Here's how to Connect and Record your Guitar on iPad (USB C)

Summary

In this video, Patrick from the GarageBand Guide demonstrates how to connect and record a guitar on a USB-C equipped iPad. He covers using the iPad's built-in microphones for quick recordings and introduces portable audio interfaces like Apogee's Jam Plus and IK Multimedia's iRig HD 2 for higher quality. For more professional setups, he recommends audio interfaces like the MOTU M2 and M-Audio M-Track Solo, which offer excellent sound quality and various input options. Patrick also addresses the ease of connectivity with USB-C ports, eliminating the need for expensive adapters and allowing for phantom power use without external power sources.

Takeaways

• 🎥 The video is a guide by Patrick from GarageBand on how to connect and record a guitar on a USB-C equipped iPad.
• 🔗 For those with an iPad with a Lightning port, a separate video is available, linked in the description.
• 🎙️ The easiest way to record audio on an iPad is by using its built-in microphones, which have improved quality over time.
• 📡 USB-C/Thunderbolt equipped iPads have microphones that can produce studio-quality sound, with the iPad Pro having a noticeably better setup.
• 🎸 Using the built-in microphone is simple and can be done by placing the iPad near the guitar or amplifier.
• 🚫 While the built-in mics are good, they may not capture the full frequency range, which could affect the mix.
• 💡 Portable audio devices from companies like IK Multimedia and Apogee offer 24-bit, 96 kHz recording quality and are compact.
• 🔌 Devices like the iRig Pro IO provide more input options, including an XLR jack for microphones and direct guitar connection.
• 🎛️ Fully-fledged audio interfaces can be connected to the iPad for high-quality recordings and more audio options.
• 💰 The Moto M2 audio interface is a high-quality option, while the M-Audio M-Track Solo is a more affordable choice with similar features.
• 🔌 USB-A audio interfaces can be used with a USB-C iPad via an adapter, with various options available on the market.
• ⚡️ USB-C iPads do not require extra power for audio interfaces' phantom power function, simplifying the setup for recording.

Q & A

What is the easiest way to record audio on an iPad?

The easiest way to record audio on an iPad is by using its built-in microphones.

How does the microphone setup on an iPad Mini sound?

The microphone setup on an iPad Mini sounds pretty good, and newer iPad models have improved microphone arrays that provide decent recording results.

What is the difference between using built-in microphones and an external audio interface for recording on an iPad?

Using built-in microphones is convenient but may not offer a full range of frequencies for mixing. An external audio interface provides higher quality recordings and more audio recording options.

Which companies offer portable audio interfaces compatible with USB-C equipped iPads?

Companies like IK Multimedia and Apogee offer portable audio interfaces that are compatible with USB-C equipped iPads.

What are some examples of portable audio devices that can be connected directly to a USB-C iPad?

Examples include Apogee's Jam Plus and IK Multimedia's iRig HD 2, which offer 24-bit, 96 kHz recording quality.

What is the advantage of using an audio interface like the iRig Pro IO with a USB-C iPad?

The iRig Pro IO has a combination XLR jack, allowing you to connect an XLR microphone and directly connect your guitar, providing more input options.

How much does the Moto M2 audio interface cost, and what does it offer?

The Moto M2 audio interface costs around 180 pounds or just over 200 dollars and offers high-quality recordings with practically zero latency.

What is the M-Audio M-Track Solo and how much does it cost?

The M-Audio M-Track Solo is an audio interface that costs around 35 pounds or 50 dollars, featuring both an instrument and XLR combo input.

What kind of adapter is needed to connect a USB-A audio interface to a USB-C iPad?

A USB-C to USB-A adapter is needed to connect a USB-A audio interface to a USB-C iPad.

What are the benefits of using an iPad with a USB-C port for audio recording compared to one with a Lightning port?

iPads with USB-C ports offer better connectivity, do not require extra power for phantom power functions, and are compatible with a wider range of adapters and hubs.

What additional feature does the UGREEN hub mentioned in the script offer besides USB ports?

The UGREEN hub offers a 4K 60Hz capable HDMI port and a 3.5mm headphone port, in addition to USB-C and USB-A ports.