TonePort UX2 or MBOX 2

[Wolfram]

I have sourced funds for an upgrade/procurment of items. My decision is between the TonePort UX2 or the MBOX 2.

CHOICE 1
TonePort UX2 has Ableton bundle etc
19' monitor
Monitor Speakers
External Harddrive (additonal 300GB) - I have a 160GB hard drive now
Shure SM57
Shure SM58
Headphones

CHOICE 2
MBOX 2 with Pro Tools bundle.
19' Monitor


I obviously get a lot more with choice 1. I have had no real experience with digital recording so this set up is apparently quite simple to use. My fear here is that I will outgrow the TonePort and want something more dedicated to recording.

Choice 2 will require me to upgrade with more mic's etc at a later date and is supposedly a lot more technical to use. My fear with this setup is that it may be to technical for me to use and thus I won't end up doing much recording anyway.

I would like peoples thoughts/comments on their previous experience these setup and if there are other options I should be looking at.

Cheers,
Wolfram

[Ozzdoc]

well if your not really experince with recording/ not that serouis into it yet... the 1st choice will be better and a lot cheaper in the long run. I would defietly pick option 2 myself...

[ken_r152]

Wolfram, what did you eventually choose? the TonePort UX2 or the mBox 2? I'm considering similar choices.

[mi2tom]

Toneport!

[spkenn5]

Toneport I'm using one myself, it's pretty beside the the side problem im having.

[ken_r152]

I was reading a bit last night about some of the software recording bundled packages out there, and it sounds like the TonePort UX2 is a good flexible option for a relatively small amount of money. The Digidesign mBox gives you a version of ProTools, but the version of ProTools lacks a lot of the cool features. There are a couple of other interesting options out there, but they cost a bit more.

[Wolfram]

I went with the MBox 2. I haven't looked back. The extra money is worth the extra features and the end quality of recording is great. It is a great way to learn about recording. I have not used one but the MBox mini may be an option for you now too - these were not available at the time of my purchase.

I don't believe the Pro Tools version you get with the bundle is limited at all. It allows you to record and if required export into the higher end Pro Tools hardware and software.

I am now working towards the new 003. Go MBox (if it is in your price range) you won't look back either!

Hope this helps.

Wolfram

[SilverSurfer2]

i'm using toneport ux2, it's been very useful for me. The tone direct monitoring is a huge plus and makes recording a joy, fully processed tones with no latency. I'm using Logic pro 7.2 though, not the ableton live......big difference in recording software.

I like line6 because you can always update everything and get new tones without having to keep buying new hardware etc....

The plugins are also nice to have, if you can afford it.

I think Toneport is a really good interface for anyone, from beginner to advanced.......in the end if you like the way it sounds, thats what matters.
It's not too expensive, but you get a lot for the price.