If what you have been doing has been adequate already? Why are you trying to reinvent the wheel? What do you hope to accomplish by that? Why not look at another laptop that offers the same kind of interface as you are currently using as there are so many on the market, I'm sure you could find one?

In the end, since all of your outboard equipment is more than adequate for doing all sorts of reasonable high-quality work, all you really need to purchase for any laptop is an outboard, line level only, USB audio interface. There are many starting at around $60 and up.

Problem solved!

Thinking inside the box
Ms. Remy Ann David

Thanks for the prompt reply.

Unfortunately, upgrading my laptop is an inevitability for a number of reasons, and the small compact models without a PCMCIA slot are the only one of practical interest for me at this time. Hence, my need for alternatives to the Echo Indigo.

Hi, GCCH as Remy suggested the USB interface is a good way to go since you only require one mic input. Here are two devices that are pretty much equal to what you have if not better:

Maudio Mobile Mic Pre <$200
Tapco by Mackie Link USB <$150

They both have built in mic inputs so no extra hardware required. May be others just cruz the online music stores and browse for USB audio interfaces. Make sure it includes the mic preamp input. You can always sell your Indigo to offset the costs of the upgrade.

The adapter route sounds like a hassle and you may encounter issues when trying to integrate it with your new system. As you probably already know, most notebook computer companies have dropped the PMCIA standard and gone with the more popular USB or Firewire options. Believe me I think we have all been in your situation at one time or another. PC's are constantly changing and you sometimes just have to bite the bullet.

Good luck

Thanks for the suggestions, casper.

I will look into these a bit further as well as other USB options. Is there any difference between USB vs. FW, other than interface? Would FW have any quality advantage over USB at all, or should price be more of my guide in general?

FW has more "bandwidth" which translates to bieng able to record multiple tracks at higher resolutions. If you plan to record more than one channel at a time this is the best way to go. I know FW it is not a common interface to find on a laptop its more an option. But for audio and video recording it is the prefered method at this time.
I can't really answer the price question. It really depends on your intended use. It is safe to say many of the people at this forum have probably went through several setups before finding one that works for them. Folks also, upgrade in order to meet there new needs. If you get the laptop it wouldn't hurt to get it with FW even if you use a USB interface.

Thanks again, casper. I'll definitely keep all that in mind and will choose a laptop with FW if it at all possible.