Audio Interface
An audio interface is a device that is responsible for the playback of your sound from your computer.
Do you know...Your computer comes preloaded with an audio interface, and it might be in your PC or a chip on your motherboard. That chip is responsible for making the sound you hear.
Without the interface, your computer or laptop will lack the function of being able to play a sound. Note: Audio Interface can also be called a soundcard or an external soundcard.
If your PC or laptop has an interface by default, then why do you need an external audio interface?
It doesn't have to be complicated!
This is the reason you might need one...
- You need an audio interface if you plan on recording live instruments or vocals.
- If you want to work with a professional quality microphone (XLR), or professional hardware, then you need an external audio interface.
- If you wish to properly plug in a balanced input or a good pair of studio monitors to check your mixes on, without an interface, you won't have anywhere to plug those in.
Let's answer some frequently asked questions, regarding an audio interface.
Do you really need an audio interface?
Yes!
You need an audio interface (external soundcard) if you care about making professional recordings. An example of what you can do with an audio interface is working with a professional microphone (XLR), connect a balanced input, and so much more.
Does audio sound better through an audio interface?
Although an audio interface is used to playback a more precise version of your digital audio data that has been processed by your DAW software, It has nothing to do with the quality of your rendered (output) tracks except if used to record or recorded samples in your track.
Does an audio interface improve performance?
No!
With the exception of the one with a DSP (Digital Signal Processing), they can help take loads of your PC CPU, both a typical sound card doesn't have a DSP. You can check our below best guides for one with a DSP
Can I record vocals without an interface?
Yes but it wouldn't come out good, so, I recommend you invest in a budget-friendly audio interface a.k.a the one that isn't built into your computer, check our best guides below for a list of high-quality audio interfaces.
Best Guides On Audio Interface
Below are the best of guides on the top best audio interface, I hope you find them useful.
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The Best Audio Interfaces Under $500 [2025]
Now that you have some factors at hand, I'll be recommending some of the best audio interfaces under $500, giving you valuable information about each...
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The Best Audio Interfaces For Mixing & Mastering [2025]
I'll be recommending some of the best audio interfaces for mixing and mastering, giving you valuable information about each and every of the recommended...
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How To Use Focusrite USB Audio Interface With Fl Studio [12 & 20]
I will show you 2 ways of installing an audio interface in Fl Studio, I will be using the popular Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 for this tutorial, but trust me, you...
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The Best Audio Interface for Fl Studio [Tips, Review & Buyer’s Guide]
Review and buyers guide on how to choose an interface for Fl studio, we look into some factors to take into consideration when buying audio interfaces...
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The Top 10 Best Audio Interface (2025) [Review & Buyer’s Guide!]
I'll highlight the best ten audio interfaces, give you valuable information about selecting the right interface for your studio, and why you need them...