MIDI in
Input for connecting MIDI devices: keyboards, turntables and other controllers. The MIDI stream does not represent sound, but service information for virtual musical instruments. Therefore, data received via
MIDI In is not processed by the device, but is simply transmitted to a computer, tablet or specialized equipment via USB type B, MIDI output or other similar connector.
Line
The type of line output provided in the audio interface design. It outputs a line-level analog audio signal. This interface is mainly used for connecting recording devices, outputting a signal to playback equipment or to an external amplifier. And the types of connectors used for linear output can be as follows:
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mini-Jack (3.5 mm). A standard socket for the popular mini-Jack plug (3.5 mm), used as a line output. This connector is mainly used to connect some models of active speakers, while two stereo channels are usually output through one mini-Jack (3.5 mm). Note that headphone outputs, which also use a mini-Jack, are considered separately - see the corresponding paragraph.
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Jack (6.35 mm). A larger analogue of the mini-Jack connector (3.5 mm) for outputting an analog stereo signal. The Jack output provides a more reliable and noise-free connection, making it ideal for professional applications. Effective protection against interference is possible with a balanced connection method. To save space, the 6.35 mm output can be combined with an XLR connector (see the corresponding paragraph). The disadvantage of this design is the impossibility of using both interfaces simultaneously. Jack line outputs (6.35 mm) adhere to the “one channel per connector” principle.
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XLR. A round three-pin connector for outputting a line-level analog audio signal, oft
...en with a balanced connection type. Transmission is carried out over three wires instead of two, and during it the noise induced on the wire is eliminated. This allows the use of fairly long cables without compromising the “purity” of the signal, making this type of connection excellent for professional audio equipment. XLR is also considered a professional interface, both due to the ability to work with a balanced signal and due to increased reliability: such connectors are often equipped with locks to secure the plugs.
- RCA. Analog linear audio output using RCA connectors - so-called “tulips” (due to the characteristic shape of the plugs). The standard output of this type consists of two connectors - for the left and right stereo channels. Also note that RCA connectors can be used in other output interfaces, but they have their own names.RCA (pair)
The number of
pairs of RCA output connectors(see above) in the audio interface design. By “pair” in this context we mean two RCA connectors, usually intended for stereo audio - left (Left) and right (Right) channels.
MIDI out
Specialized output for transmitting MIDI commands. Found exclusively in audio interfaces that have a MIDI input. The corresponding signals represent a kind of “digital music notation”. The
MIDI Out connector is used to transmit MIDI commands received by the input to an external device - most often a hardware sequencer or other specialized equipment.
To monitors
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).
For podcasts / streams
Audio interfaces designed for
recording podcasts and conducting live broadcasts on the Internet (streams). They are supposed to connect streamer and podcasting equipment such as microphones and headphones, and the functions in such models include fine sound adjustments, adjusting the balance between different audio sources, etc.
Loopback
The
Loopback function allows you to combine the signal from connected microphones, instruments and other line-level sources with background music, audio tracks and other sounds played on the connected equipment (usually a computer). Loopback will come in handy when recording virtual instruments, podcasts, streaming, etc.
Display
A visual screen or panel that provides information about the current status and settings of a device.
Displays in audio interfaces have various formats: LED indicators, LCD screens, color touch panels. Basic display functions may include displaying signal levels, parameters and settings, active connections, phantom power availability, etc. The screen can also be used to navigate through the device menu, if such a possibility is provided a priori.
Software included
The software included with your audio interface may vary depending on the make and model. The vast majority of it is represented by drivers, utilities for managing the device, software for recording and editing sound, virtual instruments or effects, and all kinds of plugins. It is advisable to clarify separately which specific software components are included in the audio interface package.
