity... the only problem being that it seems it can not be powered by the iPad, so that means that I would have to buy a power bank and a powered USB hub, which will amount to more or less the 2i2 price but with more gear to carry...
I would appreciate your feedback guys.
Best,
Kapa
Comments
@ElKapone - BEST is very subject when talking about many things, and audio interfaces are no exception. I think you might find more info on the AudioBus forum.
Having said that, the only iPad powered audio interface I have is an Alesis Core 1 (I would rate it 5 out of 10) and I don't Busk. I have some advice to offer with regards to audio interfaces (purely my opinion). The more bells and whistle, the quicker it will drain you iPad battery. More input channels, 5 pin midi, lighted dial ( or anything lighted), 48v phantom power for mics, all add to the power consumption. Get only what you need and it still may require external power to keep everything running between iPad charges.
If it is for busking you’re probably best off with this
https://www.gear4music.com/Recording-and-Computers/Zoom-U-44-USB-Audio-Interface/1JNR?origin=product-ads&utm_campaign=PLA+Shop+-+Zoom&utm_medium=vertical_search&network=google&adgroup=2+-+Brand+Level+-+Zoom&merchant_id=1279443&product_id=72135d1&product_country=GB&product_partition_id=88249020079&gclid=CjwKCAiAz-7UBRBAEiwAVrz-9YyHiF-3tsqaNpP1zw7fKE8a8G67TglQvdRLU5SDtmMhEtyRNqZyTRoCvWcQAvD_BwE
It is on sale too! I used to have one and it works very well. If you want 4 in 4 out you will need an add on that is £60. If you’re happy with just 2 x 2 then u22 is even cheaper!
+1
Also Line 6 sonic port, much smaller and is powered directly by the device (no battery required) if you're after something smaller and more practical. No midi though.
@Ganthofer @Supadom @thenonanonymous Thank you so much for your input.
For some reason i didn't get the notifications about the earlier replies... that Zoom interface looks really good Supadom. I'm going to check it out. thank you!
I just built a battery powered loop station around it!
Hah. Now that’s what I call a box o’ fun. Demo please
try trond usb dongle. There are tons of garbage dongles out there but some brands just do it right, trond is one of them.
you get same 16 bit 44.1 K
working with line level signals you do not need low noise amplifier, just try ... 10 dollars on amazon
@Supadom that looks sick!!
@Pinchdawood i had never heard of that! Thanks for the tip!
@Supadom Great looking setup you’ve got there! But I’m curious how you have it all connected and plugged in as if I’m not mistaken the Zoom interface just has 5-pin DIN for midi and I assume your pads there are USB...? And what kind of battery setup you have going on? I’m trying to get something similar going using IRig Pro Duo but am having trouble due to the lack of usb midi input and power issues...
Hi... the only iPad powered audio interface I have is an Alesis Core 1 and I don't Busk. I have some advice to offer with regards to audio interfaces. The more bells and whistle, the quicker it will drain you iPad battery. More input channels, 5 pin midi, lighted dial.
Once I saw such a post. Try searching for the answer on this site https://simplydrum.com/p/best-drum-recording-interface-a-look-into-the-best-recording-equipment-for-excellent-sound/
I think the focusrite Scarlet 2i2 is the best solution to this problem