Audio Interfaces

Whether or not you need an audio interface depends on your specific audio recording and playback needs. If you're simply recording audio with your computer's built-in microphone or a USB microphone, an audio interface may not be necessary. However, if you're serious about audio recording and want to achieve professional-quality results, an audio interface can make a big difference.

One of the main advantages of using an audio interface is that it allows you to use higher quality microphones, instruments, and speakers that may not be compatible with your computer's built-in audio system. An audio interface typically has higher-quality analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog converters, which can improve the sound quality of your recordings and playback.

If you have a USB microphone, you do not necessarily need an audio interface to record audio. USB microphones have built-in analog-to-digital converters that allow them to directly connect to your computer's USB port and convert the analog audio signal to digital data that can be recorded by your computer.

A mixer and an audio interface are two different tools that serve different purposes in an audio setup. A mixer is used to combine and adjust the levels of multiple audio signals, while an audio interface is used to convert analog audio signals to digital signals and vice versa, allowing you to record and playback audio on your computer.

If you need to mix multiple audio sources, such as microphones and instruments, and want to adjust the levels and add effects in real-time, a mixer may be a better option for you.

On the other hand, if you're primarily interested in recording and producing high-quality audio on your computer, an audio interface will be a better choice.

Choosing a good audio interface requires consideration of several factors, including your budget, the type of audio recording you'll be doing, the number of inputs and outputs you need, the quality of the preamps and converters, and the compatibility with your computer and recording software. If you need any help, please contact our knowledgeable sales team for free advice.

The number of inputs you need on your audio interface depends on your recording setup and the types of instruments or sound sources you'll be recording. It's also important to consider the type of inputs you need. Most audio interfaces will have a combination of XLR and 1/4-inch inputs, but you may also need inputs for MIDI or digital audio sources such as S/PDIF or ADAT. Make sure to choose an audio interface that has the types of inputs you need for your specific recording setup.