Practical tools / Audio
Count the take.
Then choose the interface.
A voice, a guitar, and a stereo keyboard are four separate inputs when you record them together. Work out what your session needs before buying a box with a bigger number.
Your recording checklist
For one person recording into a computer, a USB microphone may cover the job without a separate interface. Compare the two recording paths.
- Check the actual input types. The advertised channel count may include digital expansion or shared connectors. Confirm how many microphone preamps, line inputs, and instrument inputs you can use together.
- Check the computer connection. Confirm compatibility with your computer, operating system, and recording software.
- Check power and cables. Match the connectors. Confirm phantom-power requirements for your microphone rather than assuming every mic needs it.
- Allow for a real next project. If a specific larger session is already planned, enter that session above. Extra inputs are useful when you will use them.
What this count tells you
This counts analog sources recorded separately in the same take. It does not choose a model or guarantee that an interface's advertised channels are available as built-in microphone inputs.
If you record one source and then overdub the next, count the sources in the largest single take. Digital expansion, shared combo jacks, headphone mixes, and computer compatibility need their own check.
For the reasoning behind the count, read how many interface inputs you need. If you record one person into a computer, start with USB versus XLR.
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