HELLLLLP MEEE PLEEEEZ!!!

Jane Morgan · **Voice Talent** Joined: 09 Jun 2005 Posts: 64

I'm trying to put a studio together...and I'm having this guy build a computer for me. The bottom line is this: he says if I add the Platinum Version of the Soundblaster XFI, I won't need an interface...that I can plug my mic directly into my computer and go from there. He says it will sound great. He's not a voice guy, he's a computer guy.

So what do you all think? Should I get a smaller, more inexpensive sound card and an interface, or should I get the biggest mambo soundcard I can get and no interface. I don't know what an interface is, exactly, except something you plug the mic into and that plugs into the computer. And I'm lost as far as what a firebox is, but I hear I need one. HELLLLLLLLPPPPPPPPPP!

Brad Venable · Posted: Wed Feb 28, 2007, 22:08 (GMT) Post subject:

The question is...are you going to use the computer for anything other than recording?

If you want the best option, go with something that is designed specifically for what you want to do. The latest Soundblaster is still not going to do the job that a dedicated interface will, because the SB stuff tries to be an all-in one solution.

I use an M-Audio Fast Track Pro. It's an interface that plug into the USB port on the computer and works great because it's designed to interface recording equipment to the computer.

I say if you are using this computer just to record, don't even bother with getting a sound card in the case. Get a good USB interface, follow the installation directions, and go to town. Smile

You might look through some of the other threads to get first-hand knowledge of people's experience with different interfaces. For me, I love the Fast Track Pro so much that I have two. one that stays in the studio, and one for the laptop bag when I go on the road.

Colin Campbell · Posted: Wed Feb 28, 2007, 22:14 (GMT) Post subject:

DO NOT use the Sound Blaster and expect professional results. An interface is essentially an external sound card. There are some internal pro cards that will sound good like an M-audio or Lynx as well.

Jane Morgan · **Voice Talent** Joined: 09 Jun 2005 Posts: 64

Thank you for the help! About how much is FastTrack Pro?

You explained PERFECTLY what an interface is, too! You're my hero!!!

Todd Ellis · Posted: Wed Feb 28, 2007, 22:15 (GMT) Post subject:

The problem with the soundblaster is it only has 1/8" un-balanced in/out. If you are serious about recording you need balanced inputs and outputs. MINIMUM 1/4" - XLR is best.

Jane Morgan · **Voice Talent** Joined: 09 Jun 2005 Posts: 64

Uh....what's XLR?

Brad Venable · Posted: Wed Feb 28, 2007, 22:20 (GMT) Post subject:

Jane, it's the kind of plug that a (worthwhile) microphone will use.

Looking right at it, it's round with three prongs.

The 1/4" that is mentioned is like a stereo headphone plug.

Todd Ellis · Posted: Wed Feb 28, 2007, 22:22 (GMT) Post subject:

Jane Morgan · **Voice Talent** Joined: 09 Jun 2005 Posts: 64

Thanks for clearing that up! You know, I've never been so confused about ANYTHING in my entire life!

I have $5000 to spend on this studio, and I have NO CLUE what I absollutely must have, except the computer, a mic, an interface, and of course some recording software! But what's the best?

I'll be using an old board from the radio station where I've been enslaved forever, and old studio monitors. Other than that, I have nothing. I don't want to spend the entire five grand....since the money's not really mine, and I have to pay it back!

I'd eventually like to get out of the radio station and do voiceovers full time. I'm thinking it'll be at least a year before I can do that, IF I market myself and do everything right. That's where all of you guys come in....I appreciate your advice more than you know!

George Karnes · **Voice Talent** Joined: 26 Dec 2006 Posts: 905

Jane-
Get a dell dude and then add your equipment to that. The support is better and the cost will almost certainly be lower.

Jane Morgan · **Voice Talent** Joined: 09 Jun 2005 Posts: 64

So having the computer geek build one is a little extravagent???

Brad Venable · Posted: Wed Feb 28, 2007, 22:30 (GMT) Post subject:

Jane, the MSRP on a Fast Track Pro is $249.99

The price at my local Guitar Center was $199.99,

and I got the both of mine for about $150.

Cameron Thomas · **Voice Talent** Joined: 06 Dec 2006 Posts: 479

Todd Ellis · Posted: Wed Feb 28, 2007, 23:21 (GMT) Post subject:

I hate to pile on George but Dell bad, Dell bad! I built my desktop specifically for audio production for about $600. Dual core processor, 200gb HD and all the goodies. If you build rather than buy you can get exactly what you need - without buying all the bundled crap they sell you. I see your computer guy is a gamer - you really don't need a high-end graphics card for audio - just get something decent and funnel then extra money into your sound card.

Here's a nice - quiet sound card for about $100/$150

http://www.emu.com/products/product.asp?category=505&subcategory=491&product=10447

Scott Nilsen · **Voice Talent** Joined: 27 Apr 2006 Posts: 231

I use a Dell laptop, and it wasn't until I added more software that it started making a lot more noise with the fan. I have an isolation booth and leave it outside - that helps.