
If you’re looking to get more serious, there are many professional DAWs available-Apple Logic, Avid Pro Tools, Ableton Live, and more.

But first, here are some quick recommendations:Īt the very least, you will need recording software like GarageBand (which comes with Apple computers and phones) or Audacity (which is free to download). We’ll offer many different options for all kinds of musicians and explain some key terminology. This guide will help you make the right decision by answering some basic questions. If you’re buying your first interface, it can be a tough market to navigate.

(You can even buy USB mixers that can also act as interfaces, but we’ll cover those specifically in another buying guide.) Some are best for guitarists, some for synth players, some for producers, and others for full bands or project studios. These devices (which can also be called sound cards) connect microphones and instruments to your computer, allowing you to record into your recording software (or DAW) of choice.Īudio interfaces are available in a huge range of configurations: with different inputs and outputs, different amounts (and kinds) of preamps, different ways they’ll connect to your computer, and additional features like included software as well.

Unless you’re going to record into your laptop’s built-in microphone or an old-school tape machine, you need an audio interface.
