how many I/O's...

[PRiZ]

How many I/O's do I need...? and what type, size...?
here's a list of what I need to plug in:
- Pair of monitors
- preamp to MIC
- keyboard
- a turntable
- a converter (optional)
- that's it... about keyboards, I can use a keyboard using analog outputs 1/4" into a souncard, or midi into a souncard...Is there any benefit over the other etc...?

Thanks!!! !! !

 

[Dolemite]

Go for a 4-in 4-out card (if not more). There are a number of such cards available and there's no reason to settle for anything less. You may not think you need the I/O's now, but if you ever do, you'll appreciate having them.

BTW, here's a good resource for comparing sound card quality:

http://www.pcavtech.com/soundcards/compare/index.htm

And if you're looking to save money, check out a Turtle Beach Santa Cruz:

http://www.pcavtech.com/soundcards/santa_cruz/index.htm

Its a $70 consumer-level card that has 2 stereo in's and 2 stereo outs (basically 4-in/4-out). As you can see from the PCAVtech tests, it ranks just below the prosumer cards in overall quality. BTW, this (informal) comparison done by our own webmaster is pretty interesting:

http://www.homerecording.com/digital_results.html

 

[PRiZ]

Thanks...

I've already read the one site here, and know about the comparision site. I'm wondering what goes out and in, or a more detailed description.
do I need two In's for a pair of monitors or two outs ect...?
thanks!

 

[Dolemite]

Dude, just count it up...not too difficult to figure out I would think. LMK if you need help with that.

 

[PRiZ]

word...

but that's why I want to know what goes in and out, because then I can count the In's I need, and the Out's I need.