Why is an interface such a big deal?

[YolaN'MyNose707]

I could see if your recording rock music or something, you would need a way to connect all the instruments to the PC, but wtf do you have that needs to be connected to the PC when your making hiphop beats with VSTi's and other software instruments? Isn't most of the shit already in the computer? The only thing I can think of is a mic, or a turntable/ whatever your sampling from.

So why is everyone here so big on buying $1000 interfaces? What kinds of exterior equipment are you guys using that needs to be "interfaced"?

 

[Sick Wid It]

If all you're doing is making beats using computer software, you don't need a $1000 interface. When you are recording into the computer however, the better quality interface you have (technically, the better quality converters used in your interface), the better quality the recorded audio. Consumer-grade audio interfaces (like a SoundBlaster) are NOT designed for high-quality high-end recording therefore when you try to use them for that, they will sound & perform like shit.

There is also the issue of latency... Consumer-grade audio interfaces arn't designed to move large amounts of audio/midi data. The less the card does, the more work for the CPU.

Generally speaking, when you buy a high-end audio interface, what you're paying for is converters capable of maintaining a high level of audio quality from your recording source and the ability to move a ton of audio/midi data simutaneously without turning your computer is a bogged down slow piece of shit (assuming it isn't one already).