USB interface...external....is the way to go.

For one thing, it's portable, and can easily be moved from one computer to the next unlike the internal sound card/interfaces. Mine is set up to run on my laptop or my custom built desktop DAW.

Be sure it has 1/4" jack inputs and outputs as well as the XLR inputs and phantom power for the low impedance condenser mics.
Most decent interfaces have input level controls and at least one headphone jack with a volume control.
Be sure the inputs have pre-amps on them.
And this is crucial.... be sure that it runs native ASIO and not wrappers and codecs for it's driver.

I'm partial to the focusrite line of interfaces. They have industry leading pristine pre-amps and meet ALL of the requirements for a good home recording interface. They are available in 2 channel models such as I have, up to the multi-channel models for larger studios and recording an entire band live.

Most home studio needs are met with a basic Focusrite interface. I believe I gave $300 for mine but the prices have come down significantly since. If it died today, I'd buy a new Focusrite again to replace it.


My advice to anyone looking to buy an interface is this. Remember that you are purchasing a piece of gear that will become the musical heart of your studio. Everything you do will either go in, or go out through it. Do not scrimp on this purchase. Save a few weeks more if necessary to get the one that you really want. A good interface will make the recording process a pleasure.

A cheap interface will be the source of endless frustration. I've seen people get out of music because they went cheap, got a piece of junk interface, and then thought that all interfaces were the same. They are NOT. So get a decent one to start with.

You will never regret buying a good interface.

You can find my music at:
www.herbhartley.com
Add nothing that adds nothing to the music.
You can make excuses or you can make progress but not both.

The magic you are looking for is in the work you are avoiding.