Using Audio Interfaces
Use an audio interface for recording sounds onto your computer, or to play sound from the computer back into the space.
Example with the Focusrite Scarlett 2i4
For recording some simple sounds you can use the Focusrite Scarlett 2i4 that is available in most Blackboxes and uitleen, or any other similar audio interface. For now we stay to the Scarlett 2i4, since it's been used the most in the workspace. An audio interface lets us interact with sound in different ways, you can use the interface for example to:
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Connect instruments and/or microphones to a Speaker setup (no computer)
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Connect instruments and microphones to the computer via USB for recording
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Play sounds from your computer via USB to speakers using the audio interface
Different audio interfaces vary in number of inputs and/or outputs. Also some might include software for recording your sounds with, this is called a DAW (Digital Audio Workstation). Some popular DAW's are AbetlonLive, Reaper or StudioOne.
Depending on the audio interface, you will need to install additional Drivers (group of files that enable hardware devices to communicate with the computer). You can check if your operating system needs a driver by going to the website of the interface's manufacturer. In this case for the Focusrite Scarlett 2i4, no additional drivers are needed on Mac.
Connecting everything!
- Connect the Scarlett 2i4 to your Mac using the included USB cable
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In system preferences on your laptop/pc select "Scarlett 2i4" as the input and output device
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You can also select the "Scarlett 2i4" from your preferred Audio Software DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) such as AbeltonLive, StudioOne, Reaper.