Best Audio Interface: A Guide for Beginners

If you are interested in recording or producing music on your computer, you will need an audio interface. An audio interface is a device that allows you to connect microphones, instruments, speakers, headphones, and other audio equipment to your computer. It also converts analog signals to digital signals and vice versa, so that your computer can process and play back the sound.

But how do you choose the best audio interface for your needs? There are many factors to consider, such as the number and type of inputs and outputs, the quality and features of the preamps and converters, the connection and compatibility with your computer, the price and the reliability of the device.

In this post, we will explain the basics of audio interfaces, answer some common questions, and give you some tips on how to find the best audio interface for your home studio.

What is an audio interface?

An audio interface is a hardware device that extends the audio recording and playback capabilities of your computer. It performs analog to digital (A/D) and digital to analog (D/A) conversion, and allows you to record with multiple microphones, instruments, and external hardware. Learn the types, features, and factors to consider when buying an audio interface¹.

What is a USB audio interface?

A USB audio interface is an audio interface that connects to your computer via a USB cable. USB audio interfaces are the most common and affordable type of audio interface, and they are compatible with most computers and operating systems. USB audio interfaces can offer different types of USB connections, such as USB-A, USB-B, USB-C, or USB 2.0, 3.0, or 3.1. Learn more about USB audio interfaces and how to choose one².

What does an audio interface do?

An audio interface has two main functions: record audio signals into your computer and play audio from your computer. It has multiple inputs and outputs, preamps, converters, controls, and MIDI connectivity. Learn the features, benefits, and alternatives of an audio interface for different projects and purposes³.

How audio interface works?

An audio interface works by receiving analog waveforms from your microphones or instruments, sending them to a built-in preamp to boost the signal level, and then converting them into digital data using an A/D converter. The digital data is then transmitted to your computer via a USB, Thunderbolt, or Firewire cable. The audio interface also does the opposite process: it receives digital audio from your computer, converts it into analog signals using a D/A converter, and sends it to your headphones or speakers. Learn more about how an audio interface works and what to look for in one⁴.

How to use an audio interface?

To use an audio interface, you need to connect it to your computer, install the drivers for your operating system, and configure the settings in your digital audio workstation (DAW). You also need to connect your microphones, instruments, headphones, and speakers to the appropriate inputs and outputs of the audio interface. Then, you can start recording and playing back audio using your DAW. Learn more about how to use an audio interface and how to set it up for different applications⁵.

How to connect audio interface to computer?

To connect an audio interface to a computer, you need to use the supplied cable (USB, Thunderbolt, etc.) and plug it into the corresponding port on your computer. You also need to install the drivers for your audio interface from the manufacturer’s website, and make sure your computer recognizes the device. Then, you need to open your DAW and select the audio interface as the input and output device. Learn more about how to connect an audio interface to a computer and what tools you need for that⁶.

Can you use two audio interfaces at once?

Yes, you can use two or more audio interfaces at once, with some limitations. This is useful when you need more audio input and output channels, or when you want to use different features of different audio interfaces. However, you need to configure your operating system and software to work with multiple audio interfaces, and make sure they are compatible and synchronized. Learn more about how to use multiple audio interfaces together and what are the advantages and disadvantages of doing so⁷.

Can I connect MIDI to audio interface?

Yes, you can connect MIDI to audio interface, if your audio interface has MIDI inputs and outputs. MIDI is a protocol that allows you to control and communicate with musical instruments and software. By connecting a MIDI keyboard, controller, or device to your audio interface, you can send and receive MIDI data to and from your computer. Learn more about how to connect MIDI to audio interface and what are the benefits of doing so⁸.

Can you use a mixer as an audio interface?

Yes, you can use a mixer as an audio interface, if your mixer has a built-in audio interface. A mixer is a device that allows you to mix, adjust, and route multiple audio signals. Some mixers also have a USB or Firewire connection that lets you send and receive audio to and from your computer. This way, you can use a mixer as an audio interface, and also as a standalone mixer without connecting to a computer. Learn more about the differences and similarities between audio interfaces and mixers, and how to choose the best one for your studio⁹.

Does an audio interface improve sound quality?

Yes, an audio interface can improve sound quality, compared to the built-in sound card of your computer. An audio interface can offer higher sample rates and bit depths, lower latency and noise, better preamps and converters, and more inputs and outputs. These factors can affect the quality and clarity of your recordings and playback. Learn more about how an audio interface can improve sound quality and what are the best audio interfaces for different budgets and genres¹⁰.

We hope this post has helped you understand the basics of audio interfaces, and how to find the best one for your needs. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to leave them below. Happy recording!