I feel like most beginners buying their first audio interface probably find it confusing enough without worrying about one day needing 24 microphone preamps, no?

@AudioUniversity

Жыл бұрын

24 tracks might be a lot, but 16 is a reasonable amount for someone recording their own band. And if you plan for the future, you can invest in tools now that will continue to have utility for years to come!

@UTubeHandlesSuck

11 ай бұрын

@@AudioUniversity ....or, you can _plan ahead_ and find out a year down the road that you're not even interested any more but now you've got a fortune in "planning ahead" gear to dispose of at a hefty loss.

@aqueous5099

11 ай бұрын

@@UTubeHandlesSuck I mean…don’t be half assed then. Don’t know what else to say.

@BlommaBaumbart

11 ай бұрын

@@UTubeHandlesSuck That's the risk of any purchase. I might buy bread today and never eat it because I feel like noodles the next few days. However, if you actually put thought into it and consider buying gear for the long term investment, you will then notice whether you deem that a good idea or whether you begin to think that maybe you might not stick with it that long.

@zachansen8293

11 ай бұрын

@@UTubeHandlesSuck precisely

There is a work around option on the drum thing if you don't have enough channels on your interface. You could plug the mics into a multi channel mixer first and take a mono(1 channel) or stereo(2 channels) feed out of the mixer to the interface. The caveat here is that you have less control over the individual drums in the mixing stage later but if you can get the blend right at the recording stages it may not be an issue. At least for beginner bands this could be an option to save on money. Especially if you already have access to a mixer

@jjrusy7438

Жыл бұрын

Solid advice for immediate budget solution. And to take things one step further, before I bought a second full-sized mixer to handle my growing music rig, I would add a small mixer output into the larger mixer's " tape in " to add a couple more inputs without wasting inputs on the big mixer.

@tryhardnoob1140

11 ай бұрын

I actually did exactly this once before. Was a bit more effort, but worked fine since my interface only had 2 inputs and I was trying to mic drums.

@noodles7196

9 ай бұрын

Honestly the best option in Mt opinion

@RickDrift

9 ай бұрын

Its never a bad idea to practice recording a kit with a single mic. You can get great results and probably learn a lot more.

@SuperWolfkin

9 ай бұрын

beat me to it by two months.

as a drummer can i jsut point out that you really do not need at least 8 mics. in fact you can get a more natural sound from the drums with less mics set up the right way and of the right quality. if you get 3 good mics you really can capture a wondeful sound from your drums with a very minimalistic set up. it really all depends on the type of music and what it is you're trying to achieve.

@me_fault

10 күн бұрын

Where do you place those three mics? I'm guess bass drum, snare and one over head?

If you're a small band, the Soundcraft Signature 12MT mixer is a good option for under £500. It can record 14 tracks simultaneously over USB (2 tracks are reserved for the Final Stereo Mixdown). It has 8 XLR ins, 2 hi-z ins, dbx limiter on the first 2 channels as well as bunch of other features like 100Hz cut. If you're more of a home producer, the ESI U168 XT will give you 16 ins, 4 of which are mic preamps, 2 hi-z, spdif and one midi i/o for under £400.

@barretonaldo

14 күн бұрын

Exactly… for the price of things he mentioned in the video, there is a few digital mixers that can record many more channels with a very very usable audio quality

For those looking for a simple interface, I can't recommend better than the MOTU M4. Both main inputs are combo inputs and there are two additional 1/4" inputs on the back. The graphical volume meter is also a very nice touch as it gives you an immediate idea of how hot the signal is before it ever even reaches your DAW. And most importantly for me, the latency is the lowest out of any others I've tried, especially my former Presonus interface which had godawful latency that made recording while monitoring virtually impossible for me.

@wrenchposting9097

7 ай бұрын

That's a great choice. Sounds very similar to the original Audiofuse

@spareplanet

6 ай бұрын

Yup, the MOTU M4 or M6 are the best out there, imo.

This is an excellent video and I'm glad you specified XLR mic inputs. The problem is in the product descriptions. The ID4 MKIII that you mentioned is advertised as a "2in | 2out Audio Interface" and a person could easily fall into that single-preamp trap if they didn't know to look for it.

@AudioUniversity

Жыл бұрын

Yes. While the iD4 is a 2-in interface, it’s important for understand the TYPE of input! Thanks for watching, Pirojf!

@jomesias

10 ай бұрын

The XLR mic inputs are the only ones worth the salt. The instant I put my guitar through the Xlr input it was easier to mix, and it wasn’t as squeaky as the 1/4 inputs. All the producers I’ve learned from always go from instrument -> di box xlr output -> Recording interface Xlr input . And there’s a reason for that !! 👌 Cheers friends

Don't forget the potential of used gear. The music industry is quite volatile, with bands breaking up and studios upgrading or closing down all the time. You can grab up a lot of equipment for not a lot of money and build a more capable environment than you might otherwise have expected to start out with. I don't expect ever to need more simultaneous i/o than I got with the Fast Track Ultra 8R I pickup for less than the cost of a new 2x2 Focusrite.

@a.p.mexico1071

6 ай бұрын

I bougth my 2 Focusrite interfaces ( Solo and 2i2) in the used department of Pawn Shops ($50 dls each one), and the third one (Focusrite 4i4) I bought it in FB Marketplace for $60 dls. brand new!! I bought my Black Magic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K G2 in Ebay for $2,500 including 2 brand new original extra batteries and the original battery pack. So I'm totally agree with you!

I love that the focusrite 2i2 inputs can be used for either mic or instrument - so you can lay down 2 mic tracks, 2 instrument tracks, or have one of each. That's not at all enough for a band - but I feel like each individual performer should have their own 2i2 or equivalent for laying down tracks at home.

@ianmackenzie686

6 ай бұрын

That's my angle and will be purchasing one soon.

@HeatherSpoonheim

6 ай бұрын

@@ianmackenzie686 I think it's a big deal that both inputs can be either instrument or mic. There are plenty for 1 instrument + 1 mic, but when you want 2 mics or 2 instruments you have to look around...having all in one is very rare.

@ianmackenzie686

6 ай бұрын

@@HeatherSpoonheim Understood. My priority for purchasing this unit is to record an share bass lines. I've let way too many good music ideas vanish because I wasn't able to record and share. I'll be using the audacity daw for now.

@HeatherSpoonheim

6 ай бұрын

@@ianmackenzie686 It works great with Audacity - I use it almost daily. Mine also came with a subscription to a lite version of Ableton - which is 'better', I guess, but I can get my sounds down quicker with Audacity.

@speedingoffence

5 ай бұрын

I found it REALLY quiet, which is fine if you have a studio. I kinda figure if you have a studio, you probably are going higher end than a 2i2...

Thank you. You are a very gifted communicator and teacher! Another vocation awaits you to teach others by converting complex issues to simple ones! Best wishes to you and your band!

I really like having an audio interface with multiple inputs as well as those inputs being combo inputs that support mic and instrument types, those used to be more expensive but they've gotten cheaper and more common as people in the industry upgrade their gear and then resell the old stuff. My current setup has 4 inputs, midi i/o and 2 stereo outputs with all inputs being able to be separately output as well. Very versatile.

I started with a Focusrite 18i8. It was appealing because of its built in preamps and ADAT expansion capabilities. I then purchased an 18i20 which increased my channel count to 16. I had 12 mic preamps and could use 4 external mic preamps, if desired. Learning to route signals using the Focusrite digital mix console software was a bit of a learning curve but once I figured it out, I found it to be extremely versatile. The most channels I recorded simultaneously was 8. The Focusrite’s do not require a ton of processing power. My old Dell laptop with an i5 processor and 8 gigs of RAM handled the load easily. My DAW of choice at the time was Reaper.

@AudioUniversity

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing, TB Player! Sounds like a great setup!

@mcjedwards

10 ай бұрын

How'd you figure it out? I have an 18i8 and I'm kinda lost.

@clicks59

10 ай бұрын

@@mcjedwardsHi, so you start with the Focusrite Mix Control software and be certain that the devices are synced when they are connected together. I used the ADAT connector on both devices. If your devices are showing “synced” in the Focusrite mix control window then it’s a matter of routing the inputs by using the mix control software. I struggled with it and thought I had a bad light pipe cable. If the devices are synced, then they are connected. Just pay close attention to the inputs and outputs. Worst case scenario is you reset the unit to the factory settings and start over. The voice of experience. Good luck!

@jstro-hobbytech

7 ай бұрын

im thinking on buying the focusrite 8i8 gen 3 for my helix floor as i've been lining out to a pair of 8 inch jbl monitors and sub. im specifically getting this one for the spdiff for the digital port from my helix. im going to be the only person using this and is the extra price justified just to have the digital line? im going to be using a high end pc with a scrub nvme drive just for audio. i dont want to buy more than i need just for that one input. im torn. should i just try my old steinberg urII which i've never been happy with or try the line six interface or should i buy this just for the pure digital input. i play to do a clean for reamping as well. im a really good guitar player but stupid as crap when it comes to recording. im 44 and just want to record and ep that i've been working on where i play all instruments and have some other friends be painfully honest to keep me humble. we dont live forever and im a prog rock / metal player and i dont know how much longer my dexterity will last. some men but sports cars when they hit 45 but i plan to make an ep and not release it. haha. i'd buy it and just sell it but people want everything for free where i live and im not the ebay selling type.

@user-xe2uu3xc6y

5 ай бұрын

​@@AudioUniversityYeah, thanks for sharing man! 5:13

As a solo musician this actually made me feel alot better about my AudioBox USB96 purchase! It's basically perfect for my needs as I don't have a drumkit anyway and can record everything else easily.

I’m glad I made the right decision earlier today. I just purchased my first interface and went with the 4th Gen Focusrite Scarlet 2i2 Studio bundle and also added a Shure SM58 dynamic mic and a mic stand with a 5 panel isolation shield. Unlike sound engineers or musicians creating their own music, who I expect are the main customer base for these devices, I only have a specific limited use for them. I want to record myself singing covers of popular songs along with a backing track ( karaoke style ), or playing either my Native American Flute or Irish Tin Whistle with a backing track. That’s it nothing anymore fancy then that. It’s nice to know that I managed to future-proof myself by buying the Scarlet 2i2 Studio instead of purchasing the Scarlet Solo Studio I was originally recommended.

Great info Kyle. I decided that for our 5 member band the most flexible piece of equipment wold be a digital mixer, one with multitrack recording capabilities, like the Soundcraft Ui24R, Behringer XR18 or the Mackie DL16S. We opted for the former one because of the good reviews it has and the price.

@AudioUniversity

Жыл бұрын

Sounds like a good plan!

@Say_Qwerty_Drums

11 ай бұрын

I've been recording local concerts with my Behringer XR18 for quite some time. Your plan sounds like a great one!

This film is a great example of how to make a good program. The man speaks a very good language (no "actually actually" or other filler words). The instructions are clear and instructive. There is no annoying music or noise in the background of the film. - Thank you very much!

My 1st interface was the Line UX1 which I bought over 18yrs ago & still use everyday as the "audio driver" to control volume/sound on my Mac Pro. The 2nd interface I bought is the Focusrite Saffire Pro 40 over 15yrs ago, which I still use whenever I (rarely) record.

Thanks mate, I've never paid any attention to interfaces so watching this before buying my first one is highly important. Also, you have a great channel so I've subscribed. Cheers!

straight to it. I have been getting multiple hobbies. music was my first. hearing this info makesit much easier on what to select for a music/gaming or allpurpose pc. great info

Good to know the differences between an instrument input and XLR/Mic input. I'll have to keep that in mind.

Good warning. Got to me in time. I was and am still planning on trying a mixer instead of a interface, but now I know what to watch out for when I get to that step.

For anyone wondering what interface to get with lots of I/O I strongly recommend the Behringer UMC1820. This is almost the same as the Scarlett 18i20 mentionned in this video but at half the price! Also, the Behringer has 8 instrument inputs! I don't think there are any other interfaces in the world that have 8 Hi-Z inputs...

@AudioUniversity

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for mentioning this! One of the best value interfaces for the money!

@IanBrook2013

Жыл бұрын

I just purchased a UMC1820 and i'm wondering why i waited so long. Brilliant bit of gear for my synths

@octavio-blues-sound3022

Жыл бұрын

@@IanBrook2013 you mean you can easily record your synthesizer in stereo two tracks at a time, drums or pianos etc, and with high quality with that interface....?. (It's just that I have heard that Berhinger had less recording quality compared w/ Focus Right specialy w/ high demanding quality Synth effects...) Thanx in advance...

@octavio-blues-sound3022

Жыл бұрын

can you easily record your synthesizer in stereo two tracks at a time, drums or pianos etc, and with high quality with that interface....?. (It's just that I have heard that Berhinger had less recording quality compared w/ Focus Right specialy w/ high demanding quality Synth effects...) Thanx in advance...

@IanBrook2013

Жыл бұрын

@octavio-blues-sound yes all at once. Sound quality is fine to my ears but i only have the Akai EIE pro for comparison but i cannot fault this device. I watched lots of videos on this and the general message was "how is this so cheap?" So i took the chance and so glad i did. Honestly i couldn't pick a fault if i tried. Professionals may know better, but for a hobbyist like me its idea. Hope this helps

Thanks! I'm picking a 2 XLR , because i imagined 1 would be too little, this cleared it up.

I started with a Behringer x2442 USB for recording my drums! This has 10 mic preamp inputs! You have to adjust everything in the mixer and get only stereo out for your USB. But it works really great and has an amazing latency! Btw your channel and your videos are amazing! Helped me a lot in adjusting the British EQ of the mixer! Thanks to your videos I was able the get a nice recording sound of my drum kit. And I'm just 14. Keep up the great work!

@AudioUniversity

Жыл бұрын

Glad to hear this! Keep up the great work, too! Thanks.

I see this advice everywhere, but I think it depends a lot on your practice, really. I've been using a Roland Duo Capture Ex with two mixed XLR and line inputs + 1 MIDI in/out for years and as I primarily compose through MIDI using USB keyboards and control surfaces, it's too much actually. Turns out I'm swapping my Duo Capture for a Focusrite Solo this year, one mic input is well enough as long as I keep doing most of my work with a USB keyboard and a mouse.

This is where a mackie 1202vlz came in clutch around ‘99-‘01. One stereo line-in on most soundcards. No problem! Now you can get mixers with usb out that act as the interface and have decent preamps for mics. I never understood the obsession with the little interface boxes. There are other ways or recording that are just as valid.

Good advice. I thought it was going to be about the difference between mixers and soundboards (would also be a great topic of discussion).

Looking to buy my first audio interface. Glad I watched this video. Thank you, Sir.

I heard this advice so many times and I bought audio interface with two inputs and never connected anything to second one. Beginners (including me) rarely buy something expensive as first experience. So it’s not so pain to replace it in a year if you need. And I will be happy one day if I really need some cool new tool for my setup.

I do this live sometimes, mix my setup into a single out to save space on a mixer. You do get less EQ control, but when necessary it’s an option.

I wish I saw this video earlier as I exactly made the same mistake. Started with focusrite solo, then realized the need for the 2nd phantom powered mic input for recording vocals and guitars simultaneously and bought SSL 2 thinking ended my search, however after buying Aurotones - additional monitors for mixing - realized not enough outputs on SSL2 and monitor controllers (needed for adding extra monitor outputs to interface) the good ones are more expensive than audio interface (cheap ones color the sound), so I recently bought arturia minifuse 4. Hope I will not need optical input and ended my interface search, In addition to the first mistake regarding the inputs mentioned in the video, make sure to also consider the number of outputs so that you dont end up like me buying 3 interfaces within 2 years.

Really helpful, thank you! I could probably get by with a Solo, since I'm just going to be recording myself playing a saxophone (can't sing at the same time, haha), but....hmm! I appreciate how you explain all of this, too. A good amount of info, presented clearly. The thing with impedance levels, for instance - no one else seems to have bothered clarifiying that. Subscribed. :)

The scarlet solo is plenty for me. I’ll definitely upgrade later on but when you just want to hear your instrument you don’t need much.

I have a Tascam Model 12 for my electronic setup. It is amazing. It is an audio interface and it has 12 inputs for audio. For the price I think it is worth it, especially if you can snag a used one for a good deal. The Tascam is also a Mixer.

I have had great success recording amps, sims and acoustic guitars using IK Multimedia's AXE l/O. But I run all instruments and mics thru two PreSonus Tube Pre-v2's, then into the l/O. I always use mic pre's going into any interface! It's so much easier to control the signal!

That is such great advice for a novice like me. Thank you.

I've ran into this too, with the Scarlett Solo. It also lacks some signal routing features that would be nice to have. However for what it is it has served me well. I use it mostly for a high quality mic and headset, not so much for recording music but simply voice.

I've been an audio engineer for several decades. Used to do live sound in a lot of clubs and stuff. So I have had plenty of people ask me what to get to record at home with. Funny thing is, nobody ever takes my advice! I always tell folks they want to spend a little more than they are comfortable with, because I subscribe to 'buy once, cry once". I'd never advise anyone to buy an Maudio or entry level Focusrite. You want at least 4x4 and MIDI. But more important, you need to think of it as a system. The best interface in the world is no use to you if it's Mac only and you are a Windows guy.

The info about 'levels' was very helpful. However, about "thinking ahead"... I disagree. If you're starting out and exploring what you can even do with an audio interface: get the (in this case) cheaper one. You MIGHT figure out sooner than later that it gives too few options.. But upgrading your gear is always an option. (I think in most cases, you should be able to return it to the store within 14~30 days - swap it for one with more options) I personally have Focusrite iTrack Solo (Basically a Scarlett Solo, but with a cable that connects it directly to your iPad / iPhone. -> USB cable also came with it, so can connect to my Macbook Pro too. Turns out that - for me, personally - this has been enough the past few years. I use it as a guitar / bass input, record some vocals with it. For drums.. I just program those, and use various sample packs depending on the style I'm dabbing into (real drums, or more dubsteppy, or a techno kit).. I think that for an actual recording studio setup - yes; by definition severely underpowered / too few input channels. If you want to record a speaker cabinet with a mic, and also the room sound (for some 'space')... You're already ready for an upgrade. ;) The Scarlett Solo is not a bad option just because it's the cheapest. But yeah - think about your use case a little. It won't break the bank, though. And the inputs are studio quality (96K Hz) Good for starters. And for some of us - good for keepers :)

I was very happy that when I was looking for an interface the minifuse 1 dropped and it was around christmas and I'm so glad I didn't buy a cheaper interface and since I don't record instruments or have a two people set up I'm happy with my interface

I remember back in the day buying a Yamaha 4 track cassette recorder because you could actually record the 4 tracks at once. Most others would only do 2 tracks at once.

I use a Focusrite 18i8 and it's ideal for my situation. Good post mate. very true.

My first interface is the scarlet 2i2 I think I did great ,still have it ,it's sturdy as a rock the best purchase I've ever made .

Thank you ! Everything I needed to know

Great video! Been on the hunt for a new interface. Do you know if the Audient EVO 16 comes with rack ears? :)

Due to Sound on Sound magazine, I bought a MOTU M4. It's been a great purchase!

I went with the Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 a few years ago when I selected mine, and it's been doing me fine for years, fits well in my compact cheap setup. I was considering needing more inputs as I already had plans for later getting hardware synths. Still wish I knew some of this when I started, since all that went through my had was really "need audio input for synths" and I have enough for the sound but feel I need more midi connectivity options haha.

Very helpful, thanks

Great video! Very helpful. Thank you. 🌺

You answered many critical sticking questions for me. Many thanks.

@AudioUniversity

3 ай бұрын

Glad it was helpful!

My problem is getting latency down on my wireless mic so the sound comes out of the speakers at roughly the same time as the presenter says something. I have it through a pyle 4 channel mixer, there is juist a noticable delay between someone speaking, and the sound coming through our speakers

A single input interface is something I only recommend in very special use cases. If you have a 2-ch interface you can at least plug in an mixer for the additional inputs. Personally, I prefer that analog front in anyway. I use an 18i8 interface, but also have an analog mixer with 4 subgroups out going to the 4 rear 1/4" ins of the interface. This leaves the 4 mic pres on the front open. The flexibility this gives is great and in my case, worth the cost.

@shaft9000

9 ай бұрын

Yeah, the single I/O ones seem made for taking wherever you don't have access to mains power, and you're packing as light as possible. Otherwise, what good reason is there to be entirely restricted to mono?

@SuperFlashDriver

7 ай бұрын

@@shaft9000 According to Laidback Luke, many DJ clubs prefer the music be played in mono, since some speaker setups in the clubs don't do stereo at all or not that often. So you kind of have to mix your music in mono instead of stereo. Although if you release the track say in a festival or online, you can easily keep it recorded in stereo, just not so much for DJ clubs or venues where the speakers are in mono instead of stereo.

Yeah, the single-input interfaces are gonna hit big limitations for musicians. That said, I think stuff like the solo and iD4 is targeted at streamers/content creators who _actually_ won't ever use more than one input. I think we're seeing a lot of these products get recommended by people doing voiceover, not necessarily considering that a single microphone isn't that useful when trying to record a band or something.

you can also do the 4 outputs. put bass on one toms on another etc. that would help latter mixing.

im thinkn of gettn a U turn as my first, just got my utopia vinyl n want my sound crisp n amazing bass. also internal or external preamp?

I think this overlooks the headspace the average musician is in when buying their first audio interface. More often than not, they’re not doing it to be a professional mixing engineer. They’re buying a scarlet solo because they want to record some guitar tracks on ableton and put some free synths behind it. Most bedroom musicians, which is the average person buying these products, aren’t trying to spend $300-thousands of dollars just to hear their voice or guitar on the computer.

Great explanation but it might be better if you made a more clear distinction between what you need when you're tracking by yourself versus trying to capture a full band 'live'. If I wanted to record vocals + acoustic guitar personally I would track them separately anyhow. I have a Scarlet 2x2 so that is how I work - the great thing is that 'entry level' 2x2 interfaces are dirt cheap (especially second hand) so I can always buy more of them if I need more simultaneous inputs. More inputs (especially mic pre) is always better - I'm not arguing with you on that - just saying a 2x2 is a great way to get into home recording and can easily be expanded if and when you need the inputs. Peace to all.

tip: Steinberg UR22 (2 mic pre amps) or UR44 (4 mic pre amps) - highly recommend. Great value for the money.

my first interface was the fast track pro, which had 2 inputs but awful drivers and no support after just a few years. I now use a focusrite scarlett solo as I never once needed a 2nd mic input.

@AudioUniversity

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing! I’m glad to hear you’ve been happy with the Scarlett Solo!

Thanks for your advice!🙏🙂

My first interface was the Scarlett 8i6. I went with this for a reason you didn't touch on and that is headphone outputs. It has two headphone outputs that are individually adjustable. It has the two front XLR combo input, phantom power, monitor support. More than I needed for what I do. It also has 5 pin MIDI in and out. Not to mention the 4 line inputs and 4 line outputs on the back.

It would be a great help for beginners who are going to choose their first audio interface.

sound craft signature series desks can record direct to computer with each channel of desk on individual tracks? i have a 12-channel version and i'm keen to figure out how to do this. i don't believe it's the only desk, but it's the one i have.

if, say i needed to record two electric guitars at once, would using a splitter work?

I recorded for years with a 2 mic-in interface and it was fine. 2 mic-ins are the minimum in my opinion, at least if you want to record acoustic instruments like acoustic guitars, percussions or choir/small brass sections in stereo, which makes a lot of sense. It then starts to get limited when wanting to record acoustic guitar (stereo) and singing simultaneously which requires at least 3 mic-ins. The next step up would be drums or band recordings, where you need at least 8 tracks I would say (even though people like The Beatles or Jimi Hendrix did most of their stuff with 4 track machines, but that's another story.) Additional considerations are needed if you want to integrate analogue outboard gear into your DAW, which requires extra outs & ins... that being said for the vast majority of home recording purposes 2 mic-ins are perfectly fine.

@AudioUniversity

Жыл бұрын

Well said, Darikas! Thanks.

@reaganharder1480

10 ай бұрын

I started with a 2in2out interface, but have since moved on for one with more outputs, entirely because I wanted to be able to reamp signals with a hardware output that was not linked to the interface's monitoring system. The one I ended up getting was 4in4out with an insert plug for each input, which uses a 1/4" TRS - 2xTS cable to connect to outboard gear between the preamp and the ADC. It also has incredibly satisfying toggle switches, which is the biggest reason I would be sad to part with it if I find myself needing more than 4 inputs. I would agree that 2 XLR/combo inputs is more or less the minimum outside of the most basic of recording setups (say a streamer or youtuber who only needs one mic to record voiceovers).

Been having the same problem lately. I'm mostly a producer and don't really do recordings that much but I'm looking into getting some outboard gears for hybrid mixing purposes. Didn't realize they'd take lots of those ins and outs. 😅

@AudioUniversity

Жыл бұрын

Great point! Outboard gear takes a lot of inputs and outputs! This is something that ADAT can help with, also.

@arkarmoethouk2445

Жыл бұрын

@@AudioUniversity That's why I'm eyeing on Audient iD24. That thing looks like a beast!

@shaft9000

9 ай бұрын

Get lots of inputs. 8+ inputs are handy for all but the most hermit-like. I added an ISA 428 to expand a 18i20 via ADAT. I've yet to need all 18 of my inputs but I often like to have more than 8 ready - even if only to keep certain inputs pre-patched during a solo writing session - whether I end up needing to record anything on that channel or not. Conversely, you might not need to ever use more than 4 outputs even if you've filled a 15+ space rack with outboard gear. It largely depends on how enamored one is with a) parallel processing, and /or b) summing things in analog vs ITB. I've got 8 channels of various outboard compression and rarely use more than 4 channels at once unless tracking a live session ensemble w/ drumkit, inserting them set to high ratio for limiting. And that's only if I'm a) without an adequate mixing desk AND needing b) insert compression (i.e. rock / metal) in a send/return config. I might go dub-nuts with the RE-301 tape echo and a DDL in parrallel. Cheers

If you need a lot of inputs, I think you’d be better served by buying an interface that’s used/ slightly older. The prices for some of the older multi-input interfaces that are a model or two behind current versions are pretty inexpensive compared to the latest versions. Look at some of the Presonus or Focusrite 8ch interfaces from the early 2010’s and you’ll probably eat all the features you need for a very good price and some surprisingly nice features too.

I wish I had this video way back. Great video. I ended up with a Presonus Firestudio. I haven't done much recording since a life of kids but it's time to dust off and introduce then to music making. However the Presonus, while having many inputs, is Firewire so I have to keep an old computer around to use it. Is there anyway to salvage it like and adapter from firewire to usb-c? Or do I have to upgrade... to which I imagine this has no resale value either?

The drums on As It Was by Harry Styles were recorded 1 drum at a time because they wanted to control the room sound separately on each drum.

Combing audio interfaces using ASIO4ALL is also an option. It may also be possible to connect instrumetns like keyboards as MIDI devices.

I had the same M Audio Fast Track as my first interface as well. Trust me when i say this, that interface is not just restrictive cuz it only allowed one mic. The instrument channel had no preamp gain. The mic level had no phantom power either.

I don't know about anyone else but I find it refreshing to hear a professional talk about starting small with limited cash and doing the best they could with the funds available. So many other videos would just talk about buying the the most expensive option, this just isn't practical for some.

Thank you! Great tips!

What about if I wanted to just sing for covers and then sing with beats and stuff would I still need 2 microphone inputs

I've got a PreSonus Audiobox 44VSL for home use, a Zoom H6 for on the go recording (good for small acoustic stuff like; Guitar, Bass, Cajon, Keys and 2 vocals), and for my events work, or to record a full band I have my Behringer XR18 (which can multitrack all 18 inputs)

It so happens that the M-Audio Fast Track was the first audio interface I had, some 15 years ago. Today, I guess it's very easy to find it at fault in some things, but believe me, 15 years ago it was all I needed! You wanna record two guitars? Well, use two different channels in the DAW, then. Same applies to vocals. Now, you wanna record a whole ensamble? Then maybe you need to look into your pocket and check what possibilities you have. But I think it's utterly unfair to present this interface as a "mediocre" piece of hardware. Of course I've moved on with the years, but I do have some fond memories -and recordings- with the M-Audio Fast Track. I'm not here to recommend any piece of hardware -not even the one I'm using now- because I don't get paid for that. As a user, I can only say: check your needs; look for the machine that best accomplish them; and then take out your note book and start doing the math. Maybe you needed the Electric Ladyland and you didn't know it!

Whats a good interface with good preamps (for a hungry SM7B)? Note: I use a DM1 Dynamite inline mic preamp, but still looking for an upgrade to my interface to make my recording more flexible!

I’m new at this and .. asking for a friend 😳😅 so could I set up microphones into a mixer and xlr cable that into a smaller interface with 2-4 inputs? Or would that mess with something

@AudioUniversity

7 ай бұрын

You can do that! The benefit of having more inputs on the interface is that you can control those inputs separately later on. Once you mix them together, they are stuck together forever. Your proposed setup is a good workaround but it takes more care to get the sound right BEFORE recording.

@Jallen3music

7 ай бұрын

Thank you. That makes sense as all the drums would be focused into only one track via the mixer. 😊

"I ain't fartin on no snare drum".

I have heard demos 20 years ago where the drummer played through the song 4 times... first take overheads, then overdub kick n snare, then toms, etc.... and it sounded great which made me laugh because I knew how hard that was to do... but hey, they were young and IT WORKED!!!!

I went for a Behringer XR18. 18 inputs, 6 aux + stereo out. It's actually a digital mixer that doubles as an interface.

I bought a uad volt 1. Im a bedroom guitarist and dont want to use my amp anymore. Just want to practice directly to my PC and record. My buddy who is a drummer and more versed in audio recording has an audient interface with 2 inputs and 2 outputs.. it suits our needs, as he has an electric kit that he records direct into his DAW. For me, ill never need more than 1 input at a time, so it suits my needs nicely. Even if i feel like doing vocals in the future, still just 1 input at a time, and the interface has the 48v switch for mics. Couldnt be happier with it. Some guitarists will swear by equipment like the line6 pod go or yamaha thr10ii to record with, and while sure, its an ok recording interface, having an audio interface is so much more versatile than i ever gave it credit for.

I bought a Scarlet Solo 3rd gen and only AFTER buying it did i realize that it doesen't have a MIDI input for instruments such as a piano keyboard. I can still connect my XM 8500 microphone (i just need to give it 85-90% gain to function properly) and i can plug in my electric guitar simultaneously which is good! Still, i wish i had researched a bit more but for that price it's hard to beat the scarlet solo 🤷🏼‍♂️

I used a Focusrite 2i2 for a long time but I upgraded to the Focusrite Clarett+ 4pre about a year ago

@AudioUniversity

Жыл бұрын

Nice! Thanks for sharing!

Thanks..hopefully you can guide me with running my IPAD out to the focusrite 2i4-- I tried using a cable with 2 pin mini out to 1/4" stereo from ipad to front jack on 2i4 and could not hear it. My goal is to mix a mic and sound efx from the ipad

at this point, if you're investing in a interface that has more then 4 mic inputs. just get a USB Audio Mixer, it'll save a lot more money

If you are Mac based you aren't locked into just one audio interface at a time. The Audio MIDI Setup application in the Utilities lets you create Aggregate Devices with all the inputs and outputs in one virtual device for your DAW. (There are third-party utilities that let you do this on PC as well. But one the Mac it is built into the OS, and is rock solid.) It even works with the built-in audio. For instance, I was able to take a 2i2 and combine it with the built-in headphone jack so I had a seperate cue/monitor out with a click track.

@zanakil

2 ай бұрын

wow thanks for the info I didn't know I could that with my mbp !

@lannyfuller8367

2 ай бұрын

@@zanakil There are utilities that let you do the same thing on PC. But on Mac it has the added stability of being part of the OS.

@zanakil

2 ай бұрын

@@lannyfuller8367 ty !

thank you for this. i've just picked up my first interface (Scarlett 2i2) and seem to be hitting a wall. im trying to record both mics at the same time, but mic 2 isn't reading. im checking online but haven't found the answer yet. came across you video. dropping a message in the comments, maybe you can help.

@AudioUniversity

9 ай бұрын

Check out this video: kzread.info/dash/bejne/fYen2JltkZCtdaQ.html

There is was no mistake. You bought good interface for your own usage at the time. For solo composer there is no actual need of 2 mics input. If you only composing and not performing there is no need to have more then 1 instrument at the time. If you record acoustic + voice - you already performing as well as recording whole band and recording drums. So basically for "home use" you could have simple interface with 1 mic and 1 guitar. For "band usage" you could have another one in your band garage or stuff like that.

@TheSectric

6 ай бұрын

Yeah for things like the scarlette solo, this hints at the "solo" in the name. I'm sure there are a few people, but I'd wager most everyone who buys something like that just wants to play and record their guitar. I don't think anyone sets out to record a whole band or something and thinks the $100 solo is gonna do it

I highly recommend the steinberg UR 824. 8 inputs and 8 dsps for live compression and reverb plus a free copy of Cubase Pro.

Thank you!

Loved my Fast Track Duo which served me well for more than a decade. My recent purchase of the Scarlett 2i2 is a bit of a disappointment: sure the sampling resolution and noise levels are great, but it’s a real minus that there’s no on/off switch, and every couple of days I have to plug-in/plug out on either iMac Intel or M1 MacBook because the drivers are suddenly unrecognised. If there’s a perfect inexpensive interface, I haven’t found it

@AudioUniversity

Жыл бұрын

Sorry to hear that, Pat! Thanks for sharing

@PoetryFilms

Жыл бұрын

@@AudioUniversity But of course thank you for the excellent content on this channel. Always worthwhile and informative!

Having more than 2 outs is pretty nice too, as well as having midi in/out.

My problem was “how to turn off speaker monitor when i recording vocal”. You should add to your videos. I ended buy a passive big knob for this particular problem. ❤

For the most part, I don't have a problem with recommending most musicians start with an interface with 2 mic inputs. These are so much more useful for a variety of reasons - including podcasting with two people or vocal plus acoustic instrument. Additionally, the difference in price between a 2 mic input interface vs just one is pretty small overall. Of course, if you _never_ will need a second input like for voice-only work for an audiobook - then single mic input interfaces are sufficient. However, in that case, you might be better served with getting into a higher end interface with cleaner/better preamps rather than going for a budget interface anyway. This is my case - I opted for the SSLv2 although the _vast_ majority of the time I only use one input. It has excellent preamps, _very_ little self-noise, and plenty of gain for my dynamics. The cheaper options really can't drive dynamic mics without an expensive "lifter" that cost as much as a good interface anyway. Also, I recent found out about the "mic input split" trick to guard against clipping - so the dual mic-input comes in clutch - even for VO-only cases. Just things to consider.

I bought an old mixer that was meant for 4 track tape cheap. it has 28 inputs only 24 will take a mic. I can mic a whole drum kit, have some one play the drums and set the levels on the mixer. it has a single out put jack and you can record the whole kit in one shot.

Fantastic video!

Many thanks for your useful, helpful and informative video. And for presenting your practical content in a straightforward way, without: pulling weird facial expressions; SHOUTING into the mic; waving your arms around like some crazy person; adding over-the-top visual effects; I could go on...

Mbox2 was my first interface. So many more options these days!

TY for the video. Lets say you have a bass that has active hardware on it such as the stingray. Does that require line-level input? How would you connect that to a Scarlett solo?

@AudioUniversity

4 ай бұрын

I’d recommend connecting it to the instrument input.

This video saved my life. Thanks.