View Full Version : External USB soundcards
MMM Commentaries
Sep 8th, 2006, 06:58 PM
I am finding that I am getting unacceptable results recording via my microphone input, the line in input refuses to work, so I got put onto this idea of getting a USB soundcard.
Do such beasts exist that have a line in option?
Has anyone had experience with them and can share?
Shawn
Sep 8th, 2006, 08:45 PM
I got put onto this idea of getting a USB soundcard.
Do such beasts exist that have a line in option?
Has anyone had experience with them and can share?
There are lots of external USB I/O options. Just do an Internet search for "USB audio input." I used to own a Tascam US-122, and I really liked it. I wanted to upgrade to something with Firewire, so I sold it. But it worked well for me when I was using it.
returley
Sep 9th, 2006, 10:27 PM
Do such beasts exist that have a line in option?
Has anyone had experience with them and can share?
I have used/am using the Tascam US-122 ($150-200) for my podcasts. It has 1/4" line-in that can take a balanced (TRS) and unbalanced cable. Sounds great and is ultra versatile.
I also have the Griffin iMic ($40-ish I think). It has a two 1/8" ports, an output for headphones and such and an input that can be used as a line-in or a microphone.
You didn't mention the balance of your podcast rig, a possible third option could be the Behringer UCA202 ($30). It has RCA line-in and direct monitoring.
Good Luck,
Russ
MMM Commentaries
Oct 8th, 2006, 06:22 PM
You didn't mention the balance of your podcast rig, a possible third option could be the Behringer UCA202 ($30). It has RCA line-in and direct monitoring.
Most of my stuff is Behringer - I have Behringer microphones, a Behringer 4 microphone input mixer. Currently I plug intot he masteroutput and use a converter out to the line in plug on my laptop.
I assume if I went and used this UCA202 I could dispense with the converter and just go Master Out (RCA) to RCA Input on the UCA 202?
It does indeed sound like a good option.
Steev
Oct 11th, 2006, 03:06 PM
I am using the SoundBlaster Audigy 2 NX (http://www.soundblaster.com/products/product.asp?category=1&subcategory=204&product=9103), and have been for over a year now with no complaints. It has both a mic input and a line level input, so you can use it however you want. I think it sounds pretty good.