Hello,
I'm looking for recommendations regarding an audio interface.
The mic needs 24/48 v phantom power and I'd like it to have preamp.
I'm recording as a solo artist.
Which audio interface best suits my needs, and which soundcard?
Virtually any interface you buy will have both a microphone pre amp in it* and deliver phantom power and almost always at 48 volts.
To start with the cheapest but very useable (had one) the Alesis i02 is under $100 US, bit more the Steinberg UR22, more again, Focusrite 214 but also look at Tascam, M-Audio, Presonus, Audient. The Behringer U range keep getting good reports and are stupidly cheap but I have not tried one and not seen a review I trust.
You do NOT need a fancy, external pre amp! The NT1a is a very quiet mic with plenty of output, mic/pre noise will not be a problem.
You WILL need a very quiet place to record and need to put up some sound absorbing material to kill room modes (unless treated ALL rooms sound ***t!) Such materials are a "tent" of duvets, blankets or other such material. NO GOOD sticking 'stuff' on the walls! You need to stop voice getting OUT into the room (stuff behind mic) and then stop 'room' getting back into the mic (stuff behind YOU).
AFAIK the NT does not have a built in attenuator? If not you might need an inline XLR 20dB pad and then get very close to the mic..POP SHIELD! Proper 'frame' type.
You have begun a rather rocky road but with a bit of effort modern kit is capable of superb results. You do not mention recording software (aka DAW) most AIs come with something. Cubase most often but Audacity is a good start and Reaper will see you to the Final Call!
*There is a huge gap in the market for a LINE in only AI, 8 ins/outs say of decent quality and projjy price.
My apologies, you have the NT1 not 1a. No matter, still a very quiet mic with a very healthy output.
Dave.