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The higher the quality of microphone preamp, the less likely it is that you’ll need to invest in an external preamp. If this is the case, you will not need a direct box to connect a line-level source. Some XLR inputs are switchable between mic and line level signals. Usually, they can accept both dynamic and condenser microphones. For the most part, XLR input connectors are used for microphone preamps. Most audio interfaces will provide you with enough of an assortment of input types that you will be able to connect any type of equipment you like, but you’ll want to make sure that it has enough of everything you need. This will cost a little more up front, but it will save you hours of lost productivity down the road, so it may be worth spending an extra $100 and getting a few more inputs. For example, even if you’ll only be recording a couple channels at a time, do you have a lot of synthesizers or outboard gear you’d like to leave connected all the time? If so, you may want to select an audio interface that will allow you to plug everything in so you have access to it whenever you want. The first thing you need to decide is how many channels you need to record and playback at the same time as well as how you’d like to connect up your equipment. Let’s go through some of those options and why you would select one over the other depending on how you’d like to record in your studio.
BUILDING HOME STUDIO COMPUTER PROFESSIONAL
These interfaces range from small compact devices like the AudioBox USB 96 to a professional 64-channel mixer with integrated recording and DAW control like the StudioLive 64S.
PreSonus makes a wide range of audio interfaces that are designed to suit just about any use case you may have. Your audio interface may also include any or all of the following: a MIDI interface, microphone preamps, instrument preamps, onboard monitoring functions, and even onboard plug-in processing, to name just a few of the features available to modern recordists. But more than just the converter that translates what you are hearing into information your computer can understand, an audio interface is the central hub around which your studio in connected. Its main function is to convert analog audio to digital audio and vice versa, so you can record to and play back from a computer. Selecting Your Audio InterfaceĪn audio interface is an essential component to any modern recording studio. If you’re just getting started, PreSonus recommends that you select a newer protocol to provide you with the most longevity from your investment.
While there are still FireWire products in production, you will find that these are generally compatible with Thunderbolt. The most popular protocols currently in use are USB 2.0, USB 3.0, USB C, and Thunderbolt. This is the method of communication your audio interface uses to transfer audio to and from your computer. The last thing to consider is the transport protocol your audio interface requires. If you will be producing multi-layered EDM albums with dozens of tracks triggering virtual instruments and samples, your computer will need more horse power than if you are just using your computer to record your vocals and guitar only. For example, if you are planning on recording eight or more audio tracks simultaneously at 96 kHz, you will need a more powerful machine than you would if you are recording one track at time at 44.1 kHz. So, keep that in mind when configuring your PC. The better your computer specs are, the better your performance will be.
BUILDING HOME STUDIO COMPUTER SOFTWARE
Keep in mind that the “minimum system requirements" published by any accessory hardware or software manufacturer are just that: The bare minimum computer specs that you need to get the bare minimum level of performance.
BUILDING HOME STUDIO COMPUTER FOR FREE
If you are purchasing a PreSonus audio interface, Studio One ® Artist is included for free with your hardware (more on that in a minute). The first thing you’ll need to check is the system requirements for the recording software you’d like to use.
This can be a Mac® or Windows® PC, so you can continue to use whichever operating system with which you’re most comfortable. The first thing that you must have to set up a recording studio is a computer. This guide will go over the basics of what you need to get started.
PreSonus ® offers everything you need to record, mix, produce, and master your music in your spare bedroom. Setting up a recording studio in your home has never been easier and more affordable.