How to Connect USB Mic to Audio Interface

USB microphones are easy-to-use devices offering plug-and-play functionality. Being compatible with computers and mobile phones as well, they connect easily with such devices. 

That said, there are times when you need to connect your usb microphone to an audio interface. Why does that need arise, and how can you connect a usb microphone to an audio interface really? 

Let’s simplify your problem and help you figure out exactly how you can easily connect your usb mic to the audio interface you are using.

The Need to Connect a USB Microphone to an Audio Interface

While a usb microphone offers great compatibility with laptops and mobile phones, there does come a time when you may need to connect it to an audio interface. So if you have ever wondered: can you connect usb mic to audio interface, the answer is a big YES!

Let’s take a look at some scenarios when this need stirs up.

To Improve the Sound Quality

Many good-quality audio interfaces help you improve the audio quality with the help of their in-built A/D converters.

The integrated A/D converters in most USB mics are relatively weaker in quality and performance as compared to those in high-end audio interfaces. So, when you need top-notch quality of sound with a USB mic, connecting it to an audio interface is a viable option.

When You Have an XLR Microphone

If you are using an XLR microphone, you can’t link it directly to a computer via the USB port.

In this scenario, you need an audio interface containing an XLR input. With that, you’ll easily be able to connect XLR microphones to the audio interface with an XLR cable.

To Use Advanced Features

Audio interfaces usually come with additional features, including phantom powering for condenser mics, preamplifiers, and better control over audio settings.

When You Need to Use Multiple Microphones

If you are in a podcasting studio, or doing a group discussion, you are likely to need multiple microphones. To use them conveniently, you will need an audio interface offering multiple XLR inputs along with a USB cable for every microphone to attach it to the interface.

To Hear Audio in Real-Time

Certain audio interfaces provide you with low-latency monitoring. This means that you can hear the audio in real-time, devoid of any delays. If you are a vocalist or a musician, you are likely to want to hear yourself while recording minus any latency.

You can easily fulfill this need with an audio interface. And of course knowing how to connect your usb microphone to the audio interface is crucial too. So let’s move towards that bit.

Different Ways to Connect USB Mic to Audio Interfaces

Typically, there are five primary ways to connect a usb mic to an audio interface. Let’s dive into each one of them so you become better aware of the different approaches to use a usb microphone with an audio interface.

USB Mic Containing a 3.5mm Output

Certain usb microphones come with a 3.5mm (⅛”) headphone jack to get real-time monitoring for your audio. You can also use this output to transmit the mic’s analog audio signal directly to your audio interface.

Here’s what you need to do:

External ADC and Analog Output

If your USB mic comes with an analog output, such as a dedicated line-level output or a headphone output, you can easily connect it with an external ADC (analog-to-digital converter.)

Here’s how you can do it:

The external analog-to-digital converter will start converting the analog signal it receives into a digital signal, so you can easily carry out your audio recording via the audio interface in your professional or home studio.

Digital Connection

Certain high-end USB mics come with digital audio output options like the AES/EBU (Audio Engineering Society/ European Broadcasting Union) or SPDIF (Sony/ Philips Digital Interface.) 

Here’s how you can connect such microphones with an audio interface.

By simply leveraging the digital audio protocols, you can efficiently manage the digital-to-analog conversion by your audio interface for music production, content creation, and other podcasting needs.

Multi-Channel Audio Interface and USB Hub for Multiple USB Microphones

In case you need to perform audio recording via multiple USB mics at the same time, you can employ a USB hub to link them to your PC easily.

Here’s what you need to do:

Tada! That’s it for this method. The connection will be established, and you can record in peace.

Avoid using unbalanced cables as it can disrupt the smooth transmission of the audio signal.

Direct Connection with the USB Mic

You can also establish a direct connection with your USB mic with the audio interface. To employ this method, you would need to physically modify your USB mic to circumvent its ADC so you can join it directly to your audio interface’s XLR input.

In order to use this approach, you need to have an advanced-level knowledge of soldering and electronics. While this is a workable method, it is not recommended for two major reasons. First, you need to have extensive knowledge of electronics to make this technique work, so if you lack that expertise, it is best to avoid this approach.

Secondly, there is a risk of hurting your USB mic along with voiding the mic’s warranty with this technique. It is best that you try the four other approaches I discussed above.

Establish the Connection Yo!

I have discussed some really useful and viable methods to connect your USB mic with an audio interface. You can try any of the first four ways to join your USB microphone with an audio interface.

However, make sure that the solution you choose aligns with your recording needs, audio interface, and USB microphone. Every option has its considerations and advantages so opting for one that best fits your needs will ensure you get optimal results.

Let me know which solution you chose, and how it worked out for you.

Frequently Asked Questions