Re: Audio Interface for Notebook Users

["Kris Hartung" <khartung@cableone.net>]

I like your assessment here, Per, as it aligns to my situation. I too 
don't 
need high quality mic-preamps, because my signal doesn't enter my computer 
until it has been brought to line level by another unit in my rack. I just 
need a PCMCIA card that will capture that line level input, allow me to 
process it with VST effects, and then spit it back out through the output. 
I need it to do this in a transparent way, and not degrade the quality of 
the input signal. The Soundblaster card I'm using on my old notebook does 
this very well. I imagine the IO will be even better. I plan to buy it, if 
the ThinkPad T60p's audio I/O doesn't suffice.

Kris

----- Original Message ----- 
> Hi,
>
> I''m using two solutions that I'm very happy with. The Indigo Echo i/ o 
> and the RME Multiface. If you listen carefully, the Multiface  sounds a 
> little better on playback. Not much and not enough to  justify dragging 
>it 
> to a gig, since it is not a PCMCIA solution but a  combination of a 
>PCMIA 
> card and a break-out box. But if I need  multiple analog (or digital) 
>in- 
> and output I would bring the RME.
>
> Both solutions lack built-in mic preamps, a fact that many file as 
> something negative. But I would rather have that and use the saved  
>money 
> for a standalone preamp. I have three external mic preamps: a  small 
> (cigarette package sized) one with an added fly mic for reed/ air 
> instruments, (2) a PreSonus VXP analog preamp with good  compressor, 
> expander and dynamic filters (rarely taking it out of the  studio for 
> gigs) and (3) finally I have a TC Electronics FireworX  multi effect 
> processor, that does well as a mic amp too.
>
> My preferred laptop set up for live gigs is the small fly mic/preamp 
> (eventually electric line instruments plugged directly into the  second 
> input of the Fireworx), the Fireworx going into the Echo i/o  in stereo. 
> If possible, I like to also bring an external compressor  (RNG) to 
>balance 
> the stereo output before the PA stage box. Then I  also bring a FCB1010 
> foot controller and a Faderfox mini hand mixer  and some instrument to 
> make noise with.
>
> per
>
>