Audio interface

[Fishman]

Hi

I want to connect to my Mac to record bass, vocals etc - what's the best option for around 300-400 quid?

Any advice appreciated

Cheers
Fishman

[discreet]

Our guitarist has one of [url="http://www.dv247.com/computer-hardware/focusrite-forte-portable-usb-audio-interface--101696"]these[/url] and seems to get very good results, but I haven't used it myself.

[ambient]

For that budget I'd get a MOTU Utralite mk3.

I just bought an Apogee Jam that I carry about so's I can record out, really nice too.

At home I use a Focusrite Scarlett 2i2.

Edited December 13, 2014 by ambient

[dave_bass5]

Another vote for the Scarlett (mines the 212). It's been rock solid since I got it, and in fact it's my only audio interface now. Handles system sounds as well as DAW stuff.

[Mornats]

I have the Focusrite Forte and the sound (preamps and output) is excellent. Gear4Music have it on sale at a bargainous £200 too: http://www.gear4music.com/Recording-and-Computers/Focusrite-Forte-2in-4out-USB-20-Audio-Interface-for-Mac-and-PC/MQJ

[Fishman]

thanks guys - any opinions regarding software? i was thinking of maybe getting something that had pro tools bundled with it

[goblin]

For that money, you could pick up an Apogee Duet, cracking interface, dead easy to use and built like a tank. Mine's a few years old and still going strong. They look good too!

Software options, Logic Pro's always a good place to start, and if you're just wanting to get started, Garageband isn't particularly bad either!

[lowdown]

RME Babyface - now going for £415.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/RME-BABYFACE-BLUE-Audio-interfaces/dp/B004GXA41C

Specs.
https://www.google.co.uk/?gfe_rd=cr&ei=ePVkVJDsJIGZ1AWkvYD4DA&gws_rd=ssl#q=rme+babyface

Absolutely rock solid ASIO drivers and excellent Midi timing.

[ambient]

For software you should already have GarageBand. I did loads with an older version of that a few years ago.
Now I use Logic Pro X, which is really great and available for £140 from the App Store.

[Mornats]

Take a look at Cockos Reaper too. Fantastic functionality and fully functional demo. Cheap licence (around £40 or so) and loved by many

[Fishman]

Thanks for your input everyone - i opted for the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 after some research, based mainly on cost

My initial budget was probably a bit OTT for simple demo stuff needs

It comes bundled with Ableton Live Lite - i would be interested to know what people feel about this software

Cheers

Fishman

[Skol303]

Useful thread on this topic right here:

http://basschat.co.uk/topic/252114-got-money-whats-a-good-computer-interface-for-recording-bass/

I know some of us are a little squeamish of going down, but the Recording forum really is only a short scroll away down the page...

[dave_bass5]

Nice one on the 2i2 choice. Mines been rock solid since I got it. I notice there are new versions out but they don't seem to offer much in the way of new features.

I normally use Sonar so can't comment on the included software. I do actually have the full pro version of it but ive never installed it.
I know my way around Sonar so I stick with that.

[bartelby]

I recently got a new MBP, Scarlett 2i2 and Logic Pro X.
Very impressed with the interface, simple and sounds great.

I've moved from using Reason to Logic, so I'm still on the learning curve...

Edited January 30, 2015 by bartelby

[Bottle]

Another +1 for Reaper - does everything I need it to and loads more besides. As SKOL has already linked to, the Recording sub-forum has lots of great stuff and links to VST's etc