Choose the inputs to match what you will record at the same time: one microphone preamp and a separate Hi-Z instrument input suit a vocal-and-pickup guitar take, while two microphone preamps are needed for two microphones. Also check computer compatibility, headphone monitoring and whether your microphone requires 48 V phantom power.
If you sing into an XLR microphone while recording a pickup-equipped acoustic guitar, look for a separate Hi-Z instrument input and a headphone output so you can capture both sources in one take.
A close-and-room arrangement, a stereo pair, or separate microphones for guitar and vocal calls for two microphone preamps. Two inputs intended for different source types are not necessarily two microphone inputs.
If you will operate the interface while performing, clear level controls or assisted gain setting can make preparation easier. Confirm that the interface works with your recording device, and listen back to a test take before recording the full demo.
Start with the sources you need to record simultaneously, then check how you will set levels, monitor the take and connect your microphone and computer.
| Concern | What to check | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Vocal and direct-in guitar | One XLR microphone preamp and a separate Hi-Z instrument input for a pickup-equipped guitar. | If I want to sing and plug in my guitar during the same take, I need separate connections for those sources; around 31% of consumers put this recording arrangement first. |
| Two-microphone recording | Two microphone preamps, not just two analogue inputs. | For a stereo pair or separate guitar and vocal microphones, I need both microphones live at once. Around 23% of consumers prioritise that two-mic setup. |
| Setting input levels | Accessible gain controls and visible level indicators or assisted gain setting. | When I am performing and operating the recording setup alone, I want to spot an overloaded input before the full take; roughly 23% of consumers make simpler level setting their primary concern. |
| Microphone and device setup | Microphone-specific 48 V requirements, headphone monitoring and compatibility with the intended computer and recording software. | If my microphone needs power or my recording device has particular connection requirements, I want to resolve those before buying. For about 23% of consumers, setup compatibility is the main priority. |
Focusrite describes the Scarlett Solo 4th Gen as having one microphone preamp and a separate instrument input. That layout can record a microphone and direct-in guitar together, but not two microphones through two built-in mic preamps.
Check the supported source type for each input if a two-microphone technique is part of your plan.
Changing to a two-mic setup later may require a different interface or additional equipment.
Shure explains that condenser microphones with active circuitry can require phantom power. The power requirement depends on the particular microphone, not on whether the interface offers a 48 V switch.
Follow the microphone manufacturer’s connection instructions and enable phantom power only when that microphone requires it.
Software and conversion specifications do not tell you whether the interface accepts every source you intend to record simultaneously.
List the microphones, guitar connection, headphones and computer for your first session, then match that signal chain to the interface inputs.
A two-microphone plan also calls for the appropriate microphones, cables and stands.
Audient describes EVO 4 Smartgain as an aid to setting input levels. It does not determine microphone placement or the balance you want between guitar and vocal.
Record a passage at the loudest level you expect to perform, then listen back and adjust the setup before the full take.
The Scarlett Solo 4th Gen is a compact option for recording one XLR microphone alongside a directly connected guitar pickup.
EVO 4 is relevant when the demo calls for two microphones or when assisted level setting would help with preparation.
Volt 1 Gen 2 is relevant to a vocal-and-guitar demo using a microphone and a separate direct instrument connection.
One microphone preamp plus a separate Hi-Z input suits a vocal and pickup-equipped guitar recorded together. Choose two microphone preamps if you will use two microphones simultaneously, whether for a stereo pair, close-and-room guitar recording, or separate guitar and vocal mics.
Enable 48 V only if your microphone requires it. Shure notes that condenser microphones with active circuitry can need phantom power; check your specific microphone’s instructions before connecting it or switching the power on.
Record a short passage at your loudest expected vocal and guitar levels, check the interface indicators for overload and listen back through headphones. Assisted gain setting can provide a starting point, but the test recording lets you assess the result before the full demo.
Check the particular interface’s stated device and operating-system support, USB connection and any required driver or control software. USB power alone does not establish compatibility with your recording app or adapter arrangement.