It will then perform the analog to digital conversion required to turn your sound source into a digital audio stream which can be recorded and stored on your computer. Your audio interface will have the correct input for your microphone. Although it is possible under certain circumstances to connect it directly up to your computer or mobile device, generally you need an audio interface to do the job. You do not require additional equipment to make good quality recordings of voiceovers, vocals and acoustic instruments.Īn XLR mic is just that – a microphone with XLR output. But the quick answer here is that a USB mic is literally a microphone that you can connect straight to your computer or to your tablet or mobile device with the right adapter. The answer to this will become more and more apparent as you read on. What is the Key Difference Between a USB mic and an XLR mic?