A budget audio interface with surface controls and multi-track recording ability

Question

I'm currently trying to find an interface which meets my needs for podcast recording. The needs are as follows:

• at least 2 XLR microphone inputs.
• at least 3 line inputs for recording turntables or other line audio.
• the ability to record all tracks separately via USB/Firewire/Thunderbolt onto a Macbook Pro.
• good support for Logic Pro, Audacity or even GarageBand.

Essentially, I want to be able to create a good live mix through an interface with robust controls, but have the option of tweaking levels post-recording on the computer-end through the separately recorded tracks.

Is there anything on the market that would allow this?

I've been looking at the Zoom R16 but it's unclear as to whether this allows you to record more than the standard one track on the computer-end via the USB.

Finding it hard to distinguish the lexicon used in the specs of these machines to determine if they output more than one track/mix/master etc.

Answer 1

Although AJ Henderson's answer does clarify things somewhat, I've decided to answer my own question.

Being new to audio production, I think I was confusing the different elements of a production stack. My question was asking for an all-singing, all-dancing interface: something that acted as in i/o, and a controller at the same time.

I realise now that this is a big ask, and that there's nothing wrong with taking a more modular approach. In the end I went with the Focusrite 6i6 and a Korg nanoKontrol.

The Focusrite interface handles my multi-track recording needs, while the Korg ticks the box for a budget control.

Now, all I need to do is make sure my software is set-up accordingly - something I have outlined in this queston.

Answer 2

From your link. "The R16 functions as an audio interface enabling direct input of sound to a computer. Support for high quality 24-bit/96kHz encoding ensures great sound. Eight input channels and two output channels can be used simultaneously." Presonus also makes similar products.