Audio interface recommendations (live drums / band)

[Jan Deal]

I am in need of recommendations for an audio interface with enough inputs to handle recording a drum kit and potentially a guitar and bass. Up until now, I have been using an elderly TASCAM US-1641 but due to upgrading my laptop, it is no longer supported.

I guess I need at least 8 channels and I'm looking for something quite affordable (max £500 / $600) and reasonable future proof. I am recording with Reaper on a Macbook Pro.

Does anyone have experience with the Focusrite Scarlett 18i20, Behringer ADA8200 or TASCAM US-16X08?

[Larry Mal]

I'd say the Scarlett is pretty much the industry leader at this point, and I have used them. They sound good and the software is good and the support is good, the units are robust.

If it was me I'd just buy one of those and get to work. Some or maybe all of the Scarlett range can be expanded with the Octopre which will give you another 8 inputs when you are ready. So you can pretty quickly and cheaply get to 16 inputs.

Be sure to read up on that because it's been a while since I've really looked into it.

But, yeah, there's a lot of great equipment out there, and some of it might be better than the Scarlett at the same price point, then again they sell millions of those Scarletts and there's a reason for it.

[Dok]

Have you looked at the Tascam Model 12? Or used Model 16/24? That series is pretty much made for the scenario you're describing. I've not used one but they get decent reviews, have a lot of built-in features, and it's a brand you're familiar with that has a long history.

[JSett]

For a long time I used 2x Motu 8pre interfaces linked together for 16 channels as part of a mobile rack-mounted recording rig. The preamps are fine enough for the money and I never had any issues with either unit, or the two chained together.

[Jan Deal]

Thanks folks for the recommendations. I shall investigate and report back!

[Futuron]

I use a Roland Studio Capture. 16 inputs, 10 outs, with 12 mic pre-amps. I have 7 drum mics, a laptop, plus guitars & keyboards plugged in. Record via USB 2.



I can't remember why I decided to get it ahead of whatever else was big enough, cheap enough & with enough useful functions. I have no complaints, but I haven't used anything else to compare it with.

[mcatano]

I'd look into the Audient EVO 16

[Jan Deal]

I'd look into the Audient EVO 16

I have just ordered one!