That is why when you walk into a professional audio recording studio, you will see that the microphone is connected to an audio interface or audio mixer from where the connection is established with the computer. In this article, we will compare the audio interface and audio mixer and decide which one you should purchase.
What Is Audio Interface?
An audio interface is a device that connects a microphone to a computer. In place of a microphone, there could be any other compatible musical instrument. If you opt for a quality audio interface, there will be preamps that will enhance the audio signal coming from the microphone. The recording will be better with better audio quality and audio volume.
When To Choose Audio Interface?
Instead of directly connecting your microphone to your computer, you should connect your microphone to the audio interface which will eventually connect to your computer. Using an audio interface, you can record and playback your live audio. Recording through audio interface is better for recording directly in iPads, computers, iPhones, through USB port, 3.5mm microphone jack or sound card. If you want to preserve the audio quality which is essential for professional sound recording, you have to use an audio interface. Audio interfaces have multiple audio input and output ports for recording audio from multiple speakers like in a podcast.
What is Audio Mixer?
An audio mixer is an alternative to the audio interface. In fact, it is more advanced than the audio interface. You get more controls on an audio mixer. There are dials and sliders for equalizers, faders, effects, delay, chorus, and much more. You can set these controls for each input audio, and hence, you can create amazing output for your audiences. Besides, there are multiple input ports so that you can take input from multiple speakers. You can mix the audio coming from different sources perfectly.
When To Choose Audio Mixer?
You should opt for an audio mixer when you are going to give a live performance. In live performance, you cannot edit your audio naturally like you do in a recorded audio in the post-production session. When you are giving a live performance, you can select equalizers and effects to make the output sound awesome. Besides, in a live performance, there could be multiple performers including the chorus in a song. There won’t be overpowering by one voice depending on your settings. When you purchase an audio mixer, there is no need for an audio interface. You can manually control the settings for customized output.
Audio Interface vs Mixer – Important Features to Consider
Here are several important points to consider while choosing between audio interface and audio mixer.
1. Application –
An audio interface is the best bet when you want to record audio from a single or dual sources or performer. An audio mixer is the best bet when you want to broadcast your audio session in real-time. You can mix audio sources and apply effects and equalizers in real-time. An audio interface is suitable for home studio and podcasting. An audio mixer is suitable for live performance and professional studio where multiple performers are present with separate microphones.
2. Connectivity –
An audio interface generally has one to four ports. Therefore, you can connect your microphone as well as a few musical instruments. On the contrary, audio mixers generally have a multichannel setup. That is why it is suitable for big audio productions from multi-source setup. You can connect a large number of performers(chorus) and musical instruments flexibly.
3. Equalizers and Effects –
There is no option for effect and equalizer in the audio interface. This is because the audio interface is for recording. After recording, you can edit the recorded clip with audio editing software applications. However, there are some audio interfaces available with high-pass filters and specialized preamps. On the contrary, mixers are known for their effects and equalizers. They can process the audio signal as per requirements before broadcasting and streaming live. In fact, you can apply different effects for different audio input as per your preference.
4. Dimensions –
The size of the audio device is important depending on the space available in your studio. An audio interface is generally compact and portable. There is not much space requirement. On the contrary, mixers tend to be big and take considerable space.
Audio Interface vs Mixer – Technical Factors To Consider
There are certain technical parameters that can help you decide whether to pick an audio interface and audio mixer.
1. Phantom Power –
You know that there are different types of microphone available starting from condenser to dynamic microphones. You need to ensure that your audio interface or mixer has phantom power to support different types of microphone. Even though most audio interfaces and mixers come with phantom power, interfaces have limited phantom power for only one or two inputs. Therefore, if you want to use different types of microphones, check the phantom power for better compatibility.
2. Channels –
There are two types of channels available namely mono and stereo. You generally look at channels when you purchase an audio mixer. However, manufacturers do not state the channels in detail. If you purchase a 12-channel mixer, you will find two mono channels and five stereo channels. These channels are important when you want to connect different types of musical instruments. Therefore, you have to check that there are channels for connecting enough number of microphones.
3. Audio Cables –
The audio cables can vary a lot from audio interface to audio mixer. It is always better to go for a balanced audio cable for input and output. For microphones, there are professional XLR inputs. For line-level inputs, there can be different types of jacks. You need to see you match mic-level and line-level inputs and outputs for the best compatibility.
4. Power Supply –
Different audio interfaces and mixers have power supply options. Instead of plugging into the wall socket, it is better if the audio mixer or interface has a USB power option. There are certain audio interfaces available that have a bus power option for the internal power supply like any other hardware part inside the cabinet. Depending on your power supply preference, you can choose accordingly. You can go for a standalone mixer or interface, but if you want a portable one, a USB power supply is a better option.
5. Loopback –
A loopback feature is essential for those using Mac to record or stream audio. Loopback means you are routing audio from your computer to an audio interface or mixer for combining the audio source with other sources like different microphones. Therefore, the audio is re-routed to the computer for mixing. Loopback is an important feature for buying an audio mixer especially if you are into live streaming.
6. Software Control –
An audio mixer comes with an audio interface and hence, it will not support any software control. However, you will need software controls when you want to control faders. On the contrary, there are audio interfaces with built-in control surfaces where you can get software control for better customization.
Audio Interface Vs Mixer – Which Is Right for You?
It all comes down to your requirements when you want to choose an audio interface and audio mixer. If you want to set up home studio for podcasting and single person recording, you need to opt for an audio interface. You should opt for an audio mixer when you want to live stream and broadcast and you have multiple performers and instruments. Besides, you can add effects, equalizers, and others with an audio mixer. Comment * Name * Email * Website
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