Home » Gadgets » Best Audio Interface for GarageBand – Top 10 in 2020

• Free Midi Instruments For Garageband Vst
• Garageband Midi File
• Free Midi Instruments For Garageband Music

Nickolas Anderson

As described in the tip above, GarageBand can access the 128 General MIDI Instruments if you know how to send a program change to the DSL module. Here are the trumpet, vibraphone, strings, harmonica, French horn and banjo that you have been missing (just kiddin' about the banjo).

Before I start with the reviews of the top ten best audio interface for GarageBand, I want to explain a little about what the actually audio interface is. An audio interface is a useful device that helps make quality studio recordings at a studio or in your basement. It is an external sound card that has a mic as an input device and speakers or headphones for the output.

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What makes an audio interface dependable is itsversatility to accommodate a wide range of recordings. For instance, it canrecord, voice, guitar, and keyboard, etc. while providing features likemetering, mixing, Simply connect your (for example) guitar with the interface.You can then easily combine it with laptops or desktop computer via a simpleUSB port and start recording. Easy peasy, right?

GarageBand, on the other hand, is an incredible softwareused mainly on MACs and iOS that enables you to create soundtracks for music,podcasts, and even movies. Because it is a very user-friendly app, it is usedby both beginners as well as professionals to have complete control over therecordings and ensure the best possible sound quality.

If you want your music to sound its best, you cannot justrely on the inbuilt iOS mic. You have to invest in an audio interface. Whilefinding the right equipment for your needs isn’t very hard if you know exactlywhat to look for. Yet, due to incompatible audio interface, many people runinto problems with their software in the editing phase. To avoid any suchsituation, I will be including a buyer’s guide. But first, let’s get startedwith my audio interface reviews!

Reviewed Products

2 Product Reviews

Our Recommendations

Best Price/Value

Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 2nd Gen

With Focusrite’s trademark ruggedness & performance, quickly configurable front channels, and a feature that allows adding eight audio input channels, this is the value for price you can get.

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Best Price

Behringer U-PHORIA (UMC404HD) Audiophile

With a standard interface design, this champ offers crisp noiseless sound quality. A budget solution for artists on a budget.

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Best Quality

Audient 2 Audio Interface iD4

Audient brings exceptional sound quality to one of its smallest interfaces. This portable audio interface is the best quality you will find in the market today.

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Product Reviews

Focusrite Scarlett 2i4 (2nd Gen) USB Audio Interface with Pro Tools

• Scarlett natural sounding mic preamps with ample even gain
• Sample rates up to 192kHz per 24 bit
• Cue mix switching, along with 4 analog outputs
• Headphone output with gain controls

Pros

• Has amazing volume control
• Compact sturdy and tough enough to take it along anywhere – even hiking.
• As this model is powered by a USB cable, therefore you don’t need to take a carry a power cable all the time
• Has all the loops and additional software you require to start recording
• Includes free download of The Softube Time & Tone Bundle and 2GB Loopmasters Samples

Cons

• Sometimes makes a cracking sound which is distracting
• Doesn’t work with AMD processors for PC

I am starting off my reviews with the world’s best selling audio interface. It reigned supreme for a long time until the 3rd Gen came along recently. This model is popular because of its unmatched features like four analog outputs, MIDI i/o, two Scarlett mic preamps, compact yet flexible design. Besides, it has the same classy sound quality, which is the hallmark of the Scarlet range.

You can take it anywhere. Connect it simply with a USB port, plug the instrument or microphones in and start recording everywhere against a cue mix.Moreover, this model is perfectly compatible with all other major DAWs on PC and MAC.

Overall, this is ideal for anyone who wants a cue mix for recording or performing on the go.

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Focusrite Scarlett 6i6 (2nd Gen) USB Audio Interface

• Four Analog Inputs
• Four mono or stereo Outputs
• 2 natural-sounding microphone preamps
• 2 ¼ inches jacks to take a balanced or unbalanced connection
• A MIDI In and a MIDI out 1 SPDIF in and 1 SPDIF out

Pros

• A substantial level control knob helps adjust your monitor levels with ease
• Digital conversion up to 24-bit per 192kHz
• Has an intuitive and straightforward interface
• Accompanying software works great
• Has XLN addictive keys that connect with your keyboard
• The metal body casing is eye-catching
• Secure knobs

Cons

• Windows drivers often conflict with this device
• Builds up static often you need to power cycle it, or else you get a cracking sound
• The two microphone plugins are placed right in front of it which sometimes get in the way

This slightly modified and expensive model supports two extra line inputs. And that’s the only significant difference when compared with previous 2i2 and 2i4 models. You can now permanently connect your keyboard, speakers, and computer to it without having to juggle the cords depending on what you need most at a particular time.

In case you have a smaller setup, I would suggest going for the low end and cheaper model. Even a simple base model can handle speakers and headphones.

All in all, a straight forward interface, strong specs and easy to use controls control make this upgraded model another most sought after audio interface in the market. You won’t regret buying it. That’s for sure.

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Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 2nd Gen

• Conversion at up to 24-bit / 192kHz

Pros

• Impressive I/O flexibility
• A rugged and durable casing
• Has a great digital interface
• Best for studio engineers who need more versatility
• I noticed no hissing or other noises during the recording session
• Great value for the money

Cons

• The single stereo output may not be suitable for some users
• The manufacturers should have chosen a different color for the input knobs

Compared to the previous two models, this one has extended sample rate compatibility, increased preamp performance, and a better overall sound. It improves in quite a few areas.

First, it supports recordings at a sample rate of 192k Hz. In addition, the preamp design has also been upgraded to have lower noise and higher gain. When it comes to instrument inputs, this device can cope with even the loudest guitars. Impressive, don’t you think?

Second, it is compatible with the Focusrite Control software. Thus allowing you to configure settings like monitor mix setups and routings.

The layout remains the same for all Focusrite models. Four inputs at the front, monitor dial to control output levels on the right, and stereo level outputs on the rear. The optical input on the rear end can carry eight digital channel inputs. Plus – it also has a USB port for potential connectivity.

With Focusrite’s trademark ruggedness & performance, quickly configurable front channels, and a feature that allows adding eight audio input channels, there’s an awful lot to like here.

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Focusrite Clarett 8Pre USB 18-In/20-Out

• PC USB 2.0 and Mac audio interfaces
• 24-bit/192kHz D-A and A-D conversion
• Range up to 119 dB 2 mic/line ins,
• ADAT in, 2 monitor and 2 line outs plus headphone out
• 8 mic/line ins, ADAT I/O (adds 8 I/O), 2 monitor and 8 line outs plus 2 headphone out and S/PDIF Air enabled preamps
• Software includes XLN Audio Addictive Keys; Focusrite Control, Focusrite Red Plug-in Suite,; Tone Bundle, Softube Time And; Ableton Live Lite and 2 GB of Loopmasters samples

Pros

• Sonic performance
• Eight Clarett mic preamps with Air effect
• Easily ccessible metering and monitoring
• Has a very generous IO to handle any recording session

Cons

• Has latency issues with latest-gen computers
• Noisy

This newest Focusrite model brings high-quality sound to those who lack thunderbolt connectivity. With two inputs you can play and record two instruments simultaneously
It’s nice to have easy access to so many inputs at the same time.

You can even hook up your entire band without any trouble. Moreover, the Eight Clarett mic preamps have an Air effect. It switches in an analog model of Focusrite’s highly praised classic transformer-based ISA mic pre, elevating your sound to newer heights.

Furthermore, the addictive keys software that comes with this model is well…. Addictive! This is definitely one of the best audio interfaces for GarageBand

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Behringer U-PHORIA (UMC404HD) Audiophile

• Four dual channel XLR/TRS connectors.
• Every input is linked to a MIDAS preamp.
• It has a corresponding control cluster with a line switch, pad, and rotating gain control.

Pros

• Sound leveling and representation are immaculate
• Has an easy installation
• Excellent value for the price
• Amazing overall sound quality

Cons

• The pots and connectors are cheaply made, but considering the price, it does make sense
• A dedicated power switch would have been a great addition
• Does not come with required drivers

Behringer is notorious for churning out budget-friendly devices. Unfortunately, most of their devices are crap, but this mode caught my attention straight away. I can’t say for sure whether it was because of the shockingly low price or sound quality. The device doesn’t look as good as Focusrite’s models mentioned above. However, it is easily one of the most versatile audio interfaces I have come across.

In terms of design, it is a standard interface with inputs on the front, outputs on the back, and everything crammed into a sturdy aluminum construction.

In terms of performance, it works like a champ. The vocal recordings are crisp. For guitar recording, it can take active pickups with no issues at all. I am impressed!

Moreover, its audio interface is totally compatible with windows and Mac and works well with most DAWs. In short, this partner for a home studio is as powerful and intuitive as audio interfaces get.

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Audient 2 Audio Interface iD4

• 2-in 2-out
• USB 2.0 Audio Interface
• One Class-A Audient Console
• Mic Preamplifier
• One Discrete JFET Instrument Input
• 24bit/96khz
• All-metal enclosure
• Windows, macOS, and iOS compatible

Pros

• iD ScrollControl mode to turn the volume control into the rotary encoder in order to control the plug-in parameters.
• Zero-latency monitoring with monitor mix and pan
• Comes with monitor controller functionality
• Creates music on the go because of its small size and quality sound handling features

Cons

• A little fragile so handle with care
• Not very durable

The iD4 is Audient, bringing exceptional audio performance to one of its smallest interfaces. They have crammed a DI, a single microphone preamp, twin headphone, and stereo outs into a single unit that can fit in the palm of your hand.

Furthermore, it has a large rotary encoder acting as primary monitor volume as well as a software control. That’s a lot of features in such a portable device.

Even though the two inputs are very minimal, it can cover your needs – whether acoustic or electronic. It is small and bus-powered, so you can take it along if you want to create music on the go.

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MeloAudio TS Mini Audio Interface

• 24 bit / 192 kHz audio sound quality
• 48dB Preamp
• XLR input Line (TRS) input MIDI
• output Balanced Main Line
• Output USB port for connectivity
• Supports XLR & MIDI
• Built-in 48 volts Phantom Power and Preamp

Pros

• Multifunctional iPhone compatible audio interface It is compatible with iPhone 5 and later, as well as iPad, Windows, Mac, and Android
• Can record keyboard, guitar, bass, vocals – you name it
• One of the most economical devices
• Quality sound (196 kHz / 24-bit) and resolution
• 48 volts phantom power

Cons

• An L & R output would have been nice

MeloAudio is a novice manufacturer, yet my first encounter with their flagship device doesn’t disappoint. This model can go toe to toe with iD4 in terms of cost and performance. While the former costs a little less, the later provides slightly better sound quality (192 kHz / 24-bit).

Additionally, it also provides 48 volts of phantom power. So musicians who require higher operating power because they want to plug in a condenser microphone should definitely give this model a shot. What’s more, it also has MIDI and XLR inputs.

All in all, this is an ideal device for people who want a compact, versatile, and budget-friendly model for their audio mixing needs.

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Behringer U-Phoria UMC202HD Audiophile 2×2 USB Audio Interface

• Interface Type: USB 2.0
• Converter: 24-bit
• Sample Rate: Up to 192kHz
• Inputs: 2x XLR/TRS combo
• Warranty: 3 years limited

Pros

• Has a rich and full audio output
• Astonishing noise-canceling ability
• 3 years warranty keeps you plenty covered
• A great option for people on a budget

Cons

• As this is an older model it has limited inputs
• This is an older model

I have reviewed Behringer’s UMC 402HD model before, so this is a previous model. The only reason I include it in my list is because of its meager cost when compared with the latest model.

The clarity of this basic audio interface is astonishing, and the sound comes out very full and rich, replicating whatever you throw at it.

In case your recording venue has ground loop issues that cause significant hum in recordings, then this little device can take care of the record with absolutely non-existent noise in the output. It is silent. Even when the volume is cranked up, you hear no noise.

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IK Multimedia iRig PRO DUO 2 channel professional audio interface

• Two Neutrik combo jack inputs
• Two balanced TRS outputs
• MIDI in/out
• Dual ultra-low-noise pre-amps with phantom power
• TRS balanced outputs & a 1/8″ headphone jack Lightning
• USB and MicroUSB cables

Pros

• Professional audio along with true mobility
• More robust than previous IK multimedia’s iRig model
• Comes in two models – corded and cordless
• The package includes lighting and USB cables

Cons

• Batteries could have been better in cordless models
• Won’t work as efficiently when it has low batteries

It is a widely compatible interface. Featuring everything you would expect from a dual-channel audio interface. For instance, phantom power, MIDI, signal metering, direct monitoring, and XLR/Hi Z inputs. More than enough to work with multiple devices.

It is fairly robust, and the cordless model works best when fully charged. Once the charge drains, it becomes less stable over time.

Overall, it may not have natural and sexiest sounding preamps, yet as a utility for your music box, you cannot ignore this economical bargain.

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Native instruments Komplete 2

• Two combi-XLR/jack inputs
• Stereo jack out VU Meter
• USB 2.0
• Essentials software bundle
• 48V phantom power
• 192 kHz and 24 bit Audio Quality

Pros

• Very light, portable and has an attractive design
• High power and zero latency output sounds
• VU Meter for accurately adjusting levels
• Has pretty big volume knob to adjust the output levels
• While recording you can hear the playback due to Input/host mix feature

Cons

• Only allows direct monitoring to headphones

The last audio interface on my list is stylish and aesthetically pleasing Native Instruments Komplete Audio 2 interface. Simple design, elegant and dirt cheap – there I summed up this device for you.

The device comes bundled with a range of Komplete Start software. It has 15 synths sample instrument along with various effects

This viable portable solution for pc or laptop recording is everything a novice music producer needs to get started. In short, a Komplete solution. See, what I did there?

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Best Audio Interface – Buyer’s Guide

If youare still not sure which one of the best audio interface for garagebandfulfills your requirements, I will be writing a buyer’s guide below to help youout. You can use the following criteria to decide which interface to call in.

iOS support

Ideally your interface should support macOS as well aswindows. iPads have also become quite popular for recording music so I consideriOS support just as valuable. However, if you are using a USB interface withyour iPad it may require additional adapters. Of course, this feature becomesless important in case you just want to utilize the interface with a desktop inyour home studio.

Ease of use

The ease of use is essential. You shouldn’t have to readthrough the manuals how to connect the interface with your device. Connectingany device or instrument with it should be easy. Moreover, the gain levelsshould be easy to adjust. Models like Native Instruments Komplete 2 have reallybig volume knobs to ease volume adjustment. The placement of phantom powerbuttons and clipper indicator lights – whether in front or rear – also adds tothe ease of use.

Portability

If you like to record music on the go or outdoors, youneed to consider a model which is light enough to not burden your backpack andhas a good battery. The last three models on my list are very lightweight andportable. So you can check these out.

Sound Quality

The sound quality isn’t exactly a distinguishing feature among best audio interfaces for garageband. This is because most interfaces available in the market today are capable of recording a noise-free quality sound at 96 kHz rate and 24 bit depth. So sound quality should be least of your worries when it comes to shopping for your interface.

Software

The included software can be a bonus. However, it is never a deal-breaker. Usually, the included software is a “lite” version of software such as ProTools, Ableton or StudioOne used by professionals to better control the audio. If you are looking at audio interfaces then I assume you already have a recording software package in mind which you like. So, you can go with any package you like.

Inputs

Even if you are a solo artist and need only one or twodevices connected to your interface, I always recommend going for more inputs.More ports mean you don’t have to toggle the cords and can leave your devicesplugged in. Nevertheless, if you are on a budget then you can go for older lessexpensive models. They normally have limited inputs.

MIDI

Any instrument with a MIDI out needs an interface thathas support for the specific five pin input style. Many modern instruments andMIDI controllers can plugin directly with the USB so if you are just setting upyour home studio, you shouldn’t worry about this feature.

Best Audio Interface – Closing Thoughts

There, you have it – all the information you need to shop for the best audio interface for GarageBand. All the models I included in my article are below 1000 bucks because anything above starts to get into the category of professionals which is usually a concern for bigger studios. These models work best for solo recordists. Happy recording!

About the Author

Nickolas Anderson

I have been reviewing products for the last three years and I joined the Reviewbrewery team in late 2019.

Free Midi Instruments For Garageband Vst

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Should you choose this app?– GarageBand is currently one of the best Digital Audio Workstations in the music industry. It is quite intriguing how an application this compact offers users the infinite potential to create appealing music that is fresh and out of the box. The software has been extracted from the all-encompassing Logic Pro X software. Developed by Apple INC, GarageBand also provides users the much-required security. It can be easily downloaded from the Apple Store free of cost. The user interface of the application is such that from novice to professionals, users of all competencies can create amazing tracks and compose their music. Detailed steps for the same are laid out below in this guide.

To start creating music, launch the GarageBand software on your device. As it runs on a PC, iPad, or iPhone, you can choose either to start making your project. The interface and control positions might differ a little for each device but the fundamental structure of GarageBand remains the same.

For windows users this guide will refer to the PC version of GarageBand: https://garagebandonpc.com

Click on the ‘New project’ option as this guide will tell you how to create a new song from scratch. If you want to import certain tracks or melodies from an existing track, you can do so by clicking on the ‘Import’ button and choosing the project you want to import from. After you have opened a new project, you will get four track selection options.

The first option is inserting a MIDI track (software instrument). The next two options are plugging in a microphone to record the vocals track or a guitar (both lead and bass) to record the melody or the bassline. All other plugin instruments can also be connected and recorded by choosing this track. The last option is that of a virtual drummer track. The details of which will be discussed later in the guide.

A song composition contains four major sections. The melody, the bassline, percussion, and layering. It is always easier to begin with the layer section. For this, select the Software Instrument track. Choosing this track does not necessarily mean you have to have a MIDI instrument on you. The Musical Typing feature of GarageBand is particularly well-known for such situations. Using this feature, you can convert your device keyboard into a MIDI keyboard. Go to Preferences > Musical Typing to enable this feature.

The MIDI track will open up with a panel to the left and a panel down below. The panel to the left of the track is the Music Library that has in it stored tones of various musical instruments. Starting from Guitar tones to classical piano to bass tones, the library has it all and more. The panel down below is the control panel or the mixer. It has knobs for the basic music effects like Bell, Treble, Drive, bass Volume, Ambience, Gain, and Reverb. A section of it also contains the Keyboard Sensitivity slider that becomes relevant when the Musical Typing feature is used.

As we will be recording a layer, select Synthesizer > Pad from the library. Choose a pad (layer) tone of your choice. The media player on top of the window has the record button on it. When you are ready, record the layer section of your composition. The Key Signature and Metronome options will help you keep your track on beat and scale. It will be quicker if the mixing is done when all the tracks are ready.

Moving on to the next track that will be the melody part of the composition, depending on whether you want to play the melody on the MIDI or plug in your guitar, choose the Track type. Let us use a guitar to explore the range of facilities offered by GarageBand. Use an audio interface to plug in your guitar into the system and select the Guitar Track. Switch on the metronome. To select the tone, if you have a processor on you, well and good. If not, you can use the GarageBand virtual amplifier to set the tone for your guitar. It is recommended to use a physical processor as tone quality is much better. Similar to the last track, click on the Record button and record your track.

The bassline of the song will also follow a similar pattern. The bassline can also be recorded with the MIDI Instrument by going to the Music Library and choosing a base tone. However, connecting a bass guitar will give you a much better effect. Plug in your bass guitar by choosing a plugin track. Like the last track, adjust the tones from your processor and record the bassline.

GUIDE TO COMPOSING AND MIXING OF TUNES AND TRACKS:

At this stage, if you want to add a vocals track, you can do so. Connect your microphone to the device and select the Vocal Recordingtrack. Thereafter, record the vocals part and place it on one of the track rows.

Last but not least, the track that will bind all the other parts of your composition together is the Drummer track. Physically recording the drum sound is quite a difficult task logistically. Therefore. GarageBand has a feature called the virtual drummer. These are pre-recorded drum patterns where the time-signature can be set as required. Each virtual drummer adds a different flair to the groove. Choose a drummer from the list and set the time signature accordingly.

Once all the tracks have been recorded, it is time to mix and master the audio. The first step is to position the tracks so that they are in perfect sync. Following this comes the mixing part. As mentioned above, the Smart Controls panel with the various knobs can be put to use now. Adjust the various nuances of the tracks by twisting and turning the knobs.

It is very difficult to set out a guide for the perfect mix. It all depends on the musician’s taste. The more minutely you hear the tracks, the better you will be able to understand what best is needed for you. Fix the audio gain and the pitch if you feel your vocals track requires pitch correction (auto-tune). The pitch correction slider will be able to the left of your screen when you select the Editor button from the top left of the window.

Free Midi Instruments For Garageband Music

To mix and control the individual parts of the drum, open the Automation feature from the Mix button on the menu bar. Select the drum track and several parameters displaying various drum parts will appear. Adjust the volume and boost.

Once you feel the mix is complete, listen to the entire track again. There is always something that you will have missed out initially. When the track has been perfected, export it as uncompressed. Also, save the project in the ‘My Songs’ section of GarageBand.

You can also try this application now on your PC and see if it fits you and your needs check the guide here.

For the visual lesson for the tutorial, check the video below. Please write to us if you have any queries and doubts.