Which audio interface

[WackyZoundz]

Yeah but for the price of a RME you can buy a Mac, the MOTU, and the full version of any DAW you want

I would rather combine RME interfaces with a Windows system which saves money.

[_leras]

Because most if not all such software can easily be matched if not surpassed with free software readily available on any number of sites, including this one.

Definitely not true...

... but it's probably enough to get started.

As are many entry level audio interfaces.

[Klisyaeron]

Yeah but for the price of a RME you can buy a Mac, the MOTU, and the full version of any DAW you want

[LeftFootRight]

Cranborne 500r8 has been working for me

[Madasa]

Really happy with my UAD Volt 1. Simple, works out of the box. I don't need many inputs but it does the job! Banging!

[tapper mike]

Move up to a full blown mixer.

I have a zoom L8 and while the screen size is unbearable the features are rich.


It's been out for awhile and you should be able to pick one up used at a reasonable price.

Alternatively if I had the money I'd invest in a Boss Gigcaster 8

[mixyguy2]

Because most if not all such software can easily be matched if not surpassed with free software readily available on any number of sites, including this one.

Definitely not true...

... but it's probably enough to get started.

As are many entry level audio interfaces.

It's quite true, but you're certainly entitled to your opinion.

[stoopicus]

Move up to a full blown mixer.

This is actually what I do (Mackie ProFX 10 v3).

[30pinsimms]

yes

[mixyguy2]

Move up to a full blown mixer.

A mixer is not necessarily an audio interface though...

[tapper mike]

Move up to a full blown mixer.

A mixer is not necessarily an audio interface though...

No one thinks they need it till they do. Then they wonder why they lived without it for so long.

[mixyguy2]

??

[pkrason]

I’ve been a hobbyist songwriter and mixer since I was 13ish (2001). I mean, it’s been my thing for a while. Yet, I’m still horrible at it. Go figure. All of that said, take the following advice with a grain of salt.

I’ve had an Mbox 2 by Avid Pro Tools, a Digi 003 by Avid Pro Tools, the Scarlett you’re looking at, and most recently a UAD Apollo Twin X Quad. Of all these, the Apollo is untouchable. Literally made the biggest difference for me insofar as I actually hear how much of a difference it has made. Clarity in vocals. DI for guitar and bass is impeccably clear and can add the unison technology for added accuracy in emulation of amps and preamps.

It’s been a joy trying this new interface out over the past few months. Granted, it’s so expensive it was really hard for me to afford. I’m sure this is your major consideration as well. But aside from that, it was worth it to me.

[pkrason]

If you get an Apollo Twin for UAD, go for the more expensive Quad rather than the Duo. I was very limited in DSP with the Duo to where I felt like I couldn’t do enough eight off the bat. I was so surprised and disappointed. I almost immediately exchanged it for the upgrade.

[stoopicus]

It’s been a joy trying this new interface out over the past few months. Granted, it’s so expensive it was really hard for me to afford. I’m sure this is your major consideration as well. But aside from that, it was worth it to me.

It also has the same issue I have always had with audio interfaces that do additional audio processing - unless you also record a dry track, you're stuck with whatever sound the interface added to the dry signal, and if that doesn't happen to work well in a mix, you're screwed and need to re-record.

This is the biggest reason I sold all my hardware pedals and preamp/amp emulators - it's just so much a better mixing workflow to move all of that ITB.

There's no question the Apollo line are outstanding interfaces - it's just that for me their primary sales point of hosting a lot of the plugins locally, to emulate a Neve or something, actually are things I don't want my audio interface doing after all.