Finally, keyboards and synthesizers need even less gain, but they may require some amplification to match studio level or recording consistency. Guitars and basses need less gain, but a preamp is still required. Microphones need strong preamps with lots of gain (volume) otherwise, your records will turn out extremely muted and dull. Some are dedicated XLR/TRS inputs for microphones, while others feature a 3.5mm jack for instrument cables or unique MIDI plugs.Įach channel generally has a preamp attached to it that converts weak signals into strong signals. Not all inputs are created equal, however. For recording guitar and vocals side-by-side or an ensemble, you’ll need additional inputs. If you’re a solo artist recording acoustic guitar, a basic two-channel input/output configuration is perfectly sufficient, and the good news is it won’t break the bank. The number of inputs and outputs on an interface determines how many instruments it can handle at one time. Thankfully, 24-bit audio interfaces are extremely attainable, allowing you to churn out professional-quality tracks right from home. 24-bit recordings eliminate almost all noise and provide plenty of headroom for dynamic performances.

The professional audio standard of today is 192kHz or 24-bit. USB audio interfaces also offer built-in effects, preamps, additional cable jacks, and other features to make the whole process easier and more fun. Think of these products as mediators, allowing all your components to speak the same language to facilitate the recording process. Thankfully, USB audio interfaces provide these inputs, plug right into your computer via a USB port, and convert analog, real-world audio into computer-friendly digital audio. Why? Computer audio processors don’t typically have the right inputs for recording microphones and instruments directly, resulting in extremely quiet recordings, muted tones, or static when you plug in directly.

While professional studios utilize purpose-built, multi-thousand dollar recording consoles, home recording studios rely on audio interfaces to translate the music you play into something your computer can properly understand. If you’re interested in recording music at home, though, we recommend a USB audio interface. It happens in living rooms, on front porches, in parks, and everywhere in between. The magic of music doesn’t just happen in professional recording studios. Buying guide for Best USB audio interfaces

Audio recording interface for mac