Multiple audio inputs in Puredata simply?

I have a PD patch that detects the pitch of a single audio input (mainly voice/singing) and communicates to Processing via OSC which in turn controls some DMX lights.

This works fine for one input just using the onboard headphone/mic input, however I'd like to develop it for use with multiple inputs. I just want to do some tests for now. I'm wondering if anyone give any tips on getting multiple inputs into Puredata. I don't have a USB audio interface, and would ideally not invest in a proper one until I've developed the application a bit.

Probably being naive, but would it work to use 5 cheap USB mics? or Could I use 5 of these audio to usb adaptors? Or do I need an interface with drivers installed etc?

Other details:
System is currently running on Ubuntu 22 on an Intel NUC 8i3BEK (but can switch to mac)
I'm developing the project in order to have a lighting array controlled by up to 5 singers using their pitch and volume as parameters.

Any help very much appreciated, and let me know if I've missed any important info.