Which Audio Interface

Which Audio Interface?

 

Choosing an audio interface (or soundcard as it’s also called) can be a daunting task.  You’ve spent a ton on your computer, software, monitors, controller keyboard, and now you’re after an interface.  Read on for me suggestions…

Firstly, I always say that the audio interface is the most important component.  The quality of your audio depends heavily on the quality of your interface – the better the converters of the interface the better your audio quality.  All too often I see home studios with amazing synths and all the software under the sun, and a poor soundcard.  A good soundcard will make a BIG difference to your sound.

Now, there isn’t just one interface that is the perfect solution, you need to decide on which features you need.  The number of inputs and outputs is the starting point – do you just want to be able to record an acoustic guitar and vocal simultaneously, or do you need to record a full 6-piece band in one take?  Generally, the more ins and outs the pricier the unit. 

USB2.0 or FireWire connection?  I use both regularly and have found both to perform equally well.  It’s all down to the speed of which the data is transferred, but both are really quick.  FireWire is often considered to be more ‘professional’, which might have been the case when it was just USB, as opposed to the much faster USB2.0.  Some interfaces are hybrid, so connect via USB or FireWire, which can be useful if you use one interface on numerous systems, or use live / for location recording.

Most audio interfaces have XLR inputs which provide Phamtom Power (48 Volts) for condenser microphones, and jack or RCA inputs too.  Make sure you have enough ins and outs, maybe even get a unit with a few extra in case you ever need more in the future.

Latency is a word you might come across – really what that means it the ‘delay’ in sound from playback to recording.  It’s kind of like watching a film where the speech follows 0.2 milliseconds after the mouth mas moved.  A good soundcard with a good driver will not have any noticeable latency.  If you do get latency check your buffer size – smaller buffer = lower latency.

Which brands to go for?  There are so many, however I’m a big fan of MOTU, Focusrite, Roland, ECHO, ESI, Alesis, and Lexicon.  There are other good brands too of course, but be sure to get a reputable make.  Soundblaster cards are rubbish for making music!!!  They are made for gaming.

Have a look at Audio Interfaces at Camden Sounds.