Recording is one of the best way immortalize your musical compositions, so getting a quality audio interface could make or break the quality of your work.
Having an audio interface is the simplest way to record because it is easy to use and more compact compared to a mixing console (or simply mixer). We are going to talk about simple interfaces where you can record voice and one instrument at the same time. These are simple so you can carry them anywhere you want to record. Selections below have default features of +48V for condenser mic, direct monitoring, USB interface and power supplied via USB.
Behringer U-PHORIA UM2
UM2 features gain and output knobs on the top so you'll get clean view in front panel. Among all interfaces listed here, only UM2 have signal clip indicator, which is very handy in adjusting input gain to avoid distorted signal.
Input 1: Combo XLR mic/line
Input 2: 1/4 instrument jack
Outputs: Unbalanced RCA
Resolution: 48 kHz
Direct monitor: Available
Focusrite Scarlett Solo
Scarlett Solo comes with free recording software, sounds, plugins and supports iPad Pro with USB-type C. It has the highest sampling rate of 192kHz.
Input 1: XLR mic
Input 2: 1/4 instrument jack
Outputs: Balanced TRS
Resolution: 24-bit/192 kHz
Direct monitor: Available
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Presonus AudioBox iOne
Similar to Scarlett Solo, iOne comes with free DAW software. The interface is compatible with iPad® Pro, iPad Air, iPad mini with Retina display, iPad (4th gen) via MFI USB port. If you are an Apple fan, this could be best for you.
Input 1: XLR mic
Input 2: 1/4 instrument jack
Outputs: Balanced TRS
Resolution: 24-bit/96 kHz
Direct monitor: Available
M-Audio M-Track Solo
This is interface is the only one with 3.5mm size for headphone jack. So you don't need to buy adapter - that's a USD10 savings! Similar to Behringer, M-Track Solo's gain and output knobs are placed on the top.
Input 1: Combo XLR mic/line
Input 2: 1/4 instrument/line with switch
Outputs: Unbalanced RCA
Resolution: 48 kHz
Direct monitor: Available
Focusrite and Presonus offerings stand out with their balanced main outputs and iPad compatibility. If you need line input, Behringer and M-Audio offer that via XLR combo jack. Though M-Audio has the ability to switch the instrument input to line-level input.
Whatever you choice is, I am sure that you will enjoy using a small audio interface. And when pandemic is over, this could be your travel buddy.
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