Do I need an audio interface to use XLR mics on my Mac?

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Do I need an audio interface to use XLR mics on my Mac?

I'm a podcaster and just made the transition from using USB mics to XLR mics and using Logic Pro. I found that using these mics gives so much better sound. Problem is I'm using a big audio interface that kinda makes it tough to carry on the go and to record. Is there anything better or smaller I can use that's not too pricy?? Or something I can connect to my Mac to allow me to have multiple XLR mics connected and get great sound quality? If anyone can share a best practice please help! Thanks!

PODCAST-OTHER, OS X Yosemite (10.10.5)

Posted on Feb 10, 2016 11:18 AM

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Answer 1

Csound1

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Feb 10, 2016 11:23 AM in response to roelsjr

Yes xlr connected mics are balanced (positive/negative and neutral) you will need a preamp for them and possibly plug adaptors

The Apogee Duet is an excellent example.

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Answer 2

roelsjr Author

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Feb 10, 2016 11:24 AM in response to Csound1

Thanks for replying! Connected miss are balanced? What do you mean? I'm gonna check out that device you recommended!

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Answer 3

Csound1

Level 9

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Feb 10, 2016 11:32 AM in response to roelsjr

Balanced microphones need 3 pins, negative/positive and neutral, others do not. (most require 2 pins, a small number 4 or 5 pins) Balanced mics generate 4 times the voltage that unbalanced ones do, you can't just plug them into the same socket as a balanced mic.

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