Audio Interface

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Member Since: Jan 14, 2009

Hey Im new on here and Im starting out in recording, Im planning on getting an audio interface, and I need some help...
I need good quality recordings for a demo CD. I need the interface to be USB connected (to go through the USB). I need a good mic pre-amp with the interface and I need it to have phantom power.
I've been told that I shouldn't get any lower than 24-bit/96 kHz.

Any suggestions?

P.s sorry If Im not making any sense, but Id appreciate any help thanks.



edit:

i've been looking at this one on ebay

cgi.ebay.com.au/ws/eBayIS...bayphotohosting

do you think this is any good?

also whats the difference between mic pre-amp and pre-amp simulator??

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Prince CZAR-ming
Member
Since: Apr 08, 2004


Jan 14, 2009 06:57 am

take a look at the line6 toneport. I don't know if it's 96khz, but I never use that high. I'm usually 48k, and probably will drop to 44.1 just to keep from dithering.

It's a nice bit o kit, and lots here use one with good results.

Preamp is the analog circuitry (op-amps, probably) that boost the MIC level signal up to LINE level, that computers, and other gear can use. A simulator, won't do the actual boosting, but will impart the same (or similar) sonic sound that a certain preamp would impart.

You could theoretically use a basic preamp for actual preamp duties, then add a simulator in your PC to impart some of the characteristics of a hi-end preamp.


Administrator
Since: Apr 03, 2002


Jan 14, 2009 07:32 am

I'd suggest the tone port as well, it is a 48k max sample rate, which suits most folks just fine. For the price the toneport is a great ... er ... bit o kit.

www.zzounds.com.../item--LINPSUX2

Member
Since: Jan 14, 2009


Jan 14, 2009 04:21 pm

Would this work just as well for recording vocals?
Because I will only be recording vocals and wont be playing guitar.

So what I should be looking for is something with a really good mic pre-amp?

Prince CZAR-ming
Member
Since: Apr 08, 2004


Jan 14, 2009 04:53 pm

You'd still need an interface. Something with a preamp will be simpler, and cheaper, but you certainly can get a standalone preamp, and then some sort of interface, to convert the analog over to digital.

But, to step up to a nice preamp, figure to get close to the 500$ range. There's some DIY nice ones, if you're inclined. Then think about a nice mic that won't water down the nice preamp =).

Plus monitoring solution, some treatment so the vocals stay nice and dandy,

eh, it starts adding up, don't it?


Czar of Midi
Administrator
Since: Apr 04, 2002


Jan 14, 2009 07:08 pm

THe UX has killer pre amp emulations in it already. I can't tell ya how much I like them myself.

I have used many high end pre's over the years and can tell you that the units they have modeled are very good indeed.

So for vocal's, yep it will work fine.

John
Member
Since: May 06, 2007


Jan 17, 2009 01:46 pm

Hey Noize, while we are on the subject of Toneport, I got a question to toss in here for ya...

I currently own the smaller Line 6 toneport GX unit and am waiting for the UX2 to come in as an upgrade so I can record 2 guitars at the same time when requested. I know that there are 2 XLR inputs, and the bundled Gearbox software has vocal processes and what not, but I am debating something,,,

As you may know from my other posts, I use a Presonus 1394 as my mic pre/interface until I need to record guitars. Its kinda a pain to switch from the presonus interface to the line 6 one when I am doing a full band project. The 2 units seem to butt heads when connected together,,,

Would the UX2 pre amps be just as good as the presonus ones would you think? Or is this one of those 'try em out and see what you think' type of questions?

Sorry to get off topic, but this may help the original poster as well.

Czar of Midi
Administrator
Since: Apr 04, 2002


Jan 17, 2009 10:34 pm

I would say they are as good or better. But remember these are modeled pre amps. So it isn't a direct pre so to speak. SO there will always be situation's that the Presonus will still come in handy.

But the modeled pre's with the UX are vitage units with a couple of newer and boutique types tossed in.

I've used them all now, and also have used them in re-amping style as well. I send out a vocal through the UX to be re-pre amped I guess.

I've owned a couple of the real thing in days gone by and the model's are pretty much spot on.

But in the end, the answer is yes they are far superior to a standard pre that comes in an audio interface.

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