High-end audio interfaces feature combo inputs, which is a combination of both three-pin XLR input and a 1/4″ TRS input. Microphones, on the other hand, output weak signals as such, you will need an audio interface with onboard preamplifiers to boost the signal for superior sound quality. Line level inputs are desirable than XLR mic inputs because they’re good at rejecting noise and don’t need amplification to get excellent sound quality. However, for recording voice-overs, a single XLR input should be enough.īesides XLR inputs, tools such as keyboards connect to your audio interface using line-level TRS inputs. If you’re going to record audio with multiple professional microphones, you need an audio interface with more than one XLR microphone inputs. The number of inputs and outputs depends on the kind of work you’re going to use with the audio interface.

What’s important is to first determine the use of the audio interface to prevent paying for premium features that you don’t need in your studio. Depending on the needs of your production workspace, there are specific features that you should consider to get the best from the tb3 audio interface. Choosing a Thunderbolt 3 Audio InterfaceĪudio interfaces aren’t the same. Tb3 is the perfect option for sound engineers who are looking for crystal clear sound quality and minimal latency during the recording and production process. Like any Thunderbolt 3 device, you can daisy-chain up to six Tb3 audio interfaces for superior recording, mixing, and music production. Thunderbolt 3 is not only future proof but also perfect for commercial and demanding music production, especially when connecting multiple instruments simultaneously, thanks to its higher 40Gbps bandwidth. The new MacBook only ship with Thunderbolt 3 ports, which means you cannot connect audio interfaces with Firewire or legacy USB ports unless you are ready to spend on dongles. However, some of the connectivity slots are quickly becoming obsolete as new protocols hit the market.

Antelope Audio Zen Tour Synergy Core – Signature Antelope Sound with Flexible I/OĪudio interfaces connect to your computer using standard USB ports, Firewire, PCI, or even PCMCIA slots. Antelope Audio Zen Q Synergy Core – Bus-Powered Thunderbolt 3 Interface with Plenty of I/O Universal Audio Apollo Solo Heritage Edition – Most Portable Thunderbolt 3 Audio Interface PreSonus Quantum 2626 – Best Value Thunderbolt Audio Interface

Universal Audio Apollo x8p Heritage Edition – Premium Thunderbolt 3 Interface Universal Audio Apollo Twin X QUAD Heritage Edition – Best Thunderbolt 3 Audio Interface Overall Thunderbolt 3 Audio Interfaces Compared.Choosing a Thunderbolt 3 Audio Interface.

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