If you use hardware synths, drum machines, or older controllers, an audio interface with MIDI saves you buying a separate MIDI box. The key feature is a pair of five-pin DIN MIDI in/out ports built into the interface. Plenty of popular interfaces include them — here’s what to look for and which real models do MIDI well.
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What to look for in an audio interface with MIDI
- Five-pin DIN MIDI in and out. This is the must-have. Note that many modern controllers connect over USB and don’t need DIN MIDI at all.
- Enough audio I/O. Match inputs/outputs to your sources and any external gear you record back in.
- Clean preamps and conversion. The same quality basics apply — see sample rate and bit depth.
- Low latency. Important when playing software instruments from a hardware controller. See what audio latency is.
If you’re new to this, start with how to set up an audio interface.
Best for most home studios
The MOTU M4 includes DIN MIDI in/out alongside four audio inputs and praised conversion — a great all-rounder for a studio with one or two hardware synths. The Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 also includes MIDI I/O and the reliable Scarlett feature set.
Best budget pick with MIDI
The PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 bundles MIDI in/out with two audio inputs at a friendly price, making it a solid entry point for connecting a synth or drum machine. The Steinberg UR22C is another affordable two-input interface that includes DIN MIDI.
Best for larger hardware setups
If you run several pieces of outboard gear, step up to something like the Focusrite Scarlett 18i20, which combines high channel counts with MIDI I/O for routing multiple synths and external instruments. This suits producers who treat hardware as a core part of the workflow.
Do you actually need DIN MIDI?
Be honest about your gear first. If all your controllers and synths connect over USB, you may not need DIN MIDI at all — a standard USB-C interface plus USB MIDI devices will do. DIN MIDI matters specifically for older or hardware-only instruments without USB. If you’re choosing between an interface and a mixer, see audio interface vs mixer.
How to choose the right one for you
Confirm you genuinely need five-pin MIDI, then choose on audio I/O and preamp quality as you would any interface. A two-input unit with MIDI suits a small synth setup; bigger rigs need more channels. Build a sensible chain around it using our home studio gear checklist.
Frequently asked questions
What is DIN MIDI on an audio interface?
It’s the traditional five-pin round MIDI connector used to send note and control data to and from hardware synths and drum machines that lack USB MIDI.
Do I need MIDI ports if my controller uses USB?
No. USB controllers connect directly to your computer. DIN MIDI ports are only needed for hardware that uses the classic five-pin connection.
Can I add MIDI to an interface that doesn’t have it?
Yes. A separate USB-to-MIDI adapter or a standalone MIDI interface adds DIN MIDI to any setup, so a built-in port is a convenience rather than a strict requirement.
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