Most interfaces work with both Mac ® and Windows systems many are also compatible with Apple ® iOS devices, although that usually requires an additional adapter. Modern audio interfaces connect to your desktop or laptop computer via a USB or Thunderbolt port (some older ones use different ports, such as PCI, PCIe or Ethernet). The more you understand about how interfaces work, and the kinds of features they offer, the better positioned you’ll be to make an informed buying decision. They also typically provide metering and other important features. Such devices offer the connectors you need to plug in microphones and instruments for recording as well as speakers and headphones for listening. But despite all the functionality that such software provides, its sound depends heavily on a piece of external hardware called an audio interface.
Today’s computer-based digital audio workstation (DAW) software gives you more recording and music production power than a studio full of hardware from the pre-digital days.
