best usb interface

[meatbeater]

what is the best usb interface i am looking to buy one i was thinking about the mbox but people say it sucks balls. also what is the difference between a usb mic and a real mic connected through a usb interface aint it the same dont you convert the signal digitally.

 

[TimOBrien]

USB mics are generally for people who do podcasts, not for recording music.

Here's a good guide and tested suggestions that WORK: http://www.tweakheadz.com/soundcards_for_the_home_studio.htm

 

[Shadow_7]

A USB mic generally lacks the ability to multitrack. Since the clocks differ between devices. Plus the latency of USB devices and computers in general Plus the mic + preamp + converter is an all in one, non-upgradeable bargain basement price product. Which is not normally a formula for success.

An interface lets you upgrade at least one of those three things. And perhaps the option to use an external device for a second of those things. Not to mention having a cable longer the 3'. Which is best, I couldn't tell you. But there are some decent ones. Although most of them are geared towards low end consumers IMO. You might be better off with other device(s), like firewire, PCI, or a dedicated field recorder. It really depends on what you are wanting to do.

 

[meatbeater]

yeah i was thinking about going with the firewire luckly my computer has a firewire port or else id be screwed thanks for the link

 

[lifelyrics]

I'm really happy with my TAPCO 4x6 firewire interface. It was only about $160 from Musician's Friend, and I'm able to layer tracks with no latency issues, whatsoever. It also came with a DAW that I really like: Tracktion 2. Because I have Windows Vista, I needed to upgrade to Tracktion 3, but only after I cruised around for a bit, and decided it was designed in a way that was very easy for me to learn and navigate. It only has 2 inputs, but they are 1/4"/XLR, and it does have phantom power. It's a great product for the price, and it beats any USB interface because the firewire is so much faster.

Good luck on your shopping/researching.