A new twist on an old soundcard question

[macros4]

Its been a while since i posted here, but my return to the developing studio brings me some new questions (or variants on old ones, at least)
Most of my recording opportunities require a portable rig to record classical (primarily choral and chamber music) and i have thus abandoned my earlier fairly stationary setup; unfortunately budget is very limited (i'm a high-school student) so i can't go with firewire
I currently have a Dell Inspiron 4150 wtih XP loaded (though, if necessary, i would change OS) and i'm convnced that i'll have to settle for the unfortunate limitations of USB sound. Bearing in mind the needs of classical music - less INs at once, but crystal clarity essential - which USB interface is most likely to suit my needs? I was originally considering the Audiosport Quattro but read some scathing reviews; my sights have refocused on the offerings from eMagic and Tascam (US224); the software i currently use is SoundForge 5.0 if it makes a difference (though i could consider switching to the SW that accompanies the product if it would be a more succesful pairing)
Your inputs are greatly appreciated!
-Macros4

 

[mgraffeo]

macros4,

The tascam USB interface seems to be semi-popular among the USB audio users on this site. I've never used it, but if you search for USB in this forum, there's a good amount of discussion about it. In addition, tascam maintains it's own bbs, where some of the tech folks who worked on it participate, so it seems like they're doing the right stuff when it comes to customer service.

Personally, I've got the Event EZBus. I can offer lots of commentary on it, both good and bad. From an idea perspective, it's a great one. Over USB, you will be able to simultaneously record and playback 2 tracks. It has two built-in mic pre's. There's built in effects (EQ, compression, etc), which can be quite useful. It also works as a stand-alone mixer. Now, having owned this unit since May, I can say that it is definitely NOT a simple plug-n-play operation. The learning curve is steep, and you'll probably find yourself on the phone with Event at least once (and believe me, that is no small feat. I let the phone ring about 20 times, hang up, and call back, before someone actually picks up. But eventually, you can get through). However, it is an effective device, and tremendously versatile.

All that being said, if all you're looking for is something to pass audio to your system, I'd go simpler, and look for a PCMCIA card with a breakout box. I believe that some of these units are quite good, and can probably be had cheaper than the others. There's also less complexity, since they're not designed to do as much. But if you'd like a control surface and/or a digital mixer along with your audio interface, take a look at the tascam, the EZBus, and there's another unit by Roland which might be up your alley.

-mg