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Review of Budget Audio Interfaces – by Josh

This week, we’re going to take a quick look at a few audio interfaces.  For those just getting started with computer recording, an audio interface refers to the hardware that you use to record and playback sounds.  Most computers come with some sort of basic audio recording capabilities, but stock sound cards are invariably noisy and of low quality.  A simple upgrade of less than $200 can vastly improve the sound of your compositions and collaborations here on Indaba.  Here’s a look at a few options if you’re looking to upgrade your original card, or just want to add a low-cost portable system to your current set-up. I’ve chosen to look at 2 channel interfaces that are ideal for recording one instrument or voice at a time, and are less expensive than comparable 3+ track recorders.

M-Audio Fast-Track Pro – $200 – User Reviews

The Fast-Track USB is a small, external interface with two phantom powered inputs and near-zero latency. It will allow you to record two instruments or mics at once, and also has nifty features such as midi in/outs, digital SPDIF in/outs, and a nice package of included software.  This is a good deal for an inexpensive interface that also has phantom power—-important because most condenser microphones require power.  If you have an external mixer or preamps with phantom power, you could opt to save a little dough and get the ultra-budget M-Audio Fast-Track USB ($99), which does not have phantom power built in.   The advantage of buying an M-Audio product is that it is the only third-party interface that can use Pro Tools, in the form of the M-Powered Pro Tools software.  Pro Tools is considered the industry standard audio editing and recording software by many professional engineers and musicians, and this card gives you the opportunity to learn the program.  However, the Pro Tools M-Powered software is not included and will add an extra $250.

Tascam US-144 – $150 – User Reviews

If you will never need to use Pro Tools (there’s plenty of other viable software options) consider the two-channel Tascam 144 which has similar features to the Fast-Track-Pro but costs less. The software bundle and features aren’t as extensive as the Fast-Track, but if you don’t need the extras this could be a good choice.

Alesis iO|2 – $160 – User Reviews

Another good option is the Alesis iO|2, which has a sleek, low-profile design that makes it great for portable use.  It comes bundled with Cubase LE software so it’s a full workstation right off the bat.

Any of these interfaces will be a significant upgrade over the sound card that comes with your computer.  My recommendation is to go for the M-Audio Fast-Track if you think you may want to use Pro Tools at any point; the Alesis iO|2 if you want an inexpensive interface with software included to get you going; and the Tascam if you don’t need any included software.  There are other options out there too…I’d like to hear your comments if you’ve had experience with these three, or other comparable audio interfaces.