In our roundup below, we have only included interfaces that we know will work directly with the newer USB-C iPads. Many, like Focusrite, post regular news or blog stories to say which of their interfaces require or don’t require external power and with which iPads. Here, then, we recommend checking with interface manufactures. We say ‘most’ as this might not always be the case as specs (and indeed iPads) change so regularly. The best and clearest news is that a USB-C compatible audio interface will connect directly to a USB-C iPad, and in most cases a USB-C iPad should be able to power a USB-C audio interface. And older USB audio interfaces will require a USB to USB-C adaptor to work with a USB-C iPad, and might require extra power, usually by way of an AC adapter for the interface or powered USB hub to the iPad. The same type of USB audio interface that you use with your desktop setup can often be used with the more expensive USB-C compatible iPads, and even higher spec’d Thunderbolt interfaces can be used with the Pro models.įirewire audio interfaces will not work with the current range of iPads though. Running a software iPad studio is every bit as fun and creative as your desktop/laptop studioįirst, the good news. However, deciding which interface to buy can be confusing thanks to Apple using the Lightning, USB-C and Thunderbolt interfacing standards in the current range of iPads, not to mention older USB audio interfaces not using the USB-C standard! But we’re here to clear it up and make (some) sense of it all. Every recording situation can now be handled by an iPad, from recording a songwriter playing guitar and singing to recording several band members playing a live gig. You can get any number of ins and outs with audio interfaces, so whichever combination you require, there is an interface available. You could, of course, do this with the iPad’s built-in microphone but the results will be far better if you choose to use a dedicated audio interface.Īs with desktop recording, your iPad interface will need mic, line or combi XLR/line inputs for connecting both microphones and instruments up for recording, plus outputs to connect to speakers. Need to record audio from the real world into your iPad? Sing, play guitar, record an entire band? It’s all possible.

Studio on phone