I'm in the process of upgrading my studio computer, which means a new OS as well. Unfortunately, the Lexicon Core2 I've been using (a great card for the money) has no drivers for 2000 or XP, so if I go through with the upgrade I'll need to find a new card (that or run Windows ME on a P4, which seems like a BIG waste of time).
My requirements:
Inputs... I really need a card with 4 analog (1/4 or XLR) ins, but 8 would be nice. 10 would be amazing, but then I'd probably have to buy more rack gear to keep up with it!
Outputs... As far as outputs, I do most of my mixing and processing on the PC, so I really only need 2 outs, but 4 would be nice.
SPDIF & optical connectors... I don't have any digital studio gear, so I really don't need 'em. Welcome to Analog City!
MIDI ports... not necessary since I already have a MIDI adapter, but if they're there, then that's one less piece of gear I need.
Other features... the Core2 has built-in dbx compression/limiting and a daughterboard with all the effects from the MPX100. I really don't use the effects much, but do like having the built-in limiter.
Compatibility... should have drivers for 2000 & XP. Should work with Cakewalk PA 9.
Performance... probably isn't an issue with the new cards out there, but I need to be able to record on at least 4+ channels at once. I'm using it to record my band live, so that's 2 guitars, bass, and drums (which are mixed down prior to going into the computer). The Core2 has done a good job of this (on a P3 550 system running Win98), so I don't anticipate major issues with a new PC, better OS, and new soundcard.
Price... c'mon... I'm looking for a sound card for a basement recording studio, so the less expensive, the better.
So, what types of cards are you guys using? Any recommendations based on my needs?
Thanks,
--Brent
My requirements:
Inputs... I really need a card with 4 analog (1/4 or XLR) ins, but 8 would be nice. 10 would be amazing, but then I'd probably have to buy more rack gear to keep up with it!
Outputs... As far as outputs, I do most of my mixing and processing on the PC, so I really only need 2 outs, but 4 would be nice.
SPDIF & optical connectors... I don't have any digital studio gear, so I really don't need 'em. Welcome to Analog City!
MIDI ports... not necessary since I already have a MIDI adapter, but if they're there, then that's one less piece of gear I need.
Other features... the Core2 has built-in dbx compression/limiting and a daughterboard with all the effects from the MPX100. I really don't use the effects much, but do like having the built-in limiter.
Compatibility... should have drivers for 2000 & XP. Should work with Cakewalk PA 9.
Performance... probably isn't an issue with the new cards out there, but I need to be able to record on at least 4+ channels at once. I'm using it to record my band live, so that's 2 guitars, bass, and drums (which are mixed down prior to going into the computer). The Core2 has done a good job of this (on a P3 550 system running Win98), so I don't anticipate major issues with a new PC, better OS, and new soundcard.
Price... c'mon... I'm looking for a sound card for a basement recording studio, so the less expensive, the better.
So, what types of cards are you guys using? Any recommendations based on my needs?
Thanks,
--Brent