PreSonus
PreSonus Studio 1824c Audio Interface
Best high-channel interface for professional studio recording and complex musical arrangements.
Capture expansive soundscapes with the PreSonus Studio 1824C Audio Interface, engineered for high-channel-count recording sessions. It boasts eight acclaimed XMAX analog mic preamps and delivers pristine 24-bit 192 kHz conversion for smooth, detailed audio capture. Expand your input capabilities with ADAT optical I/O, perfect for complex musical arrangements. This interface comes complete with Studio One Artist software and the Studio Magic Suite, offering a comprehensive production environment. Its robust, all-metal 1U rack-mountable chassis ensures durability, while native compatibility with Apple Silicon Macs and iOS devices provides versatile connectivity.
$399.99
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
125
/ 439
#125 in Audio Cards & Adapters
Price vs Category Average
-65%
Below average
Resolution
24
/ -bit
Who it's for
- Studio engineers tracking full bands or expanding their hardware collection
- Vocalists and musicians requiring pristine, high-headroom audio capture
- Producers seeking a streamlined, low-latency workflow within Studio One
Who should skip it
- Engineers recording large ensembles needing individual headphone mixes
- Mobile producers requiring a compact, travel-friendly interface
- Beginners intimidated by advanced digital routing and software configuration
Performance breakdown
Preamp Clarity
Eight XMAX preamps deliver clean, transparent gain for professional studio tracking.
I/O Versatility
Extensive connectivity options easily handle complex multi-instrument recording sessions.
Build Durability
Rugged all-metal chassis stands up to the rigors of daily studio use.
Software Integration
Bundled Studio One Artist provides a seamless, ready-to-record production environment.
Expansion Capability
ADAT optical I/O allows for effortless scaling as your studio grows.
System Compatibility
Native Apple Silicon support ensures smooth performance on modern Mac systems.
Key Specs
Resolution
24-bit
Maximum Sample Rate
192 kHz
Input/Output Capacity
18 inputs / 20 outputs
Preamps
8 XMAX Class A mic preamps
Interface
USB-C (USB 2.0 compatible)
Chassis
1U rack-mountable, all-metal
Digital Expansion
8 channels ADAT Optical I/O
Connectivity
MIDI In/Out, S/PDIF, BNC word clock
Features
- Eight XMAX Class A mic preamps
- Up to 18 inputs and 20 outputs
- Onboard DSP monitor mixer
- DC-coupled outputs for CV control
- Includes Studio One Artist software
- Road-rugged, all-metal 1U chassis
- Native Apple Silicon Mac compatibility
- Global +48V phantom power
What customers say
The PreSonus Studio 1824c earns high praise for its exceptional value and robust audio quality, making it ideal for project studios needing extensive connectivity. Users consistently highlight the impressive 18x20 I/O, including ADAT, as unmatched in this price range. The XMAX Class A preamps are frequently commended for delivering clean, transparent recordings with excellent headroom, satisfying diverse musical needs. Its sturdy metal chassis reinforces a perception of high build quality and durability. While early driver concerns existed, recent updates have largely stabilized performance. This interface successfully offers professional features and sound, positioning it as a highly recommended choice for serious home recording enthusiasts expanding their tracking capacity.
Know before you buy
Yes, the Studio 1824c features ADAT optical I/O, which allows you to connect an external preamp or converter to add up to eight additional channels of audio input.
Yes, the Studio 1824c offers native compatibility with Apple Silicon Macs, ensuring stable performance and integration with the latest macOS environments.
DC-coupled outputs allow the interface to send control voltage (CV) signals from your DAW to external hardware, such as modular synthesizers or analog sequencers, which is a great feature for sound designers.
The Studio 1824c requires the included external power supply to operate, as it provides the necessary voltage for the eight XMAX preamps and the rack-mount hardware.
Yes, the Studio 1824c is compatible with iOS devices, making it a capable solution for high-channel-count mobile recording setups.
No, the onboard DSP monitor mixer is designed for low-latency cue mixing, allowing you to create custom monitor mixes for performers without affecting the dry signal being recorded into your software.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.