Choose the inputs around how you will record: a microphone needs a suitable mic input, a direct pickup needs an instrument input, and recording both to separate tracks needs two usable channels at once. If your chosen condenser microphone requires 48V phantom power, confirm that the interface provides it; then weigh level-setting and monitoring features against the complexity of your setup.
You want to record the guitar through a microphone. If that microphone requires phantom power, check for 48V on the mic input; you will also need a way to set levels for quieter playing. Audient’s guidance, for example, specifies +48V for its SR1 condenser microphone.
You want separate pickup and microphone tracks to balance later. Look for two simultaneous input paths with the right connections, rather than assuming that a two-input label guarantees the configuration you need.
You set levels and perform without someone else at the controls. Automatic gain assistance, visible input meters and a straightforward way to hear the live guitar can make that workflow easier to manage.
Decide whether you will record a microphone, a pickup or both before comparing gain controls and monitoring. That connection choice determines which inputs you need during a take.
Choose this when: You want to capture the guitar acoustically through a microphone.
Allow for: A suitable microphone and XLR cable, plus time to position the microphone; check whether your microphone needs 48V.
Choose this when: You plan to connect the guitar’s pickup directly to a documented instrument or Hi-Z input.
Trade-off: The recorded pickup signal is not the same as capturing the guitar and room through a microphone.
Choose this when: You want two separate tracks that you can balance after recording.
Trade-off: Two sources mean more connections and levels to manage than a one-source recording.
| Concern | What to check | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Source connections and tracks | Check simultaneous input count and types; confirm Hi-Z for a direct pickup and 48V if your microphone requires it. | If I want separate microphone and pickup tracks, both connections must work during the same take. Around 42% of consumers put source and track flexibility first. |
| Setting levels alone | Look for usable input meters or gain controls, and decide whether automatic gain assistance would help. | When I perform and operate the recording setup myself, I need to check levels before playing through a take. Solo level-setting is the main concern for around 33% of consumers. |
| Monitoring and routing | Confirm headphone and monitor connections and the direct-monitoring method; check MIDI, loopback or extra outputs only if you plan to use them. | With speakers or a wider desk setup, I need to hear the guitar and playback through connections that suit my equipment. Around 25% of consumers prioritise monitoring and wider routing. |
A microphone and pickup need two suitable simultaneous input paths if you want independently controllable tracks.
Decide whether you will record one source or both at once, then check the exact interface’s channel configuration.
Changing to two-source recording later may mean replacing the interface or adding equipment.
Phantom-power requirements depend on the particular microphone. Audient specifies +48V for its SR1 condenser microphone.
Check your microphone’s instructions, then confirm that the intended input provides the power it requires.
A stated recording format does not tell you whether the inputs, monitoring connections or computer support fit your setup.
Check those practical requirements before using a sample-rate figure to distinguish interfaces.
You may miss a like-for-like electrical equipment takeback route if you discard the old unit without asking.
Ask the retailer how its waste electrical and electronic equipment takeback arrangement works.
These examples describe particular models and configurations, not every interface made by each brand.
The Scarlett 2i2 4th Generation is a two-input, two-output USB interface suited to comparing microphone, direct-guitar and assisted level-setting workflows.
The EVO 4 offers two mic preamps, an instrument input and Smartgain for a compact solo-recording setup.
The Volt 2 is a two-input, two-output USB option with direct monitoring, MIDI and 48V phantom power.
The M2 suits players comparing visible input metering and individual channel controls alongside mic, line and Hi-Z connections.
The SSL 2+ MKII provides two input channels and additional routing options for a desk setup.
Yes, if the interface has two suitable simultaneous input channels. Use a microphone-capable input and a documented instrument or Hi-Z input, then set up separate tracks in your recording software; check the pickup’s connection requirements before buying.
It does if that particular microphone requires it. Audient states that its SR1 condenser microphone needs +48V, but you should follow the instructions for the microphone you intend to use rather than assume the same requirement for every mic.
Automatic gain can help establish an initial level, but it does not replace a test take. Audient offers Smartgain and Focusrite offers Auto Gain; whichever method you use, check your loudest expected passage and listen for unwanted noise or distortion.
A CE mark does not by itself rule out sale in Great Britain. Department for Business and Trade guidance dated 31 March 2026 says CE marking continues to be recognised alongside or instead of UKCA marking where the relevant product requirements are met in England, Scotland and Wales. Check the requirements and documentation applicable to the particular interface; Northern Ireland follows different processes.
Ask the retailer about its like-for-like waste electrical and electronic equipment takeback arrangement before disposing of the old interface. Trading Standards UK provides guidance on these retailer arrangements, including for sellers serving UK customers online.