Difference between scarlett interface and vt bass di pedals for recording?

[KORNSKYDIVER]

I just purchased a tech 21 vt bass di pedal and I was wondering if I can use a xlr to usb cable to connect the pedal directly to my pc for bass recording? Or would i need to hook the pedal to something like a scarlett solo interface? I was under the impression the vt bass di is essentially the same thing as a audio interface and isnt needed to connect to a pc.

My second question is should I go from bass --> VT Bass DI --> PC
Or
Bass---VT Bass DI-->Ampeg BA115 (via xlr out)-->PC?

Any input would greatly be appreciated. Im just trying to figure out this whole DI vs audio interface vs preamp jargob. Thanks for your patience gents

 

[mdlewis]

I sometimes connect my tech 21 vt bass di to my digital interface. The di is basically a preamp, impedance controlling equalization box and outputs an analog signal. To get it into your PC, you need to digitize it, so an audio interface of some kind is required. The audio interface will typically have preamp and sampling rate functions. Higher sampling rates = higher quality audio. Confusion sometimes exists because you can plug directly into most digital interfaces with a bass guitar and add all of the eq stuff on the computer.

bass->VT Bass DI -> Audio Interface->PC will work just fine.

A computer will not accept an XLR out unless you have some kind of digital interface. Some computers have audio in (usually a mini plug) which may accept output from the DI with the right cable, but you're usually depending upon software digitization. Fine for practice, not so great for quality.

 

[KORNSKYDIVER]

Thanks for the input! I also just ordered a zoom b3 which has a USB port for recording. So is it safe to assume the b3 is also a built in audio interface? What if I went bass > vt bass > zoom b3 > Computer?

I just plan on recording bass covers on YouTube and I'm really trying to avoid dropping another $100 on a focusrite solo after purchasing a vt bass and zoom b3. Thanks again for your feedback brother

 

[NSJB]

From what I understand you can record through a B3 to a computer. I sorta had a quick look over Recording with the ZOOM B3 a while ago and came to the conclusion that it's easier to just get a proper interface. It's hard to beat a good interface for flexibility and latency.

If you decide to go with the B3, you will have to set it as the input in recording settings and your onboard sound card as the output in playback devices assuming you are using windows. If you do decide to get an interface and you have a really hot output bass, I would recommend going up to the scarlett 2i4. The lower ones don't actually have a pad switch. I had to sell a 2i2 because the pad was the difference between distortion and clean on my active bass.

 

[Jeffro3004]

The VT Bass DI would normally be used to go direct into a mixer/PA system for live sound purposes. For recording on a computer I would use your equipment like this -

bass>Zoom B3>computer

Which is exactly what I do.

 

[DirkP]

You should do some basic reading about the gear you own before spending one cent more or considering other purchases.

You could - in a way - as well ask if you should use the strings of your bass or the bridge to make music. Or if you should remove the strings from your bass and nail them to your amp.

Research what an audio-interface does, what a DI-Box does and what a preamp with an amp- and speaker simulation does.