The Hamer of USB interface links?

[Biz Prof]

Since this board is virtual treasure trove of opinions, expertise, and sage advice, I think it's wise to seek pearls of digital wisdom from the gallery regarding a domain I've avoided like a Biblical plague: Modeling software. My job is requiring me to travel more than I have in recent years, thus, I'd like to demo some modeling apps to see what might allow me to do some woodshedding whilst on the road.

Given Toadroller's advice, I've downloaded a demo copy of Peavey's ReValver. Those training wheels will be fine to get me going. But, now...a noob question: what USB interface should I consider purchasing if I want good, basic audio performance without seeking Mutt Lange recording quality?

If it even matters, I'm running Windows 8.1.

Thanks in advance for your input!

-Jon

[mathman]

First question

Portability is important? Or no...

[Biz Prof]

First question

Portability is important? Or no...

Yes. I don't need a brick to tote around. A simple link to get my guitar into one of the USB ports is my goal.

[mathman]

One other question, do you have an ipad or iphone?

Anyway. I really like my Focusrite. Mine is the 6i6 and works with both computer and ipad/iphone. It isn't real portable because it requires power but this one is portable but has more features available when using the power supply.

Forte

[Biz Prof]

One other question, do you have an ipad or iphone?

Anyway. I really like my Focusrite. Mine is the 6i6 and works with both computer and ipad/iphone. It isn't real portable because it requires power but this one is portable but has more features available when using the power supply.

Forte

PC platform. I use an iPad at home, but work is strictly button-down, PC-based stuff.

[mathman]

Now that I reread I see windows 8.1 in the original post. Anyway the forte looks like a nice interface. Very happy with focusrite gear.

[scottcald]

I know you said Win 8.1, but if you have an iPad or iPhone, the Line6 Sonicport is pretty cool. It's not expensive, the app is easy to use. It couldn't get much better for traveling. And you can record into GarageBand or most any audio app.

http://line6.com/sonicport-audio-interface/sonicport/

[Tres Aardvarks]

I use the Apogee Jam (previously with iPad, now with MBP). Not sure if it works with Windows but I love mine!

[killerteddybear]

I just picked up a Native Instruments Komplete Audio 6 (works on PC or Mac). $229 at your local big box Gee Sea...

It's a brick.

Almost literally in size, shape, and weight. BUT the bundled software includes Cubase LE (I'm a Cubase fan) and something called Guitar Rig - it's a VST based rack of preamps, effects and cabinet simulators.

Plug your guitar in one hole, headphones in another, and you're good to go.

I can't play guitar very well, but through Guitar Rig even I sound good.

[Toadroller]

I've got a digitech gnx 3000 multi-effect and amp sim pedal, and it operates as a mixer and a digital interface, readily seen by Reaper and other digital audio workstations.

My Peavey Vypyr's usb connection acts as a digital interface; same.

For travelin' guitar and headphones, I'll take an analog korg pandora, but that's not a digital interface for recording.

I also have the $25 ampkit thingy which works with ipads and iPhones, and therefore garage band and others. I always dream of creating and mixing on my iPad on a long flight, and have a,l the tools to do so, but never have.

There have to be tens of sub DIs for under $50, and I bet the differentiation is in features/functions and portability. I don't think you can go wrong,

[Biz Prof]

I've got a digitech gnx 3000 multi-effect and amp sim pedal, and it operates as a mixer and a digital interface, readily seen by Reaper and other digital audio workstations.

My Peavey Vypyr's usb connection acts as a digital interface; same.

For travelin' guitar and headphones, I'll take an analog korg pandora, but that's not a digital interface for recording.

I also have the $25 ampkit thingy which works with ipads and iPhones, and therefore garage band and others. I always dream of creating and mixing on my iPad on a long flight, and have a,l the tools to do so, but never have.

There have to be tens of sub DIs for under $50, and I bet the differentiation is in features/functions and portability. I don't think you can go wrong,

Thank you, my friend. Exactly the sort of advice I was seeking.