Fine-tune your mix with MegaSeg’s ability to cue and preview via USB, Thunderbolt, Bluetooth and AirPlay audio devices. Below are some example products that are perfect options for adding a headphone cue channel, setting up a compact mixer-free system, connecting to an analog mixer, or direct to a new digital mixer.
☝️ Quick Tips! Any of the single-output devices below can be used in combination to create multiple outputs. (For a single device with multiple outputs, click “Multi-Output” above.) ☝️ Any USB-A device can be used on newer Macs with a
USB-C adapter.
Let’s start with some cheaper options first, like
Apple’s own USB-C to Headphone Adapter which adds a good sounding, yet inexpensive secondary audio output jack to your Mac. It can work as a line-level primary output, or as your headphone cue channel. But note the wire is very thin (much thinner than a charge cable) and in Apple’s typical soft-touch plastic that in the past has been known to get gummy and fray over time. (Maybe they since fixed the chemistry? 🤷🏻♂️) If you like this form factor, we’d suggest checking out next few items with nicer braided cords, and likely sound better at around the same cost.
JSAUX’s USB-C 1/8" audio output is similar to Apple’s above, but with a twice as long braided cable and better strain relief. But more importantly, in our A/B testing its 24-bit 96 kHz Conexant DAC not only seems to provide a touch of improved clarity, but also a slightly louder signal.
UGreen’s USB-A 1/8" audio output offers a single 3.5mm TRRS jack for headphones or line output with superb 24-bit 96 kHz sound quality via an advanced DAC.
CableCreation’s USB-C Audio Adapter is another option for Macs with USB-C ports without needing an additional USB-A adapter. It supports TRRS headsets (i.e. with built-in microphones) or standard TRS headphones (without a microphone), but also includes a dedicated microphone input jack if needed. Featuring gold-plated connectors, aluminum case and braided cable for durability.
Sabrent’s USB-C Stereo Sound Adapter is a very cost effective input and output device. Even if you prefer higher-end options, these tiny and inexpensive audio interfaces are good to have handy as a backup! This model also comes in USB-A if desired, as well as a 20-inch “cable-to-jack” version in both USB-C and USB-A.
Sound Blaster Play 3 with USB-A from Creative Labs, a legend in sound cards, offers 24-Bit 96kHz studio-grade sound. It can drive a wide range of headphones, from earbuds to studio cans, with a control panel for optimized profiles. Its audio input provides crisp voice play-thru and recording options as well.
JSAUX’s Mini Sound Adapter is a cute stereo output device with an integrated mic input using a single TRRS jack. Features a super slim compact size. As typical of these devices, it is plug-n-play, and small enough to not block adjacent USB ports.
Sabrent’s USB Stereo Sound Adapter is a very cost effective input and output devices that has a durable aluminum case, and super tiny to boot! Even if you prefer higher-end options, these tiny and inexpensive audio interfaces are good to have handy as a backup! Also see their alternative AU-MMSA model.
Icevein’s USB to Audio Adapter gives you separate 1/8 inch (3.5mm) jacks for mic input and line or headphone output. Sold as a two-pack in dark and light colors, use the extra for a backup or both at once for multiple outputs. No drivers required and features a C-Media DAC for optimal sound quality.
Behringer’s U-Control UCA222 features both 3.5mm and RCA stereo jacks for connecting to a wider selection of devices without special cables or adapters. It sports an additional S/PDIF optical output for direct digital conversion. Optimal sound quality is provided via its TI PCM2902 DAC, with no driver or power required. Supports sampling rates of 44 and 48 kHz.
Mackie’s Onyx Artist combines a high-resolution 24-bit/192kHz stereo output and high quality mic pre with phantom power, with built like a tank hardware design. It is bus-powered which is convenient for mobile use.
AudioQuest’s DragonFly adds a superb quality sound output to your Mac via the USB port. Winner of Product of the Year awards from almost every HiFi magazine in the world. The DragonFly adds color, texture, body, and soul to your mix. It's also extremely affordable and incredibly portable. Featuring a user-selectable mode for either a variable or fixed output level, with asynchronous audio data transfer, and 24-bit/96kHz capability.
Topping’s D10s features an XMOS XU208 DAC,
that supports 16 to 32bit, 44.1 to 384 kHz and DSD64 to DSD256. With both RCA line outs and SPIDIF optical/coaxial outputs, it even has an OP amp socket so DIY tinkerers can swap the amp to get different sound. It comes in both black and white, and includes a detachable USB cable.
Schiit’s Modi 3E features the AK4490 delta-sigma DAC with a DC-coupled output, delivers great sound for its price. You can select from three different inputs on the back, including coaxial SPDIF, optical SPDIF, and USB inputs, and RCA stereo output. It includes a detachable USB to Micro USB cable (replaceable if you need a longer cable run without using a separate USB extender or adapter).
Focusrite’s Scarlett Solo has 1/4-inch stereo output jacks and one of the best performing mic preamps. With high-performance converters with support of up to 24-bit 192kHz. It includes a detachable USB cable.
Audioengine’s D1 is a high‐quality audiophile 24-bit USB audio interface with low jitter. Stream high-quality audio from MegaSeg to your headphones via its high-performance headphone amp, or output to any sound system with RCA analog or optical digital outputs.
iFi’s Nano iDSD is a compact DAC designed for audiophile sound. The USB input includes Active Noise Cancellation. It uses the iFi signature Burr Brown chipset for native playback of all hi-res audio formats, and compatible with any file in your library.
Radial’s USB-Pro Digital Direct XLR Box makes it easy to connect MegaSeg to a pro PA system. It connects to USB and delivers stereo balanced outputs via the dual XLR connectors. Extra features include a built-in headphone amp to monitor the signal from your Mac using standard earbuds. A variable level control adjusts the output and headphones. And with a mono sum you can quickly mix stereo tracks to one for easy manipulation. Core Audio compatible, no drivers required.
Behringer’s U-PHORIA UMC204HD is a reliable and versatile 2x4 USB Audio Interface. It offers professional audio quality with its audiophile 24-Bit/192 kHz resolution. With ultra-low latency, it streams 2 inputs and 4 outputs, along with 1x MIDI I/O, to your computer. The UMC204HD features two state-of-the-art MIDAS designed Mic preamplifiers with +48V phantom power, ensuring exceptional sound quality for your recordings.
Zoom’s U-44 has flexible monitoring options for dialing in the perfect mix with zero latency. Balance the cue and main out signals when you’re DJ’ing, or create a mix of click track and main out signals during live performances. Each connector and knob is strategically positioned for fast access, so you can set up and control the U-24 with ease.
Focusrite’s Scarlett 4i4, and
Scarlett 16i16 4th Gen, are amazing 192 kHz, 24-bit conversion USB audio interfaces featuring two stereo outs (four 1/4-inch jacks), or three stereo outs (six 1/4-inch jacks). For inputs they all feature the award-winning Focusrite preamps, housed in an attractive anodized aluminum unibody chassis. Unique halo signal indicators let you know that you’ve got a good signal level. A large monitor dial provides a tactile volume control. A high quality headphone amp provides a clean yet loud signal.
MOTU M4 4x4 utilizes the ESS Sabre32 Ultra DAC, typically found in higher-priced audio interfaces, and features exceptional ultra-low 2.5 ms round trip latency. The interface includes a full color LCD with level meters for all inputs and outputs, allowing precise volume control and feedback. The M4’s driver also provides convenient loopback channels, making it effortless to route computer output for streaming and podcasting.
The XONE:23C is one of many mixers from Allen & Heath with built-in USB audio. Simply plug-n-play to your Mac, and you have two direct high-quality digital outputs from MegaSeg to the mixer. Features a compact accessible format with renowned analog Voltage Control Filters, frequency sweep and mild-to-wild resonance control. There is also an FX loop to connect to third party FX units, which route back in through the filter system. Xone:23C features 2+2 stereo channels with dual levels for phono and line inputs, allowing four music sources to be connected at the same time in addition to MegaSeg via USB. The main output and mic input are pro balanced XLRs.
The Xone:43C by Allen & Heath is a new compact 4-channel DJ mixer with built-in USB audio interface, designed for DJ’s who want a compact quality mixer with pro features. The ‘X-FX‘ control feature allows signal to be sent to external FX, and combined with the now legendary Xone VCF filter system. Includes 3-band kill-EQ, 2 headphone outputs 1/4-inch and 3.5mm, and VCA Crossfader with curve control.
Pioneer’s DJM-250MK2 is a 2-channel digital DJ mixer that features professional control layouts with robust Magvel faders, a 24-bit USB audio interface with dithering technology that results in warm, high-quality audio. It also has an ultra-clean mic amp, and high-output headphone amplifier. Each channel features its own dedicated ‘Sound Color’ FX filter.
The Behringer VMX1000USB is built to connect directly to your Mac and take your music straight into the digital realm. In addition, like the trusty DJ mixers of yore, the VMX features many RCA inputs for mixing in your favorite vinyl cuts or feeding signal from tape or CD players, mic inputs for announcements, an impromptu rap, or any other vocal nuance. The ample 7 channels feature UltraGlide faders with up to 500,000 life cycles and a VCA-controlled crossfader with adjustable curves. The awesome XPQ stereo surround effect will give your mix an unmistakable finishing touch. Each channel has 3-band kill EQ, precise level meters, and the auto-talkover function has separate depth and sensitivity controls. For mammoth bass there is a subwoofer output with adjustable x-over frequency and levels, perfect for putting some extra punch to your dance numbers. You will never run out of connectivity options with the balanced mains and additional zone outputs.