Audio Interfaces
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When it comes to investing in their gear, plenty of VOs overlook the benefits of getting a high quality interface before getting a fancy mic. To say that is putting the cart before the horse is no exaggeration at all. Do your reputation and sanity a favor by taking the time to really know what you're getting before you buy an interface.
After all, do you think you're going to save more money buying three cheaper interfaces that break down or buying one that lasts as long as your career?
Simply put, this interface is a MONSTER of excellence and technological ass kicking.
I always encourage people to "buy the last thing first" if at all possible, and this is a perfect example of that thinking. Once this is in your studio, you will never need to upgrade or worry about being held back by your gear. Far too many bells and whistles to list here, but I HIGHLY encourage you to check out the stats and say "WOW" for yourself.
Be advised though, this interface ONLY works with a Thunderbolt 3 connection. If your computer doesn't have one, you will need to upgrade that first.
If the Arrow is too much tech for you, the Apollo Twin MKII is a very nice step down that doesn't feel like a step down at all. A wide array of bells and whistles add to that cutting edge tech that means you should never need to buy another interface for the foreseeable future.
Again, you're going to need a Thunderbolt cable and connection for this model, but think of it as buying a laptop that was WiFi compatible just a few years ago.
If you want to work like tomorrow, today, then this is an excellent option.
Another great model to "get it and forget it" is the Audient ID22.
Not as many bells and whistles as the two interfaces previously discussed, but still some fine tools and tricks up its sleeve.
Dependability and pristine audio are the hallmarks of this interface.
Dollar for dollar it is a great investment.
If you're on a tight budget and have limited options, the Audient ID4 is your new best friend.
By eliminating many of the special features of the ID22, the ID14 gives you all the guts and gusto you need and has the stamina to outlast most of your other gear.
Because of its lower price, smaller size, and durable construction, I recommend adding this model to your gear locker for those times when you need to do VO work while you're on the road.
This package is so sweet you might think it was made by Willy Wonka himself!
While the Rode AI-1 interface isn't strong enough to do justice to many mics on the market, when you pair it with the Rode NT-1 you get audio that would normally cost you hundreds more dollars to match.
This kit gives you an amazing bang for your buck!
Just about any voice actor /voice over artist could make it pay itself off with just one or two jobs.
The upside being that you can sound "pro" for very little dough. The downside is that if you want to upgrade your mic later on, you will need to upgrade your interface as well.
One Final Note:
After you've purchased one, your interface should be the most overlooked piece of equipment in your studio.
Your interface should be something you completely forget that you even have except when you need to make minor adjustments for the type of work you're doing.
It is for that reason that I do NOT endorse the Scarlet series from Focusrite.
Personal and anecdotal experience has shown the popular Scarlet series to be the source of many audio related headaches. While it CAN be a great addition to your studio, it is also likely to make you waste many hours of time trying to track down a technical gremlin that is preventing you from getting a clean true sound.
Many people have no problems with their Focusrite gear, but given my experiences, I advise against purchasing their products at this time.