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Audio Interfaces
Does the Audio Interface Really Matter?
A blind A/B comparison exploring whether the SPL Crimson 3 and Audient iD4 produce audible differences in real-world recordings. All tracks were recorded in mono using a matched pair of Neumann KM 184 microphones. For selected recordings, the microphones were swapped between the interfaces to minimize the influence of small differences in microphone position. Multiple listening rounds are used to reduce the influence of chance and perceived differences that may not be consistent.
Compared Items
Audient iD4SPL Crimson 3
| Test | Sound Source | Test Type | Rounds | Loudness Matching |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Strumming 1Swapped Setup | Guitar — Acoustic | A/B Test | 4 rounds | On |
| Strumming 2Swapped Setup | Guitar — Acoustic | A/B Test | 4 rounds | On |
| Simple Beat | Percussion — Djembe | A/B Test | 2 rounds | On |
| 16th-Note GrooveSwapped Setup | Percussion — Jingle Ring | A/B Test | 4 rounds | On |
| Room Mic | Percussion — Djembe | A/B Test | 2 rounds | On |
| Maximum Gain Noise | No Source | A/B Test | 1 rounds | Off |