Audio Interfaces Buying Guide

An audio interface is a device that connects to a computer and allows the computer to send and receive audio signals. It typically features inputs and outputs for connecting microphones, instruments, and other audio devices, as well as a digital interface for communication with the computer.

Audio interfaces are indispensable when it comes to making music on laptops, PCs, or other mobile devices, as they record and play back sound. The choice of the right sound card determines whether the recording sounds professional or rather average. The sound card is the hub of modern recording studios.

From modest home studios to massive media production houses, audio interfaces serve the vital function of bringing audio signals from the outside world into the computer and back again. For many artists and engineers, the audio interface is the most important piece of hardware, providing microphone preamplifiers, direct instrument inputs, digital converters, mixing, headphone distribution, even digital signal processing (DSP), all in one unit. In more advanced setups, high-channel-count audio interfaces completely replace the role of traditional recording consoles.

Audio interfaces come in various sizes and configurations, from compact, portable devices that can be used with laptops, to larger, feature-rich devices designed for professional studios. Some audio interfaces also offer additional features such as built-in preamps, phantom power, and effect processing.

But what should you focus on when making your selection? We'll show you how to find the right product.

Types of Sound Cards

Most modern PCs offer users the option to simply install an internal sound card into a free slot on the motherboard. Naturally, even this small adjustment can significantly improve music playback.

However, the same effect is achieved with an external sound card, which can be even more flexible in its use. To use it, there's no need to open the computer case or make significant modifications. Often, it's not even a problem to connect a single external sound card to multiple PCs.

The only preparation required is a quick driver installation - after which the sound card is ready for use. Devices that operate on a plug-and-play principle are particularly simple. This way, the driver doesn't need to be manually installed; you simply plug the interface into the PC and wait for the automatic setup to complete.

Installation is therefore not a problem even for beginners, although most manufacturers still provide included software that simplifies the setup of the sound card. Additionally, through this software, further custom settings can be made within the card, such as equalizer effects.

Depending on whether you're a PC or Mac user, the choice of interface is determined right at the base. In fact, the MAC has different standards than the PC. Here's an overview of all the common types of audio interfaces.

USB Interfaces

The most well-known interfaces are USB interfaces. They are ideal for laptops and PCs as they only need to be connected to a free USB port. Moreover, they are often more affordable than traditional audio interfaces. They can be connected to both PCs and MACs and are now the most widely used types of interfaces. These interfaces are external, meaning they do not need to be built into the computer.

Still standard - especially for smaller interfaces - is USB 2.0. Nowadays, there are also USB 3.0 interfaces, which are up to 10 times faster and can therefore theoretically process more signals simultaneously and work with lower latency.

Increasingly, audio interfaces with USB-C connection are becoming more popular. These work on both Mac and PC, as well as on smartphones and tablets that have the now widely adopted USB-C connector.

FireWire Interfaces

FireWire audio interfaces work differently from those with USB interfaces. They operate slightly faster and thus prevent delays in music recording or playback. However, most laptops and PCs do not have a FireWire port, so hardware upgrades are needed before purchase. The situation was different with MACs. Here, FireWire was almost the standard and could be used immediately without modifications. The speed advantage over USB 2.0 is not noticeable in practice.

There are two types of FireWire audio interfaces: FireWire 400, which has approximately the same speed as USB 2.0, and FireWire 800, which is almost twice as fast. For years, FireWire has been the standard for high-speed audio interfaces and was almost exclusively found on Mac computers.

Most modern computers connect to FireWire audio interfaces via FireWire to Thunderbolt adapters. FireWire offers plenty of power for most studio needs. Additionally, they have the advantage of being very affordable with high channel availability.

Thunderbolt Interfaces

Thunderbolt audio interfaces are the best and most professional - faster than USB and Firewire interfaces. With their high data transfer speed and thus even less likely for delays in workflow, unfortunately, they are also among the most expensive. So, if you're setting up your own small studio, we recommend waiting a bit longer, as usually professionals work with Thunderbolt interfaces.

Thunderbolt interfaces offer connectivity speeds twice as fast as USB 3.0 and over 12 times faster than FireWire 800. While Thunderbolt ports are universally present on modern Macs, they are rare on Windows PCs and many popular Thunderbolt audio interfaces therefore do not support the Windows operating system.

Mobile, Tablet, iOS Interfaces

Music is also made on the smallest devices. For recording on mobile devices, such as the iPad or iPhone, there are also audio interfaces available. This way, you can record on the go at an affordable price.

PCI Interfaces

PCI audio interfaces are part of the older standard and are no longer as popular, as you need to install an additional PCI card into the PC. Some have analog inputs, but some do not, so for microphones, a breakout box and additional preamplifier are also needed.

However, the latency and speed of PCI interfaces are still considered good, and even older interfaces still provide very good service today.

However, there may be a catch: depending on the installed components and motherboard, there may be interference in the recordings. Often the graphics card or other electrical components in the computer are responsible for this.

What should you consider when buying?

For the simple home recording studio, an interface with 1-2 outputs and 1-2 inputs is sufficient. Usually, XLR inputs with combined 6.3mm jack inputs for microphones are directly integrated into common USB interfaces. The phantom power is usually selectable via a toggle switch. Sound cards up to around the €150 mark should be sufficient to connect your speakers, a microphone, headphones, and possibly even a turntable.

In the professional field, either more inputs or better converters are usually needed. Especially RME interfaces are equipped with FireWire technology and numerous inputs in professional studios around the world.

When purchasing a USB audio interface, there are several factors to consider, including:

• Compatibility: Ensure that the interface is compatible with your computer and operating system.
• Input and output options: The number and type of inputs and outputs you need, as well as the type of available connections (e.g., XLR or 6.3mm jack), should be considered.
• Sound quality: The quality of the sound recordings depends on the quality of the converters and preamplifiers.
• Features: Look out for additional features you might need, such as phantom power for condenser microphones, integrated effects, or a built-in mixer.
• Brand and support: It's advisable to look for a reputable brand with good customer support in case there are issues with the interface.
• Price: Determine your budget and look for an interface that offers the features you need and the desired sound quality at a price that fits your budget.

Additionally, it doesn't hurt to read reviews and do research to get an idea of which interfaces have a good reputation in terms of performance and reliability.

Choosing the Right Sound Card - Tips for Buying

Determining which sound card best suits your needs must be determined individually. It is certain that there is now a wide selection of different variations of external sound cards on the market, which differ mainly in price. Here, the available budget is crucial:

From affordable sound cards to professional models, there is something suitable for every user. Therefore, it is particularly important to consider the purpose for which the sound card will be used before making a purchase. In fact, it makes a difference whether you desire better sound while playing PC games, listening to favorite music on the PC, or for professional use in a home studio. In general, investing in a higher-quality product is always worthwhile, as very cheap models usually do not bring significant improvements.

The cheapest sound cards are already available on the market for a few euros, while expensive branded products can easily cost several hundred euros. It is advisable to compare different products in advance to find out which audio interface best suits your needs.

In some cases, it may also be helpful to refer to reviews from other buyers. In general, it can be assumed that quality models are available from around 50 euros. However, for interfaces with 2 outputs and 2 inputs, it is worth spending 80 or 90 euros. These sound cards can then be easily connected to the USB port and are ready for immediate use.

Key Terms

• Latency: Refers to the delay with which a signal arrives. For example, when a key is pressed on the Midi keyboard, it is not output immediately but must first be processed by the sound card and then played back. Latency can be adjusted on the sound card and is also driver-dependent.
• ASIO: Asio drivers are now indispensable in modern music production. Well-programmed Asio drivers provided by the manufacturer are required for low latency. This is where the wheat is separated from the chaff because not every manufacturer can program stable drivers equally well on all systems. However, universal ASIO drivers such as ASIO4ALL can also help here, which can be used on any card.
• OPTICAL: Is a digital output of the sound card based on optical fibers. These usually sound better than the analog equivalent.
• CINCH: Can be an output or input via RCA connector. For example, it is found in record players.
• 3.5mm Jack: Is usually the headphone output. In better interfaces, it is often also present as a 6.3mm jack. A 3.5mm jack is the "smaller jack plug," as found in virtually all consumer products such as mobile phones, etc.
• 6.3mm Jack: Is either a headphone output or an input for microphones or guitars. It is often also referred to as an instrument input. About twice as thick as the 3.5mm jack, it is used in the professional audio field. Often the jack input is also fused with the XLR input as a combo input. This means that you can use either XLR or jack in the same socket.

Ordering the USB Audio Interface Online is Worthwhile

Not only in specialty stores, but also online, the range of different external audio interfaces is extensive. It is often worth comparing prices, as they are usually significantly lower in online shops.

With us, you will find a comprehensive range of high-quality interfaces from renowned manufacturers at an excellent price-performance ratio.