How do I connect my audio mixer, audio interface, and monitor speakers to my pc?
Daniel K
Here is the simple answer. Connect all audio sources to the mixer inputs (mics, instruments). Connect red/white stereo tape outputs of mixer to interface inputs 1 & 2 (front of interface) using a pair of RCA to 1/4 inch cables. Connect the USB connection from the interface to your computer. Connect the monitors to the red/white RCA connectors on the back of the interface.
Robert J
It totally depends what you are trying to achieve. Assuming it's for a "Home studio" type setup, the mixer is probably redundant; they are typically for combining multiple sources to feed a single amplifier in a live performance setting and not part of a recording system. Interfaces for recording do not "mix" - each input produces a separate digital audio stream to the computer and can be fed simultaneously to a different track in the DAW (digital audio workstation) so it can be monitored or recorded when required. All the audio processing is done in the software. Control surfaces (that look like mixers) do not actually process audio, they just send the settings of the controls and buttons to the DAW to operate parts of that, rather than using a mouse.. It's unfortunately a common misconception with people buying their first equipment, as mixers look very similar to control surfaces - but the connection type and use is totally different. eg. This is a control surface, which has no audio connections: https://www.soundonsound.com/reviews/mackie-control-universal Your audio interface connects to the computer via USB and the speakers connect to the outputs on the interface. That's it. You need a good DAW program; Tracktion is the best there is in my experience and there is a full version of that for free. https://www.tracktion.com/products/t7-daw My setup below, with a Tascam control surface:
spacemissing
How you should connect everything depends somewhat on your purposes, but reading the manuals for your equipment should help. Find someone else near you who has done the same thing and ask for assistance.