Do bit depth and sample rate matter?
Yes and yes. Next question. Seriously though, bit depth and sample rate are very important considerations when it comes to choosing an audio interface. The number of bits determines the theoretical maximum dynamic range of the audio data regardless of sample rate. Each additional bit adds 6dB to the dynamic range of the audio. More bits help capture quieter signals more accurately. On the sample rate side of things, think of it as snapshots. At 44.1kHz, the computer is taking 44,100 “pictures” of the audio every second as it enters the computer. The sample rate is part of what determines the frequency response of the system. As a general rule of thumb, the highest frequency a digital system can record or play is half the sample rate. If your only expectation is to produce demo-quality CDs to hand out to friends and family, or maybe sell at a local show, 16-bit/44.1 kHz (commonly known as “CD quality”) will be fine. Conversely, if your objective is to record string quartets, an audio in
