![]() The RME Fireface UC is a professional audio interface with six line outputs. There is also a USB-A port for connecting external MIDI interfaces and peripherals. For example, the two USB-B ports allow you to connect the audio interface to two different hosts (Mac, iPad, etc.), and it’s even possible to route audio between the two devices. The rear panel on the iConnectAUDIO4+ has a bunch of stuff you won’t see anywhere else. The interface’s iConfig software also allows for complex audio and MIDI routing that isn’t available on any other audio interface in this price range. The iConnectAUDIO4+ is a great sounding and highly flexible 4-channel audio interface with built-in MIDI I/O. 4 – 6 Outputs iConnectivity iConnectAUDIO4+ Channel expansion is also possible via 8-channel ADAT. The Babyface Pro is an exceptionally crafted unit, and MIDI I/O is available via a breakout cable. There’s little reason to spend more money on the RME Babyface Pro when the Zoom UAC-2 performs so well, but I felt compelled to include an offering from RME because they’re the gold standard. Lastly, the UAC-2 also has a dedicated DC 5V power port. There is a class compliant mode switch if you wish to connect the UAC-2 to an iOS device. ![]() The Zoom UAC-2’s rear panel features MIDI I/O and two 1/4″ TRS outputs. Just how good are the drivers? The UAC-2 managed to edge out the RME Babyface (a $750 audio interface) in my tests. In addition to its superb build quality, With its highly-optimized audio drivers, the Zoom UAC-2 is a super fast low-latency audio interface. Zoom’s new line of audio interfaces is quickly becoming an industry favorite. The UR22mkII also features a dedicated 5V DC power port, which is more reliable than USB bus power. The MIDI IN on the UR22mkII can also be used with a MIDI Solutions Footswitch Controller to increase the number of pedal inputs in your rig. This feature is especially useful if you prefer connecting your controller over MIDI instead of USB. Unlike Focusrite’s two output offerings, the UR22mkII is a 2-channel audio interface that also offers built-in MIDI I/O. This is the one to get if you’re on a tight budget. The Steinberg UR22mkII is the best budget audio interface for MainStage on the market. In each category, you’ll find the best audio interfaces in various price ranges. I’ve broken up the recommendations below into four categories - 2 line outputs, 4 – 6 line outputs, 8 line outputs, and 16+ line outputs. Through my work on Broadway and beyond, I’ve had the opportunity to test out many different audio interfaces for live performance in MainStage.įor me, a MainStage audio interface must have the following features - great sound quality, built-in MIDI I/O, stable and optimized driver performance, and high quality construction. ![]() There are dozens of companies and hundreds of models to choose from. PS: I remember him telling me he sometimes had problems with his interface, but not with Live.Finding the best audio interface for MainStage can be challenging. He used Live lite too, and had all instrument vsts he played live on one single project, one in each track/channel, and changed from one to the other on the fly by muting/unmuting/arming/soloing the channels. What bothers me in Live is that it sometimes takes a little time to open a project (I have a different project for each song I play live) and lags the first time I open It (so, before I start a performance, I have to remember to make it play a project for some seconds to get rid of this issue).Ī friend of mine was an experienced keyboard player in a band that played a lot here where I live. I have used ableton live lite (came with my interface) in live situations, with no problems. So, I try to keep things simple and cpu and ram friendly. I have experienced some issues (crashes and volume peaks) using the free Seib's VstHost with some vst synths.įor live performance, stability is the main point to consider, in my opinion (both for the host and instruments you intend to use). For example, Ableton Live is often used for live performances. Some DAWs are so slim that they are good for performing live. Plus, you can easily transfer your projects from recording and mixing to live performance. For example, you don't have to learn a new program to put together your stage setup. DAWs are more complex than VST hosts, so the system has to do more to load the VSTs.īut there are a few advantages to using a DAW as a live VST host. ![]() This means that your DAW is also a perfect option for playing VSTs live. Any program that can play VSTs is a VST host. Click to expand.The 8 best VST hosts to perform live Īny program that can play VSTs is a VST host.
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