Audio Interface for Podcasting
Anyone who's ever tried to record a podcast knows that getting clear, high-quality audio is essential. But how do you get that audio? That's where an audio interface comes in. In this blog post, we'll be taking a look at what an audio interface is, how it can benefit your podcast, and what to look for when choosing one. So whether you're just getting started with podcasting or you're looking to upgrade your setup, read on!
7 Audio Interface for Podcasting
- Connectivity Technology: USB Type-C
- Resolution: 24-bit/192kHz
- Headphone Outputs: 1
- Instrument Inputs: 2
- Resolution: 24-bit/192kHz
- Ladder-style LED monitoring
- Connectivity Technology: USB 2.0 (3.0 compatible)
- MIDI I/O
- Resolution: 24-bit/192kHz
- Connectivity Technology: USB Type-C
- Headphone Outputs: 2
- MIDI I/O
- Resolution: 24-bit/48 kHz
- Connectivity Technology: USB
- 1/4” headphone output and stereo 1/4” outputs for total monitoring flexibility
- Number of Channels Input: 2
- Resolution: 24-bit/192kHz
- Connectivity Technology: USB-2.0
- Mac, PC, iPad, and iPhone
- MIDI connections
- Resolution: 24-bit/192kHz
- Phantom Power: 48V
- Connectivity Technology: USB-2.0
- MIDI connections
- Resolution: 24-bit/192kHz
- Microphone/Line Inputs: 1
- Headphone Output: 1
- Connectivity Technology: USB / USB-C
Detailed Overview
Let's take a closer look at each audio interface and choose which one is right for you.
Author's Choice
- Connectivity Technology: USB Type-C
- Resolution: 24-bit/192kHz
- Headphone Outputs: 1
- Instrument Inputs: 2
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Audio Interface for Recording is a professional quality audio interface that allows you to record and mix at up to 24-bit/192kHz. Scarlett 2i2 provides two mic/line/instrument inputs allowing simultaneous recording and playback of up to two channels with independently controllable headphone and monitor outputs, and a switchable Air mode that adds extra clarity to your acoustic instruments. Scarlett 2i2 is designed to stand up to days on the road, and connects straight to your Mac or PC via USB cable, with no external power required. Compact and bright design, and most importantly fulfills its purpose 100%.
Pros:
- Resolution: 24-bit/192kHz
- Connectivity Technology: USB Type-C
- Headphone Outputs: 1
- Instrument Inputs: 2
- Phantom Power 48V
Cons:
- No MIDI I/O
People's Choice
- Resolution: 24-bit/192kHz
- Ladder-style LED monitoring
- Connectivity Technology: USB 2.0 (3.0 compatible)
- MIDI I/O
The PreSonus Studio 2x2 Audio Interface is a USB-C bus-powered, 2-in/2-out mobile audio interface that requires no power supply. It features 2 flawless XMAX-L solid-state microphone preamps to capture every detail, as well as studio-grade converters that allow you to record and playback up to 24-bit/96kHz. You can stay on top of recording levels with ladder-style LED monitoring and low-latency live monitoring.
Studio 2x2 comes with Studio One Artist and Ableton Live Lite DAW recording software, as well as Studio Magic Plug-In Suite - plug-ins for computer recording. It features 2 instrument/line inputs with plenty of headroom for recording guitar, bass, and your favorite line-level devices, and is equipped with a powerful headphone output. The +48V phantom power (global) is ideal for condenser microphones. MIDI I/O provides a standard 5-pin DIN connection to keyboards and other MIDI equipment.
Pros:
- Phantom Power 48V
- Resolution: 24-bit/192kHz
- Ladder-style LED monitoring
- Connectivity Technology : USB 2.0 (3.0 compatible)
- Inputs: 2 combo mic and switchable line/ instrument
- Outputs: 2 balanced ¼” TRS mains, 1 ¼” stereo headphone output
- MIDI I/O
- USB-C to C and USB-C to A cables included
Cons:
- No S/PDIF I/O
Premium Choice
- Resolution: 24-bit/192kHz
- Connectivity Technology: USB Type-C
- Headphone Outputs: 2
- MIDI I/O
The Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface is a top-of-the-line audio interface that is perfect for anyone looking to enhance their recording and mixing capabilities. Featuring four of the best performing mic preamps in the Scarlett range, this interface also includes Air mode switchable to give your recordings a brighter and more open sound. Additionally, there are two high-headroom instrument inputs perfect for plugging in your guitar or bass, and eight balanced line inputs for connecting synthesizers, drum machines, and other line-level sources. Finally, the interface also comes with four monitor outputs complete with anti-thump technology and speaker switching. High-performance converters enable you to record and mix at up to 24-bit/192kHz, making the Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface perfect for any professional recording setup.
Pros:
- Resolution: 24-bit/192kHz
- Number of Preamps: 4
- Line Inputs: 8
- Analogue Outputs: 2
- Headphone Outputs: 2
- Main/Alt Speaker Switching
- MIDI I/O
- Included PSU
- Connectivity Technology: USB Type-C
Cons:
- No Bus Powered
Best Budget
- Resolution: 24-bit/48 kHz
- Connectivity Technology: USB
- 1/4” headphone output and stereo 1/4” outputs for total monitoring flexibility
- Number of Channels Input: 2
The M-Audio M-Track Duo is a versatile audio interface that gives you the ability to record, podcast, live stream and more. With two combo XLR / line / instrument inputs with phantom power, this interface is perfect for capturing any type of signal. The 1/4" headphone output and stereo 1/4" outputs provide total monitoring flexibility, while the USB/Direct switch allows for zero latency monitoring. The M-Track Duo also comes with the MPC Beats software, which includes all the essential production tools from Akai Professional.
Pros:
- Resolution: 24-bit/48 kHz
- Connectivity Technology: USB
- 1/4” headphone output and stereo 1/4” outputs for total monitoring flexibility
- Incorporates pristine A/D converters for professional resolution digital audio
- Crystal Preamps best sound from your microphones
- Number of Channels Input: 2
- Mac or PC
Cons:
- Software bundle underwhelming compared to previous product releases
Lag-Free Recording
- Resolution: 24-bit/192kHz
- Connectivity Technology: USB-2.0
- Mac, PC, iPad, and iPhone
- MIDI connections
The UA Volt 1 USB Audio Interface is a powerful device that allows you to easily create music productions, live streams, and podcasts on Mac, PC, iPad, and iPhone. It features a Vintage Mic Preamp mode that provides rich, full sound for vocals and instruments, as well as industry-leading software compatibility for producing with Ableton, Melodyne, UJAM's Virtual Drummer, Marshall, Ampeg, and more. The Volt 1 also boasts USB bus power for on-the-go recording with class-leading 24-bit/192 kHz audio conversion, making it a great choice for mobile recording. Additionally, it features a studio-quality headphone amp, MIDI connections, 48V phantom power, and Direct Monitoring for latency-free recording.
Pros:
- Phantom Power 48V
- Resolution: 24-bit/192kHz
- Number of Channels Input : 1
- Number of Channels Output: 2
- Connectivity Technology: USB-2.0
- Mac, PC, iPad, and iPhone
- USB bus power for on-the-go recording
- Studio-quality headphone amp
- MIDI connections
- Direct Monitoring for latency-free recording
Cons:
- Recording for one, if you are thinking of doing interviews, having a partner in podcasts or adding a musical instrument, then this audio interface will not suit you
Rich Sound Recording
- Resolution: 24-bit/192kHz
- Phantom Power: 48V
- Connectivity Technology: USB-2.0
- MIDI connections
The UA Volt 276 is a USB audio interface designed for recording, podcasting, and music production. It offers rich, full sound recording with its Vintage Mic Preamp mode, 76 Compressor based on UA's famed 1176, and industry-leading software compatibility. The interface can be powered by the USB bus for on-the-go recording, and offers class-leading 24-bit/192 kHz audio conversion. It also features a studio-quality headphone amp, MIDI connections, 48V phantom power, and Direct Monitoring for latency-free recording.
Pros:
- Phantom Power 48V
- Resolution: 24-bit/192kHz
- Number of Channels Input : 2
- Number of Channels Output: 2
- Connectivity Technology: USB-2.0
- Interface can be powered by the USB bus
- Features a studio-quality headphone amp
- Monitoring for latency-free recording
- MIDI connections
Cons:
- Software bundle is mediocre
- No blend for direct monitoring
For One Microphone
- Resolution: 24-bit/192kHz
- Microphone/Line Inputs: 1
- Headphone Output: 1
- Connectivity Technology: USB / USB-C
M-Audio AIR 192x4 is an audio interface that is ideal for podcasting. It features a premium selection of components and 24-bit/192kHz resolution for professional recording and monitoring. The high-speed USB/USB-C circuitry provides the fastest connection with best-in-class round-trip latency of just 2.59ms. Combined XLR + TRS input, instrument input, stereo outputs and headphone output with independent level control make it easy to connect all your audio equipment. The rugged metal housing, large central volume control, LED VU meters and USB/Direct knob make it easy to use and monitor your audio. Professional software package includes MPC Beats, Ableton Live Lite, Touch Loops, Creative FX Collection, Xpand! 2, Mini Grand and Revalver.
Pros:
- Resolution: 24-bit/192kHz
- Number of Channels Input : 2
- Number of Channels Output: 2
- Microphone/Line Inputs: 1
- Headphone Output: 1
- Connectivity Technology: USB / USB-C
Cons:
- No MIDI I/O
Audio Interface for Podcasting - Buyer’s Guide
Audio interfaces - devices that convert microphone and instrument signals into a format your computer and software can recognize. They also route audio from your computer out to your headphones and studio monitors.
What to Look for Before Buying?
Audio interfaces come in a variety of different shapes, sizes and designs. Here you choose according to your personal tastes. What color you want or how much space you have for the interface location.
High-Resolution Recording
High-resolution recording has become a buzzword in the audio world in recent years, with many manufacturers claiming that their products offer better sound quality than the competition. However, research shows that the benefits of higher resolution audio are small and difficult to detect. Most USB audio interfaces available today are capable of accurate, noise-free recording at 24-bit depth and 96 kHz or higher sampling rates. While there may be a slight improvement in sound quality at these higher resolutions, it is generally not significant enough to justify the increased cost. In conclusion, if you are looking for a reliable and affordable USB audio interface, you need not worry about finding one that supports high-resolution recording. The vast majority of interfaces on the market today will provide excellent sound quality without breaking the bank.
USB Connection
All the audio interface models we have described use USB connections. Type A is the most common type of USB connection and is usually connected to a computer using a wire. While some users may prefer the newer Type-C design, either works fine and replacement cables are readily and cheaply available. USB is a great way to connect devices because it is universally compatible and has many connection types.
Benefits of Audio Interface for Podcasting:
- With an audio interface, you can connect professional microphones and other audio equipment to your computer so that you can record high-quality audio for your podcast. This is especially important if you plan on having multiple people on your show, or if you want to include sound effects or music in your podcast.
- An audio interface will also help to improve the sound quality of your recordings by providing a clean and noise-free signal. This is especially important if you plan on editing your podcast episodes or if you want to create high-quality audio files for distribution.
- If you're serious about podcasting, then an audio interface is an essential piece of equipment. By connecting professional microphones and other audio equipment to your computer, you can record high-quality audio for your podcast episodes. This will help to ensure that your episodes sound great and are of the highest possible quality.
Number of I/O (Input/Out)
You should definitely pay attention to the number of inputs/outputs when choosing an audio mixer for podcasting. The number of inputs and outputs will determine how many microphones and headphones you can use with the mixer. If you plan to have guests on your podcast, you will need more inputs than if you are recording alone. You should also consider how many sound monitors or other devices you will use with the mixer. A mixer with more inputs and outputs may be a better choice if you have multiple devices to connect.
MIDI Ports
MIDI ports are used to connect MIDI devices, such as keyboards and controllers, to each other and to computers. MIDI is a useful tool for podcasting because it allows you to record instruments, such as guitars and keyboards, directly into your computer. To do this, you will need a MIDI-enabled USB audio interface. These interfaces typically have MIDI inputs and outputs, as well as other ports that allow you to connect other audio devices. MIDI is a great way to add variety to your podcast recordings, and it can be a fun way to experiment with sound.
Audio Interface for Podcasting - FAQ
Is an audio interface necessary for podcasting?
The simple answer is no, but it is recommended. A USB mic is sufficient for one or two people and will create a one track recording. However, if you are looking to capture multiple speakers on separate tracks or connect professional dynamic microphones, then you will need an audio interface. An audio interface will also allow you to record at a higher quality than a USB mic. So, while it is not required, it is certainly recommended if you are looking to produce a high-quality podcast.
Do USB audio interfaces improve sound quality?
Previously, expensive and complex equipment was used for recording, which was available only to professional studios. However, with the advent of digital technology, anyone with a computer can record their podcasts or music in high quality. And yes, USB audio interfaces definitely improve the sound quality. With an audio interface, you can record at a much higher resolution, but you can also record individual tracks and reduce latency. Thus, investing in an audio interface is a wise choice for any musician who wants to take their recordings to the next level.
Conclusion
Choosing the best audio interface for podcasting can be a daunting task. There are many different makes and models on the market, all with their own set of features and benefits. We’ve tried to make the process a little easier by narrowing down some of the best audio interfaces for podcasting based on our personal experience and reviews from other users. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re a seasoned pro, we hope this article will help you find the perfect audio interface for your needs.
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