The Biggest Mistake Beginners Make When Buying An Audio Interface

[@somniloquous0]

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]

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]

@@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]

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

[@BlommaBaumbart]

@@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]

@@UTubeHandlesSuck precisely

[@mrz80]

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]

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!

[@jondnz]

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]

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]

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]

Honestly the best option in Mt opinion

[@RickDrift]

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]

beat me to it by two months.

[@legendreokid]

mmmm this is a vid fa beginners, no beginner needs 8 mic inputs 😂

[@ashjubilee]

solo musicians? no, a dual input is probably fine, but if you’re a band yeah you’ll want it.

[@lillerosin2915]

@@ashjubilee Nope not correct. if you knew anything about recording as a band you would know it is done instrument after instrument, not all at once, Sherlock ...

[@youtub-fj8mu]

@@lillerosin2915 You know there are people that like recording live, right?

[@youtub-fj8mu]

@@lillerosin2915 Genuinely curious to what type of music you listen to/ make/ produce that you think everything is recorded one track at a time

[@tazisme5751]

@@youtub-fj8mu so I guess Ill start. Pretty much all of clapton's early work was does when recording live (look at crossroads).

[@KhemBMD]

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]

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

[@minnedejong9858]

Bro just buy edrums

[@youtub-fj8mu]

3 drum mics + 1 vocal + 1 guitar (mic'd) is 5 xlr inputs Interfaces usually go 1, 2, 4, 8 so you kinda need 8 if you wanna record live at once (and ik you can record them separately)

[@youtub-fj8mu]

@@me_fault kick, left and right make left and right equidistant from the snare

[@thethrashyone]

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]

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

[@spareplanet]

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

[@PORRFNK]

MOTU in general makes the sound muddy, the inputs have a narrow sweetspot for getting the best recordings, sure they are good for rockbands on the cheap, and the drivers for windows, oh man :( They suck. There are much better audio interfaces in that price range. Yes I have a MOTU soundcard, I also have others, I can hear the difference.

[@F3PIZZA]

Does it accept TRRS or mic-specific TRS?

[@WebMdp]

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.

[@djole02]

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]

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

[@IanBrook2013]

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

[@octavio-blues-sound3022]

@@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]

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]

@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

[@HeatherSpoonheim]

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]

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

[@HeatherSpoonheim]

@@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]

@@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]

@@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]

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...

[@HoldMeForever]

Beginner interface for 500 dollars 😑😑

[@Melechtna]

Yeeeeah, this stinks of "corporate shill"

[@LekkerBlanka]

evo 4

[@stalwartzero7001]

500 really not bad for in 8 input interface. Considering how much a reel to reel or 24 track digital recorder used to be

[@Cavi587]

Context matters, for a solo musician it's overkill but you can be a beginner band. Even recording the drums can take 3 microphones or more. At this point if every band member pitches in, 500 dollars is a fair price. If you're a solo musician, a one or 2 input interface is good enough and he said that in the video too.

[@stalwartzero7001]

@@Cavi587 ya but even as a solo cat you could buy a used tascam 8 channel for nothing. Then if you want to do anything else you have the option

[@BaritoneUkeBeast4Life]

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.

[@Rr0gu3_5uture]

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]

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

[@kalervohamalainen4369]

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!

[@Adrian-uc7bi]

I agree with everything that you typed here but I have to say that (I don't know how to put it so it doesn't sound mean) your comment is very...British. Couldn't help but notice

[@jonathanhill5182]

Though they used American spelling!

[@clicks59]

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]

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

[@mcjedwards]

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

[@clicks59]

@@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]

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.

[@markSchnell-m2l]

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

[@supacrispy]

Started with focusrite Scarlett 2i2, and then my guitar player bought a 24 channel presonus mixer. I pulled the resources together to buy a custom computer that had the firewire ports, and now we can capture all 24 channels, plus the stereo fat channel output in a single daw. Have been experimenting with isolating instrument mics to allow full band recordings that will allow me to mix without a lot of bleed, and this channel has been very helpful in learning how to make my mixes sound much better. I've come a long way from recording through audacity to now using presonus studio live software

[@sinisterspells]

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.

[@NullStaticVoid]

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.

[@lucarosania1358]

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.

[@reptarien]

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.

[@Colombo5218]

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!

[@maladjustedtv]

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.

[@snickpickle]

My original entry into the world of home recording studios was a TASCAM 4-track cassette recorder (yes, I’m that old!). While 4 tracks wasn’t enough to do more elaborate work, I learned how to record only necessary instruments in stereo, then had to “ping-pong” tracks to accommodate more instruments and vocals. My rudimentary mixer had treble, bass, and panning, aside from the volume knob (all per-channel). It was a terrific intro to recording! Then along came digital. And I’m STILL getting dragged, kicking and screaming, into digital, even though there are so many things about digital that are far superior. All that to say that I recommend the ability to record four simultaneous channels of audio for beginners, be it analog or digital. SO much more flexibility! This video is spot-on.

[@oqsy]

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.

[@13_cmi]

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.

[@SuperWolfkin]

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

[@bgabriel28]

I don't sing, so the solo should be fine for me. And if I decided to try singing, I would probably just record it as a separate track.

[@mochikun3022]

because of this video, I bought a focusrite 18i20. thanks

[@pirojfmifhghek566]

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]

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

[@jomesias]

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

[@Derek-xf3eu]

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.

[@Byron101_]

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

[@mattsguitarchannel]

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.

[@cccorlew]

OMG! I bought that Fast Track too, ages ago, with the bundled mic. That combo never had enough output to actually work. Your video gives me enough info to tray again with something else. Nicely done, you.

[@Metronics]

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]

Sounds like a good plan!

[@Say_Qwerty_Drums]

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

[@iggysixx]

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 :)

[@der_vur]

Even though I do not need 8 inputs for now (only need 5) I went extra and bought a Steinberg/Yamaha MR816csx firewire interface. Bought an OWC thunderbolt 3 hub with firewire port. All in all I spent about 230£ and I have now 8 mic inputs with great preamps and dsp channel strip and reverb, with adat and spdif expandability (and/or other 2 MR816), 5 usb 3.0 ports, and a minidisplay port... bit of an overkill maybe, but for that price I'm sure you can never get all this for a new product at this quality and I will have less worry if I need more inputs hahahaha All this to say, consider old firewire interfaces as well if you are sure you can make them work somehow (worst case, you have adat for plan B). I'm actually considering to do a video about my experience cause the OWC hub was the last of a long list of things I tried (and headaches I had) to make the firewire interface work!

[@HomeBrewAudioNut]

Having been in audio and computers for a while.... There's no "mistake" . What happened in this particular instance was a need for more inputs. OK... So you have choices. One: Go the typical route and buy a new box with more knobs, bells, whistles, and connectors on it and hope it suits your current and future needs. Two: Have line level input will travel. There's literally TONS of analog mixers on the used and new market that can be scored for far less than what a new USB box costs. The line level input can be an existing on a USB box or even a line in jack on an onboard sound card. Patch cords of all kinds of connector variations can either be scored or made. Of course choosing two has limitations. You have to adjust the gain of the inputs manually and the only gain you can adjust from your computer is whatever line in to your USB box or sound card. Want my opinion ? Yes ? Here it is. No ? Stop reading. USB Boxes are so full of fiddly and fussy bits where the interface and mixing software in some cases requires far too much in third party software add-ons that to do something as get the one single line level or mic input working you're probably going to have to go through a gauntlet of hardware and software upgrades nothing short a time and resources money pit leaving you with far less hair, sanity, and patience. My advice: Figure out what you can do with what you have in an existing USB box that works or even an existing on board sound card that works. Think outside the "upgrade to the latest and greatest" because this is nothing but a welfare state to the hardware and software vendors and most of the time the net benefit to the consumer is very minimal if anything at all.

[@TheOriginalCoda]

I've still got the exact same M-Audio Fastrack USB interface - I was given it about 15 years ago. Still works in Windows and Current Mac OSX with the old mac drivers.

[@kayahanli]

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.

[@Deathshuck]

I can tell you that I've used my scarlett 2i2 for ten years since I started and it has served my needs well. It's all you need to start.

[@RhiannonFan]

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...

[@minihilly]

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]

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

[@palomabagel]

Thank you so much! I had ordered the Scarlett Solo yesterday and now canceled the order to get the 2i2 instead! I think there is a good chance that I will use a second microphone in the future. And it's only 20 bucks more.

[@tony-on-drums]

Makes sense for recording drums or a full band. Two mics is enough for balanced drum sound, but if you want to mix your kick, HH, snare, and cymbals, you will want multiple inputs.

[@JasonTaylor-po5xc]

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.

[@DMSBrian24]

I wholeheartedly recommend the Behringer UMC404HD as the first interface. 4 inputs, true direct monitoring with 0ms delay (as opposed to 1-3ms in many comparable interfaces), good midas preamps with very low noise level especially for the price. And speaking of the price, you can pick up one of those new for less than a focusrite 2i2 and having those 2 extra inputs will come in handy really quickly even for a small home setup (e.g. vocals, guitar, bass and overhead rums). I actually use one one of my inputs for a turntable which is really convenient and since the interface doesn't need any extra software and can run in an independent mode without the computer turned on, you can directly hook it up to your amp or powered monitors and route all your audio through it alongside your PC audio, really versatile. (also open source drivers, no proprietary software which makes it plug and play on linux if that's sth you care about)

[@CultureAppropriator]

Lol I do vocaloid so multiple mic/instrument inputs are nearly useless, I am happy to be an exception

[@arthurschwieger82]

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.

[@bassaniobrokenhart5045]

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!

[@J.Nevermore]

I’ve been an independent artists for about 7 years now and I’m still on a budget doing it alone. My scarlets still going strong, especially with me shaking hands with good folks in the industry. 1 is fine 2 is GREAT! But as a solo artist who’s producing their own music, band sound or just a regular instrumentals width kicks claps and synths, I wouldn’t personally get one with a ton…

[@oivinf]

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.

[@PoetryFilms]

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]

Sorry to hear that, Pat! Thanks for sharing

[@PoetryFilms]

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

[@darikas3325]

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]

Well said, Darikas! Thanks.

[@reaganharder1480]

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).

[@JosrRocks]

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

[@brytonmassie]

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.

[@Iesous27]

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.

[@godzilla964]

I use the Positive Grid riff interface because I primarily play guitar and bass. It’s got only one 1/2” input and that’s pretty much all I need for just practicing.

[@pkdude5334]

I just ordered my first interface and got the Behringer 1820 with 18 inputs. The chance I'll ever use all of them is very low, but they're there. And it can also be expanded with the ADA8200

[@lannyfuller8367]

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]

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

[@lannyfuller8367]

@@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]

@@lannyfuller8367 ty !

[@spork333]

I just picked up my first audio interface today. It's a Scarlett 2i2. I plan to use it to record some singing, playing trumpet, bass, and the washboard. I think that I made the right choice, but I really wish I would have went after one with a 1/4 input for my bass lol. Recording the bass through its amp with a microphone isnt working as well as I wish it would

[@exemplary_vegetable]

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. :)

[@thebluesrockers]

For recording drums, an electric drum set is key to great drum quality. A decent electric drum kit isn't much more than a 8 channel interface. Not to mention how much better your recordings are going to sound. If you're wanting to go cheaper and want kickass quality sounding drums then I recommend EZ-drummer. great tone and it's also drop & drag. Very easy to work with and makes the best quality drum recordings very easy. If you have a drummer then let him program his own beats into loops with EZ-drummer and enjoy your perfect drum tones.

[@shoegazer93]

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

[@macdaddybender]

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.

[@locutz]

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 .

[@theftking]

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.

[@charambas]

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

[@AudioUniversity]

Glad it was helpful!

[@secularpilgrim1372]

Very good video, you answered all my questions. Thank you.

[@SuperFlashDriver]

Personally, there's a reason why I go for Analogue USB Mixers like Behringer, Presonus, or even bluetooth mixers that have 14 channel microphones for under $200.00. And yeah, it's expensive as freak, but dude, it'll save you a ton of money down the road and you'll have enough inputs and outputs to cover pretty much an entire band and go from there. 04:05 Adat Cables?? Those inputs, from a videographer Home Theater standpoint we call those Optical cables and the term you're using is something an audio engineer would use, not a home theater point of view. Optical cables are something I wish to not deal with as the cable between the male and female plugs can break easily if you don't buy the right cable. Personally, I settled with a 12 channel Analogue USB mixer that I saved up to nearly $220.00 before sales tax went into effect on November 1st, 2018, and I'm hoping to upgrade it to have it include Bluetooth along with a 14 channel USB mixer instead of 12.

[@StaticSkyTV]

A stereo interface and a passive DI box like a Radial stereo can cover most situations. Use a matched set of overheads for drums.

[@JayTheJolly]

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.

[@willfest]

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!!!!

[@OnafetsEnovap]

My minimum recommendations for any audio interface are: 24-bit depth, 96 kHz sampling frequency (192 kHz is nice but not necessary) 2 inputs and 2 outputs minimum MIDI ports would be nice but not necessary Line-level and instrument-level compatibility Direct monitoring (optional stereo and mono modes are nice but not necessary) 48 volts phantom power A good price (below £100 UK)

[@Purpful]

i found an amazing interface with 2 mic inputs and 2 instrument inputs for only 30 dollars. has great sound

[@evelic]

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

[@philippeb9944]

I just realized today my mistake ... I was going to buy an xlr adaptator for my Focusrite S. Solo ... And then went on reddit and now I'm getting this vid on my recommandation ...

[@paulmea3166]

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.

[@Stefan-]

Yeah, a 2 input interface would be the least i would ever buy, being able to record a stereo source is basic essentials in my opnion. I already have a setup with 16 channel IO and one with 8 channels already so i dont need more currently.

[@RobJ-Lob]

I guess recording one track at a time is what absolute beginners look into when buying their first audio interface, especially for music creation... But I may be wrong... Thx for your tips anyway

[@Drumsholic]

Also you didn't say that anyone can use an analog mixer for the connections of additional mics as vocals, drums or guitars simultanuesly and just two main outputs to send them to an audio interface with two channels as L & R inputs so with this method you didn't need to spend alot of money to buy a multichannel Audio interface.

[@LiviuGelea]

I have the opposite problem. I bought an audio interface with 4 inputs 15 years ago. It broke. Then I bought another one with 4 inputs. Up to this day I have never used more than 2 inputs. And today I can aford it, but 15 years ago it was quite an investment for me.

[@Rightly_Divided]

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.

[@BitwiseMobile]

I just use a mixer with USB. My mixer looks like an audio device and it will stream audio and it will look like an audio source to your computer. I've used it with OBS and FL with no problem. I do have an AI, but it only allows dynamic microphones, which is useless for me since all my mics are condenser and many require phantom power. It's great for a portable Karaoke setup, but for anything else it falls short. Most of the lower end (hence beginner level) AI boxes do not have phantom power. My mixer even allows for some of the channels to go out an AUX port in order to add an external signal chain. That's going to be line level though, so plan accordingly. I paid less for my mixer than you would for a mid range AI box.

[@theoutsiderjess1869]

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

[@thevoid7332]

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

[@xianxivfx]

This depends on what you are doing! Scarlet solo as the name says is a basic imput! But seriously what you really need is a digital mixing desk with 8-16 inputs or more Interfaces are very restrictive ! I use to use a 24track live soundcraft desk i know this is going into pro territory but you can get them cheaper than Digital set ups and you learn greater hands on skillratger than going through computer menues,

[@PaytonPierce]

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.

[@djole02]

@1:30 Not quite true... It does not "require" a low impedance input. Since it operates on the impedance bridging principle, the requirement is that the input impedance has to be much higher that the source impedance. You can use a HI-Z input just fine with a dynamic microphone, just don't run your cables too long...

[@TOONAMAX]

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

[@Nuckoqoostugua]

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. ❤

[@AT-wl9yq]

Something that should have been included in the video is compatibility issues between the different types of connections. When talking about mic's with xlr connectors and instruments like a guitar, its not just about impedance matching, its about electrical compatibility. These 2 devices are not compatible. Microphone signals are typically balanced and instrument signals, like from a guitar, are single ended, or unbalanced. If you look at a balanced xlr/trs connector/cable, you have 3 pins/conductors. One conductor is for a ground and the other 2 carry signal. An instrument, like a guitar, only has 2. One signal and one ground. You need to know what that 3rd conductor on a balanced circuit does, and what steps need to be taken in order to use both types of devices at the same time, in the same system. Using xlr to rca adaptors doesn't always work. You need to know when its OK to use them, and why. This is a big topic and there is no way I can go over it all in this post, but here's the most important thing to understand. Most adaptors combine one of the 2 signal conductors on a balanced connection with the ground pin. If you now take this adaptor and plug it into a balanced connection, you instantly create a short circuit. You'll know it when you hear it because it sounds awful. This is why they make direct (DI) boxes. Some of the other posters have mentioned them. However, matching impedance is a secondary function. Their main use is to convert a single ended signal to balanced, or a balanced signal to single ended operation. If you want to learn more, the is plenty of information on this topic if you do a search. But if you are working with this type of equipment, you have to be familiar with this stuff. Its not optional.

[@KevinTPLim]

Thanks for pointing out these details! Replying so I can find your comment again when I need it...

[@spacecakesound]

Hi, you might be able to help me. I’ve looked at other videos and there is little on RCA connection. I’m currently using a Behringer UCA222 to record audio from a (RCA/phono) mixer to Video so I can then upload the video to KZbin. I use Movie Pro App so I can monitor the levels but I still have to have mixer turned low because of clipping/distortion. I’ve read this is a common problem with the Behringer UCA capabilities as it is meant really for converting Vinyl to MP3. So I have to sacrifice volume for clarity (even then I get minor crackle). So I’ve been looking at Audio Interfaces but most only seem to have Mic (xlr) input? My Balanceed XLRs on mixer are used by my DSP for the Sound System so I use the Record Input (RCA). So is there a way to record phono/RCA to an audio interface? Would a phono to XLR work with RCA being unbalanced or would it diminish quality? Is there an audio interface with Unbalanced option or a way around this problem?

[@CSRLaunchpad]

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!

[@pronoun_dilemma]

I prefer an audio interface which can handle parallel harmonics. The preamps need to flow negatively through the line outs. If the stereo extension can reach a dynamic signal via the SPDIF, then we're in business. I like my converters to be wet and be able to covert the 1s and 0's and 2's into analog frequencies.

[@chuckwagon5518]

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!

[@gwugluud]

That’s exactly what I did; I had the Scarface Solo in the beginning, but I have a Behringer (YEAH, yeah, I know Behringer suck because their exact copies of synths and stompboxes cost 1/10 the prices of the expensive ones, and now you can’t impress the man-bun hippies who come over, which is, like, the end of the world, and stuff) mixer, and I’d stick my Pyle and Stagg mics around my drumkit and route that in mono to the mic input. Luckily, I play one and a 1/2- chord trash rock, all mid 60s garage rock, 1977 punk rock, or anything else that’s all Grandmaw-offending and weird, so that was good enough for me. But I did replace it with a 4-input interface eventually that I bought, because it was shiny.

[@KLRCAT]

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)

[@Metalhorsie666]

I remember I bought exactly the same EMU in the beginning and it was by accident but to be honest... I have it still, even if I bought it in 2006. :D

[@realraven2000]

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

[@scottcarter8155]

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.

[@celebril]

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]

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]

@@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.

[@unumushi]

I honestly recommend beginners just buy 2nd hand audio equipment. When you need an upgrade you can just sell it, and in most cases if you don't use it for 10 years straight you'll be able to sell it for the same price you bought it for