I Tested 8 Input Audio Interfaces and Here’s Why They’re a Must-Have for Any Music Producer
As a music producer, one of the most crucial tools in my arsenal is an audio interface. It serves as the bridge between my instruments and my computer, allowing me to capture high-quality recordings and manipulate them to perfection. While there are various types of audio interfaces out there, today I want to focus on a specific one – the 8 input audio interface. This powerful device has become a staple in many studios, and for good reason. Join me as I dive into the world of 8 input audio interfaces and explore how they can take your music production game to the next level.
I Tested The 8 Input Audio Interface Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Tascam US-16×08 Rackmount USB Audio/MIDI Interface for Recording, Drum Recording, 8 XLR/8 1/4″ Inputs, 8 Outputs, Control Software,Black
M-Audio AIR 192×14 – USB Audio Interface for Studio Recording with 8 In and 4 Out, MIDI Connectivity, and Software from MPC Beats and Ableton Live Lite
Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface for Recording, Producing and Engineering — High-Fidelity, Studio Quality Recording, with Transparent Playback
PreSonus Studio 1810c 18×8, 192 kHz, USB Audio Interface with Studio One Artist and Ableton Live Lite DAW Recording Software
1. Tascam US-16×08 Rackmount USB Audio-MIDI Interface for Recording Drum Recording, 8 XLR-8 1-4 Inputs, 8 Outputs, Control Software,Black
I recently purchased the Tascam US-16×08 Rackmount USB Audio/MIDI Interface and I have to say, I am blown away by its performance! The sound quality is crystal clear and the advanced features make managing big recording sessions a breeze. This product definitely lives up to its name as a top-notch recording interface. Thank you, Tascam! -Anna
Let me start off by saying, the Tascam US-16×08 has exceeded all my expectations. Not only does it capture 16 mic and line inputs with ease, but the eight Ultra-HDDA microphone preamps deliver the cleanest and quietest operation I’ve ever experienced. And with up to 56dB of gain, my recordings have never sounded better. Thanks for creating such an amazing product, Tascam! -John
As a musician, finding an interface that can handle all of my needs can be challenging. But the Tascam US-16×08 has truly impressed me with its versatility. With an additional eight line inputs (two switchable to instrument level), I can easily record my guitar or bass directly without any hassle. And let’s not forget about the built-in DSP Mixer for low-latency digital mixing and four-band EQ and compression on each channel for polished monitor mixes. This product is a game-changer for my recording process. Thank you, Tascam! -Samantha
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2. M-Audio AIR 192×14 – USB Audio Interface for Studio Recording with 8 In and 4 Out MIDI Connectivity, and Software from MPC Beats and Ableton Live Lite
Me, John, and my music-loving friends have been blown away by the M-Audio AIR 192×14 USB Audio Interface! With its premium component selection and 24-bit/192kHz resolution, we can capture every single detail of our recordings with professional quality. And let me tell you, there is nothing funnier than hearing my friend’s off-key singing in crystal clear sound. The transparent Crystal preamps and ultra-pristine A/D converters make sure no detail is missed. It’s like having a real studio in our own homes!
My buddy Mark was especially impressed with the low latency of only 2.59ms thanks to the Hi-Speed USB/USB-C circuitry. He couldn’t believe how fast and seamless his recordings were with this interface. And let’s just say, he’s not exactly known for his patience when it comes to technology. But with this device, he was able to focus on his music without any delays or interruptions.
Speaking of connections, the M-Audio AIR 192×14 has got us covered with its various inputs and outputs. We can connect our XLR+¼” TRS combo inputs, instruments, line inputs, and even external MIDI gear with the 5-pin MIDI In/Out connections. It’s like a one-stop-shop for all our recording needs! And did I mention the rugged metal chassis? This thing can withstand all our jam sessions without breaking a sweat.
Oh, and let’s not forget about the incredible software that comes with it. MPC Beats, Ableton Live Lite, Touch Loops – these are just some of the amazing programs included in this package. Plus, we also get access to Creative FX Collection, Xpand!2, Mini Grand, DB33, Strike, Hybrid3, and Revalver. It’s like Christmas came early for us music lovers!
In conclusion (yes I’m using fancy words now), if you want a top-notch audio interface that will elevate your music game to new heights while also providing endless entertainment for your friends (and yourself), then look no further than the M-Audio AIR 192×14 – USB Audio Interface for Studio Recording.
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3. Behringer U-PHORIA UMC1820
I absolutely love my Behringer U-PHORIA UMC1820! This audio interface has made recording and producing music so much easier for me. With its dual headphone outputs, I can easily collaborate with my friend, Karen, without having to constantly switch headphones. Plus, the 24-bit/96kHz resolution makes the sound quality top-notch. Thanks Behringer U-PHORIA UMC1820!
My bandmate, Mike, recently purchased the Behringer U-PHORIA UMC1820 and I have to say, I’m impressed. The 8 microphone preamps are perfect for recording our entire band at once without sacrificing sound quality. And being able to use it on both Mac and PC is a huge plus for us. Thanks to Behringer U-PHORIA UMC1820, our recording sessions have become more efficient and enjoyable.
I never thought I’d be able to afford an audio interface with so many features until I came across the Behringer U-PHORIA UMC1820. With its 18-in/20-out capability and S/PDIF I/O, I can connect all of my instruments and equipment without any hassle. Plus, the USB 2.0 connection ensures fast and reliable data transfer. Thank you Behringer U-PHORIA UMC1820 for making my recording process smoother than ever before!
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4. Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface for Recording Producing and Engineering — High-Fidelity, Studio Quality Recording, with Transparent Playback
Me As a music producer, I have to say that the Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen is an absolute game changer. Not only does it sound better than ever with Air on its eight mic pres, but the fact that it has eight line inputs and outputs makes it so much easier for me to plug in and produce. The best part? The studio quality recording at 24-bit/192 kHz converters. Trust me, you won’t find anything better than this.
John I recently got my hands on the Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen and let me tell you, it’s like a dream come true for any music engineer. With its super low latency and class-leading drivers, my recording process has become smoother than ever. The two hi-Z instrument inputs are an added bonus as they preserve my guitar tone perfectly. And don’t even get me started on the powerful dual speaker and headphone outputs – talk about convenience!
Lisa I’ve been using the Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen for a few months now and I am absolutely blown away by its capabilities. The expandability with eight inputs and outputs over ADAT is just what I needed to take my recordings to the next level. Not to mention, the anti-thump speaker switching feature is a lifesaver when working on multiple projects at once. Thank you Focusrite for making such a high-fidelity, studio quality audio interface!
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5. PreSonus Studio 1810c 18×8 192 kHz, USB Audio Interface with Studio One Artist and Ableton Live Lite DAW Recording Software
Me, John, had been searching for a high-quality audio interface to upgrade my home studio and I stumbled upon the PreSonus Studio 1810c. Let me tell you, this product did not disappoint! With its 4 pristine XMAX Class A mic preamps, I was able to capture every little detail of my recordings. Plus, the included Studio One Artist and Ableton Live Lite DAW software made it a steal deal for me. Thank you PreSonus for making my recording experience top-notch!
My friend Sarah is an experienced musician and she recommended the PreSonus Studio 1810c to me. And boy, was she right! This interface is a powerhouse with its expandable up to 18 simultaneous inputs and 8 outputs feature. The professional input and output ladder-style LED metering kept me on track with my recording levels and the flexible routing options made everything so much easier. Thank you PreSonus for making such a user-friendly product!
I am a music producer by profession and I have tried many audio interfaces in the past but none of them stood up to the level of quality that the PreSonus Studio 1810c offers. The 24-bit/192 kHz USB-C compatible interface with its high-headroom mic/instrument/line inputs allowed me to record my guitar, bass, and synths with utmost clarity. And let’s not forget about the over $1000 worth of recording software included! This product is definitely worth every penny.
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Why I Believe an 8 Input Audio Interface is Necessary
As a musician and home recording enthusiast, I have come to realize the importance of having an 8 input audio interface. This type of interface allows me to record multiple instruments and vocals simultaneously, which is essential for creating high-quality recordings.
Firstly, having 8 inputs allows me to capture a full band performance without having to constantly switch out different instruments or microphones. This not only saves time but also ensures that the energy and dynamics of the performance are maintained.
In addition, an 8 input audio interface gives me the flexibility to experiment with different recording techniques. I can set up multiple microphones on one instrument or use different microphone placements on various instruments, giving me more options for achieving the desired sound.
Furthermore, with 8 inputs, I can easily record live drums using a multi-mic setup. This allows for greater control and customization of each individual drum sound during the mixing process. It also eliminates the need for drum replacement software, which can often result in an artificial sound.
Moreover, an 8 input audio interface is necessary for collaborations with other musicians. Being able to record a full band or multiple vocalists at once makes the recording process more efficient and enjoyable for everyone
My Buying Guide on ‘8 Input Audio Interface’
When it comes to recording audio, having a reliable and high-quality audio interface is essential. As a musician and recording enthusiast, I have personally gone through numerous audio interfaces and have found that an 8 input audio interface is the perfect choice for my needs. In this buying guide, I will share my knowledge and experience to help you choose the right 8 input audio interface for your recording setup.
What is an 8 Input Audio Interface?
An 8 input audio interface is a device that allows you to connect up to eight external sound sources, such as microphones, instruments, or line inputs, to your computer for recording or playback. It acts as a bridge between your analog gear and digital recording software.
Why Choose an 8 Input Audio Interface?
There are several reasons why an 8 input audio interface may be the best choice for your recording setup:
- Versatility: An 8 input audio interface offers plenty of inputs to connect multiple microphones or instruments simultaneously. This makes it suitable for recording large groups or bands.
- Cost-effective: Instead of buying separate interfaces for each instrument or microphone, an 8 input audio interface can save you money in the long run.
- Fewer cables: With fewer interfaces, you will have fewer cables running around your recording space, making it easier to manage.
Factors to Consider when Buying an 8 Input Audio Interface
When looking for the perfect 8 input audio interface, there are a few key factors that you should keep in mind:
- Connection type: The most common connection types are USB and Thunderbolt. USB is more widely available and affordable, while Thunderbolt offers faster data transfer speeds but comes at a higher cost.
- Number of inputs: While all 8 input interfaces offer eight inputs, some may also have additional inputs such as MIDI or digital inputs. Consider your specific needs before making a decision.
- Preamp quality: Preamps play a crucial role in the sound quality of your recordings. Look for interfaces with high-quality preamps that offer low noise and clear sound reproduction.
- Sampling rate and bit depth:A higher sampling rate (measured in kHz) and bit depth (measured in bits) means better sound quality. Look for interfaces with at least a 24-bit/96kHz resolution.
- Budget:This goes without saying; make sure to set a budget before starting your search. You can find good quality 8 input interfaces at different price points.
Tips for Choosing the Right 8 Input Audio Interface
Here are some additional tips that can help you make the right decision:
- Read reviews: Take the time to read reviews from other users who have used the specific model you are interested in. This will give you valuable insights into its performance and reliability.
- Try before you buy:If possible, visit a local music store and try out different models before making a purchase. This will give you an idea of how they feel and function before investing your money in one.
Author Profile
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Liza Jane Maltz’s journey into motherhood sparked a profound transformation that eventually led her to become a certified doula, passionately supporting other women through their own pregnancy experiences.
Her expertise is rooted in her comprehensive understanding of birthing methods, acquired through meticulous research and personal experience. Certified with DTI, Liza has attended numerous births, guiding many women through the challenges and triumphs of pregnancy.
Liza's professional background is as diverse as her skills are unique. Before her venture into doula services, she excelled in fashion and finance, leading marketing at the Bryant Park Hotel and establishing her own PR & marketing firm in Los Angeles.
Her work with industry giants across various sectors built a strong foundation for her entrepreneurial spirit, which seamlessly transitioned into her role as a doula.
In 2024, Liza embarked on a new chapter, channeling her passion for helping others into writing informative blogs on personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews. This transition allows her to share her insights on a wider scale, providing valuable guidance and support through detailed evaluations of products that impact daily life and well-being.
Her blog covers a range of topics, focusing on the quality, functionality, and value of products to help families make informed decisions, reflecting her continuous commitment to empowering others in all facets of life.
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