Audio interfaces, inputs, latency, buffer settings, headphones, browser permissions and practical electric-guitar recording.
10 guides in this topic
Browser guitar tools use the same permission system as microphones because the browser treats every audio input as a media device. Allow access, then select the audio interface channel rather than the built-in microphone.
Read the guideBuffer size controls how much audio the computer processes at once. Sample rate controls how many audio samples are taken per second. Smaller buffers reduce latency; higher sample rates increase processing load.
Read the guideYes. Use an amp or processor with a headphone output, a headphone amp, a multi-effects unit or an audio interface with amp/cab software. Do not connect headphones directly to a passive guitar.
Read the guideConnect an electric guitar to an audio interface instrument input with a 1/4-inch TS cable, then select that interface as the input in your browser, recording app or guitar software.
Read the guideRecord electric guitar either with a microphone on an amplifier or directly through an audio interface. Direct recording is a flexible home method and allows amp and cabinet sounds to be changed later.
Read the guideSelect the interface channel where the guitar is physically connected. In the operating system and app, choose that device and channel, then verify it with an input meter.
Read the guideA microphone input is designed for very low-level microphone signals. An instrument input, also called Hi-Z, is designed for electric guitar or bass pickups. Use the input type that matches the source.
Read the guideA normal electric guitar output is mono: one signal from one cable. Stereo usually appears later when effects, multiple microphones or two amplifiers create different left and right signals.
Read the guideAudio latency is the delay between playing a note and hearing it from the computer. It comes from conversion, buffering and software processing. Lower buffer sizes reduce delay but require more computer power.
Read the guideCrackles usually mean the computer cannot process audio in time, the buffer is too small, the driver is wrong, a connection is unstable or the signal is clipping.
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