An audio interface is a key device in any music making set-up. As well as being able to output your audio to connected speakers or headphones, an interface gives you the option to record audio into your project from microphones, instruments, and other audio devices, adding to the creative possibilities.


This guide aims to serve as an introduction to good recording practice, covering the process from start to finish. Whilst each guide features its own standalone tips, you can also follow along in order:

.

Audio Sources (Microphone and Direct Recording)


This section of the guide starts at the beginning, concerning the audio source that you will be recording. How you capture these sources can differ, and would be either via a microphone, or directly into your interface from another audio device or instrument.


Microphone


Microphones can be connected to your M-Audio interface, most commonly using an XLR cable, to record acoustic sources such as vocals, a drum kit, or an acoustic guitar. You can connect these to the combo inputs on the interface.


The two most common types of microphone are dynamic and condenser:


Dynamic - These are less sensitive, and therefore often better for isolating an audio source when used in a noisy environment. For example, dynamic microphones are common for individual drum kit pieces such as a snare, or for live vocal performances, as there is less audio 'spill' from other sounds in the vicinity.


Condenser - These microphones normally require a type of power, called phantom power, activated with a switch on your M-Audio interface. They tend to be more sensitive and 'delicate', capturing the intricacies of a performance. They are commonly used for studio vocal recording. 


Microphones send signal at 'Mic Level', and require amplification to bring them to line level (more on that below). M-Audio interfaces feature preamps for mic inputs, which bring the level up as required.


Direct


You can also record audio directly from other audio devices, such as an instrument or media player. There are commonly two signal types for this method of recording, with a switch (or separate dedicated input) on your interface to match the input channel to the signal type.


Line - A line level signal is a louder signal type, and would not require further amplification. Examples would be from digital pianos, drum machines, or CD/media players (although it always best to check the output of an audio source with the manufacturer for clarity). These can be connected via 1/4' TRS cables, to the combo input ports. If there is a switch, please set this to Line.


It is important to note, the inputs on an M-Audio interface by themselves are mono. This will only capture 1 channel, rather than the 2 required for a stereo signal. Stereo sources tend to have a left and right output, which can be connected to two separate inputs on the interface. Within your recording software, you can then choose to record a stereo track from both inputs (more on this is covered in Part 3 - Recording to a DAW).


Instrument - An instrument level signal is of a lower voltage, which requires an element of amplification to bring it to line level. This type of signal would come from connecting an electric guitar or bass to the input port. On your interface, connect this to an input port that has a guitar symbol, and move the switch to the guitar/instrument position. You can use a 1/4' TS cable. On some interfaces, there is a separate input specifically for instrument level recording.