equipment$60–120used in 1 side quest
USB audio interface
Small box that connects microphones or instruments to your computer with better quality than the built-in jack. Turns your laptop into a recording studio for podcasts, music, or field recordings.
What to look for
- 1At least one XLR input with phantom power (for real microphones)
- 21/4" instrument input if recording guitar or bass
- 3USB powered (no wall adapter needed for portable setups)
- 4Direct monitoring so you hear yourself without delay
Skip
- 3.5mm-only adapters marketed as interfaces (they're just better headphone jacks)
- Interfaces without phantom power if you plan to use condenser mics
Used for: Recording field sounds or ambient audio · Podcast editing with quality microphone input · Home music production without monthly software fees · Voice-over or narration work
Side quests that use it
Pick the adventure first; the gear follows.
