Audio Interfaces Always Necessary?

[rimisrandma]

As far as audio programs, I will most likely use Logic, Motu BPM 1.5 (drum machine program), Amplitube 3, and a Pod XT.

So, as fas as ins go;
-I can download a usb driver for the Pod XT and run it in usb
-I can run the guitar in via a single channel 1/4" instrument to usb (yeah it is a mini interface, but read on)

Outputs to monitors;
Couldn't I use a headphone jack out into the monitors with an 1/8" stereo to 1/4"x2 TS Y-cord or even to a volume control of some sort?

It isn't exactly no interface, but what I am thinking is instead of getting a fast track ultra/pro, isn't there a simpler no so high tech approach that would work. This is also just a topic for fun, and I will most likely buy a good interface.

 

[rfahey86]

You could use the pod XT as your interface but then you are limited to only guitar. With an interface you can mic anything you heart desires. If your going to invest in monitors, I'd invest in the interface as well.

 

[arcadeko]

If your going to invest in monitors, I'd invest in the interface as well.

^^^ truth ^^^

why buy studio monitors if you are going to run them out of a crappy little 1/8" headphone jack? I have never compared the output from my interface to my PC headphone jack so maybe it sounds the same - but i would think the interface would be cleaner and clearer

 

[Murdersgalore]

Oh there can be differences. I actually used a 1/8 to RCA stereo cable to monitor from an rp250 before. The bass was very over emphasized. I wasn't doing anything serious with that connection though. Also connected them through a realtek generic onboard out and got 3 inches of pure mud (just to play games on because my regular pc speakers fucked up).