Audio interface or Soundcard/mixer

[adferrendelli]

I have come to a point where i need to decide which way i am going to go. i have read the articles on tweakheadz and it is not very clear as to which approach is better. He seems to say that if you have an interface, you dont need to buy a new soundcard to get a better. is this correct? which way is a better path to take. i dont want to buy somthing to find out i dont need it later on. thanks for any help

 

[Tifstorey]

Interface/Soundcard = same thing. An interface is usually described as an external sound card with inputs/outputs.

The best thing to think about when starting out is to try to think ahead and figure out how many inputs you'll need to use simultaneously (Ie, "will i be recording a full band at once? Or will i just be recording one thing at a time?").

If your going to be recording alot, you'll need an interface which has multiple inputs (M-Audio Delta 1010, Presonus Firepod, Digidesign 002 etc). And likewise, if you'll be recording 1 at a time, there's no real need to buy something with alot of inputs (In which case you'll have alot more to choose from!).

Have a think about what you want to be recording and don't rush in and buy anything. It's much better to get more of the equipment you need rather than splashing out all your money on a fancy interface which you'll only be using 2 of the inputs at a time.

Keep on researching on Tweakheadz and other sites and make sure about a purchase before you buy it

Good luck,

 

[Mace_Hacker]

I agree with Tifstorey. I have been recording for about a year now and I started out one track at a time through my PC sound card, line in. It worked but was slow, so I bought an "Interface" that allowed me to have more inputs. I bought a M-Audio Quattro. It helped alot. Now I am looking for something better with even more inputs. That's the way it goes. Start small., Think cheap. Learn the basics. Then go crazy with your money. These is no need to spend $1000.00 on stuff if you don't have to. If you are just doing recording for yourself and not for business or promotions, or anything professional, simple is best. Get a small interface that gives you at least 2 stereo tracks input and you can do alot with it.