The
creator of audiobooks might at first might think a studio microphone,
earphones, power supply, computer and sound editing software are all that are needed for recording audio books, but another essential bit of kit is needed:
the audio interface. But what is an audio interface?
The
Best USB Audio Interface for Audio Books
 |
| Which Audio Interface for Narration |
Simply
put, an audio interface is an electrical box that plugs into the USB terminal
or Firewire port of the computer. It has input sockets for the mic, headphones
and other sound equipment that might be needed. The interface converts the
sound signal from analog to digital, a code the computer can understand prior to
editing. Every computer has a built in sound card, which is really a basic type
of audio interface. This might be OK for listening to podcasts, YouTube, or for
basic recording, but not for audiobooks.
Does
the Narrator Need an Audio Interface to Create Audio Books?
The
answer is yes. The audio interface enhances the recording and listening
experience for narrators who wish to create professional quality audio books.
This is because the audio interface is a much superior kind of sound card than
the basic one that exists in the computer. Like a USB-connected external drive,
the computer will perceive this superior soundcard whilst sound files are being
created.
The
Best Audio Interface for the Home Studio
Not
all audio interfaces are the same. Some have racks of input sockets for various
sound equipment. The MIDI (a musical instrument digital interface) provides
input jacks and controls for guitars, bass, keyboards and other sound-related
equipment.
The
humble voice narrator will not need these complex types of audio interfaces more
suited to a multi-piece band. The FireWire interface, developed by Apple, for instance
is designed for the transmission of large amounts of sound data, suited for such
complex projects. Only sockets for earphones and a mic are really needed. But
what is the best type of audio interface the voice narrator will need? Well, the
USB interface is generally thought to be best suited for voice narration.
The
Home Audio Interface for Voice Recording
A
robust, good quality but simple audio interface is ideal, as the narrator might
be paying for effects that will not be needed. The only important factor is
after all, the quality of the recording, not special features or numerous input
jacks.
Best
Audio Interface for Voice Recording in Audio Book Narration
The
FocusRite Scarlett 2i2 audio interface with award winning preamps is highly
regarded in the recording industry and can be used on Mac or Windows. Note: the
Focusrite Scarlett Home Recording Package provides the complete home studio as
it includes the audio interface, a large diaphragm condenser mic, pop filter,
earphones, Phantom power, XLR cable and sound editing software. Purchase of
this complete home recording kit works out cheaper than purchasing the
components separately.
Also
recommended is M-Audio MTracks USB Interface. This simple to use USB audio
interface with two input jacks for mic and headphones provides crystal clear
signals, ideal for the voice acting. Pro Tools Express is the sound editing
software that comes with this interface. Pro Tools are the favorite of ACX, the
creators of Amazon’s Audible.com.
The
PreSonus Audiobox USB Audio Interface with Studio One software is ideal for
easy sound editing of voice narration. Again this provides all the sound
enhancements the narrator is likely to need for creating audio books. Note: the PreSonus also comes in a complete
home recording package: the AudioBox Studio Complete Hardware/Software
Recording Kit with headphones, large diaphragm condenser mic, XLR cable and DAW
software.
Other
recommended range of USB interfaces can be found in Roland, Behringer and Lexicon
Alpha. The simple models are compact, robust and boasts low noise power with
professional quality preamps.
Which
Audio Interface Should I Buy for Audio Book Narration?
Prior
research is essential before purchasing the most suitable audio interface for
narrating an audiobook. Make sure the interface is compatible with the computer
(Mac or Windows) and that 48V Phantom Power is included (if the mic doesn’t
have it. Phantom power by the way is what powers the mic). Not all audio
interfaces include phantom power.
Audio
Interface for Book Narration
Don’t
rely on the basic soundcard that exists within the standard computer for
professional audio book creation. A good audio interface will enhance the sound
of the recording and digitalize the signals, a format the computer can
understand.
Avoid
purchasing the expensive type of audio interface that overkills the
requirements of the modest voice narrator. Is a MIDI really needed? (a musical
instrument digital interface for guitars, bass, keyboard, etc.). Racks of input
jacks and special features may remain mostly redundant by the voice narrator.
All that matters in the end is the quality of the voice recording.
More Articles on Creating Audio Books
Thanks for the info!
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