I/O hardware on MacBook?...

[drummersteve]

Hi Guys

I have a question. I am well experienced with computer recording. I have had a pretty good PC set up for the past few years (Running MAudio Delta 1010LT and Cubase SX2) to do recording etc. My main needs back then was to be able to record drums; i had to be able to record around 8 simaltaneous tracks of audio for a close-mic'd setup on the drums. However...

I have now bought a MacBook, with 2GB of RAM and 2Ghz Processor. I have Logic Pro 7 on order, and once that arrives I plan on purchasing East West Symphonic Orchestra Gold Sample Library. My main needs now have turned away from the need of 8 simaltaneous tracks being recorded, but more towards Midi Sequencing for composing classical music/film scores. I think i have the hardware/software which is up to the job, but in terms of I/O interfaces, I'm lacking.

This is what I think would suit the job. Maybe a USB-type interface, so I can hook up my MIDI Electric Piano, and then some sort of Stereo Audio Input - maybe be with a preamp in case I ever use a Mic, and the ability to Line-In. And, of course, a Stereo Line-Out.

I am aware that my MacBook already has Line-In/Line-Out sockets, but I was thinking of something a little more professional. It doesn't need to be as extravagant as the 1010LT, as that is way over the top for my needs now. Just something simple which meets my demands, but does it to a high standard.

Any suggestions as to what I'm looking for? I guess the most I'd want to spend is around £150, but im guessing it won't be that much for a relatively simple device.

Many Thanks

Steve