PreSonus Quantum ES 2

Who it's for:
For anyone who wants to go a step beyond the basics without spending a lot. Two preamps, digital control features and full professional software included make this one of the best options in its price range for musicians who record solo or as a duo.
What stands out:
The MAX-HD preamps were completely redesigned and deliver 75 dB of gain, which means they work well even with more demanding dynamic mics. For an interface in this price range, that's unusual.
The instrument input was co-developed with Fender engineers specifically for guitar and bass. In practice, the signal sounds more natural and true to the instrument than on generic interfaces.
It has its own low-latency driver, which already puts it on another level compared to interfaces that rely on generic drivers like ASIO4ALL.
Auto Gain sets your gain level automatically, a feature that saves a lot of time when you're setting up to record.
Full control through the Universal Control app lets you adjust gain, phantom power and direct monitoring from your phone, tablet or computer, without touching the interface itself.
The included software is Fender Studio Pro, formerly Studio One Pro. It's a complete professional DAW with no limitations, and that's a big part of the value here.
What's missing:
It only has two analog inputs. If you need more channels, you'll have to look at other options.
Bottom line:
Above-average preamps for the price, an instrument input developed with Fender, its own driver and a professional DAW included. It's hard to find all of that together in this price range.