USB interface that also acts as a standalone phantom power provider?

July 28, 2017 11:49 AM

Music production noob question: can anyone recommend me a single box that is both of the following, preferably without cracking $300: (1) A USB interface with stereo ins and outs and a decent preamp. (2) Something that could also power a 48v condenser mic without being attached to my laptop, so that I can use it when recording from the mic to an old cassette 4 track.

I've been recording music on my Macbook using a first-generation Apogee One (i.e., not the iPad one that has a separate power supply or batteries). It provides phantom power to my condenser mic, but only when it's hooked up to the Macbook. I also like recording onto a 4 track cassette machine. The trouble is that I want to use the condenser mic to do it, but for that I need phantom power, and the One will only power the mic if it's going into the computer (not the 4 track).

I need to buy a new interface anyway (the One is crapping out), and at first I assumed that I needed to also buy a mic preamp to power (and gain boost) the condenser for the 4 track stuff...but I wonder if there's a box that could kill both of those birds.

I like the preamp in the One, and I'd like to stick with at least that quality. Any recommendations welcome!

posted by Beardman to Technology (3 answers total)

I think this Focusrite Scarlett will do what you want for $250 MSRP. I don't own one, but it is often recommending in synthesizer circles, and according to the catalog I just linked it has two great pre-amps that both provide phantom power over XLR, and I think will run just fine if not plugged in to a computer. A lower model of the same line may also work. To be sure, you can Sweetwater and ask: they have great phone sales people and they will be happy to answer questions and help you find one that's right for you among their extensive choices (Not affiliated, just had good experience with them).
posted by SaltySalticid at 1:01 PM on July 28, 2017

I'd also consider one of those mixers that just happens to have a USB port, too. They're very useful even when not paired to a computer. Here's one that has phantom power on all four mic inputs.

Apogee are known for their great converters so maybe that Focusrite is a better idea, but I just wanted to give an option.
posted by destructive cactus at 2:43 PM on July 28, 2017

I have a Scarlett and it'll do the trick. Once you've set up the ins/outs to your liking, you can save those settings to the device and it'll keep them without needing a USB connection. So you totally could use it as a standalone mic preamp. There's a button to turn phantom power on/off.

(Caveat: It has an external power plug and can't run off USB power.)
posted by neckro23 at 8:00 PM on July 28, 2017