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To record multiple audio sources at once, connect them to hardware that exposes enough simultaneous inputs, create one DAW track for each source, assign each track to the correct input, record-enable every track, and start recording. If you want to edit or mix each source independently, verify that the device sends separate channels to the DAW; a mixer’s total track count does not guarantee that.
Start by counting the sources and independent tracks you need
List every source that must be captured during the same take: for example, microphones, a stereo keyboard, and a computer return. Decide which need their own tracks. A stereo source typically uses two channels; a mono microphone uses one.
Check each source’s connection type—such as XLR, 1/4-inch instrument or line, or USB—and confirm the device’s documented simultaneous input and USB-routing capacity. The number of sockets or the product’s total track count may not tell you how many independent channels it can record at once. Apple’s Logic Pro guide says multiple simultaneous input sources require an interface with multiple inputs and recommends assigning different interface inputs to separate tracks (Apple Logic Pro guide).
Choose a recording route
Computer and DAW with an interface or USB mixer
Connect analog sources to a multichannel interface, or use a mixer that sends individual channels to the computer over USB. In the DAW, create a track per source, select its input, and record-enable the tracks. Confirm that the mixer sends separate channels rather than only a stereo mix if you want to edit sources independently.
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Multiple USB devices on a Mac
When separate USB microphones or interfaces do not appear as one device, macOS can combine compatible devices in an Aggregate Device. Create it in Audio MIDI Setup, select it in supported recording software, and assign each track to the relevant input. Apple specifically documents recording multiple tracks in GarageBand with an Aggregate Device, including a podcast recorded with multiple USB microphones (Apple: Create an Aggregate Device).
Plan monitoring separately: Apple notes that GarageBand can output through only one selected device, so the aggregate input setup does not automatically solve where headphones or speakers receive sound.
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Standalone mixer-recorder
Some devices record multiple tracks to an SD card or USB storage without a computer. Their recording modes and channel limits are model-specific. For example, RØDE documents multitrack recording to microSD or external USB storage on the RØDECaster Pro II and Duo, with pre-fader or post-fader capture choices (RØDE multitrack guide). TASCAM’s Model 12 page specifies a 12-track internal recorder, up to 24-bit/48 kHz WAV, with up to ten tracks playable simultaneously (TASCAM Model 12).
Set up the DAW so every source records
- Select the audio device. In the DAW’s audio settings, choose the interface, mixer, or aggregate device that exposes the intended inputs. If the device is not listed, check its driver, connection, and operating-system compatibility.
- Create a track for each source. Use mono tracks for mono microphones and instruments. Use a stereo track only for a source that supplies a stereo pair; otherwise assign its two channels deliberately.
- Assign each track’s input. Choose the corresponding hardware input for each track. Keep a simple source-to-input list, such as “vocal mic—Input 1” and “keyboard left/right—Inputs 3/4.”
- Show and activate record-enable controls on every track. A track being visible or receiving meter activity does not necessarily mean it is armed to record. Focusrite’s GarageBand guide says the default is one simultaneous audio track and explains enabling Record Enable on each track (Focusrite GarageBand guide).
- Check monitoring and levels. Confirm you can hear the sources you need without feedback or unwanted doubled monitoring. Watch each track meter while testing its source and lower the input gain if the signal clips.
Test the routing before the real take
- Speak or play one source at a time and confirm that only its intended track meter responds, unless deliberate duplication is part of your setup.
- Check all sources together for clipping, feedback, missing channels, and monitoring problems.
- Make a short test recording, then play back each recorded track by itself. Confirm the right source is on the right track and that the tracks are independent where required.
This test catches common routing mistakes before they spoil a longer session. It is a practical check, not a guarantee that every hardware and software combination behaves identically.
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Check channel limits before choosing hardware
Manufacturer specifications show why simultaneous channel capacity matters more than the word “mixer” or “multitrack” on a product page.
| Device or model | Documented simultaneous recording capability | What that means |
|---|---|---|
| Allen & Heath ZED Mini, 2-Bus, 4-Bus, ZEDi-8 | Two channels to a DAW simultaneously, according to Allen & Heath’s support article dated March 26, 2026. | Do not assume selecting a different USB record bus makes these models send more than two simultaneous channels. |
| Allen & Heath ZEDi-10 and ZEDi-10FX | Four channels to a DAW simultaneously, according to the same support article. | Four channels can accommodate four mono sources or a different mono/stereo combination that fits the channel count. |
| Soundcraft Signature 12 MTK | 14-in/12-out USB interface; up to 48 kHz, 24-bit, per HARMAN/Soundcraft’s guide updated February 10, 2026. | Check the recording guide’s routing details to determine which inputs reach the DAW and how. |
| Soundcraft Signature 22 MTK | 24-in/22-out USB interface; up to 48 kHz, 24-bit, per HARMAN/Soundcraft’s guide updated February 10, 2026. | Its specified USB channel count is distinct from the number of physical mixer channels; consult the guide for routing. |
| TASCAM Mixcast 4 | Up to 14 tracks recorded to SD; 14-in/2-out USB interface and four mic inputs, per TASCAM’s 2024 Pocket Guide. | Standalone SD recording and USB-interface operation are different workflows; confirm the mode and routing you need. |
These figures are manufacturers’ specifications, not independent performance test results. Confirm current documentation and compatibility for the exact model and operating system before buying.
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Mac and Windows have different multi-device caveats
Apple documents Aggregate Devices for Mac audio software. RØDE’s Windows guidance says Windows does not natively combine multiple USB audio interfaces and describes ASIO4ALL for a two-RØDECaster example (RØDE Windows guide). Treat that as an example for the stated devices, not a universal solution: verify the current driver, DAW, and device support for your particular combination.
Troubleshoot when only one source records
- Only one track records: Show the record-enable controls and arm every intended track. Focusrite says GarageBand defaults to one simultaneous track; follow its guide to enable the other tracks.
- Two sources land on one track: Check whether the hardware sends a stereo mix instead of separate USB channels. Confirm the interface’s simultaneous channel capacity and routing documentation.
- A track is silent: Verify the selected input number, cable or USB connection, source output, and track meter. Test that source alone, then make a short recording and inspect playback.
- A USB microphone is missing on Mac: Check whether the recording app is using an Aggregate Device that includes it, then assign the track to the correct aggregate input.
- You cannot hear the recording setup: Check the DAW’s selected output and headphone route. In GarageBand, an Aggregate Device does not mean output is sent to multiple devices.
- You cannot combine USB devices on Windows: Check the device manufacturers’ driver guidance and DAW compatibility. A solution documented for a specific pair of devices may not work with another combination.
- The recording distorts or feeds back: Lower the relevant input gain, check monitoring paths for duplicate signals, and test again before continuing.
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