M-Audio Microtrack II - High Quality Mobile Recording Device
Compact 24-bit/98kHz audio with optional phantom power

Portable audio recorders may have practicality for anyone looking to record. These can have implications for music producers, journalists, podcasters, or home musicians. A majority feature integrated stereo microphones for direct recording. While the quality of these micas differ between model, sometime they may provide high quality mobile audio. The devices are not limited to internal micas. Since the devices (sometime) may support 48v phantom power of active microphones a mobile recorder may beer used to power a studio condenser microphone in the field. This means whether you recording a new interview, a speech in public, or some home demos in stereo; a mobile recorder can be an extremely easy and convenient piece of recording equipment for Mac or PC.

Hifi recording on the go. Mobile recorders are commonly around the size of a guitar pedal. However, pro-quality preamps and high audio fidelity are still found on many of the best mobile digital audio recorders. Some feature audio quality up to 24-bit/96kHz, matching USB audio interfaces in performance. Bring this high quality audio recording wherever you go; the devices run on battery power (sometimes rechargeable) to provide hours of stereo recording. Depend on the exact device, mobile recorders commonly feature battery, USB, and power supply powered operation. This means you may either run it on battery, or plug it into the computer or wall to recharge.

Zoom H4n Portable Recorder - Handy Pro Quality Unit with built-In Mics
Record up to 4 tracks simultaneously with built-in and external Mics

Unfortunately, there is no way to conserve and win when it comes to audio quality with mobile recorders. Economy class units may capture live audio and some music, but commonly feature poor audio quality. The biggest difference commonly comes in features. Pretty much every mobile recorder features a 1/8" stereo mini headphone jack (and commonly a 1/8" input). This allows for practical use (conversations, journals, etc.) but commonly lacks in recording live performances. Not only do pro recorders feature higher quality audio (24-bit/96kHz), they feature compatibility with studio microphones and balance ¼” inputs (for recording directly forms mixers and amps). This means you may use it to record gigs, practice, or any other stereo audio. Some even feature S/PDIF for integration with digital mixers and other digital recording devices.

Mobile Recorders allow for the direct recording of 2 channel BWF, WAV, MP3 or other digital audio formats (depending on the model). Those that feature compact flash storage can provide around 100 minutes of uncompress 16-bit stereo WAV files for a GB card. These Apple sound recordings can be transferred instantaneously via USB 2.0 to your computer. You may either use the recordings instantaneously or mix them into music software for OSX. These files can be emailed, posted to the web, or burned to CD. Whether its a business meeting, record demo, or or interview, a mobile recorder can provide Studio quality recordings for Mac. Digital mobile recorders are excellent for mobile podcasts, live bands, or any other on the go recording.

Tags: mobile recording, portable digital recorder, live audio capturing

M-Audio Fast Track Pro 4x4 Mobile USB Audio/MIDI Interface with Preamps

If you’re a hardcore musician or producer, you’ll probably be interested in a high definition audio interface. Theses are available as USB or FireWire analog to digital converters from M-Audio, MOTU, Blue and Digidesign (among others). There is some debate as to which provide the most optimal sound quality, but that is not the subject of this entry. If you perhaps still seek a large number of ports, but wish to avoid cost, a unit from PreSonus, MOTU, or M-Audio usually can do the trick. If you’re a hobbyist or podcaster, looking for only a few tracks, you could save cost and space with a smaller unit from M-Audio, Blue, or Edirol. Some of these options are very affordable, and give you studio quality digital audio conversion (24-bit/96kHz) to your computer. Any of these devices can be the start of your own apple music studio, just depending on your expectations, you may need to add additional channels for greater numbers of tracks.

Connection to an Interface – Communicate between the Interface and Sound Recording Software.
If you decide to get an interface, you will have to select it as an input source within your chosen medium. Depending on the recording software for Mac you decide to use the steps may vary. Generally, each device will be connected in the same manner. However, minor changes (such as a few FireWire devices requiring a full system shut down prior to use), do occur from device to device.

If you’re without an audio converter for your computer, you could settle for its built-in audio port. Some Apples feature an 1/8-inch audio input, which, assuming you obtain the correct adapters, will provide the ability to record guitar, bass, and passive XLR microphones. While this is the easiest and most convenient way to record vocals and instrument pickups on Mac, it sometimes lacks the audio quality most users seek (certainly not that of sound studios). Quarter inch input from guitars and basses (and piezo outputs) require a ¼ inch phono to 1/8 stereo mini adapter. You’ll need a stereo mini plug to XLR connector adapter for microphones that do not need phantom power. This again will allow you to easily connect to the computer, but will not provide for studio quality sound recordings.

Connecting an interface is really quite simply, just plug it in and set it up…

1. Check whatever set up guide may have been included with your device. If there are any precautions to be made aware of, they should be in the manual.
2. Install the necessary drivers to ensure a proper connection. It is often best to then check the internet for any possible driver update in order to maximize efficiency. After installing the proper drivers, it is also advisable to restart you OS at least once before continuing with use.
3. Connect the device to you computer. Simply plug in the corresponding USB or FireWire cable that (hopefully) came with the device. Depending on which model of interface you use, you may also be required to provide AC power as well. Many larger units include a (so-many) volt power supply for this exact purpose. If it was included, connect this at the same time.
4. Most devices power on with a button or switch. If you are using microphones or other audio gear that requires 48v phantom power, so devices feature additional switches for enabling such features.
5. Depending on the device you choose, it may feature its own preference pane, or possible a DSP mixing application. If you wish to use they components, you will need to open them at this time. Other wise you will need to access the device from the recording software you are working with.

1. • You could access the audio interface from the System Preferences, however, this will divert all system audio through the chosen interface. Which, given the wrong source, may result in damage to you studio monitors or gear.

1. Most DAWS and PC audio recording software some sort of audio preferences feature within their preferences.

1. • The usually accessed via choosing preferences from the drop down menu titled after the software (say GarageBand, or Logic).
2. • There should be some sort of audio input options within the audio preferences. This usually is a list or menu with possible input options listed. You will want to select your devices names, but sometimes it will be titled Aggregate Device, or some other generic title.
3. • If you wish to direct the playback through the interface as well, you have to select it in the output options (most likely in the same preference pane). As long as you are careful, you may connect you studio monitors to your Mac in this way.

1. After connecting and powering the device, all you simply need to do is plug in your Mics/instruments and assign tracks.

1. • While many devices will default to recording in stereo (combining input 1 & 2 and so), this will limit your later mixing options.
2. • Assigning each input to an individual mono track will facilitate the greatest amount of later production that may take place to the recorded audio.

1. Once you have selected and armed all of your tracks, you are ready for the greatest and most difficult aspect of sound studios, Press Record.

M-Audio Oxygen 49-Key USB MIDI Controller

If you have a MIDI keyboard (and an audio interface), you can simply plug the MIDI out into the MIDI in of the interface. Your keyboard may feature additional PC mixing software or OSX music software to install prior to use, but it should be pretty straightforward. One necessary step is select the input within the PC audio recording software you’re using. This commonly is done within the audio preference pane (or sometimes MIDI preferences), and requires the driver to be installed first.
If you have a USB keyboard (or controller) its only a matter of plugging in the correct cable (and possibly installing some audio recording software or device drivers). As longs as its functioning properly you should be able to select the keyboard as you would another input source.

Connect Headphones and Speakers
When it comes to jamming, Mac’s built-in speakers sometimes won’t cut it. While they are sufficient for the usual playback of audio and movies, headphones and external speakers usually pack much more of a punch than the factory installed ones. Luckily, this means a simple matter of plugging in the correct cables to your Mac 1/8 stereo mini port. Since many headphones as stereo already feature this port is incredibly easy. 1/4 inch stereo and other formats require a number of adapters to function properly. Speakers and headphones, unlike most audio peripherals, do not require any drivers to function with the OS.

Using Your Home Stereo Equipment on your Mac
There are a few ways to connect your home stereo to you computer. To play material from your Mac through you home sound system you may either use an audio interface, or you computers 1/8 stereo mini jack. While the stereo mini jack may not have a gain an audio interface has to offer, it can be fitted with a stereo adapter to fit most RCA ports.

Connecting Monitors to your Mac
Unlike headphones and home theatre speakers, monitors commonly require a preamp to function optimally. The easiest way to accomplish this with a Mac is to either purchase a preamp or use an audio interface. With such a device, use the L and R main outputs to connect a set of studio reference monitors. If you are seeking an all-around device for a studio and do not currently posses either it would be best to start with an audio interface. This will not only handle audio the speakers, it will function to connect MIDI controllers, instruments, mics, and other media to you computers music software.

Tags: music recording, home sound studios, mac audio equipment

PreSonus AudioBox USB USB Recording Interface
Affordable way to begin multitrack recording with most music softwares

Audio interfaces are the staple of home studios. They are among the best home recording equipment for Mac or PC. Digital audio companies produce two significant variations of the analog to digital audio converter. One is the form of a digital mixing console; mimicking the feel of a classic board, however providing analogue digital audio conversion for mics, guitars, line-level instruments, effects processors, and other lines-ins. Some of these boards feature option 48v phantom power, or integrated effects, but options vary widely from unit to unit (and from cheap to expensive). The other variant of interface is rack mounting consoles. While these may not simulate the feel of a convention board, they commonly provide excellent audio quality, reliable construction, and compact size. If you’re looking to record a large number of digital tracks inexpensively these can be a very valuable asset. Not only can you daisy change multiple units (of the same audio interface brand and model) to obtain additional tracks, the devices can provide up to 8 preamp mic/instrument channels (per unit), as well as additional line-inputs.

There are many features to be aware of when considering an audio interface. One thing is to make sure the a few of the channels feature preamps. These will make all audio sources much more audible (and thereby increase head room) while recording. Furthering that point, make sure it features good preamps. In its infancy analog/digital I/O unfortunately sported poor audio quality, and noisy digital preamp circuits. As the technology evolved, many upgrades brought about higher audio fidelity, and nearly noiseless preamps. A sub par model may feature noisy, and ineffective preamps; quality models commonly offer low distortion circuits, with clean and transparent sound. This means high definition recording consisting of high signal-to-noise ratios, and usually around 70 dB worth of gain. While you may save a decent sum by choosing a more affordable interface, it commonly will suffer in preamp and digital conversion circuitry. To get the audio quality of a Mac recording studio, it would be best to invest in a decent audio interface immediately; all audio recorded using it will automatically sound better.

M-Audio ProFire 2626 High Definition FireWire Audio Interface - 26-in/26-out Analog to Digital Conversion
Experience audio studio (24 bit/192 kHz) fidelity from a home recording Studio using FireWire 400 or 800

There are two different standards in digital audio quality. While cheaper interfaces feature lower audio fidelity, it is best to attempt to get as high of definition as possible (basically the digital equivalent of large headroom). FireWire, with its slightly faster connection speed tops out around 24-bit/192kHz, giving you pristine audio quality and functionality (sometimes not even requiring a power cord). USB, being slightly slower, only reaches about 24-bit/96kHz. It is important to first consider if the device will function with your computer (if your Mac lacks FireWire, obviously it would not be the proper choice). Then it is important to consider how much you are willing to spend. If you are seeking to create your own Apple music studio, it would probably be best to look at a high definition FireWire model (with at least 8 mic/instrument preamp channels). If your only seeking podcast recording equipment on a Mac, you might be able to settle for a 2 mic preamp unit.


Digidesign Mbox 2 Mini Portable USB Audio Interface ___________________ Digidesign Mbox 2 USB Audio/MIDI Interface
M-Powered Pro Tools LE Audio Workstation _______________________ Pro Tools LE Audio Workstation

Software compatibility has two fronts. First, one must determine if the device will function with Mac OSX. After that, one must determine which sound recording software compatible with Apple will communicate with the interface. While its seem remedial, you might buy a quality converter does not function with your current recording software. Worse yet, you may be in the middle of a project, and lack the ability to produce it with the new device. While it could just be a matter of upgrading to a different recording software, it might be easiest to simply find a compatible device in the first place. Companies like Avid (the Digidesign Mbox), only function with studio apps like Pro Tools (considered the industry standard), and commonly call for a USB iLok. If you are looking to create a Pro Tools based studio, and have a powerful computer, these can be very effective interfaces. However, if you are just starting your home studio for Mac, you might be much more satisfied with a more universal analog/digital converter. A good multi channel A/D-D/A converter will function with Cubase, GarageBand, Pro Tools, Live, Logic, and Sonar.

The audio interface (of whatever sort) is a quintessential step in transforming any Mac or PC into a recording studio. While you may use more economical options such as your computer’s built-in mic/audio input, a USB microphone, or some sorta handheld recorder; you simply will be unable to obtain the quality an audio interface has to offer (without spending more than an interface would be already). The best part for any continuing recordist/musician, is the majority of pre-existing audio gear you already own should function with the device. Microphones using XLR and quarter inch instrument cables simply plugin to the device to begin converting.

Some interfaces included an iteration of the onboard DSP mixer. This DSP allows for for creating different recording environments. Not only may you create a custom master tracker, some devices allow for multiple independent monitor mixes to be shared through the interface. This is commonly done using some sort of software control panel to configure the different recording setups. A functional DSP supports saving mixes for later recall, as well as an active track monitoring during recording.

Functionality differs from device to device (especially in terms of I/O). Along with the number of ports, one of the other largest discrepancies is the actual type of ports installed on the device. While a mobile interface may only feature microphone and quarter inch inputs (sometime S/PDIF and MIDI), a full rack unit will most likely posses multiple TRS, XLR, MIDI (for keyboards and other outboard hardware), S/PDIF, ADAT, and TS combo inputs. If you are interested in recording multi-track music, it is important to get a device with as high of connectivity as possible.

M-Audio Fast Track Pro 4x4 Mobile USB Audio/MIDI Interface with 2 Preamps
Highly compatible compact audio workstation for Mac or PC

Some of these devices feature standalone capabilities. The device’s preamps and channels function without connecting to a computer. This allows you to either use the interface with conventional storage methods (via the master channel output), or as a live audio processor. While it may not sport the features of a mixing board, it beats the price any other setup, and proves such a small device can excel in versatility. The audio interface is pretty much the easiest way to obtain the mobile recording experience, and maintain studio quality sound.

Digital audio used to mean sacrificing the quality of audio found at large studios. Before the capacity of hard drives skyrocketed, it also used to meant limited recording time. Now, audio quality and storage capacity alike have made groundbreaking steps forward that eliminate both of those shortcomings. Not only that, the introductory price to those advances is fallen to lower than ever before. If have interest in a DIY Mac compatible audio studio, an audio interface would be a major step in the right direction.

Tags: mac recording studio, apple recording accessories, music equipment for OSX

M-Audio Fast Track Ultra 8R - Eight Mic Preamp Channels through USB

Audio Interface
The audio interface is key to producing quality audio tracks. Probably 50% of your audio quality will depend on your choice of interface alone. That is not to say the you must pay for the most outrageous device on the market, but you should still be very consciencious about your decision. There are a few basic criterion with which to grade the audio interfaces you consider. Most important is the device must support multi-track recording. Many of the original digital audio interface introduced only featured stereo tracking; and while this may have sounded decent on the immediate headphones or home stereo, it was very lacking for future mixing opportunities (in that all of the tracker are already condensed to stereo). The next feature is the audio quality; you want to make sure that the selected device produces audio that is at least 24-bit/96kHz (you may obtain greater bit rates with a FireWire interface; but make sure you computer is compatible first). Compatibility is another selling point; many applications will only work with certain suites (M-Box for example, only work is Pro Tools stations). It is essential that your interface will function with the recording software you have chosen.

The easiest route for recording one mic would be something like the Blue Microphones Icicle XLR to USB converter. It provides driverless, studio quality USB audio to any Mac running OSX. Another great advantage to the Icicle is optional phantom power for mics that require 48V. The Icicle is pretty much the easiest way to begin recording for under $50. A setback is you can only record one track at a time; but that being said, you can easily begin overdubs, or podcast recording in no time. Simply plug your microphone XLR cable into the device, and the device to your computer’s USB port.

Shure SM57 Cardioid Dynamic Microphone

Microphones
If you are seriously looking to start your own Apple Music Studio, you will need an assortment of mics. At first you will want to start with very versatile microphone. Best would be something like a large capsule cardioid mic (such as the M-Audio Nova or equivalent). Another good choice would be a Shure SM57 (great for drums, percussion, and guitar amplifiers) or SM58 (for vocals or harp).

Monitors
Before you can release your album/song, you will actually need to listen to it a few times. To best facilitate mixing, you will want as clear of audio as possible. While you could choose an $800 set of studio monitors; you might actually want to release a few tracks before making such an investment. The easiest route would be a pair of desktop computer speakers. Most likely, you already have a set lying around that you could supplement for a set of monitors during your early recordings. A set of reference headphones also go a long way in recording towards obtain clean audio. The Grado SR-60i can serve as an excellent set of reference headphones; while their open ear construction does not facilitate overdubbing.

In the end, producing music is a not simply a matter of combining music software and recording equipment. It will take a fair amount of practice and effort to master overdubbing and recording. Like anything the more you work at it the better you get. With the proper Mac studio equipment will only go you so far when recording, after that it is up to your own talent and ambition.

Tags: mac recording studio, music recording software, audio interfaces, microphones

M-Audio Fast Track Pro ‘ M-Audio ProFire 610



Both feature two microphone preamps as well as additional line-ins. The preamps in the USB model offer a decent amount of gain (without compromising the tone), delivering very portable recording for under $200. The preamps in the ProFire boast nearly noiseless gain at studio quality fidelity (24-bit/192kHz ). Each of the preamps offer mic or quarter inch input. With sufficient levels, or additional preamps, one may recording anywhere from one person, to possibly a small band (unfortunately a bit limited on the 4x4 fast track model).

For a portable Mac compatible audio interface, either of the M-Audio models offer high definition digital audio at economic prices. If you’re looking for a device that offers easy functionality, and doesn’t sound like a tin can, both of the units could suite your needs.

Tags: music recording, audio gear, home music studio, podcasting

Blue SnowBall USB Mic Plantronics USB Headset with Mic

If you’re looking to go as low budget as possible when beginning recording it is easiest to start with GarageBand. If you’re using a Mac (which is likely considering the name of this site), chances are it is already installed on your computer (if not, it is available as part of Apple’s current version of iLife). The application supports multi-track recording and features enough mastering capabilities to be get any beginning recordist started. If you later find GarageBand to be to be far too limited, you may always upgrade to a more expensive audio recording software.


The second consideration is what you are looking to record. If you wish to record voice for a podcast only, you can easily settle for a headset or a USB microphone. They are affordable, easy to use, and require no additional audio interface to connect with a Mac. For a single microphone or instrument set-up, you may employ a smaller interface (such as the USB Fast Track) or other small unit. It will handle a single mic, quarter inch input, and features phantom power. If instead you look to record a full band, the most economical option is something like the Pre sonus FireStudio or FirePod (running around $500 or so); giving you 8 preamp channels as well as optional phantom power. Whatever the case, it is essential you confirm that the chosen interface is compatible with OSX, beyond that the criteria changes base in the you are looking for (channels, fidelity, USB or FireWire, etc).

Presonus FireStudio M-Audio Fast Track

In considering what audio you wish to record, you must also consider what microphones will best suite your purposes. There are various microphones for vocals and instruments. If you were setting up a major studio project, you would want to get separate mics for every task (vox mic, drum kits, instrument mics, etc.) However, if this your first project and you simply with to begin recording, it is easiest to start with something like a cardioid condenser mic (such as the M-Audio Nova). Such a mic can function as either a vocal or instrumental mic, and delivers decent audio quality for most sources. For recording a single track at a time, or in combination other inputs, the Nova will perform very well; however, you will still want to build up you mics over time to facilitate recording different sources (if you are looking create a Mac music studio).

M-Audio Nova

A final consideration for making your Mac into a low cost music studio is monitors. While you certainly can use you Mac’s built-in speakers for playback, it will not be very useful when attempting any sort of mixing or mastering. Most practical is turning your existing home stereo into a monitor system. While the speakers may not be specifically intended for studio use; they commonly feature better speakers than buying a low cost monitor unit. Headphones offer decent isolation and allow for easier definition of the stereo image than common speakers, but only allows a single listener at a time. A pair of Sennheiser HD 202 headphones will serve as a decent headset for under $50. More expensive headphones definitely will deliver better audio quality, but also come at a much higher price.

After obtaining these items, it should just be a matter of plug and play. Assuming the compatible drivers are installed, simply select the proper inputs in GarageBand and you can be on your way to recording your first song using a Mac. Truthfully it still costs a few thousand the get the audio quality of profession recording studios, but you still may begin recording all of your demos from home. The greatest advantage to digital home recording is the amount you can record. As long as you have space left on your hard-disk you can keep on tracking.

Tags: mixers, microphones, osx audio software