Audient EVO 16

Overview

The Audient EVO 16 is an 8-in / 8-out analog USB interface plus additional digital I/O, aimed at home and project studios that need high channel counts, clean preamps, and intuitive control. It adds features like Smartgain, a full-colour LCD screen with “Motion UI,” and enough outputs to handle multiple speakers or external outboard gear.

Pros

1. Many Inputs & Outputs
   With 8 EVO mic preamps, 2 JFET instrument inputs, 8 line outputs, 2 optical inputs/outputs, and dual headphone-outs, you’ve got flexibility. Great for multi-mic sessions (drums, ensembles), overdubs, and routing to external processors.  
2. Smartgain & Easy Level Setting
   Smartgain automatically sets the input levels for all 8 channels at once. This can save a lot of time during setup, especially when tracking multiple mics simultaneously. Less chance of clipping, more time making music.  
3. Clean Preamps & Converters
   The mic preamps deliver up to 58 dB gain, with low noise (EIN < -127.5 dBu) and good dynamic range (~121 dB).  Those specs help when you’re tracking quiet sources or need headroom.
4. Motion UI & Visual Feedback
   The new display shows what’s going on clearly: channel status, metering, levels, etc. The “one-knob control” and front-panel buttons make it easier to adjust without constantly reaching for the computer.  
5. Good Monitoring & Routing Features
   Two headphone outputs, line outputs, loop-back capability, monitor control, word clock output, etc. Good flexibility for control room setups or custom artist monitoring / cue mixes.

Cons / Trade-offs

1. USB-C / USB 2.0 Bandwidth & Latency Limits
   Even though it’s modern, it still uses USB 2.0 protocol over USB-C. While this works very well for many users, in very large, high-track, ultra-low latency sessions the interface may hit practical limits.  
2. No MIDI In/Out
   The interface does not have traditional DIN MIDI ports. If you use hardware MIDI gear, you’ll need a separate MIDI interface.  
3. Form Factor & Rack-Mounting
   The unit is slim and can fit on a desktop or in a rack with optional ears, but some users have noted that its width/depth are non-standard which may complicate some rack setups. Plus, rack ears are sold separately.  
4. Complexity vs Simplicity
   For users who only need 2-4 inputs or simpler workflows, many of the features (Smartgain, multiple I/O, advanced routing) may be more than necessary. More features can mean more things to configure or manage.

Best For

• Producers / engineers doing multitrack recording (bands, drum kits, live ensembles) who need many clean mic preamps in one box.
• Studios wanting flexible routing: multiple speakers, headphone mixes, outboard gear, digital expansion (ADAT / optical I/O).
• Those who value fast setup and intuitive control (smart gain, good front-panel metering) to speed up workflow.
• Users who want the option to expand or grow their studio without replacing core interface hardware.

Summary & Verdict

The Audient EVO 16 is a strong contender if you need a high-channel USB interface with excellent specs, flexible routing, and smart features that simplify setup. It carries the EVO lineage’s friendliness (Smartgain, clear feedback, easy controls) into a bigger format suitable for more serious studio work. It may be more than needed for minimal setups, but for its class the balance between features, sound quality, and usability is excellent.

Verdict: Highly recommended for producers looking to upgrade or build a mid-to-full tracking studio, especially those who value efficiency and flexibility. A great investment if you’ll actually use its I/O and routing power.