What are the advantages of an Audio Interface over a USB adapter for XLR audio?

[ClaytonDoesThings]

Hey, I'm looking into purchasing some audio equipment. I'm wondering what's the use of a audio interface like (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00EK1OTZC/ref=ox_sc_saved_title_2?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1) for an XLR mic (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0002KZAKS/ref=ox_sc_saved_title_1?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1) instead of a XLR to USB adapter (https://www.amazon.com/Microphone-HOSONGIN-Converter-Connector-Microphones/dp/B07ZBZ62X9/ref=sr_1_4?keywords=XLR+to+usb&qid=1580005526&s=musical-instruments&sr=1-4). What are the advantages? Is the audio quality significantly better on an expensive interface?

[Roswell]

Unless you're planning on using your microphone for live production or are planning on integrating it into your own recording studio, you don't need it.

 

It's mainly intended to be connected to a mixer or directly interfaced with something like the pro tools software.

[Theorica]

1 hour ago, ClaytonDoesThings said:

What are the advantages? Is the audio quality significantly better on an expensive interface?

Depending on what your motherboard came with, generally, yes, the quality is better. Better DACs, higher bit rates, better control over gain, routing input to external devices and back, phantom power etc. Some come with midi too.

If you plan on just recording your voice (not singing, just spoken) then an external audio interface might be overkill. But if you are recording singing, drums, bass/guitar or anything that requires detailed dynamics then yes, an interface is a good choice. It also offers more flexibility as far as the rest of your equipment goes toward integrating analogue and digital to your computer and DAW or whatever software you plan to use.

I currently use a Steinburg UR-22 as it basically covers all my own needs for my current setup.

Cheers!
 

[ShearMe]

An interface generally means it will have more features - extra knobs and inputs to play around with. If all you need is XLR to USB there's not going to be a difference so long as they both meet any phantom power requirements.