I need to upgrade to a newer MacMini in order to run my recording software. It doesn't appear there is an audio input jack on the new ones as there is on my 2012 model. What is the best way to input audio from either a phone jack or pin jack?
You need an audio interface device. There are many to choose among, from dirt cheap to very expensive. I advise staying away from the 'dirt cheap' ones.
It depends on your requirements. If you just need a dead simple, line-level stereo interface you might get away with a Behringer UCA222 w/2xRCA line inputs (about $30). Surprisingly good for its price. Regardless, I suggest looking at something more robust like the Behringer UMC2020HD (w/2xXLR & TRS inputs, mic or line level (about $100) or any of the Focusrite Scarlett & Presonus Studio series interfaces. They are very well designed & built but they are also higher priced.
If you are recording from vinyl you need something with RIAA EQ built in; none of the above devices have RIAA. An ART PhonoPlus or Dynasty UA2D would do the job. Or you could just use a USB turntable that has built-in RIAA EQ; PartsExpress/Dayton Audio recently released a couple of very nice turntables that have both analog & USB RIAA built in along with a very good Audio Technica cartridge.
May I add that, depending on your requirements, you may find a mixer more productive & cost effective. Although I considered buying a Scarlett a few years ago, I ended up getting a Mackie ProFXV3 mixer with USB digital interface. It was a lot more bang for the buck, and not much more than the Scarlett or Presonus interfaces.
You need an audio interface device. There are many to choose among, from dirt cheap to very expensive. I advise staying away from the 'dirt cheap' ones.
It depends on your requirements. If you just need a dead simple, line-level stereo interface you might get away with a Behringer UCA222 w/2xRCA line inputs (about $30). Surprisingly good for its price. Regardless, I suggest looking at something more robust like the Behringer UMC2020HD (w/2xXLR & TRS inputs, mic or line level (about $100) or any of the Focusrite Scarlett & Presonus Studio series interfaces. They are very well designed & built but they are also higher priced.
If you are recording from vinyl you need something with RIAA EQ built in; none of the above devices have RIAA. An ART PhonoPlus or Dynasty UA2D would do the job. Or you could just use a USB turntable that has built-in RIAA EQ; PartsExpress/Dayton Audio recently released a couple of very nice turntables that have both analog & USB RIAA built in along with a very good Audio Technica cartridge.
May I add that, depending on your requirements, you may find a mixer more productive & cost effective. Although I considered buying a Scarlett a few years ago, I ended up getting a Mackie ProFXV3 mixer with USB digital interface. It was a lot more bang for the buck, and not much more than the Scarlett or Presonus interfaces.
I use one of these to input from a mic but you can input from other devices.
It gives good quality with virtually no background noise so I am guessing it contains a filter.
What is the best way to input audio from either a phone jack or pin jack?
Audio input on newer MacMini
