Cosmic Guitar Academy: USB Interfaces Review

Product Review : USB Interfaces

Have you ever wanted to record your own guitar plaing in the comfort of your own home? Now it is possible to do so without breaking the bank, thanks to the development of USB guitar-computer interfaces. Simply plug your guitar into the interface linked to your p.c. and away you go! Nearly all USB interfaces come with their own recording software complete with amp modelling and effects. Most are compatible with other recording software available.

Here we've reviewed the most popular interfaces available on the market.
(NB prices correct at time of writing)

Behringer Guitar Link UCG102 USB Interface

This is a great entry level USB interface. This device lets you jam and record using the modelling amps and effects in the included software, so all you need is your guitar! The software included is only a demo though, which runs out after 30 days. However the interface can also be used with other recording software including Audacity. It also features a headphone socket for silent practise

M-Audio JamLab Personal Guitar System Hybrid

This interface is great if you are on a budget. The recording quality won’t be amazing but it will definitely meet the needs of most amateur guitarists. Suitable for PC or Mac, this device performs the same functions as the Behringer with the addition that the software, as well as having the usual amp simulations and effects, includes drum loops from the ProSessions Sound and Loops Sample Library.

Line 6 TonePort GX USB Recording Interface

The Line 6 Tone Port GX is the next step up from the Behringer and JamLab models. It is small enough to be clipped on to your guitar strap and offers professional grade 24-bit audio recording. The software provides a hardware-like interface, modelled on the POD, which allows instant access to 23 classic and modern guitar/bass amps, 29 guitar/bass speaker cab models and 30 different studio effects. Compatible with most popular recording platforms.

TASCAM US-122L USB2.0 Audio/Midi Computer Interface

Tascam's follow-up to their mega-popular US-122 is the US-122L USB 2.0 Audio/MIDI Computer Interface. The US-122L lets you record two tracks at a time with zero-latency monitoring, high-quality mic inputs, better-than-CD-quality 24-bit/96kHz recording, and MIDI I/O. This is the best way to get quality recordings from a relatively inexpensive direct recording method.

USB devices limit the speed at which data can be transferred. There are some (but not many) alternatives to USB connections out there. Here is a popular one:

M-Audio FireWire Solo Mobile Audio Interface

Firewire is a different type of cabling technology that is faster than a USB connection. It was invented by Apple but can be used on both pc and macs.The M-Audio FireWire Solo Mobile Audio Interface is suitable for musicians and songwriters on a limited budget. The unit is compatible with most popular music software and is small enough to take anywhere your music needs to go. The FireWire Solo has a 1/4" input for electric instruments, as well as an XLR input for recording vocals or acoustic instruments. Dual line inputs are ideal for effects, drum machines, or other outboard gear. FireWire connectivity, 24-bit/96kHz sample rate support, and digital I/O all add up to outstanding sonic performance.

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