Usb Audio Inerface Nightmare! Options

[PoetryAnimal]

I was just wondering if anybody could give me some tips on choosing a decent USB audio interface, cause I got an iMic and well, it blows, it really really blows. The most fearsome latency I've ever heard.

[sethjacquay]

I also had issues with the iMic. I mean the latency was poor but the real
problem was a low static rumbling that I got when I recorded. I am guessing
this came from the power running through the usb channel. I tried
disconnecting all other usb devices expect for the iMic and the Keyboard
but still got the static.

If you can't wait to record and don't have money to purchase.
Get close and friendly to the pinhole mic on your iBook.
Seriously, this is the lowest cost alternative.
Freaking try it at least once! I command you!

It isn't better than buying a piece of quality hardware, but it is a cheap
temporary solution. Be sure to plug in headphones as to avoid feedback
and you would be surprised at the relatively low latency and quality of the recording.
Something to make that experience more enjoyable is to download a copy of the free
Playthrough FX software and open it up, use the iBook pinhole mic to record to
a minidisc or just play live into it. You will be amazed at the results.

But if you have the cash save up and get a decent piece of audio input hardware,
you won't regret it. The Tascam seems to be popular, I purchased the M-Audio Firewire 410
about $200 more than the Tascam, but has couple more features. Check out my other
posts for my experience with the 410. Which after a week as been relatively solid and enjoyable.

This post has been edited by sethjacquay: Thu 12 Feb 2004, 16:13