The best audio interface under $1000?

Any suggestions out ther for what you cansider the best bang for your buck? People keep talking about the MOTU 828mkII but I can't remember how much they cost at this time. And I haven't had any problems with my M-Audio Firewire 410.
It does a good job and gets me by but when the time comes to start recording full drum sets I'll need a good investment to last me some time.

wow....that's a better response than I expected! Looks like I have my work cut out for me as far as research is concerned. The Motu 896 sounds like a great unit...I've been looking into the PreSonus Firepod too but haven't been able to make my mind up on anything yet. I won't be getting one for a short while but wanted to see what was out there...
I'm going to have to look into all those other ones too...never heard of the RME FireFace800 but I like the convenience of a firewire interface.
The Sappire Pro I've never heard of either so I'll have to research that one as well as what's up with a Metric Halo 2882. All new to me!
Thanks alot!
If anyone else has suggestions...please pass them in!

Similar Messages

  • What is the best audio interface to buy to record drums?

    What is the best audio interface to buy to record drums?  Looking for something with 8 inputs to mic my drum kit.  Don't want to go past $1,000.  Been looking at the Presonus Firestudio and M-Audio Profire 2626, for example.  This is my first time setting up a home studio so any suggestions would be appreciated!
    Thanks.

    The MOTU interfaces are a good value, and as Pancenter notes, they have rock-solid drivers.  I've had good experiences with the Traveler, although I'd bypass the mic pres if possible.
    And if you're able to spend a bit more, the Metric Halo 2882 also has excellent drivers and noticeably-better sound--it's my fave in the <$2k range.  If you can find a used Apogee Ensemble, that's another great-sounding interface, although it can't match the latency performance of the MOTU or Metric Halo.  So, for software instruments, the Ensemble is not a good choice, but for recording acoustic drums, a used one for $1300-1500 would be excellent.
    -James

  • What's the best audio interface for Logic Pro and Mac?

    What's the best audio interface for Logic Pro and Mac?

    Depends on the computer model and if you have unlimited funds.

  • Whats the best audio interface to use w/new Imac?

    Hey now! I;ve just bought a brand new Imac 20"
    and I'm wondering whats the best Audio interface to use w/ garageband? Also firewire or USB. I want record guitar,bass, vocals, etc.. thanks!

    You may want to ask this question in the GarageBand forums.
    USB is cheaper but Firewire is generally better.
    PreSonus is a good brand and I think they are class compliant, so no driver needed - plug and play.
    M-Audio is another popular brand. Sometimes may have driver issues, though.
    But a lot depends on your budget and what your needs are. How many input will you need, etc?
    If just for solo recording then the PreSonus Inspire would be good. For a full band their FP10 (Firebox) is great.
    Check out this site to get you started (lots of great GB info too):
    http://www.bulletsandbones.com/GB/Interfaces.html
    Also check Sweetwater, MusiciansFriend for interfaces.

  • The best audio interface with Mac Mini using new & existing equipment?

    Hi,
    I got my existing set-up back in 2003. I'm now about to update it.
    I've talked to Apple Technical Support re which computer is best for me.
    Some important questions remain in terms of the audio interface or sound bridge I should use.
    I've detailed below my existing set-up, my existing configuration, my desired set-up (as recommended by Apple expert) and questions I have.
    Existing set-up:
    Hardware...
    1. ViewSonic HDMI 1080p Full HD LED monitor
    2. PowerMac G4 (PowerPC processor) computer
    3. PCI-424 soundcard within computer (works in conjunction with MOTU 2408 mk3 unit)
    4. MOTU 2408 mk3
    5. Quested monitors
    6. Focusrite Session Pack ff ISA220 compressor
    7. MOTU micro lite (midi-usb interface)
    8. Keyboard (yet to choose - I'll explain later)
    9. ADK Tube Condenser Commemorative Edition microphone
    10. ADK Tube Condenser Commemorative Edition microphone power box (supplies both power and phantom power)
    Software...
    11. Tiger 10.4.11 operating system
    12. Logic Studio 8 music program
    Desired set-up:
    1. ViewSonic HDMI 1080p Full HD LED monitor
    2. Mac Mini full spec = £999.00
    3. _______________________________________
    4. _______________________________________
    5. Quested monitors
    6. _______________________________________
    7. _______________________________________
    8. _______________________________________
    9. ADK Tube Condenser Commemorative Edition microphone
    10. ADK Tube Condenser Commemorative Edition microphone power box (supplies both power and phantom power)
    Software...
    11. Top-end operating system = Comes with Mac Mini
    12. Logic Pro X music program = £139.99
    Existing configuration:
    ViewSonic HDMI 1080p Full HD LED monitor goes into PowerMac G4 (PowerPC processor) computer
    PCI-424 soundcard within computer (works in conjunction with MOTU 2408 mk3 unit)
    MOTU 2408 mk3 used as my audio interface for sound in and sound out. This means that the sound comes out of computer via the MOTU 2408 and out of my Quested monitors (they are active so self-powered) which are attached to the MOTU's outputs.
    When I record vocals I sing into my ADK microphone (this microphone sources its own power from its own box which also feeds it Phantom Power) which is connected by a mic to jack cable to the Focusrite compressor which is connected by jack to jack cable to the MOTU 2408 which then goes into my computer via a firewire cable.
    When I play keyboards or use my keyboard as a midi controller it connects to my computer via the MOTU micro lite (midi-usb interface).
    I don't currently have a keyboard. I used to use my basic Yamaha PSR-540 keyboard as a midi controller but as it's not weighted and faulty I needed to get a new one. We got a new one via Thomann which was the M-Audio Pro Keys 88 keyboard but this quickly became faulty. We returned it and have since been considering other weighted keyboards. I am simply wanting a keyboard with Aftertouch, either 76 or 88 keys, weighted keys and very importantly, hammer action where the action is fast. I don't care for other controllers on the keyboard, on-board sounds, iPad compatibility or whatever.
    My Questions:
    Q1) Can you recommend any keyboards meeting my specifications?
    Q2) I can't imagine any of the Blue or other USB mics competing with my ADK and I'm quite happy with it. For vocals and when I've wanted to play the keyboard in as audio (not as a midi controller) I've used the Focusrite compressor to boost the sound. I'm not using many functions/presets on the compressor as I know it's best to record the sound of vocals mostly raw, is this correct, and if so is it worth me continuing to use this compressor or sell it?
    Q3) Do I need to have the MOTU micro lite (midi to usb) unit? Don't most keyboards these days connect direct usb to usb on the computer?
    Q4) I'm happy and used to the sound out from my Quested monitors. I'm happy and used to the sound in using my ADK microphone. What do I need for these to work best with the Mac Mini? Is my MOTU 2408 good for this, or is another MOTU product needed, or another product altogether?
    Q5) Depending on (Q4) do I need a soundcard installed in the Mac Mini as I read on a forum that these days the audio interface acts like the soundcard?
    Q6) I have such a bad connection to the internet it's like I have Dial-up!!! I use Airport Wireless which is connected to a router downstairs, which is 02 Broadband. Internet's not an issue downstairs on my girlfriend's intel PC which also uses a wireless connection but not Airport. Is this a problem because of my Airport, or do I need to get a router for upstairs, or should I connect it directy to the router downstairs by ethernet cable?
    Many thanks!

    Is there a reason you don't want to use your current Tascam?

  • What is the best audio interface?

    Hi,
    I want an audio interface for around £100 to allow me to record vocals and guitar into my macbook pro.
    I was wondering if anyone on this forum would be able to help me decide which is best (latency/quality) etc.
    So far, i've found these two which i think one of them is probably my best option - i just don't know which one:
    http://www.gak.co.uk/en/alesis-io-2-portable-usb-audio-interface/624
    http://www.gak.co.uk/en/m-audio-fast-track-usb-v2/30573
    Oh, and i will only be playing my guitar through a jack, not mic'ed up. So that won't be an issue with the M Audio.
    Thank you in advance,
    Tom.

    Before doing anything, might be a good idea to try a couple of things.
    First, re-install the control panel software then repair permissions.
    try the fp10's
    If that fails, reboot the Mac, set the Fp10's up the way you normally use them, then open Activity Monitor and Quit or Force Quit and running Presonus applications.
    Try the fp10s.

  • For guitar, vocals, keyboard/drumpad controller, what is the best audio interface to use/record quality sound in Logic, Mainstage, Garageband, etc. (lowbudget)?

    So many to choose from. im really just trying to record clean sounding electric guitar tracks now vocals in the future and keyboard/drumpad controller near future..(irrelevant but thought i should mention im in the market for a keyboard and drumpad controller combo hopefully will be usb or something) but i need a quality audio interface to use with Logic Pro 9 and all the stuff that comes with it (mainstage, etc) and also Garageband. I have heard so many different reviews about this or that but all in all i dont think i can afford an apogee except maybe the apogee One but it at 249 or whatever i feel like i could get alot more bang for my buck. Ive heard alot of good things about m-audio gear but i heard mixed reviews as well. If someone can just tell me what is the best interface in the 100-200$ range for the needs ive listed above...Any responses or advice greatly apprecitated.
    Thanks
    -J

    hi mm
    there are so many different sound cards out there these days it seems - ill just say that one that i got alot of use out of was the tascam 122 (http://www.tascam.com/Products/US-122.html)
    it has 2 decent phantom powered XLR inputs, some midi stuff, a place to plug a guitar into and some nice big knobs.
    the next level would be something with more ins (8 or 10) and probably firewire, and also around $400 i think.
    oh, and your computer should be more than sufficient to handle what you want to do.
    G4PB1.5GHZ12INCH125RAM Mac OS X (10.4.6)

  • Best audio interface under $300?

    Hi,
    I've been recording with GB for the past year now, going seriously low budget, recording directly into the little built-in microphone on my iMac. Believe it or not, if I could get some quite in the house, the quality was surprisingly good.
    But, recently I've upgraded to a new Mac Pro and now need to buy an audio interface. I've been doing a lot of research, but there are so many options out there. I'm hoping someone out there would be kind enough to offer me a little advise on the best way to go.
    Again, I have a new intel Mac Pro running the latest OS. I'm looking to record mostly guitar (acoustic, electric, bass) and vocals. My budget is around $300.
    Mac Pro Mac OS X (10.4.9) 2.66 GHz, 4GB RAM, 250GB & 500GB Hard drives
    Mac Pro   Mac OS X (10.4.9)   2.66 GHz, 4GB RAM, 250GB & 500GB Hard drives

    Hi again..
    Thanks for the feedback... I checked out the products you recommended, and they all look great.
    I've spent some more time researching and I've narrowed the list to 4.
    • Alesis iO|14
    • PreSonus FireBox
    • M-Audio FireWire 410
    • Focusrite Saffire LE
    It's tough decision to make because the reviews I've read for each are pretty even. I've had bad luck with past equipment, so any help making a decision would be much appreciated.
    Thanks!
    Mac Pro Mac OS X (10.4.9) 2.66 GHz, 4GB RAM, 250GB & 500GB Hard drives
    Mac Pro Mac OS X (10.4.9) 2.66 GHz, 4GB RAM, 250GB & 500GB Hard drives
    Mac Pro Mac OS X (10.4.9) 2.66 GHz, 4GB RAM, 250GB & 500GB Hard drives
    Mac Pro Mac OS X (10.4.10) 2.66 GHz, 4GB RAM, 250GB & 500GB Hard drives

  • Help!!! The best audio interface for Logic Studio

    Hey y'all,
    I'm looking for an audio interface. Requirements are: microphone- (XLR), instrument- (1/4") and midi-connectors. I'd like to record everything 1 by 1 all by myself, without audio playback/slowing-down issues. I'm quite new with recording and have no idea which one suits my system and software the best. I want to record as easy as possible and with the most beautiful results available. Price range of up to €500.
    My MacBook Pro:
    Mac OS X 10.6.8
    Processor 2.66 GHz Intel Core i7
    Geheugen 4 GB 1067 MHz DDR3
    My software: Logic Studio
    Thanks!

    If Midi connectivity is important: Focusrite Saffire 6 (USB). Check out the User Guide:
    http://www.focusrite.com/downloads/saffire_6_usb/
    Otherwise, I would strongly recommend Mackie's Onyx Blackjack, especially when also out gigging. Check out the product page and you can also download an Owner's Manual:
    http://www.mackie.com/products/onyxblackjack/
    I use the Mackie . User Guides/Manuals are a great way of checking out detail about a product when deciding what to buy.
    I thought that Sennheiser were well known for headphones, not microphones.

  • What is the best audio interface to use with Garageband?

    I just bought a new iMac last week.  I have several instruments I want to record using Garageband.  Is there a USB/Thunderbolt audio interface that someone recommends?  I'm looking at 4 inputs at the very least.  Thanks!

    right....
    first of all do a search in this forum. This question has been asked numerous times.....
    if you're still unsure then when you post again it could be an idea to tell us:
    1. kind of music you make.
    2. The number of inputs/outputs needed (e.g. are you gonna record a 6 piece band simultaneously?)
    3. Your midi needs.
    4. The number of keys you would prefer on a midi keyboard
    5. whether you would like a lot of buttons and knobs
    6. your budget!!!
    otherwise i might suggest an apogee ensemble which is tres expensive - but it is one of the best interfaces for logic pro
    I don't mean to rant, but the more specific info you give, the more specific info you'll get. But if you haven't even done a simple search on these forums for five minutes then why will others spend five minutes to help?
    one other tip: stay clear of m-audio audio interfaces with Logic.
    Hope that helps
    Rounik

  • Please recommend the best audio interface not the firebox!!!!

    i am not sure if this unit is doing what i want it to do.
    what audio interface are you using (firewire) to record external synth/guitar
    and recording out of its audio outs to a recording device like a minidisc at the same time monitors are connected to it. The firebox is eccentric, sometimes the drivers are there in the midi audio and sometimes they arent.
    which brand are you using with consistent results?
    its always hit and miss with this firebox. im using OS 10.4.11 and just upgraded the new software mixer and control at its web site.
    garageband has gotten so good now its the audio interface failing me.
    thanks

    I use the M-Audio Firewire solo. It's super reliable and I think it's got everything you need. As long as your drivers are good, you're good to go. Just make sure that you DO NOT plug it in when the computer is on (as with all firewire products)! I ruined one that way.. then turned around and bought another one.
    Love the thing.
    http://www.m-audio.com/products/en_us/FireWireSolo-main.html

  • Whats the best audio interface for iMac

    In the price range $300 - $800, what is the highest quality audio interface with lowest latency, assuming you only need 2 line inputs, 2 XLR inputs, headphone output, 2 speaker outputs. (More I/O is certainly OK). I plan on buying an iMac quad core i7 with 8 Gs of RAM.

    Hope it goes well for you.
    I remember back when I was wanting to get a RME Fireface 800. Can't say I've heard of the BabyFace, so I hope it works out for what you need it for, and the AD / DA converters are up to the standard you want.
    Good luck!

  • What is the best audio interface for new mac ?i

    I'm new to Apple and have been with tacsam neo 2488 and would like to know witch audio interface would to start with

    Is there a reason you don't want to use your current Tascam?

  • Whats the best Audio Interface to use with Logic and MacBook Pro?

    I currently own a Line 6 Pod X3 Pro and although its much better than the Eleven Rack (what an overrated piece of junk in a pretty candy coating, more fizz than club soda and still no balls. Some say it just needs a cheap overdrive box to do the trick. I say how can it possibly be worth a Grand if a cheap added piece of equiptment is needed to improve the sound?) It's still not exactly top notch, to say the least.
         I was really considering the SSL (Solid State Logic) XLogic Alpha-Link MADI, a 24 channel high-end AD/DA Converter. It's somewhat pricy, but you can't possibly find a bigger bang for your buck, however I don't really need that many channels. I'm really going for quality over quantity, but I'll pay for the extra inputs if there's no way around getting top of the line otherwise.

    Thanks but I already figured it out, or rather B&H did for me. Firstly, to use the SSL with a DAW you'll need to use the Extreme "PCIe card" which neither notebooks or iMacs accomodate. So unless I want to dish out an additional $1,500 for an RME laptop interface (with built in PCIe card) for this interface i'm shoot out of luck, boo! I was really looking foreward to that set up.
        However, to answer my own question (and save a couple hundred bucks) you simply can't beat Apogee's Ensemble, which is built specifically for Mac. Much simpler - no drivers needed, and I actually understand the specs, 16 channels, and 4 of which even have transparent mic preamps. And its only $200 more than the Rosetta (only 2 channels, and nothing but converters - no preamps).
         The main thing I also wanted was to have as least components as possible going into Logic. I already passed my "gear collecting phase," and the more I added the worst it sounded. I was already forewarned of such results, but when your a newbe like I was I guess you have to find out for yourself. So I'll be getting rid of my Line 6 POD X3 Pro; dbx 1066; Presonus Eureka; Aphex 204; and 8821 Sonic Maximizer ( I already got rid of the 11-Rack, good riddence!
       And replacing them all with an Avalon 737 - anything that sounds that good over YouTube has gotta kill - and the guy from B&H said "thats one SWEET set up!" Of course every body knows Apogee and Avalon are no brainers (if you've got the patience to save up for the good stuff) but I'm more of a best kept secret type of guy (or try to be) however this time I don't mind conforming. Taylored quality and simplicity...Perfect...what more can a guy (or girl) ask for (now if I can only get my hands on some Vienna Symphonic Orchestra Software to pick up the slack where Logic is lacking.)
        I just want to stop with the learning every new gadget nonesense already and get back to being a musician again.
    PS How do I switch this topic to the Logic forum? I'm sure it will be more helpful to others there.

  • What is the best audio interface to use with Lion?

    I have used Tascam for quite a while, but they are not offering drivers for Lion. I don't want Apogee. What are good alternatives?

    I researched this for a friend 3 month ago. The only reasonable priced company up to date with drivers was
    PreSonus (FireStudio Project 8 inputs $400), they have smaler units too. Evrybody else is dragging their tales with drivers unless you want to go (slower USB) I have Alesis iO|25 great firewire interface, stay away! No driver-upkeep at all. I only buy from a company with regular driver updates. I wish Apple would take over on that.     Good luck.
                       W.W.

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