Comparison Focusrite Vocaster One vs Focusrite Vocaster Two

The number of input and output channels that the audio interface is equipped with. See below for more details on each type.

— Input channels. Input (in) channels on audio interfaces designate the number of different audio signals a device can accept for recording overnight. Their number plays a decisive role in multi-channel sound recording, connecting several instruments or vocals at the same time. When choosing an audio interface, consider not only the number of input channels, but also the types of connectors (see “Inputs”).

— Output channels. Output channels output (out) is the number of audio signals that can be sent to other devices or equipment for playback. The outputs of the audio interface can be used to connect to amplifiers, monitors, speaker systems, headphones, etc. A large number of output channels will come in handy when creating sound mixes, multi-channel recording or multitasking in a studio environment. For simpler tasks, it is enough to have from 2 to 4 output channels. When choosing an audio interface, consider not only the number of output channels, but also the types of connectors (see “Outputs”).

— Total audio inputs Jack / XLR. The total number of analog audio inputs such as Jack (6.35 mm) and/or XLR (this interface can be combined with a “jack”). Note that such connectors can play the role of both a line input and a microphone or instrument input. For more details, see the relevant paragraphs.

— mini-Jack. The standard 3.5 mm mini-Jack is usually used in audio interfaces as an analog (line) input for two stereo channels, as well as as a microphone audio input (see the corresponding paragraphs).

An input jack used to record audio from a microphone, which may transmit low signal levels and requires amplification. It often includes a microphone preamplifier - it amplifies a weak signal to a level that is suitable for recording or processing in an audio interface. The most common types of microphone inputs are:

— mini-Jack (3.5 mm). The standard mini-Jack audio connector (3.5 mm) provides average signal quality, which is why it is poorly suited for professional tasks such as studio recording. As a result, the “purely microphone” variety of the 3.5 mm jack is relatively rare, but still has a right to exist. It is also worth considering that microphones can use mini-Jack plugs for different numbers of contacts (from 2 to 4).

— Jack (6.35 mm). The shape and arrangement of contacts of Jack sockets (6.35 mm) are similar to the corresponding varieties of the 3.5 mm standard, but they are larger in size. Due to the larger contact area and less tendency to interference, plugs of this format are found in microphones of all price categories. In addition, a balanced connection is often made through the 6.35 mm jack - a special type of connection used in professional audio equipment that allows signal transmission even over fairly long wires without interference.

- XLR. In audio equipment, three-pin XLR connectors are most often used to connect a micropho...ne. XLR provides a reliable and tight connection, and the interface sockets often have locks to secure the plugs. Connection through this connector is also carried out in a balanced way - using three wires instead of two. The peculiarity of this signal transmission is that external interference is filtered, in fact, by the wire itself, which allows you to transmit a high-quality audio signal even with long cable lengths. Often the XLR connector can be combined with Jack (6.35 mm).

— Total audio outputs Jack / XLR. The total number of analog audio outputs such as Jack (6.35 mm) and/or XLR (this interface can be combined with a “jack”). Note that such connectors can play the role of both the Main output and the linear output. For more details, see the relevant paragraphs.

— mini-Jack. The standard 3.5 mm mini-Jack is usually used in audio interfaces as an analog (line) output for two stereo channels, as well as as an output for connecting headphones (see the corresponding paragraphs).

Output connectors for connecting monitor speakers or headphones. Connecting monitors to the output of an audio interface allows musicians, sound designers, or sound engineers to monitor audio quality in real time. In audio interfaces, monitor outputs can be made in various formats, but most often there are various combinations of RCA, XLR and Jack connectors (6.35 mm), less often - the classic mini-Jack (3.5 mm).

The device has a separate output for connecting headphones. Most often, its role is played by the classic mini-Jack connector (3.5 mm). However, there are models with several outputs. They, along with mini-Jack, can use other connectors. Headphone connections serve a variety of purposes - some devices actually act as high-end external headphone amplifiers, while others allow you to control the sound sent to the outputs.

The device supports Bluetooth wireless technology. Its main use is to transmit sound from an external Bluetooth device (smartphone, laptop, etc.) to an audio interface. In addition to broadcasting sound, other options for using Bluetooth are possible - for example, using an external gadget as a remote control. However, they are noticeably less common.