Nord User Forum

Hi Folks,

I have an Electro 6D 73, and am borrowing a friend's A1. I'm just getting into audio recording, and am looking for an audio interface. I'll probably just use it for simple projects, social media, etc. It would be nice to be able to record keyboards and voice at the same time. If possible, and not much more expensive, possibly have my bass player join me (so 3 audio tracks simultaneous recording).

Do you have any recommendations? There's a sale on Focus Rite Scarlett https://www.altomusic.com/scarlett-4i4- ... -interface

More genearlly, are there any brands that are typically better or worse than others? I'm using a mac, and would probably record using Reason (b/c I'm trying to learn it), or Garage Band. Possibly Logic down the road.

I'd like to keep the price below $400.

Thanks in advance!
M

I just bought the SSL 2+. I like it so far. I'd say they are all pretty equivalent. My vote is either the SSL 2+ or the MOTU M4.

I've used Focusrite interfaces for about 10 years. Their pre-amps are top notch. The 4i4 would be ideal for what you are doing (2) XLR/TRS inputs and two 1/4" line inputs will let you record the Nord in stereo while using a phantom powered mic and a bass input. Also has MIDI In/Out.

Thanks!

+1 for the Focusrite Scarlett.

I have the 4i4 and its fab.

I have both Focusrite Scarlett 6i6 2nd Gen and 18i20 3rd Gen.
Speaking from my experience, I can strongly recommend that you max out your desired budget with factors inputs and preamp quality.

Before I jump into recommending the perfect Scarlett variant:
I never had any problems with my 2nd Gen 6i6, I got the 18i20 to have more inputs and expected at least the same quality.
Build quality and sound / larency of the 3rd are at least as good if not better.
Only problem with the 3rd gen 18i20 is that the noise floor (every single knob turned to 0) is elevated at ~4 kHz and clearly audible ...
that’s why I still use the 6i6 2nd Gen as my daily interface / monitor mixer on my desk...



Having said that, I’d recommend at least the 8i6 because of its 4 Line inputs and 2 Combo.
With that you’d be able to record both Electro 6 and Lead A1 plus Bass and Vocals at the same time!
And it’s only 70 bucks more than the 4i4.
If you want to be future-proof, I’d even say get the 18i8, 4 Combo + 4 Line for 399,-

Bang for buck you can't go past the Behringer UMC404HD with 4 in 4 out (the 4 out part making it unique in its price range). People may say "but Behringer", but I find it perfect for my requirements.

I recently picked up a used Presonus USB96. Two things I wanted:
1. It needs to record MIDI tracks as well as audio
2. It needs to be to have two channels of audio to record stereo.
Presonus gives away a simple recording software called StudioOne. Works well for the simple things I need. Unlimited number of tracks and it will export to wav or mp3.

My scarlett 18i20 gen1 has been catching dust since ive bought an UMC204HD for portability reasons.

I have the Clarett 8Pre and although more than you want to spend, I can attest that Focusrite support is responsive. I have one of their preamps as well-

-dj