Is there any reason to get a Komplete Audio 2 to run with my Maschine+? Other than XLR and Phantom Power? Is the audio better? Easier to record guitar, other instruments?
It depends, what one needs. Dedicated audio interfaces will be in most cases of higher quality than internal one. And one may need more inputs/outputs than 1/1. Also audio interfaces have usually higher gain on its inputs.
Audio Interface buying can be non-trivial, and you need to factor in a number of things, including future expansion and instrument type. I bought a 4 input Focusrite I didn't get on with, traded it towards an 8 channel Behringer I didn't like, which then developed a fault. With the shortage of gear I ended up getting an 8-channel Focusrite at twice the price, but it works like a dream.
I use synths with stereo input, your needs will doubtlessly be different. As far as I can see the Komplete Audio (which I considered) is OK for the scale of connection it offers, but mostly people look at a small number of alternatives (Focusrite, Presonus...). Looking for advice on YouTube gets complicated as people have very different ideas of what's suitable at budget.
I likely would need higher gain. I'm going to be recording some guitar and bass into Maschine at some point. And I'm going to be without a laptop/PC for a while. I'm just trying to make sure that I'm in a good situation. I'm not sure I NEED one, but it would help.
I've considered a Focusrite or some other interface over the Komplete Audio 2, just through reviews and my brother's advice (he's a sound engineer). I went to Guitar Center and was told that the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd gen should work because it's class-compliant. Eventually, I'd be recording some light vocals, but it's mostly about recording guitar/bass. The thought that I don't NEED an interface kept me from getting one, along with the thought that it might NOT work. I just need more info and reassurance first.
You really only need an additional interface if you require more audio or MIDI I/O. If you’re wanting to have more gain because your plugging in a line level instrument, I recommend just buying a good preamp. If you’re playing bass you absolutely need a SansAmp driver pedal in your arsenal. I’m including the ParaDriver model here that you can use with bass, synths, guitar, etc. I’ve also included a cheaper tube amp that has different profiles for different sound sources that’s useful for recording.
SansAmp ParaDriver - https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/ParaDriverV2--tech-21-sansamp-para-driver-v2-di
ART Tube PreAmp - https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/TubeMPSTV3--art-tube-mp-studio-v3-voiced-valve-preamplifier
It's always a good idea to focus on a dedicated audio interface. I don't own a Maschine+ myself but do have the Mk3 (which also has an audio interface) and while it's definitely useful and pretty good IMO it also doesn't really weigh up against a dedicated interface. I ended up with a Komplete Audio 6 simply because my full home studio is heavily build "on" Komplete so it was a logical choice for me.
The difference between those two is easily noticeable, and I'm not only talking about the massive amounts of in- and out-put channels.
Does anyone know if the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd gen works with the Maschine Plus? I'm considering getting that.
I have the gen1 and works fine, others have confirmed gen2 works as well but I haven't seen anyone mention gen3... It should work since not much changed but try asking here:
Or on Reddit, if no one confirms it.
