Logic Pro X Audio Interface

Logic Pro X Audio Interface

(Last Updated On: January 23, 2021)Logic Pro X Best Audio Interface
Logic Pro X Audio Interface Has Been Removed
Connect an audio interface to your computer to use with Logic Pro. Learn how to setup your audio interface in Logic Pro X for the best recording, mixing, and editing experience. Wondering what is Core Audio? Best Beginner Interface For Logic Pro X Focusrite Scarlett Solo (3rd Gen) The Focusrite Solo is a portable interface that packs a punch. For such a compact device you still get all the necessary audio inputs on front panels, and outputs in the rear. The third option on my list is the Apogee Element 46 Thunderbolt Audio interface, which is the best audio interface for Logic Pro X, especially for people that want to record and mix a wide array of instruments.
If you have probably asked yourself this question a zillion times, then guess what? I'm here to help! Yes, that's right! No need to blow off steam nor strain your muscle getting all worked up with this gritty little stuff that we can help you a great deal with. Now, obviously, I assume that for you to be searching for this fancy little baby, this fascinating little gadget you are no rookie wondering what an ‘audio interface' even is, right? Pennywise the clown voice changer. Right. However, let's talk a little about Logic Pro X in case I might point out something you probably might not have known.
Contents
4 Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (2nd-Gen)4.2 Specs
5 2. Apogee One5.2 Specs
6 3. Apogee Jam Plus6.2 Specs
7 4. Behringer Audio Interface Black, 1-Channel (UM2)7.2 Specs
8 5. M-Audio M-Track8.2 Specs
Which one should I settle for?As you probably know or have come to know, Logic Pro X is a superb usable tool that's most definitely ideal for the self-contained, independent producer/artist meant for your home studio setup. Having no to strain a muscle with the extra costs of real studio tech and gadgets when you could probably set a comfy and good-looking studio on your own. A reliable homemade studio established producing efficient and effective works having no need of sacrificing your sound quality. It's a little less burdensome on the budget, calls for a room for relaxation of mind, more time to expand your creativity, your way, your style with, no nagging tech guy about the running bill for loss of time in the professional studio! Okay, I'm just kidding! So, more to say is that because Logic Pro X is a popular workstation why wasting time procrastinating where to set one of your own or not? Go get one set up!
Okay! So, seeing that you and I both are already on the same page on this external essential device, why don't we right away get to the point of selecting the best musical audio interface device available in stores today?
Top Five best Audio Interface for Logic Pro X you will find on market today!What Is The Best Audio Interface for Logic Pro X of 2019?Well, there you have it folks, my top five products to be reviewed.
So, the first one on my list is the Scarlett 2i2 and here's why. The device deserving the ranking it boasts of and number one position of the reviewed products I have for you, this lovely little baby, being that majority of the popular Logic X Pro fans/users, this most definitely is one of the best audio interfaces settle for. With little to no latency, two preamps built-in, of stable aluminium body build, high-quality sound of rates up to 24-bit/96kHz, the accepted home standard, it is fine music device fitting and working best with your Logic Pro X selection of a studio especially that this little device completely easy to set up, worry free! All you got to do is plug in our little guy having not a lot of long difficult setup things especially ideal for the not so familiar podcasters and musicians with the more complex musical system but have a heart in producing the best recorded, best-quality sound they possibly can with the most reliable, easy to work with equipment. If you fit in this description, no questions asked, just simply go get yourself the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2! More to say of the already mentioned stuff, is that this device comes with 2 in and 2 out USB recording interface design, a device with which you could never go wrong!
FeaturesFocurite 2i2, recording made easy, ideal for recording with two mics at a go, crisp and clear conversion, instant recording with no tiresome setups, ¼ inch balanced jack outputs for connecting professional studio monitors; one headphone output with gain control, class-leading conversion and sample rates of 192 kHz/24 bit, super low roundtrip latency for using your plug-ins in real time without the need of DSP, compatible with Windows 7 and higher, and Mac OS X 10.10 and higher. A frequency response of 20 Hz-20kH +/- 0.1dB, supported sample rates of 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz, 88.2 kHz, 96kHz, 176.4 kHz, 192 kHz plus a 2-year warranty on manufacturing defects.
SpecsFocusrite Scarlett 2i2 (2ND GEN) of 1.32 pounds, dimensions of 1.9 x 6.9 x 4.3 inches, item model of AMS-SCARLETT-2I2-2ND-GEN, colour name & size of 2i2- 2 Mic Pres, USB 2.0 Hardware interface, 240 volts.
Pros
Pros
Easy to set up
durable build for lasting use
plug-and-play technology, popular and loved
Easy to use rotary controls for both monitor and headphone levels.
Cons
Cons
Static noise creation by input and output lines possible to occur during recording until resetting them causing you to start all over.
Difficult problems to get repaired, the headphone jack tending to come loose thus needing immediate care.
2. Apogee OneTheApogee One is an audio interface uniquely designed coming with many in and out options, the over quality being famous with users. Having no XLR inputs for your mics but there being a possibility of using the Analog inputs, two of them, with 48v phantom power, it is lovable device for use of the lovers of iPods and iPhones, being also able to plug in via USB to your MAC computer. As it stands, this baby boasts of having stunning audio quality both for recording as well as playback and when it comes to its direct compatibility with your iPad it can allow you to charge your device connected, the device being an indeed a Compact form factor. Unlike the Duet 2, it has a built-in iPad compatibility, as already stated, this calling for some slight internal hardware changes, a device with fabulous software integration, ease of operation, truth worth your money! When it comes to travelling use, it's a nice small size for those who travel a lot or merely wanting it to be used for your studio /desk such that setting for this baby you will be well and good, and all sorted out!
FeaturesApogee One with 2-IN x 4-Out USB Audio Interface, 2 Analog inputs, 4 Analog Outputs, Full Colour OLED Display, Multifunction Controller Knob, a most popular portable interface for professional quality recording, designed in California and made in the US.
AD/DA conversion for recording up to 1932 kHz/24-bit, USB 2.0 High-Speed connection to Mac or Windows PC, has software control of hardware parameters inclusive of input selection and low latency monitoring.
Direct digital connection to iPad and iOS device be it iPhone, iPad and iPod touch, though the lightning and 30-pin cable sold separately.
SpecsApogee One of 1.1 pounds, dimensions of 6.3 x 4 x 0.8 inches, model number DUET-IOS-MAC, no colour screen, with 1.7 screen size.
Pros
Pros
Has stunning audio quality ideal for both recording as well as also playback.
For its direct compatibility with your iPad, you can charge it via connectivity.
It is a compact form factor, ideal for usage for many of the iOS devices like iPhone, iPad, iPod touch.
Cons
Cons
Only for IOS users.
Has only one headphone output.
There's need of lightning connector adapter for new iOS devices.
3. Apogee Jam Plus
On number three on my list is the Apogee Jam Plus Audio Interface, a great deal for with it you can get to mix different instruments together, mic instruments with vocals, and so much more giving you the top-quality sound that you can possibly be proud of. It is one of the three separate Apogee Jam Plus whose other models include the Element 24, and 88, all three numbers of 24, 46 and 88 referring to the number of Analogue inputs and outputs featured on each device. Boasting of 12in x 14 out Thunderbolt audio I/O allowing you to plug in as many instruments as you want, the Apogee Element 46 Thunderbolt comes with 48v phantom power for easy instrument connection, mics as well as line-level devices, and comprises of 4 Analogue inputs and the best preamps. More to say about the Apogee Element 46 Thunderbolt Audio Interface is that it has a convenient ultra-low latency performance working great for you. Additionally, the device prioritises function over form by offering an extremely simple and rather plain-looking unit having neither LED nor LCD but despite that, it's an amazing deal not built for looks but for performance. The device's software is beautifully configured but in case you want hardware control over the device's interface, the Apogee Control, not part of the package and sold separately, is available for you! So, what are you waiting for? Go get your Apogee Element 46 Thunderbolt now!
FeaturesApogee Jam Plus Audio Interface, the Element's of Excellent Audio, Analog to Digital Conversion, Microphone Preamps, Digital to Analog Conversion, Thunderbolt Connectivity, Element Control, Logic Pro X Integration, Apogee Control Remote (Sold Separately), Element Essential Window.
It is a 12 in x 14 out Thunderbolt Audio I/O box, has 4 Analog inputs with world-class mic preamps and selectable 48v phantom power for connecting microphones, instruments or line-level devices.
It has multi-Unit Thunderbolt support allowing you to connect any two Element audio I/O boxes directly to Thunderbolt ports on your own computer, single port Thunderbolt connectivity to Mac for ultra-low latency performance. 1.41ms round-trip at 96 kHz with a 32-buffering setting.
The Element Control Software for Mac provides all control of hardware parameters including input gain, output level and low latency monitoring.
SpecsApogee Jam Plus Audio Interface of weight 2.95 pounds, dimensions of 11.5 x 5.5 x 1.8 inches, model number of ELEMENT 46.
Pros
Logic Pro X Best Audio InterfacePros
Software-controlled hardware device.
Has great audio quality and conversion device
Its Element software is nicely configured and highly flexible.
Benefits of hardware Control Remote, though purchased separately.
It has world-class mic preamps.
Cons
Cons
It has no rack-mounting kit for the Element Interface provided.
There's no Thunderbolt cable included.
4. Behringer Audio Interface Black, 1-Channel (UM2)
The Behringer Audio Interface is a budget-friendly 2×2 USB audio interface for home studio users having only modest equipment. The UM22 is of simplistic design affordability, which comprises of two inputs, one is an XLR and TRS ¼ inch combo input for microphones or line-level gear, the second one being dedicated instrument-level TRS ¼ input for connecting bass or guitar. Both the two having an association with LEDs on the front panel; the first being an LED lighting green upon signal detection whilst the second being is an all-important LED lighting up red the input signal is clipping. The UM2 comes with it in the box a USB cable and a quick study guide, a device offering you a +48v phantom power, having a switch on the back allowing you toggle the power on/off. More to say is that this interface provides more two outputs as well, one being a ¼ inch headphone output jack on the front and the second being an RCA output on the back thus allowing you to connect to studio monitors or an even an amplifier. It's a great deal and I recommend you go for it!
FeaturesU-Phoria UM2, 2×2 USB audio interface for recording microphones and instruments, compatible with popular recording software inclusive of Avid Pro Tools, Abbleton Live, Steinberg Cubase and more. Streams 2 inputs/2 outputs with ultra-low latency to your computer, supporting Max OS X and Windows XP or higher.
Audiophile 48kHZ resolution for professional audio quality, has maximum sampling rate of 48 kHz, State-of-the-art +48V powered XENYX mic preamp comparable to stand-alone boutique preamps.
SpecsU-Phoria UM2 of 9.1 ounces, dimensions of 5 x 4.7 x 2inches, composite body material, colour name of black, connector type of 1x XLR/TRS; 1x ¼ inch' 2x RCA; USB, Tracktion 4 supported software, 1-channel size, with Mac OS X, Windows XP or later Operating System.
Pros
Pros

Affordable as it is very inexpensive, +48v phantom power.
Has gain control knob.
Has clipping Indicator light.
Has Loud headphone volume.
Cons
Cons
Not so good looking build quality
5. M-Audio M-Track
Yet another affordable audio interface ideal for Logic Pro X the M-Audio M-Track plus is a highly portable durable device delivering in a basic home studio setup great for use for the solo artist as well as the duo fulfilling home recording needs. With the device offering the much sought for features in a top-quality device, the user of this device will get two XLR inputs with phantom power for condenser mics, two ¼ inch line inputs for guitar and two TRS ¼ inch inserts as well. The M-Audio M-Track Plus as it is boasts of multiple inputs and outputs, the device having two inputs for and outputs of USB interface that feature MIDI as well. It has high-speed connections enabling trouble-free operations, the device making every sound matter, the USB-C connection ensuring that you waste no seconds with it. The M-Audio M-Track Plus is easy to transport, especially for its lightweight size and design, allows effortless installation for the instruction manual coming with the device explaining all the aspects of set up and use. It enables professional recording for the user-friendly software it comprises, has crystal preamps ensuring that the musicians acquire maximum noise reduction while recording their audio. Additionally, the device's zero-latency monitoring helping overcome any issues that could have otherwise affect the quality of the final product.
Features3d animation site. M-Audio M-Track Plus, crystal clear recording, ultra-portable Studio-Grade capture, Future-proofed High-Speed, Zero Latency Recording, 2-in/2-out USB Audio Interface with MIDI. 24 bit/192kHz resolution for professional recording and monitoring; Hi-Speed USB connection with USB/direct balance knob for zero-latency monitoring.
It includes both the standard USB and the USB-C connection cables, two XLR + 0.25 inches TRS combo inputs, two 0.25 inches instrument inputs, Stereo 0.25 inches outs; 0.25 inches headphone out with independent level control, 5-pin MIDI input and output.
Has included Software: Pro Tools/ First, Eleven Lite, AIR Creative FX collection (20 world-class FX AU/VST plugins), Strike, Xpand!2 and Mini Grand.
SpecsM-Audio M-Track Plus of 2.09 pounds with dimensions of 2.8 x 6 x 7.8 inches, with model number of M-Track 2X2M and 2-channel + 5-pin MIDI
Pros
Pros
It is a 24-bit/192 kHz Studio-Grade Recording device.
Has phantom power.
Is MIDI enabled.
Has great technical support.
Cons
Cons
However, it can be difficult to set up.
Has High Learning Curve.
Conclusion and Recommendation:That's about it fellas! I've exhausted all that I had for you and here are my top 3 recommendations for you. Majority of the users out there can agree that the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is a great deal and it works great with Logic Pro X, what's more to say is that it's easy to use even for first timers! So, if you want something easy to work with that's also popular I recommend the Scarlett 2i2. If Perhaps if you want something a bit more, there's the Apogee Element 46 Thunderbolt that comes with hardware control via the separately purchased Control Remote. On my list it's the most loved product based on user reviews and I would beg to differ! Thirdly, if you are looking for an inexpensive audio interface that can do the job much to your appeasement, having all the attractive features an audio interface ought to have despite its build, then look no further as the Behringer Audio interface 1-Channel (UM-2) has gotten you all covered!
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Our most recent question that was generalizable enough to benefit the entire community is a very fundamental hurdle that nearly everyone runs into: how to use an audio interface. Being a musician usually involves learning an instrument and some music theory, of course.
But rarely do we anticipate needing to learn our way around computers to enhance our hobby. And that's what happens when you decide to start recording your own songs or covers.
I remember having to deal with this my first time ever recording around 18 years ago. This question comes from a real life guitarist friend who finally bought his first interface and couldn't figure out what was happening when he'd press record. I'll explain what was happening and how I solved it, which includes the general tutorial on setting up your audio interface.
How To Use An Audio InterfaceQuestion:I just bought the best audio interface I could afford. When I record on it, my tracks sound real distant and have a lot of noise in them. I'm using the same Shure SM57 and cables I've used tons of times to record elsewhere so I know nothing is wrong with them.
Can you help?
Koi
Answer:The next night, my brother and I ran over to Koi's home and I started investigating while they set up the guitar, amp, mic, and stand just as it was before when the bad signal was coming through. I confirmed the mic was receiving the signal, passing it through the interface and on to Logic Pro X, where we then recorded it.
And just as described, it sounded horrible. There was a lot of reverb, noise, and some distortion when the amplitude was increased. Why was this happening?
I checked everything, but missed one detail even though we deliberately looked at it in the settings. We started to blame it on the headphones going bad, so we switched headphones and the problem was still there, but that was what revealed the problem.
As I was talking out loud I realized that we weren't recording through the mic that was being used to close mike the amplifier at all. We were recording through the laptop's microphone! I could hear myself loud and clear but barely hear the guitar.
How to Setup Your Audio InterfaceI'll state the obvious just for the sake of anyone reading who doesn't realize the basics of cabling. Your interface will be packaged with a power cable or power adaptor which obviously has to be plugged into the wall or your power conditioner before you can even turn the thing on.
It will also come with (these days) one of three options for cables to connect to your computer, depending on which type you purchased. You'll either have a firewire cable, thunderbolt cable, or a USB cable, either of which has to be plugged in before your interface can communicate with the computer.
Your interface's job is to capture audio signals from a microphone or a direct input from a guitar, bass, keyboard, etc. It converts that electrical signal at the analog-to-digital converter into a digital signal consisting of binary language your computer can understand. Think of the interface as a really fancy outboard sound card that comes with nicer preamplifiers and other features.
Even in today's world of plug-and-play hardware, you'll rarely be able to just plug in your interface and be able to start accepting audio signals and outputting music through it automatically, even if your computer tries to do this for you. It's a bit more complicated than other types of devices your computer is used to talking with.
It used to be the case that your interface would come with a CD you would use to install drivers, or a card that would direct you to the manufacturer's website to download the drivers. This may still be the case for some purchases, but most often the interface will be able to use the standardized system drivers in your operating system. You'll know if you need separate drivers based on what happens in the next step.

Affordable as it is very inexpensive, +48v phantom power.
Has gain control knob.
Has clipping Indicator light.
Has Loud headphone volume.
Cons
Cons
Not so good looking build quality
5. M-Audio M-Track
Yet another affordable audio interface ideal for Logic Pro X the M-Audio M-Track plus is a highly portable durable device delivering in a basic home studio setup great for use for the solo artist as well as the duo fulfilling home recording needs. With the device offering the much sought for features in a top-quality device, the user of this device will get two XLR inputs with phantom power for condenser mics, two ¼ inch line inputs for guitar and two TRS ¼ inch inserts as well. The M-Audio M-Track Plus as it is boasts of multiple inputs and outputs, the device having two inputs for and outputs of USB interface that feature MIDI as well. It has high-speed connections enabling trouble-free operations, the device making every sound matter, the USB-C connection ensuring that you waste no seconds with it. The M-Audio M-Track Plus is easy to transport, especially for its lightweight size and design, allows effortless installation for the instruction manual coming with the device explaining all the aspects of set up and use. It enables professional recording for the user-friendly software it comprises, has crystal preamps ensuring that the musicians acquire maximum noise reduction while recording their audio. Additionally, the device's zero-latency monitoring helping overcome any issues that could have otherwise affect the quality of the final product.
Features3d animation site. M-Audio M-Track Plus, crystal clear recording, ultra-portable Studio-Grade capture, Future-proofed High-Speed, Zero Latency Recording, 2-in/2-out USB Audio Interface with MIDI. 24 bit/192kHz resolution for professional recording and monitoring; Hi-Speed USB connection with USB/direct balance knob for zero-latency monitoring.
It includes both the standard USB and the USB-C connection cables, two XLR + 0.25 inches TRS combo inputs, two 0.25 inches instrument inputs, Stereo 0.25 inches outs; 0.25 inches headphone out with independent level control, 5-pin MIDI input and output.
Has included Software: Pro Tools/ First, Eleven Lite, AIR Creative FX collection (20 world-class FX AU/VST plugins), Strike, Xpand!2 and Mini Grand.
SpecsM-Audio M-Track Plus of 2.09 pounds with dimensions of 2.8 x 6 x 7.8 inches, with model number of M-Track 2X2M and 2-channel + 5-pin MIDI
Pros
Pros
It is a 24-bit/192 kHz Studio-Grade Recording device.
Has phantom power.
Is MIDI enabled.
Has great technical support.
Cons
Cons
However, it can be difficult to set up.
Has High Learning Curve.
Conclusion and Recommendation:That's about it fellas! I've exhausted all that I had for you and here are my top 3 recommendations for you. Majority of the users out there can agree that the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is a great deal and it works great with Logic Pro X, what's more to say is that it's easy to use even for first timers! So, if you want something easy to work with that's also popular I recommend the Scarlett 2i2. If Perhaps if you want something a bit more, there's the Apogee Element 46 Thunderbolt that comes with hardware control via the separately purchased Control Remote. On my list it's the most loved product based on user reviews and I would beg to differ! Thirdly, if you are looking for an inexpensive audio interface that can do the job much to your appeasement, having all the attractive features an audio interface ought to have despite its build, then look no further as the Behringer Audio interface 1-Channel (UM-2) has gotten you all covered!
Recommended Articles
Best 5 Inch Studio Monitors
Our most recent question that was generalizable enough to benefit the entire community is a very fundamental hurdle that nearly everyone runs into: how to use an audio interface. Being a musician usually involves learning an instrument and some music theory, of course.
But rarely do we anticipate needing to learn our way around computers to enhance our hobby. And that's what happens when you decide to start recording your own songs or covers.
I remember having to deal with this my first time ever recording around 18 years ago. This question comes from a real life guitarist friend who finally bought his first interface and couldn't figure out what was happening when he'd press record. I'll explain what was happening and how I solved it, which includes the general tutorial on setting up your audio interface.
How To Use An Audio InterfaceQuestion:I just bought the best audio interface I could afford. When I record on it, my tracks sound real distant and have a lot of noise in them. I'm using the same Shure SM57 and cables I've used tons of times to record elsewhere so I know nothing is wrong with them.
Can you help?
Koi
Answer:The next night, my brother and I ran over to Koi's home and I started investigating while they set up the guitar, amp, mic, and stand just as it was before when the bad signal was coming through. I confirmed the mic was receiving the signal, passing it through the interface and on to Logic Pro X, where we then recorded it.
And just as described, it sounded horrible. There was a lot of reverb, noise, and some distortion when the amplitude was increased. Why was this happening?
I checked everything, but missed one detail even though we deliberately looked at it in the settings. We started to blame it on the headphones going bad, so we switched headphones and the problem was still there, but that was what revealed the problem.
As I was talking out loud I realized that we weren't recording through the mic that was being used to close mike the amplifier at all. We were recording through the laptop's microphone! I could hear myself loud and clear but barely hear the guitar.
How to Setup Your Audio InterfaceI'll state the obvious just for the sake of anyone reading who doesn't realize the basics of cabling. Your interface will be packaged with a power cable or power adaptor which obviously has to be plugged into the wall or your power conditioner before you can even turn the thing on.
It will also come with (these days) one of three options for cables to connect to your computer, depending on which type you purchased. You'll either have a firewire cable, thunderbolt cable, or a USB cable, either of which has to be plugged in before your interface can communicate with the computer.
Your interface's job is to capture audio signals from a microphone or a direct input from a guitar, bass, keyboard, etc. It converts that electrical signal at the analog-to-digital converter into a digital signal consisting of binary language your computer can understand. Think of the interface as a really fancy outboard sound card that comes with nicer preamplifiers and other features.
Even in today's world of plug-and-play hardware, you'll rarely be able to just plug in your interface and be able to start accepting audio signals and outputting music through it automatically, even if your computer tries to do this for you. It's a bit more complicated than other types of devices your computer is used to talking with.
It used to be the case that your interface would come with a CD you would use to install drivers, or a card that would direct you to the manufacturer's website to download the drivers. This may still be the case for some purchases, but most often the interface will be able to use the standardized system drivers in your operating system. You'll know if you need separate drivers based on what happens in the next step.
Choose Your Audio Interface In Your Operating SystemThe next step is to find your audio settings for your operating system at large.
On Windows, if I recall correctly, you'll find these settings by navigating to the Start menu > Control Panel > Hardware & Sound > Sound, and then you'll work within the Playback and the Recording tabs. It will look something like this:
On a Mac you will venture to the top left of your menu bar to click the Apple > System Preferences > Sound, and then work within the Output and Input tabs. It will look like this:
As you can see, I have the Focusrite Saffire Pro 40 set up as my output device. This routes all of the sound out of the firewire cable and to the interface and then out of the master stereo outputs through the XLR cables to my Adam Audio A7 studio monitors.
It's how I listen to music, watch movies, play YouTube videos, etc. I never change this output setting, but I do switch the input device back and forth between my webcam (for phone calls and video conference calls) and my interface (for recording).
You will want to set memorize how to navigate to these settings because you may also have to change your input and output devices frequently, especially if you use a laptop that you take with you on the go. You will need to select your audio interface in these two tabs when you get ready to record.
You may ask 'but what if I want to listen through headphones?' You can choose your headphones as an output if that exists, or it may automatically show and be chosen once you plug them in like my computer does. Alternatively, you can choose your interface as the output and use the headphone jack on it just like you would with external monitors.
Select Your Audio Interface In Your Digital Audio WorkstationNow that you have your computer communicating with your interface in general, you're halfway done. The next step is to set your digital audio workstation (DAW) up to use your interface. For the example below I'll be using Logic Pro X, but the steps will be nearly the same for Pro Tools, Garage Band, FL Studio, Ableton, etc.
Open up your DAW and navigate to the general settings section, however that is done. In Logic, I select it's name in the menu bar and then Preferences, which provides me with a direct link to each tab in the settings. The one we're looking for in called Audio and looks like this:
You should find, regardless of which software you are using, a tab within your settings that behaves just like the operating system sound settings. It allows you to select which device connected to your computer will be used for the input and output devices.
In my case I can choose my webcam as an input device, but you'll see I have 'Saffire' chosen, which is the name of my audio interface. I select the Saffire again for the output because I want to push the music out to my monitors and headphones, which are both routed through the interface.
Choose Which Input From Your Interface to Use on the MultitrackNow that your DAW is communicating with the interface, you have one last task before you can press record and actually capture audio. On your multitrack or your mixer, depending on your preference, workspace, or software, you'll find a way to select an input for that specific track only. Let me explain the reasoning for it being set up this way.
Your interface may have only two inputs. Mine has 20 different inputs which can be associated with microphones or direct injected instruments. You want to record each instrument or vocal take in isolation on its own track and this is how its done. But the software doesn't know which input which microphone or instrument is connected to. You have to instruct it:
The image above is what appears in Logic Pro when you add a new track to your multitrack and mixer, if you don't specify before hand. It needs to know what type of track this will be, and that can include:
Software Instruments like ES2 synthesizer
Audio for instruments or vocals that you record
Drummer for synthetic drum sets like Ultrabeat
External MIDI for a MIDI keyboard or MIDI controller
Guitar or Bass, which auto-loads certain plugins for you
You will want to setup an audio track. Now in that image, you can go ahead and choose which input you want to use and set it up for recording and even turn on input monitoring for that track. But I never do it on this screen.
I always do it on the mixer, which I'll show you below. The reason is that your interface will simply provide a list of inputs labeled like 'Input 1, Input 2.. Input 19, Input 20.' But those software labels hardly ever match the numbers you see on your interface.
For instance, most interfaces will have a couple of inputs for XLR cables that have preamps in them or you can use TRS for the direct injection of a bass or guitar. Those will usually be labeled 1 & 2 on the hardware itself, but when you look on the back, the label numbers start over at 1 again, instead of at 3.
This throws off your ability to know exactly which input you're using if you go by the software labels. Often you have to get close and then keep going 'mic check, mic check' as you test different inputs until you see the meter start moving and hear yourself through the input monitoring.
There's a little trial and error but once you figure it out, you can find the I/O Labels settings that allow you to name your inputs and outputs. So if you always set your drums up in the same way on the same mics on the same inputs, you can just label them and save yourself a ton of time. That looks like this:
You can see the software name, hardware name as given by the driver, and then you supply a user based name. In Logic you can create a long, descriptive name and a shorter, abbreviated name, which will appear in different places.
Logic Pro X Audio Interface Has Been RemovedNow, let's back up. How do you select which input to use on the mixer? In Logic Pro X, you simply find Input on the mixer, click and hold it, and then select the new input source. But remember, it has to be an audio track to see your audio interface's input options instead of a list of plugins. Once you click and hold the Input option, this is what you'll see:
Once you've identified and selected your correct input, you simply have to enable the track for recording.
Note: Make sure you've set your track up to be mono for a single mic or stereo for a stereo mic or mic pair. If you're using two separate microphones you can use two mono tracks, or one stereo track by choosing a dual input source like 'Input 1 & 2.'
Enabling recording is done simply by navigating to the multitrack, finding the [R] button, and pressing it so that it's red and blinking, like below:
Depending on whether you're using your interface's software mixer (if it even has one) or not, you can press the [I] button to enable input monitoring on that track. That means you'll be able to hear what the microphone is recording inside of your headphones, which is incredibly useful for all vocalists and instrumentalists.
You have to make sure you have nearly zero latency when you do this or there will be a delay. In an image above you could see I've achieved a 9.3 millisecond latency, which is as good as zero.
Now, once you press the master record button, every single track that you've chosen an input for and enabled the track for recording will begin capturing whatever the microphone or direct input is hearing. That's all there is to it!
That's How to Use an Audio Interface!When you start getting comfortable with the routine, changing the system and DAW input and output devices takes 5 seconds each. You can even set up projects by mapping your inputs around pretty quickly especially once you've adjusted the I/O labels.
But where you'll really save time is by setting all of this up once for every input you have, and saving it as a template. It's a lot faster to delete the tracks you won't be using on a particular project from the template than it is to re-set it up each time.
But that's a topic for another day. Until then, Happy recording!
 Jared
But Wait, There's More!