Hardware Compare top rated Audio Interface equipment for your home recording studio
You write and perform GREAT music. You've gotta record it and get it out there.
See ALL the Audio Interface listingsGet the BEST deal and compare prices with the full catalog! |
Sound cards, aka audio interfaces, are what turn your computer into a powerful home recording studio. You can achieve professional recordings if your audio interface is up to snuff.
To record from a microphone directly to your computer, you will either need a separate preamp, mixer, or sound card that has preamp and phantom power (for condenser microphones) functions. If any of your hardware is digital, you'll need a sound card that has input and output Please note that some cards only have digital output and not digital input.
Sound cards are rapidly becoming audio interfaces with advanced functions. Many have multiple inputs and outputs, mixing capabilities and even onboard effects processors. Consider your needs and find something of higher quality that does not have extras that would be useless to you.
In terms of quality, kHz is the new standard.
Budget: Tascam USB 2.0 AUDIO INTERFACE
You can:
Record vocals and instruments directly into your computer.
Connect balanced microphone XLR cable and line cable.
Perform basic audio editing in Audacity software program.
Features:
Bus-powered USB 2.0 audio interface
XLR or 1/4"microphone input
RCA line inputs switchable to RIAA phono inputs with ground lug
1/8" stereo headphone output
48kHz/16-bit audio resolution
Zero-latency hardware monitoring
Class-compliant driver works on Mac and Windows computers without installation (including Mac OS X 10.6 Snow Leopard)
Audacity recording software included
Solid Aluminum case construction
Summary:
The microphone input captures great-sounding performances, or you can plug in your guitar or bass directly into the instrument-level input. Stereo line inputs can be switched to RIAA phono level for digitizing your vinyl collection from your favorite turntable. The USB 2.0 connection guarantees playback without hiccups on your Mac or Windows computer, and the compact aluminum construction withstands the hazards of the road, studio or dorm room.
The US-100 records in stereo at CD-quality 48kHz/16-bit resolution and includes a free copy of Audacity software to get you started. An XLR or 1/4" microphone input is provided, as well as unbalanced stereo line ins and outs. Step up to TASCAM quality without breaking the bank with the US-100.
Buy and love the Budget: Tascam USB 2.0 AUDIO INTERFACE from:
The Music Zone for $75
Quality: M-Audio Fast Track: USB Audio Recording Interface
You can:
Record professional sound quality from balanced microphones and instruments.
Monitor the input through headphones or monitors.
Record 48 tracks on Pro tools software (included).
Apply studio effects with the software.
Create MIDI tracks and musical score notation.
High-quality software processing for your audio recordings.
Features:
Professional sound quality (up to 24-bit/48 kHz)
Two simultaneous analog inputs and outputs
o One XLR analog input for connecting a microphone
o Two ¼” line-/instrument-level (DI) analog inputs for connecting guitars, basses, keyboards, synthesizers, drum machines, and more
Zero-latency monitoring
Compact, rugged metal enclosure for maximum portability and durability
Powered by USB (USB 1.1 connection, cable included)
Front-panel volume control and monitor mute switch
Two ¼” analog monitor outputs
Stereo headphone output
48V phantom power
Kensington Security Lock
Award-winning Pro Tools® recording, editing, and mixing
48 simultaneous stereo audio tracks (expandable with Toolkit options)
Includes dozens of pro effects processing plug-ins and virtual instruments
Professional MIDI sequencing with dedicated MIDI Editor window
Integrated Score Editor based on award-winning Sibelius notation software
Full Elastic Time and Elastic Pitch to easily adjust timing and pitch on your tracks
Unique Beat Detective™ LE automatic groove analysis and correction tool
ReWire support for streaming your favorite applications right into Pro Tools
Support for the Digidesign C|24™ and Command|8® control surfaces
Huge selection of compatible third-party plug-ins and software options
Works on Windows and Mac computers
Summary:
Featuring a wide range of connection options, including analog, digital, and MIDI I/O, Mbox 2 delivers professional performance in an incredibly compact package. Mbox 2 also includes award-winning, easy-to-use Pro Tools LE software, which offers many of the same features that top studios rely on to produce Grammy-winning albums and Academy Award–winning film sound. Projects created with Mbox 2 and Pro Tools LE software also open on Pro Tools|HD and Pro Tools M-Powered systems — providing instant compatibility with countless Pro Tools–equipped project and professional studio around the globe.
Buy and love the Quality: M-Audio Fast Track: USB Audio Recording Interface from:
The Music Zone for $Low
Top: Digidesign Mbox 2 USB Audio/MIDI Pro Tools LE Interface
You can:
Record microphones and instruments directly into your computer.
Edit and keep your recordings with Pro tools basic software.
Features:
Includes Pro Tools M-Powered Essential software - make music immediatley
One-for-all compatibility - works with most popular recording software - including Pro ools M-Powered 8*
1/4" instrument input - record guitar, bass and keyboards
Phantom powered XLR mic input - use dynamic and studio-grade condenser microphones
Stereo RCA outputs - easily connects to your stereo system or powered monitors
Summary:
Turn your computer into a powerful music production studio with the M-Audio Fast Track - the best-selling recording interface in its category. Featuring a simple plug-and-play USB connection, Fast Track is the easiest way to record guitar, vocals and more with your PC or MAC. Simply plug in your instruments and you're ready to rock. Fast Track even offers phantom power so you can use professional-quality studio condenser microphones like the M-Audio Nova. Fast Track is compatible with most popular music recording applications from GarageBand to studio-standard Pro Tools M-Powered, and includes easy-to-use Pro Tools M-Powered Essential recording and effects software so you can start making music immediately.
Buy and love the Top: Digidesign Mbox 2 USB Audio/MIDI Pro Tools LE Interface from:
The Music Zone for $250
For a full explanation of sound card specifications and what they mean, click here
Here are some opportunities to pick up musical instruments and home studio equipment at great discounts!
Back to top