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Purchasing an audio interface is one of the most significant decisions you can make while building your studio. It will serve as the centre point for all of your audio, including inputs, mics and instruments and outputs such as speakers and headphones.
Interfaces are now available in a huge range of configurations: with different inputs and outputs, different amounts (and kinds) of preamps, different ways they’ll connect to your computer, and additional features like included software as well. So, how do you pick the right one for your needs?
Decide What Will You Need
When trying to make those crucial mix decisions, reliable audio interfaces can make all the difference. The first thing to secure is that your prospective audio interface has all of the inputs and outputs you require. If you are a singer-songwriter who travels frequently, a single mic pre and a DI on a bus-powered interface may be all you require. An Audient iD4 or similar compact interface would be excellent. Alternatively, if you have a larger studio and want to employ outboard effects, make sure there are enough line-level inputs and outputs.
If you have gear with digital I/O, such as S/PDIF or ADAT, having digital inputs on the interface allows you to easily expand the interface’s I/O, which is ideal for more demanding, larger recording sessions. It’s also a good idea to think about the future when purchasing the interface. While you may have a basic setup now, it may be worthwhile to get an interface with a few extra inputs and outputs if you intend to extend your setup with more outboard or monitoring in the future.
Sound Quality
Next, you want to ensure that your Interface will sound amazing. It is always worthwhile to spend a few moments exploring the manufacturer’s website to learn about their technical characteristics. Things to look for include a low level of noise and distortion, which is commonly stated as Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise (THD+N). The lower this number, the higher the performance.
You may also see a figure referred to as dynamic range. This is the difference between the loudest and quietest signals that the interface can handle. Typically, the higher the number, the better. However, keep in mind that the dynamic range of most modern tracks will be far lower than the theoretical maximum of an interface, so don’t be too concerned.
Another thing to look out for is frequency responsiveness. This indicates how accurately audio interfaces can process frequencies across the audible spectrum. Ideally, you’d like the interface to reproduce them all the same, but you’ll generally see minor volume surges or cuts at certain frequencies, which might make monitoring your mix difficult in severe circumstances.
Look for a low-frequency response between 20Hz and 20kHz.If possible, double-check that the specifications stated by the manufacturer are the same as those obtained through the interface.
Build Quality
When choosing the best audio interface for sale, build quality is a crucial consideration, as are durability, dependability, and feel. Interfaces with a metal chassis and knobs are ideal since they can withstand knocks and bumps. This means you can stuff it in your backpack when you’re on the go or recording on location.
The feel of the knobs and switches is also vital to consider. These are the controls you’ll be using daily, and if they feel good on your fingers, you’ll like using the interface even more.
Your Budget
Many people base their studio design decisions on their budget; we all want the finest quality for the lowest price. Of course, you want to make sure that your entire signal chain is of the highest quality possible, which includes a high-quality microphone, interface, and monitoring setup.
While having a decent microphone and monitoring setup is crucial, spending a lot of money on them only to transfer it via a poor-performing interface is not desirable. Even the best musicians recorded with a high-quality microphone will sound bad if there is noise or distortion. Keep in mind that occasionally spending a little more now can result in a lot more rewards later on.
Features to Look for
There are numerous features to consider when hesitating between different audio interfaces for sale. When looking for a recording and mixing interface, key features to look for are monitor controls and low-latency mixing. Low latency monitoring is essential for ensuring that the performers you’re recording can hear themselves without delay. Furthermore, having extensive monitor control enables easy monitoring for both mixing engineers as well as the ability to construct artist foldback mixes without the need for extra boxes.
Larger interfaces will include some sort of software to help control everything; the more intuitive it is to use, the better. The software should be simple to use because you’ll want to be able to rapidly set up your routine at the start of a session so you can spend more time tracking, mixing, and recording.
