Setting Up a Microphone/Instrument (Audio Interface) on Next

An Audio Interface replaces your computer’s internal sound card. Using a dedicated audio interface is preferred when using pro-level recording software such as Next to ensure the best audio quality input and output for recording, mixing, and playback. Audio interfaces are commonly connected via USB, while some older devices may utilize Firewire, and some newer devices may utilize USB-C or Thunderbolt connections.

Some audio interfaces are plug-and-play, while others require an audio device driver, typically downloaded from the manufacturer's website. Check the manufacturer’s site to ensure you’re using the latest available drivers before following the steps below!

To connect a USB Audio Interface to Next:

1. Connect your device to your machine prior to starting Next
2. Launch Next
3. From the Start Screen, click New Project
4. Click the [+] Add Track button to add a track
5. Click on the track to open the Track Inspector
6. Under Routing, click the drop-down menu and select your audio interface input and output

Setting Up a Microphone

1. Open Next
2. From the Start Screen, click New Project
3. Click the [+] Add Track button in the track view.
4. In the drop-down menu, select either Mic/Line In, or Instrument
5. Check the icons for Record Enable and Input Monitoring on the track.
6. Speak into the microphone and adjust the input gain on your interface while checking the metering on your track. If you’re using a USB mic, you can adjust the input gain on the device or via your sound settings.