Is an audio interface really necessary?

Is an Audio Interface really a big difference?

• See well the thing is that I've been looking around for awhile about setting up a Home Studio and I hear a lot about purchasing a Audio Interface. The thing is that most of these Tutorials on Setting up a Home Studio is mostly for a Band but for me it's just myself that is singing. So I was wondering if the Audio Interface really makes a difference on the sound quality? Or Should I just stick to a USB Microphone and not have to worry about anything else and just plugging it straight into the Computer. I'm planning to get this USB microphone: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B0002GIRP2/thelinactsho-20 Any Comments about that Microphone too? Thank You for your time

• Answer:

  That is a nice mic and it will work well. The advantage of a USB audio interface is that it will allow you to connect other things for recording to your computer like a guitar or keyboard. It really depends on what you plan to record. If you plan to record more than just your voice, it might be a good idea to get a regular mic (non-USB mic) and an interface.