Audio Interfaces

In continuing with the HR basics, one piece of hardware you will definitely need is an Audio Interface. Audio interfaces have been called the heart of home studios. There is a large variety to choose from, but before we get to that, what is an audio interface?

Audio interfaces are pieces of hardware that are used to convert your analog signals from your mixer (such as analog mic feeds, line-ins, or other inputs) to digital signals that can be fed into your computer (usually through firewire or USB). A lot of new mixers combine the technology and built an interface directly into the mixer. However, the cheaper versions of these mixers sound extremely digital, and are not ideal. If you're tyring to stick with a budget, it's best to purchase a cheaper mixer and spend the savings on a higher quality interface.

So, which interface do you need? What do you look for? Well, first examine your setup and determine the need. If you are running protools, it is essential to own a protools compatible interface such as the Mbox by Digidesign. There are a variety of stripped-down versions of the Mbox (such as the mini) that allow protools users to still save some moolah, but with saved dollars comes sacrificed features.

If you're not running the industry-standard protools (not too many budget home studios do) then we can bring many other options to the table. For Garageband users, there are several soundcard adapters that allow you to directly plug instruments to your computer. Samson also has a USB microphone that can allow you to directly convert audio. However, I recommend this strictly to beginners experimenting with Garageband and that are new to home recording.

How many inputs do you desire? Now, the hard part, decide how many inputs you actually need. If you are a home-recording artist and plan on not having ANY multitrack recording (meaning, recording guitar and vocals at the same time, for example) then one input will suffice, but leave you wanting. Two inputs is a standard minimum. If you plan on having a full drum kit miced, I recommend at least four to six inputs. However, the more inputs you get, of course, the more expensive the hardware. This is also because of the digital input type. The epic battle between USB vs Firewire.

If you use only one or two input channels, then USB will suffice. However, more inputs usually ramps the hardware up to firewire while simultaneously bringing up the price.

It's tricky to recommend hardware, given that each audio interface has pros and cons relative to your personal setup. However, in broad summary, I would recommend the following:

For home recording artists who don't desire largescale multitracking: The Tascam US-144 Audio-Interface.
This USB interface the budget very nicely, and sounds crystal clear. Inputs allow you to take a mixer straight to the interface, and the preamps are packed with warm goodness. Also comes loaded with phantom power, and my favorite feature, multiple outputs that allow you to redirect signal to your monitors, phones, or anywhere else (say, a stereo in another room).

For you big shots who record full bands and like the flexibility that comes with multiple preamp inputs, I recommend the Presonus Firestudio. This bad boy is loaded with professional features, including software that allows you to monitor inputs and control the hardware. It is built for a rack, so it won't clutter your desktop. Combine this and a patch bay, and you'll be one happy recordind-artist camper.

You must choose, but choose wisely...for the right audio interface brings life, while the wrong choice brings...hours of frustration, setup re-routing, less-flexibility, and the eventual upgrade to better hardware.