Any Advantage?

[gossling]

Hello,

I have been trying to figure out how I am going to spend my money to do some recording. I just need to know of any advantages, if any, option 1 has over option 2:
1. Microphones -> Audio Interface w/ preamps (e.g. EMU 0404 USB) -> laptop
2. Microphones -> dedicated portable preamp (e.g. Art Dual Pre) -> line-in of portable recorder (e.g. Zoom H2, Tascam DR-1, or Edirol R09HR) -> laptop for post-processing

I don't want to buy a bunch of equipment just to have to sell it soon after when I realize the quality of my recordings are being shortchanged by less than adequate equipment. I always thought a normal recording chain goes like this:
microphones -> preamp -> a/d converter -> post process

I'm not missing anything in option 2, am I? The A/D converter of a portable recorder may not be as nice as a dedicated audio interface, but that seems like a small price to pay considering the portability and discretion gained with a portable recorder.

Thanks a lot

 

[circle x]

I guess this all depends on how important portability is to you and what kind of recording you want to do. Option 1 seems the best quality answer. A laptop is pretty portable IMHO. I have been recording, mixing, and mastering here in Iraq for about 8 months. Portability is key. I use a focusrite mic pre to a Line 6 UX-1, to my laptop via USB. Very very simple. Not that expensive either. The quality speaks for itself if you visit my website.