How To Select an Audio Recording Interface

Here's How:

1. Do you need Pro Tools compatibility? Digidesign's Pro Tools is the industry-wide standard, but being compatible, even on the smallest offering, comes with a premium price. Digidesign's cheapest Pro Tools offering, the MBox 2 Mini, rings up at $329, offering only a single microphone input and two line inputs. From there, you can move up to the Digi 003, at around $1600 for 8 channels.
   
   From there, remember: if you don't need Pro Tools and plan on using another software program, you don't need Pro Tools hardware, and don't need to pay the premium. Remember, too, you can't use Pro Tools without a compatible interface.
2. How Many Inputs Do You Need? What type of music will you be recording? Do you need more than one input? More than two? Some interfaces that are cheaper offer less inputs. You want, at very least, two microphone preamp inputs - that way you can do vocals and, say, guitar at once. If you plan on recording drums, you'll need at least four preamp inputs for kick, snare, and stereo overheads. Chances are you'll want much more for good drum sounds. But don't overdo it - you can get by with less if you don't need it.
3. Are You Using Garage Band? If you use Apple's Garageband, you can get by with the internal soundcard and a special adapter for instruments. Another great option is the new Samson USB microphones; it's very simple to plug-n-play. Garage Band is very powerful and versatile for beginners, and products like Samson's USB microphone make it unbelievably easy. For better quality, you can find something like Apogee's ONE ($249) if you only need a one-channel interface.
4. Firewire or USB? Firewire interfaces, as a rule, are more expensive than USB. If you're only doing one or two channels at a time, USB will probably be fine. Anything else than that requires more channels will require a Firewire interface, because USB cannot safely support the large amount of bi-directional data. Larger, more professional interfaces have dedicated internal cards to interface with the computer.

Tips:

1. Remember, the most expensive interface isn't always the best for your needs. Most interfaces on the market today are "future proof", meaning that they go far beyond the current 16-bit standards. Don't be talked into buying more than you need, especially if you're just a hobbyist. Large chain stores like Guitar Center may not always have the most knowledgeable staff
2. Always assume on the high end when it comes to inputs. You'll be surprised at how your needs seem to mysteriously expand somewhere between when your return policy ends and the first credit card bill arrives. It's better to have extra inputs if you can afford them. As you get better at recording, you'll be ready for more power.
3. Most places will accept a return after 30 days, so don't be afraid to go back to the drawing board if your needs aren't met. Find a salesperson you trust, and don't be afraid to ask for help in picking out an interface.
4. If you need to buy your software package separately, please, don't pirate your software. Aside from technical support, by not buying your recording software, you're doing a huge disservice to those who make their living by making your software.