need info about pre-amp, phantom power

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bendplucker

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I am wanting advice on which pci interface to buy, and decided to try TRACTION for software, but have a couple of questions. What do I need if I want to plug my guitar directly into the soundcard, and use plugin type effects? I have read that I would need a preamp or mixer before plugging guitar direct. Can someone suggest a pci card that will allow me to do the following? My budget for soundcard is $250.
-Direct guitar input into soundcard
-Mic guitar/bass by plugging mic directly into soundcard
-record alesis drum machine /also try to use whatever plugins I can find for Traction for drums.

I will only be recording a max of 2 inputs at a time (guitar & drums), so I dont need a ton of inputs. Probably just a couple of 1/4" inputs.

Also, can I have monitors plugged directly into output of soundcard? Without having to go thru stereo first?

Thanks in advance for any input
 
bendplucker said:
I am wanting advice on which pci interface to buy, and decided to try TRACTION for software, but have a couple of questions. What do I need if I want to plug my guitar directly into the soundcard, and use plugin type effects? I have read that I would need a preamp or mixer before plugging guitar direct. Can someone suggest a pci card that will allow me to do the following? My budget for soundcard is $250.
-Direct guitar input into soundcard
-Mic guitar/bass by plugging mic directly into soundcard
-record alesis drum machine /also try to use whatever plugins I can find for Traction for drums.

I will only be recording a max of 2 inputs at a time (guitar & drums), so I dont need a ton of inputs. Probably just a couple of 1/4" inputs.

Also, can I have monitors plugged directly into output of soundcard? Without having to go thru stereo first?

Thanks in advance for any input
Click to expand...

To be honest, I can't think of any PCI cards in that pricerange that will do all that. The Delta 1010LT has 2 XLR inputs with preamps, but I don't think they have phantom power (if you would be using any condenser mics) and I believe it has mostly RCA inputs, no 1/4" jacks. Most of the FireWire and USB cards have built-in preamps and DI capabilities, but that's not what you were asking.

You might want to look into something like the Delta 44 or Delta 66 and then get an inexpensive preamp or small mixer.
 
or go for the delta 1010lt, which is a GREAT card. I got mine for $US315 shipped to australia, so you could probably almost fit your budget if you looked around. They are top cards and you won't need to upgrade for a while. Actually the problem there is that neither of the pre's have phantom power... :( What I did was buy a *gasp* behringer mic200 pre, which did the job fine for me at around $US60-70. This is probably stretching your budget, but you won't upgrade your 1010lt for a while... something to consider. ;)
 
M- Audio Audiophile 2496 soundcard- $99
M- Audio DMP-3, 2 channel MIC preamp/DI box- $150

That would be my choice. It doesn't matter where you go in the future and to what quality of gear you upgrade you will always find a use for the DMP-3. It's a great pre for the price.

If you do ever foresee wanting more ins/outs at any stage I would agree with Xander and just go for the 1010LT now, it'll save you a pricey upgrade in the future. If you have condensor mics phantom power boxes to compliment the pres on the 1010LT can be had pretty cheap.

If you have powered (active) monitors then you can go direct from the card's outs. In fact this minimum signal chain approach is the best way to go.
 
I appreciate the info. Ive decided to go with the 2496 soundcard. What is the difference between the AUDIO BUDDY and the DMP-3?
 
bendplucker said:
What is the difference between the AUDIO BUDDY and the DMP-3?
Click to expand...

If you can swing it, get the DMP-3. The audio buddy supplies only +41V phantom power, where the DMP-3 is +48V (better for most condenser mics). The DMP-3 also has a few other bells and whistles that make it more versatile.
 
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