Continuing our discussion (from USB 101 part 1) of the amazing things USB can do for you, this article will feature some USB to Audio applications and products.
USB to Guitar
Who wouldn't want to connect their guitar to their computer? It's like taking two of your favorite flavors of ice cream that you've never tried together, only to find out that it is the greatest thing you could ever eat. There are several ways of doing this:
Light Snake USB to Instrument Cable
This is exactly what it looks like: USB on one end and 1/4 inch instrument jack on the other. Its functionality is pretty much just as simple. You just plug the USB end into your computer and the 1/4 inch jack into your guitar, and you are hooked up seemlessly to your computer. There is also a light indicator on the cable that lets you know you're connected.
Given the price, functionality, and quality of this adapter cable, this is probably the best value per dollar on this list. This cable even comes with audio editing software, so there really isn't much more to buy. It does however lack in the features and options that those seeking a more professional sound might be looking for. Perhaps its most crippling problem is that it is bus powered with no other power source, giving little pre-amplification. This somewhat weak audio signal might be harder to work with in post-production. The 24-bit/48KHz rate does offer quality superior to CDs.
Of course, once the Snake Light Technology hit the market, the all-in-one USB Guitar was conceived. This guitar has a similar sound as the light snake, and also includes a typical TRS output.
M-Audio Fast Track USB Audio Interface
Also offering 24-bit/48KHz audio rates, this will give you a high quality sound through USB. It is the most basic USB interface available on the market with a very attractive sticker price. This is ideal for travel as well since it is so small and lightweight.
This audio interface (which so happened to be my first one when I started dabbling in home recordings back in 2003) features two channels allowing for simultaneous two channel recording, whether you want to lay down two simultaneous tracks (ie one channel guiltar, and one channel vocals), or if you want to lay down one single stereo track. Aside from a 1/4 inch input, this interface also includes an XLR inputs for mics.
The Fast Track also offers Phantom Power, which is necessary for many mics and other instruments, providing necessary amplification. This is a feature usually found on professional mixing equipment. The Fast Track also offers super basic volume control and balance controls.
M-Audio Fast Track Pro USB Audio Interface
Featuring a lot of the same features and chip set as the other Fast Track, the Fast Track Pro also features more options, including MIDI input/output (this does not translate analog guitar into digitized MIDI content), digital audio (S/PDIF) input/output, analog RCA audio in and outs, more TRS (1/4 inch) ins and outs, and more adjustable levels. Like the other Fast Track, it is also plugged into a wall so you get the phantom power and sound amplification you need.
Behringer B-Control DEEJAY 4-Channel Mixer, USB Audio Interface
This is something fun that you might not have been expecting on this list. This works like a lot of typical 4-channel USB Audio Interface/Mixers, except it comes with some frills (make that a lot of frills). It features two jog wheels that allow you to scratch, pitch bend, and cue up audio with a real vinyl feel, it includes all sorts of effects including Native Instruments Traktor 3 LE DJ software, and much too much else to even begin. Just go check it out.
Other USB to Audio Solutions
The USB Midisport 1x1 is probably the easiest and most cost effective way to get one of your Midi instruments connected to your computer via USB. This allows you to use Midi instruments with software, even if it is an outdated Midi instrument. Since this is a simple data connection you don't have to worry about signal loss.
In the new age of optical audio, this is an easy way to get a Toslink output on your computer. Toslink is a digital audio signal that uses fiber optic cable to transfer its lossless codecs. This USB to Toslink offers 5.1 surround sound.
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