It’s essentially the same as the iRig HD 2 but designed for Android.
If you’re on an Android device, I’d recommend the iRig UA guitar interface.
They even integrate with Garage Band, so you can record your music right on your mobile device. The quality of these amp simulator apps are identical to the desktop VST plugins that I mentioned in the previous example, so these are my go-to.
Once you’ve connected your guitar to an iOS device, you can download Jam Up Pro or Bias FX Mobile by Positive Grid for your guitar tones. The iRig is one of the most well-known interfaces for mobile devices. If you’re on an iPhone or iPad, I’d recommend using the iRig HD 2 interface. Then, you’ll use an application for your amp sims, similar to a VST plugin. To do this, you’ll need to purchase a digital guitar interface designed for mobile devices. I’ve used it for most of my guitar cover videos because of the amazing sound quality, ease of use, and amount of different amps and effects pedals you can choose from.Īnother convenient way to play electric guitar through headphones is to connect it to your mobile device, whether it is a smartphone or tablet.
My personal favorite VST plugin is Bias FX. These plugins integrate directly with any DAW, so you’ll be able to play and record right on your computer with your headphones on. There are hundreds of free and paid guitar VST plugins that you can download to simulate virtually any guitar amplifier and effects pedal on the planet. Instead, you’ll be using simulator software. You’ll also be able to listen to your computer audio simultaneously, allowing you to play along to backing tracks.įor this method, you’ll be playing electric guitar without an amplifier. You’ll be able to plug your headphones directly into the audio interface as well, so you’ll be able to hear yourself play. It’s also a very affordable option selling for under $100 on Amazon.Īfter the interface is set up, you’ll be able to record your guitar playing right to your computer in your digital audio workstation (DAW). It has enough ports to plug in your guitar and an additional microphone at the same time. It has very good build quality, and the sound quality of its preamps is top notch.
You might need to download some drivers depending on your specific interface or computer.įor beginners, I typically recommend the Focusrite Scarlett Solo. Simply plug your guitar into one of the inputs, and plug the USB into your computer. An audio interface is a piece of hardware that allows you to connect your electric guitar to your computer via USB (or Thunderbolt). This method is great for people who want to play and record music quietly through their headphones. You can find them for less than $10 on Amazon. If you want you to use a standard pair of headphones that use a 3.5mm, or 1/8”, cable, you’ll need to purchase an adapter.
One thing to mention is that the headphone outputs on guitar amps almost always require a 1/4” cable. You’ll be ready to play just like you normally would. Simply plug in your headphones and you should be good to go. Nowadays, most guitar amplifiers have a dedicated headphone output jack. This is the most obvious way to play your electric guitar through headphones.
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