Would this work?

[Room 9]

So I'm in the process of selecting an interface, and more specifically the number if inputs I need. Most of my projects are solo (and thus 2 inputs would be fine). Occasionally I record my whole band, and would need more inputs. Can I buy a higher quality 2 input device (RME Firebox 400), and just use a mixer on the occasion that more inputs are needed, or should I commit to 8 or more inputs from the beginning? Thanks

 

[Chibi Nappa]

If you ever see yourself recording drums for serious "keeper" tracks, get 4 to 8 inputs. If not, stick with 2.

As for the full band recording, if you ever see that becoming important, and you see the need to keep it live important, then you need at least 16.

I went with 16 right off the bat because live full-band is my thing. Most people don't need that many.

 

[Room 9]

What 4 input device have you used or would recommend? Thanks

 

[Todzilla]

What 4 input device have you used or would recommend? Thanks

Your budget?

 

[gehauser]

So I'm in the process of selecting an interface, and more specifically the number if inputs I need. Most of my projects are solo (and thus 2 inputs would be fine). Occasionally I record my whole band, and would need more inputs. Can I buy a higher quality 2 input device (RME Firebox 400), and just use a mixer on the occasion that more inputs are needed, or should I commit to 8 or more inputs from the beginning? Thanks

Perhaps you meant to say the Fireface 400 has 2 inputs with mic preamps ? Last I checked the Fireface 400 had 8 analog inputs and a bunch of digital inputs. So if you have external preamps, you have 8 inputs for mics (2 mic/line, 2 inst/line, and 4 line). With TotalMix, I believe you can route these inputs just about any way you want, including bypassing the mic preamps.

So with the 400, you got "8 or more inputs from the beginning".