如果您对音乐制作很认真，那么拥有完美的音频接口是重中之重。但是选择正确的界面可能是一个挑战，尤其是如果您是音频制作的新手。
在本文中，我们将描述什么是音频接口，为什么需要一个，以及 6 种最佳入门级到专业级音频接口。
什么是音频接口，为什么需要一个？
音频接口将您的麦克风和乐器连接到您的 PC，并将模拟信号转换为您的计算机软件可以识别并与之交互的数字音频格式。这就是为什么它们也被称为“转换器”。它还可以连接到您的工作室监视器和耳机，直接从输入端传输声音。
如果您想从乐器(record sound from instruments)和其他音频设备录制声音，音频接口是必不可少的，因为它可以帮助您在制作时获得更高的音质。
选择音频接口时要考虑的一些事项是：
- The input/output configuration. 输入是您连接传入声音设备（如吉他或麦克风）的位置。输出数量将决定您可以连接的扬声器设置类型。根据您的用途，您可能只需要一个或两个输入/输出。但是，如果您想一次从多个来源录制（例如，如果您需要多种乐器和人声），那么您将需要更多。接口范围从 2 进/2 出到数百个通道。
- The type of inputs/outputs. 根据音频接口，它可能有线路输入和乐器输入。线路(Line)输入从有源设备（如合成器）获取线路电平（高功率）信号，而乐器输入则专为产生低压信号的麦克风和吉他等设备设计（这是前置放大器通过将信号提升到线路来提供帮助的地方-等级）。连接格式也很重要，具体取决于您的需要（例如 1/4”、XLR、TRS、ADAT、RCA连接器）。与输入一样，您需要注意输出的格式以及这是否符合您的设备和需求。
- 连接的类型。(The type of connection. )大多数接口通过USB(USB)电缆 ( Windows ) 或FireWire（用于在 Apple Mac和 iPad 等 iOS 设备上录制(recording on Apple Mac)）连接到工作站。较新(Newer)的型号使用USB 3.2 或 Thunderbolt(USB 3.2 or Thunderbolt)。最后一种连接类型是PCIe，它涉及将接口安装到计算机主板中。这些通常保留给高吞吐量的专业工作室，并且通常更昂贵。
- 比特率和采样率。(Bitrate and sample rate. )这些值越高，您录制的整体音频质量就越好。此列表中的大多数音频接口都有 24 位比特率和 192kHz 采样率，这足以满足几乎所有用途。
- 牌。(Brand. )多个品牌创造了高质量的音频接口，包括Behringer、Presonus、Motu、Clarett、M-Audio、Audient等。其中一些专注于不同的利基市场，因此根据您是歌手/词曲作者、播客、乐队、制作人还是电影配乐师，某些品牌可能更适合您的需求。
除此之外，这里有 6 个最好的音频接口，从低预算到专业级的选择。
我们列表中最便宜的选择，UMC404HD非常适合预算有限的人。这个Behringer(Behringer)界面仅售 169.00 美元，物超所值。它的一些功能包括：
- 四个 XLR-1/4” 组合输入和一个MIDI输入
- 带MIDAS(MIDAS)麦克风前置放大器的四路输出
- 无延迟耳机播放
- USB 2.0 连接
- 所有四个输入的幻象电源(Phantom Power)开关（为需要其工作的电容式麦克风提供直流电流）
- 24 位/192kHz 录音质量
这种USB(USB)音频接口有一些明显的缺点，比如旧的USB端口，但在价格点上，它仍然是最好的选择之一。
有几个Focusrite音频接口，其中许多都受到制作人的高度评价。在预算有限的情况下（或对于初学者），最好的选择是Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 第三代(Third Gen)，它适合独奏或双人录音。
Scarlett 2i2 第三代(Third Gen)的特点：
- 亚马逊上的预算价格约为 200 美元
- 两个高动态余量组合输入（通过内置麦克风前置放大器兼作线路/乐器输入）
- 一个耳机输出和两个 1/4” TRS监听线路输出
- USB 2.0 Type-C 连接
- 24 位和 192kHz 转换器
2i2 还附带Ableton 11、ProTools和 Focusrite 的插件套件的免费精简版，这意味着您可以直接开始工作。
如果您需要更多输入/输出，Focusrite Scarlett系列可直接升级至具有 18 个输入和 20 个输出的Scarlett 18i20 。
Audient ID4 Mark II(Audient ID4 Mark II)是一款高品质且价格合理的音频接口，为您的家庭工作室提供完美的功能。ID4 MkII取代了已停产的原始型号，带来了几项新功能，包括更快的USB 3.0速度和更新的外观。
- 预算价为 199 美元
- 带有世界级前置放大器的两个输入
- 两个录音室级耳机输出
- USB-C 3.0 连接
- 与Mac(Mac)、iOS 和 Windows的兼容性
- 免费的ARC软件包，包括虚拟乐器和插件 FX
ID4 MkII是小规模家庭录音的另一个绝佳选择。Audient EVO 4是一个与ID4 MkII价格相近的好选择。与 ID4 的单麦克风前置放大器相比，EVO 4有两个带前置放大器的麦克风输入，其中一个可兼作乐器输入。
SSL2 SSL2+是一个坚固的界面，具有小型音乐制作所需的所有规格。SSL2+的一些功能包括：
- 349.99 美元的实惠中档价位
- 两个带有一流前置放大器的 XLR-1/4” 组合输入
- USB 2.0 Type-C 连接
- 内置MIDI接口，可让您连接外部MIDI设备（如键盘）
- 两个监听输出和两个带独立控制的大电流耳机输出
- 后面板上的四个RCA输出（两个镜像监视器输出，两个独立）(RCA)
- 受 4000 系列控制台的启发，传统 4K 按钮可添加高频增强和失真
- 包括Ableton Live Lite 11、Vocalstrip 2、Drumstrip，以及 6 个月免费使用SSL Native插件。
Apollo Twin MkII Duo是一款专业级音频接口，本质上是 Universal Audio 旗舰(Apollo Twin MkII Duo)Apollo 16的缩小版。
Apollo Twin MkII Duo的特点：
- 专业价位 1,299 美元
- 2 进/6 出配置，带有两个组合输入、两个监听输出、两个线路输出、一个立体声S/PDIF输出和一个耳机输出
- 24 位/192kHz 音频质量
- 雷电 3 连接
- 支持所有主要的数字音频工作站(Digital Audio Workstations)( DAW(DAWs) )，包括Studio One、Ableton Live、Pro Tools、Logic Pro X等。
- DSP功能与Unison前置放大器和一堆插件，包括压缩器和效果，如失真和混响
AXR4是一款(AXR4)专业级接口，提供Thunderbolt 2连接 ( AXR4T ) 或 USB 3.0 连接 ( AXR4U )。AXR4面向(AXR4)专业的声音制作人和音频工程师。它的一些功能包括：
- 专业价位约为 2,799 美元
- 适合工作室使用的机架式设计
- 28 进/24 出配置，前面板上有四个组合输入和两个耳机输出，后面板上有八个TRS和两个ADAT x S/PDIF输入/输出
- MIDI输入/输出
- DSP 驱动(DSP-powered)（即拥有自己的数字信号处理器，而不是从计算机的CPU运行）
- 两个Thunderbolt 2端口允许以菊花链方式连接最多三个接口
- 32 位/384kHz 音质
- 极低的延迟
播放时髦的音乐
无论您是声音制作新手并需要预算音频接口，还是需要专业级设备的专业音响工程师，总有一款适合您。
你(Did)最喜欢的音频接口上榜了吗？请在下面的评论中告诉我们。
6 Best Audio Interfaces and Why You Need One
If you’re serious about music production, having the perfect audio interface is a top priority. But choosing the right interface can be a chаllenge, eѕpecially if you’re new to audіo production.
In this article, we’ll describe what an audio interface is, why you need one, and 6 of the best entry-level to professional-grade audio interfaces.
What Is an Audio Interface and Why Do You Need One?
An audio interface connects your microphone and instruments to your PC and converts the analog signals into a digital audio format that your computer software can recognize and interact with. This is why they’re also referred to as “converters”. It also connects to your studio monitors and headphones, transmitting sound directly from the inputs.
An audio interface is necessary if you want to record sound from instruments and other audio devices as it will help you achieve much higher sound quality when producing.
Some of the things to consider when choosing an audio interface are:
- The input/output configuration. Inputs are where you connect incoming sound devices, like guitars or microphones. The number of outputs will determine what kind of speaker setup you can connect to. Depending on your uses, you may only require one or two inputs/outputs. However, if you want to record from multiple sources at a time (for instance, if you need multiple instruments and vocals), then you’ll need more. Interfaces range from 2-in/2-out to hundreds of channels.
- The type of inputs/outputs. Depending on the audio interface, it may have line inputs and instrument inputs. Line inputs take line-level (high-power) signals from powered equipment like a synth, whereas instrument inputs are designed for things like mics and guitars that produce a low-voltage signal (this is where preamps help by raising the signal to line-level). The connection format is also important depending on your needs (e.g. 1/4”, XLR, TRS, ADAT, RCA connectors). Like inputs, you’ll want to pay attention to what format the outputs are and whether this matches your equipment and needs.
- The type of connection. Most interfaces connect to a workstation via a USB cable (Windows) or via FireWire (for recording on Apple Mac and iOS devices like iPads). Newer models use USB 3.2 or Thunderbolt. The final type of connection is PCIe which involves installing the interface into your computer’s motherboard. These are generally reserved for high-throughput professional studios and are generally more expensive.
- Bitrate and sample rate. The higher these are, the better overall audio quality you will record. Most audio interfaces in this list have a 24-bit bitrate and 192kHz sample rate, which is sufficient for almost all uses.
- Brand. Several brands create high-quality audio interfaces, including Behringer, Presonus, Motu, Clarett, M-Audio, Audient, and so on. Some of these focus on different niches, so depending on whether you’re a singer/songwriter, podcaster, band, producer, or film scorer, some brands may be better suited to your needs.
With that out of the way, here are 6 of the best audio interfaces ranging from low-budget to professional-grade options.
The cheapest option on our list, the UMC404HD is perfect for those on a budget. At only $169.00, this Behringer interface gives an impressive bang for the buck. Some of its features include:
- Four XLR-1/4” combo inputs and a MIDI input
- Four line outputs with MIDAS mic preamps
- Latency-free headphone playback
- USB 2.0 connectivity
- Phantom Power switch for all four inputs (provides DC current to condenser microphones that require it to function)
- 24-bit/192kHz recording quality
There are some obvious downsides to this USB audio interface like the older USB ports, but at the price point, it remains one of the best options.
There are several Focusrite audio interfaces, many of which are highly regarded by producers. On a budget (or for beginners), the best option is the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Third Gen which is suited to solo or duo recording.
Features of the Scarlett 2i2 Third Gen:
- A budget price at around $200 on Amazon
- Two high-headroom combo inputs (doubling as line/instrument inputs with built-in mic preamps)
- One headphone output and two 1/4” TRS monitor line outs
- USB 2.0 Type-C connectivity
- 24-bit and 192kHz converters
The 2i2 also comes with free lite versions of Ableton 11, ProTools, and Focusrite’s plug-in suite meaning you can get straight to work.
If you need more inputs/outputs, the Focusrite Scarlett range goes right up to the Scarlett 18i20 with 18 inputs and 20 outputs.
The Audient ID4 Mark II is a high-quality and affordable audio interface with the perfect functionality for your home studio. Replacing the discontinued original model, the ID4 MkII brings several new features to the plate, including faster USB 3.0 speeds and updated cosmetics.
- Budget price point at $199
- Two inputs with world-class preamps
- Two studio-grade headphone outputs
- USB-C 3.0 connection
- Compatibility with Mac, iOS, and Windows
- Free ARC software bundle including virtual instruments, and plug-in FX
The ID4 MkII is another great choice for small-scale home recording. A good alternative at a similar price to the ID4 MkII is the Audient EVO 4. In comparison with the ID4’s single microphone preamp, the EVO 4 has two mic inputs with preamps, one of which doubles as an instrument input.
The SSL2+ is a solid interface that features all of the specs necessary for small-scale music production. Some of the features of the SSL2+ include:
- An affordable, mid-range price point at $349.99
- Two XLR-1/4” combo inputs with class-leading preamps
- USB 2.0 Type-C connectivity
- A built-in MIDI-in interface that allows you to connect external MIDI equipment (like keyboards)
- Two monitor outputs and two high-current headphone outputs with independent controls
- Four RCA outputs on the back panel (two mirror the monitor outputs and two are independent)
- Legacy 4K button to add high-frequency boost and distortion, inspired by 4000-Series consoles
- Includes Ableton Live Lite 11, Vocalstrip 2, Drumstrip, and 6-months free use of the SSL Native plug-ins.
The Apollo Twin MkII Duo is a professional-grade audio interface that is essentially a scaled-down version of Universal Audio’s flagship Apollo 16.
Features of the Apollo Twin MkII Duo:
- Professional price point at $1,299
- 2-in/6-out configuration with two combo inputs, two monitor outs, two line outs, a stereo S/PDIF output, and a headphone output
- 24-bit/192kHz audio quality
- Thunderbolt 3 connectivity
- Supports all major Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) including Studio One, Ableton Live, Pro Tools, Logic Pro X, etc.
- DSP functionality with Unison preamps and a stack of plugins including compressors and effects like distortion and reverb
The AXR4 is a pro-level interface available with Thunderbolt 2 connectivity (AXR4T) or USB 3.0 connectivity (AXR4U). The AXR4 is targeted at professional sound producers and audio engineers. Some of its features include:
- Professional price point at around $2,799
- Rack-mountable design for studio use
- 28-in/24-out configuration with four combo inputs and two headphone outputs on the front panel and eight TRS and two ADAT x S/PDIF input/outputs on the back panel
- MIDI input/output
- DSP-powered (i.e., has its own digital signal processor rather than running from your computer’s CPU)
- Two Thunderbolt 2 ports allows daisy-chaining of up to three interfaces
- 32-bit/384kHz sound quality
- Extremely low latency
Play That Funky Music
Whether you’re new to sound production and want a budget audio interface, or you’re a professional sound engineer who needs a professional-grade device, there’s something for you.
Did your favorite audio interface make the list? Let us know in the comments below.
