Help with My Hardware Setup...

[StillChillmatic]

Aiight, as of now, I have a MacBook Pro with an M-Audio Mobile Pre USB for my 2 MXL 990 Condensor Mics, and two old turntables and a mixer that I want to use. Now I plan on getting like a M-Audio Keystation 49e and MPD-24 that I want to hook up to my computer because I have Reason and I might get Fruity Loops.

I guess my real question is, what is your opinion on the midi keyboard I should get? I'm not a real piano player which is why I need a keyboard to really play with the notes (its hard doing it on the computer). How many keys you think I would need? I only have one USB port left on my computer so what kinda interface can I get that enables more USB connections and maybe firewire connections? Damn I know this seems like alot of questions but what do y'all think about the MPD-24, whats the difference between that and an MPC? And would I be able to hook my turntables to the MPD or the computer?


...Well that's all for my first post, I really appreciate you guys help. As I go on and get better (cause I'm new to this) maybe I can give feedback to others. Peace.

 

[Mindset]

Aiight, as of now, I have a MacBook Pro with an M-Audio Mobile Pre USB for my 2 MXL 990 Condensor Mics, and two old turntables and a mixer that I want to use. Now I plan on getting like a M-Audio Keystation 49e and MPD-24 that I want to hook up to my computer because I have Reason and I might get Fruity Loops.

I guess my real question is, what is your opinion on the midi keyboard I should get? I'm not a real piano player which is why I need a keyboard to really play with the notes (its hard doing it on the computer). How many keys you think I would need? I only have one USB port left on my computer so what kinda interface can I get that enables more USB connections and maybe firewire connections? Damn I know this seems like alot of questions but what do y'all think about the MPD-24, whats the difference between that and an MPC? And would I be able to hook my turntables to the MPD or the computer?


...Well that's all for my first post, I really appreciate you guys help. As I go on and get better (cause I'm new to this) maybe I can give feedback to others. Peace.

1. I have the Keystation49 some where, and it was great for beginners. If you want more functions, you can get better ones. Those are just ones with more controls etc on them.
2. To get more USB ports, buy a USB Hub, which will give you x amount more slots....
3. The MPD is basically a midi controller too as the MPC is capable of being mainly stand alone unit.
4. The turntables would need to be hooked up to the computer via Interface that you have.

 

[StillChillmatic]

Thanks, Mindset for the feedback. I was also wondering, what's the best program for chopping samples? And what program could I possibly use to play my turntables through my computer?

 

[Mindset]

I usually use something like wavelab or edit in the box (pro tools)