Magix/Behringer BCA2000

[ms10451]

Tell me my folly here. I have used a dell 530 with 1.6 Ghz processor, Windows XP SP2 Pro, 256Mb of ram and the internal sound card, with Magix Audio studio deluxe 2004. I record single tracks at a time. Noise levels on the sound card are high and I have tried everything to diminish it, so don't go there.

I want to get as close to "studio quality" as I can and am looking at The Behringer device, the Tascam US-122. I am rejecting the Mackie Spike due to very poor reviews on American Music Supply and Musicians Friend. I have read the negatives on the USB side of this but have also went to the corresponding web sites and both have new driver updates and say quite plainly "load these first".

1st question...if you plug in this USB device, then do you disable the onboard sound card, and just use the USB, and does anyone know if multiple inputs are selectable in Magix?

2nd question...can I expect the sound quality to be markedly improved by using this external device.

3rd question...The latest rev of Magix supports ASIO, is it worth the price of the upgrade as both devices support this?

4th question....Tascam comes with recording software but I do not want to use it, Behringer doesn't come with recording software but I want to use my existing, so it's not a big problem, right?

5th question..Is close to studio quality possible with this scenario?

Thanks in advance.

 

[minofifa]

1. Don't know about magix, but yes, you do load the drivers, then install the usb and use it as your soundcard. you can use the onboard as well if that is your bag, but you may run into problems (but not always).

2. withthe two devices you have stated wanted, you shoul notice some improvement in qulality. the ability to record at 24 bit and 96 khz alone should help. also the A/D converters are probably nicer in the us-122. the preamps are fairly nice as well.

3. If you can only use MME (and NOT WDM or ASIO) then the upgrade is definately worth it. ASIO drivers are much more efficient than MME and will be much more relyable when it comes to latency.

4. no, not a problem

5. it will be an improvement but there is definately room for more improvement. all of your gear has to be of studio quality or your setup is as only as good as its crappiest piece. a good mic is very important. good preamps and good monitors are also important.

 

[ms10451]

Thanks!
-s