Mac Hardware Question

[xgarmothx]

Hobbyist here. I have been using a PC (with an Audigy sound card) for years and recording with Cubase. I have a MacBook Pro and was considering switching my setup over to that. However, I can't seem to find reliable information on a hardware. I already have a preamp that I like (Studio Projects VTB1)...do I just need a USB interface? Do I need something more since I assume the Mac's onboard soundcard isn't incredible? Thanks!

 

[TimOBrien]

Yes you need an interface to get any audio signal into any computer. USB2 is just fine.

 

[xgarmothx]

Thanks. I was eyeing this up.

http://www.amazon.com/Behringer-302USB-Premium-5-Input-Interface/dp/B005EHILV4/

It looks simple as I only need to record one instrument at a time. It's USB but it doesn't seem to be USB2. I suppose the speed difference is why you made the distinction?

 

[Steenamaroo]

Hey Xgarmothx,
That'll work but you might want to aim higher.

Unbalanced line inputs are not good news, and the mixer bells and whistles are usually unnecessary.

I'd highly recommend a presonus fire studio mobile used from ebay, if you've any interest in expansion in the future.
The 2 preamps are fine and there are 6 dedicated balanced line inputs for expansion.
Mac+Firewire(/thunderbolt) is generally rock solid, despite the criticism firewire gets elsewhere.

For a budget usb alternative, check out the Alesis io2.
It has 2 balanced line inputs but it is a USB interface.

 

[TimOBrien]

Agreed. Behringer stuff is a bit low-end quality-wise.

Buying low-end is more expensive than doing it right the first time.

Focusrite, the Alesis io2 or the Steinburg ur22 have been well reviewed.