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Hi, I've been playing guitar for about 9 years, but I'm still relatively new to home recording. I'm using a M audio 410 firewire interface into a Mackie mixer, but Im heading off to college and would like to get either a firewire or usb mixer. First of all, are there any clear benefits to getting a firewire, and can I get some suggestions for both? Thanks

Comments

RemyRAD Tue, 03/31/2009 - 22:34

Most USB audio interfaces are USB 1.1. That's adequate for up to 4 simultaneous inputs. If the device is USB 2.0, it's a high-speed device capable of anything that a FireWire 400 connection offers. But most USB mixers will only allow for a stereo recording capability. That's where you'll find that a FireWire device will allow up to 8 simultaneous independent tracks to be recorded with 8 reasonably decent microphone preamps. This is the way to go to school. Lightweight, compact & Smart. Generally between $400 US to $800 US for a quality unit. It will also have some awesome LE software. Coupled with a laptop it makes for an awesome studio package. You also want to get yourself an external hard disk drive of substantial proportions.

Don't forget your toothbrush
Ms. Remy Ann David

jg49 Wed, 04/01/2009 - 14:47

Yes it says mixer and maybe that is what you are looking for but a simple interface might be the way to go esp. in a dorm room due to its size, and do all your mixing in the box (on the computer.) A lot of guys coming in to recording from live sound automatically think they need a mixer, when in fact an interface will suit them better.