What Is An Audio Interface?

An Audio Interface is the device that connects your instrument, or microphone to your computer. So for example, an electric guitar would take the standard 1/4″ cable used to plug the guitar into an amplifier, but instead you’d plug that end into the interface. Then from there the interface would connect to your computer via FireWire, or USB cable.

There is many different interfaces available. With as many as 1 to 16+ inputs, and prices ranging to over $1,000. Below are some key features of interfaces to get your familiar with them. There are a couple crucial things about interfaces that you should be aware of that aren’t always clearly explained on the products information or packaging. So here are 4 key features to understand before purchasing a unit.

Key Features of Audio Interfaces

   1) Analog I/O

   2) PC Interface (Digital I/O)

   3) Pre-amps/ Phantom Power

   4) DAW Software

1. Analog I/O

When live recording there are two types of inputs you will need to be concerned with: XLR, used for microphones, and instrument jacks, or 1/4″ standard cables. The number of Analog inputs an interface has is the number of sound sources (instruments, microphones, ect.) that can be ran simultaneously. The number of inputs you will need will be determined by what you are trying to record. You are looking to have an input for each microphone, or instrument that you will be recording. A drumset alone can easily be fully mic’d with 8 microphones, taking up 8 inputs. So if you plan on recording a full band you could easily need a 10+ input interface. But you always have the option of recording each instrument, or vocals in separate takes, and use an interface with less inputs.

So the Analog I/O is how many inputs and outputs you have on your interface. When recording into a computer, you should only be concerned with the number of inputs that the unit can have plugged into it.

 

2. PC Interface (Digital I/O)

Your digital interface will most likely either be USB or FireWire. USB 1.0 can usually only support 2 audio outs. Where USB 2.0/3.0 and FireWire can support 16 or more I/O. This is very important when it comes to mixing your audio in your DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) because the number of outs will determine if you have the ability to truly multi-track your recordings. If you only have the stereo mix output (2 outs) then you must perfect your mix before or while it is being recorded, because you will not be able to mix it again once it has be recorded into your DAW. There is a way around this though, known as “Overdubbing” or “Stacking Tracks.”

So if your looking to record multiple instruments or mics simultaneously and have true multi-tracking, you will need multiple outputs. This is not always listed on the packaging or product description. Look under Digital I/O or FireWire-USB I/O. If you want to have multi-track functioning you will need a “full-duplex” interface. This means 8/8 or 16/16, which means 8 in and 8 out. This allows you to record 8 tracks simultaneously. If a unit shows 8/2 it would gives you the stereo out. Just because a device has a FireWire or USB connection, don’t assume its full duplex!

 

3. Pre-amps/ Phantom Power

Many interfaces come with both Pre-amps, and Phantom Power.

Pre-amps: These provide your microphone signal a little gain before they hit the input channel. This allows them to be heard along other instruments that would otherwise be much louder. A standard mic ran through a channel without a preamp has a very low volume and that’s where pre-amps help boost the signal. Pre-amps also assist with the tone and feel of microphones helping them sound better. So for better quality recording from microphones, whether from vocals or drumset mics, you’ll need pre-amps. Most interfaces have at least one, and many have several. There is also always to buy stand alone microphone pre-amps.

Phantom Power: This feature is commonly found on the same channels that have pre-amps. Phantom power is a small current that runs through the XLR mic cable and supplies certain types of microphones with current to make them active. This feature acts like a pre-amp right in the microphone. Microphones using Phantom Power are usually studio vocal mics. The only downside of recording vocal using Phantom Power while recording other instruments at the same time is they have the tendency to pick up ambient noise.

 

4. DAW

Digital Audio Workstation’s (DAW) are they the software used to mix your recordings in. Some popular DAW’s are GarageBand, ProTools, Cubase, Cakewalk, Audacity, Reaper, etc. There are many DAW’s to pick from all featuring their own unique features, and functions. Some interfaces will come with free software to record with, but if yours doesn’t, they’re plenty of free open source software like Audacity, or awesome inexpensive shareware like Reaper.

 

“What mixer should I choose?”

“Why doesn’t this mixer sounds good?”

“How do I hook up my mixer?”

This article is all about helping with Mixers. Why should you get one? Do you really need one? Features to look for, and things to look out for when purchasing yours.

The truth is, not every home studio need a mixer. Some mixers are just more hassle’s than their worth at a users current level of work-flow. You can record great sounding audio’s with USB interfaces.

Reasons Why A Mixer Might Be A Good Choice For You:

• – If your recording multiple mics or instruments at once, and want to connect them all at once
• – Some mixers allow you to record directly into your computer via Firewire or USB cable
• – Mixers can give you more adjustability to match your perfect settings
• – More convenient to set ride levels with

Reasons Why A Mixer Might Be A Bad Choice:

• – Some of the lower end ones do not have direct outs, which will not allow you to record multiple tracks
• – Lower end ones can also have poor pre-amps that can add background noise
• – Routing options can be limiting and cause troubles on some models

What To Consider When Choosing A Mixer For Home Recording:

1) Inputs

How many sources are you planning on running into this mixer? How many of those need mic pre-amps? Some mixers will claim to have a large amount of inputs, but only a few are pre-amps.

2) Quality

Microphones pre-amps can seem simple from the surface, but do a lot in the recording space. Poor quality pre-amps can add extra noise such as background hiss to your recordings. Another negative factor of poor pre-amps is limiting the headroom (area between clean signal, and distortion) you have to work with. If you come across a 14 channel mixer for the same price as 2 channel mixer, chances are the quality of the 16 channel is much less than the 2 channel.

3) Routing To Your Computer

Here you need to decide how you will connect your mixer to the computer. An option is to plug the mixer into an interface, and then into your computer. You can also save some money by buying an interface without pre-amps, because the inputs being plugged into the interface are line level, and do not need to be pre-amped. Also to consider is you will need a mixer with direct outs on each channel if you are wanting to multi-track.

4) Routing In The Mixer

When you record, you’ll need to send your signals out of your mixer and into your computer. But your also going to need to route any existing tracks out of your computer through your mixer into a pair of headphones for you, or for your entire band. A good way to do this is with an “Pre Fade Aux.” You’ll need a separate pre fade aux for each monitor mix you want.

Also consider your monitor speakers. A high quality mixer will have separate monitor outs with a dedicated controls so you can turn them down or off when recording, and then back up or on when listening to your recordings.

5) Use As A Control Surface

Some high-end mixers (and/or digital) can send and receive MIDI commands. This allows the mixer to act as a controller for your DAW. (Digital Audio Workstation) What’s cool about this is these mixers include “user buttons” that can operate transport controls like Play, Stop, Ect. on your DAW. Also the faders can be used to control “virtual” faders on the software mixer in your DAW. The only downside of this is the price range for these specific models. Just make sure before purchasing one of these models, that your DAW is compatible for these features.

 Summary

When deciding on a mixer to purchase for your home studio, make sure to make a list of the features you need for your rig. Including number of inputs, pre-amps, features, price range, user friendliness, and quality you can trust. Do you research and ask around for suggestions on units other musicians are using as well as help at your local music shop.

 

 

So I’ve got this friend that is a complete newbie in the “home recording” scene. He’s been playing guitar for years, but has never recorded anything. Now with all the hype of YouTube, he’s wanting to take it to the next step, and record a few covers and show the world his skills.

Recently we were talking about the equipment he would need, when he asked me what some great sounding microphones were that he could record with. His only problem was, that he didn’t have a whole lot of cash to invest in top of the line gear He wanted to keep it under $100. So these are what I recommended to him:

• – Behringer ECM-8000
• – Shure SM57
• – MXL 603
• – MXL V67G

Below is a short description of them each.

 

Behringer ECM-8000 – $54.99

The ECM8000’s ruler-flat frequency response from 15 Hz to 20 kHz and omnidirectional polar pattern give you a clear, accurate reading of any room’s unique sound characteristics. Like standard condenser mics used for recording or performance, the ECM8000 is phantom powered, from +15 V to +48 V. We’ve even included a rugged carrying case, microphone clip and stand adapter to ensure smooth operation every time.

Features

• – Exceptionally flat frequency response and ultra-high sound resolution
• – Works with phantom power from +15 – + 48V
• – Ultra-low noise transformerless FET input eliminates low-frequency distortion
• – Gold-plated 3-pin XLR connector for highest signal integrity
• – Conceived and designed by Behringer Germany

 

Shure SM57 – $99.00

The legendary Shure SM57 is exceptional for musical instrument pickup and vocals. With its bright, clean sound and contoured frequency response, the SM57 is ideal for live sound reinforcement and recording. The Sm57 has an extremely effective cardioid pickup pattern that isolates the main sound source while minimizing background noise. In the studio, it is excellent for recording drums, guitars, and woodwinds. Outstanding performance, reliability, and application diversity make this “workhorse” the choice of performers, producers, and sound engineers worldwide.

 Features

• – Pneumatic shock-mount system cuts down handling noise
• – Frequentcy response: 40Hz – 15,000 Hz
• – Contoured frequency response for clean, instrumental reproduction and rich vocal pickup
• – Extremely durable under the heaviest use

 

MXL 603S – $89.99

Designed with professional and working musicians in mind, the MXL 603 Instrument Microphone delivers the natural acustic properties you need for overhead drums, piano, string instruments, and more. Sharing characteristics of European and Japanese imports at a fraction of the price, a transformerless design provides a solid bottom and an extremely open top end sound. The MXL 603 can even handle guitar amp recording!

Features

• – Small-diaphragm capsule that captures extra detail
• – Transformerless design for a solid low end and an open top
• – Instrument microphone with a crisp, bright sound
• – Frequency range is between 30Hz-20kHz

 

MXL V67G – $99.95

The MXL V67G Condenser Microphone is often described as having a sound that is “old school tube mellow.” Designed mainly for vocals, the V67G mic combines Class A FET circuitry and a transformer-coupled output for a smooth, open, and pure sound. The MXL V67G mic comes through with killer vocals even in front of a busy mix. The condenser microphone’s great stage appeal is partially due to its round gold-plated grille and distinctive, vintage body. You’ll be amazed by the sound this cleverly designed MXL microphone provides and pleasantly pleased with the price.

Features

• – Gold-sputtered, 6 micron diaphragm
• – Solid state preamp
• – Comes with mic stand adapter
• – Optional MXL-57 isolation shockmount available