Some advice required for home recording

[Rob MacKillop]

Thanks, JN.

The fan noise that came from my old laptop was very noticeable, and certainly the Mini Mac is much more quiet, almost not noticeable. So I’ll give that a try.

I’ll also look at the Scarlet interface. Thanks for the heads up.

[Rob MacKillop]

PS I just had a look at the Solo version (Focusrite Scarlett) and it has two jack inputs, but my Rode NT4 mic has a split Y cable with two XLR heads. It looks like it is the 4i4 version where they allow them on the front of the unit. I guess that's the one I need to get?

[Navdeep_Singh]

1. iPhone
2. AudiGo mics
3. AudiGo app

instant 4K video with decent audio, everything fits in your pocket, no wires or cables to set up, audio seamlessly records with video via blu-tooth. Cost if you already have an iPhone: $250 per mic. Up to 4 mics.

[JazzNote]

PS I just had a look at the Solo version (Focusrite Scarlett) and it has two jack inputs, but my Rode NT4 mic has a split Y cable with two XLR heads. It looks like it is the 4i4 version where they allow them on the front of the unit. I guess that's the one I need to get?

the solo has 1 XLR input and one jack input, to go stereo you'd need two XLR inputs like the 2i2 has.
The difference to the 4i4 would be the additional midi, if you do not need midi the 2i2 will do.

edit: since you live in the UK this is the better link: Buy USB Audio Interfaces at Thomann – Thomann UK

[JazzNote]

and .... according to the Thomann page there's a 3rd and 4th generation model available. You might check which suits you better.

[Rob MacKillop]

Yes, the 3rd Gen has one xlr input and one jack, while the 4th has two jack inputs.

[JazzNote]

Yes, the 3rd Gen has one xlr input and one jack, while the 4th has two jack inputs.

Rob, watch out: the solo has only 1 XLR (1mic preamp) in both, 3rd & 4th gen. for your Rode Stereo mic you'd need a 2i2 either 3rd or 4th gen

[Rob MacKillop]

How about this one: Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 4th Generation – Thomann UK

[JazzNote]

How about this one: Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 4th Generation – Thomann UK

This would certainly work for your purpose. As the name indicates it has 4 channels ==> 2x Microphone / instrument / line input XLR / 6.3 mm jack combo balanced and 2 Line inputs: 6.3 mm jack In addition also midi.

The 2i2 which also would be suitable has only 2 channels with the possibility to use XLR or 6.3mm jacks.

either 4th gen:
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Generation – Thomann UK

or 3rd gen:
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen – Thomann UK

the 4th generation has some added features. I don't know to which extent they would be desirable for you.

The search function on google revealed this:

The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen offers significant upgrades over the 3rd Gen, featuring 69dB of gain (+13dB), 120dB dynamic range, and upgraded converters for better sound. Key additions include Auto Gain, Clip Safe, and a two-stage Air mode, plus improved headphone amplification. The 4th Gen also relocates combo inputs to the back for better cable management The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen offers significant upgrades over the 3rd Gen, featuring 69dB of gain (+13dB), 120dB dynamic range, and upgraded converters for better sound. Key additions include Auto Gain, Clip Safe, and a two-stage Air mode, plus improved headphone amplification. The 4th Gen also relocates combo inputs to the back for better cable management

[Rob MacKillop]

Thanks for all your help and advice, JN. I’ll have a good think. Appreciated! And to everyone else who chipped in.

Between Garageband and a Focusrite, I should get back on the path.

[omphalopsychos]

I plug my interface straight into my phone and record video with the native Apple camera app. I have a small effects rack between the mic and interface so I get my final tone at capture, which I know is technically wrong.

But this means zero editing of the audio and zero syncing video to audio.

I like simple workflows.

[omphalopsychos]

But GarageBand and a focusrite will work just as well!

[Rob MacKillop]