What is a sound card?

[SteveCPerrino]

I'm kind of confused. I always hear the word "sound card" thrown around but I've never really taken the time to think about what it actually is.

I have a macbook and I've heard that their sound card is decent/good, but what IS a sound card? and where can I find some that would be better and make my recordings better?

Thanks!

-Steve

[mrvinyl]

here- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sound_card

[noisewreck]

^^^ Good link.

To the OP. Make sure to read the entire article in that link and pay close attention to the "Professional Soundcards" section.

[mattr]

While the onboard sound in a Macbook is good for a stock consumer card, I wouldn't recommend using it for recording. A mentioned, take a look at the "professional sound card" section of the wikipedia article.

[SteveCPerrino]

ya that's what I assumed, thanks!

[SteveCPerrino]

is there any specific sound card you would recommend?

[mattr]

Depends... what are you recording? How many inputs and outputs do you need? With or without preamps?

[noisewreck]

Originally Posted by SteveCPerrino

is there any specific sound card you would recommend?

Budget?
What will you be recording?
Will you need mic preamps?
How many inputs will you need to be able to record all at once?

[SteveCPerrino]

I record mainly heavier/edgier stuff including Punk, Metal, Hardcore, Pop Punk, etc.

I use 8 mics at the most simultaneously


and budget wise, I don't really have one, but preferably nothing over $500

[SteveCPerrino]

and no, I wouldn't need preamps, I'm getting a mixer very soon

[noisewreck]

PreSonus FP10
PreSonus FireStudio
Tascam FW-1804

If you can add another $50 or so to your $500 limit, you might also want to look at the MOTU stuff.

Also check out Lexicon Sapphire series.

[SteveCPerrino]

ooo okay thanks!