Having spare inputs and outputs is also handy, and raises the possibility of incorporating outboard processors into your system. If you intend to mix solely in the computer, that might be all you need, but if you're planning on using a hardware mixer, you'll need several line outs: one for each channel that you intend to send to the console. Most interfaces have one or more headphone outs, which you can use to let the performers hear what they're playing during tracking. Some interfaces have mostly line inputs, however, in which case you'll either need a mixer or several stand-alone preamps in order to record multiple microphones simultaneously.Īs far as outputs are concerned, the minimum you'll need is two, to listen back in stereo to what you've recorded. All the interfaces mentioned on the previous pages have at least eight analogue inputs, and most have the same number of mic preamps built in, which means you'll just need mics and cables to get up and running. If you need the ability to record a full band, by contrast, eight inputs is a sensible minimum. If you mainly build up your tracks by overdubbing single instruments one after the other, your needs may well be met by a high-quality desktop interface such as Avid's Mbox ( /sos/feb11/articles/pro-tools-mbox.htm) with just two analogue inputs. Next it's time to think about how many inputs and outputs you'll need. At present, there aren't many Thunderbolt interfaces around, but honourable mentions should go to the Universal Audio Apollo ( /sos/jun12/articles/universal-audio-apollo.htm) and Apogee Symphony I/O ( /sos/sep11/articles/apogee-symphony.htm), which can both be equipped with optional Thunderbolt expansion cards. It's worth also mentioning Thunderbolt, which is a new connection type that should in theory offer a higher maximum channel count.
Multichannel usb audio interface drivers#
With the right interface, drivers and computer, decent low-latency performance is possible using both protocols.
In fact, some manufacturers now offer both connection types, enhancing compatibility at the expense of making the interface a little more costly.
USB is generally more forgiving, and arguably more future-proof, as Firewire ports are rarely fitted as standard to new computers nowadays. Some interfaces use PCI cards, which have to be fitted into a computer, but all those listed above connect either via USB or Firewire, meaning that they simply plug into the relevant socket.įirewire interfaces can be picky about the Firewire chipset in your computer, with compatibility problems ranging from the occasional crackle to the interface not being recognised by the computer at all! It's definitely worth checking the manufacturer's web site to make sure that your own chipset is compatible. One of the main considerations when buying an interface is whether it has enough inputs and outputs for your purposes.The first thing to consider when deciding which interface to buy is its connection format. There are numerous interfaces around capable of recording several channels at once, but how do you know which one is right for you?
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