Unless you’re going to record into your laptop’s built-in microphone or an old-school tape machine, you need an audio interface. These devices (which can also be called sound cards) connect microphones and instruments to your computer, allowing you to record into your recording software (or DAW) of choice.
Audio interfaces are available in a huge range of configurations: with different inputs and outputs, different amounts (and kinds) of preamps, different ways they’ll connect to your computer, and additional features like included software as well. To learn everything you need to know about choosing the right audio interface for you, check out our audio interfaces buying guide now.