Laptop To Mixer. Options

[hydevil]

Hi. I got a mackie 1202 vlz pro. Planning to get a powerbook G4 soon but I am not sure if I can just connect my mixer through the line in of the powerbook. Must I get an audio interface such as MOTU 828 mk2, edirol FA101, FW410 etc? If so, which should I get? Thanks.

[swilder]

You can use the line ins of the powerbook in a pinch. They will get the job done. I've had ok luck with them in tandem with a noise gate. But by professional standards, they are very noisey. If you want excellent results, you're going to have to drop some cash for some kind of alternative audio in. Even the basic edirol usb audio interface ($79) is better sounding than the built in line ins.

Firewire alternatives are getting more popular and cheaper. M-Audio Edirol, Motu, Hercules, Presonus come immediately to mind. I believe the new Mackie Onyx mixers even have a firewire out option.

Scott

[swilder]

To answer your question of which one you should get depends on what you need it to do (how many ins and outs ,etc.) and how much money you have to spend.

[hydevil]

Thanks for the reply. I am going to record my band so I need about 6-10 inputs. Forgive my ignorance, but is it better to get a audio interface with lots of ins or is it possible to get a simple audio interface to hook up to my mackie mixer to increase the input. With regards to price, I think as long as it is worth the investment I will consider it.

[PlatinumGold]

What may be an idea is to pick up a mbox or use your stero in's on your computer. Use a mackie, and do a stero mix to the computer! the beatles did it that way.

[professorpious]

The beatles mixed down to a powebook? Damn! No wonder they sound so good . Seriously though if you live in the states (as everyone who's anybody does). Check out the firewire interfaces @ Novamusik.com it should give you a good Idea of what's out there for some of the higher end multi I/O stuff out there. RME Fireface 800. DROOL!