It has never been cheaper or easier to start recording. We have comprised a list of our favorite interfaces geared toward beginners.
There are many parts of an interface that contribute to your choice. Sound quality should be one of the first things you think of. That is why we put the
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 first. The
second generation Scarlett interfaces has upgraded
microphone preamps and
converters that create a very natural sounding recording. These
USB interfaces work on all of the latest computers and never stop updating.
Every engineer needs software if they are recording into a computer. With any
PreSonus interface, you get a copy of
Studio One 3:
Artist Edition ($100 value) for free! The iTwo is a great way to get started into recording. You can even upgrade to the iTwo Studio bundle and be ready to record almost instantly. The iTwo Studio bundle includes the iTwo interface, Studio One Artist, a large-diaphragm condenser microphone, a pair of
HD7 headphones, and all the cables you need to connect it all together. We have
microphone stands that make a great compliment to complete this package!
Zoom is well known for their handheld recorders. They recently delved into the field of audio interfaces and came out very successful. They have created one of the most intuitive and highest quality
USB 3.0 interfaces available. Being USB 3.0, it draws more power which allows them to use better components that result in a better sound. USB 3.0 also has much lower latency than its predecessor and can pass 5 GB of data per second!
There have been a breakthrough of Thunderbolt interfaces and
Resident Audio is among the best. Here, we are featuring the T4 for $249.99, but there is a two channel version called the
T2 for $149.99 available as well. The T4 is bus powered (no power supply needed!) and is built well enough for the studio and the stage. It boasts four clean, high gain preamps and top-notch AD/DA conversion. Resident combines ease of use with near-zero latency with amazing sound quality, all in an affordable package.
The
Clarett 2Pre is the flagship of our "beginner" interfaces. It is such an innovative interface that it is not only for beginners, but professionals as well. It is a
Thunderbolt interface with tons of features. First off, it is built like a tank with a metal chassis and gain knobs. Included are two microphone preamps that have an "Air" mode. This models the famed
ISA preamps. You can also track with any
plug-ins of your choice with less than 2 milliseconds of latency. If you need to expand and get more channels, there is an ADAT input and MIDI I/O on the rear plate of the unit. This is a great way to start and future-proof a studio. As always, enjoy FAST and FREE shipping on any order in the continental US. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to call us at 855-269-0474, or stop in our store in downtown Appleton! Check out our other articles and gift guides here.
