Question: Please Help!

[Kill]

I just bought a new Dell laptop, Inspiron 500. I want to start recording music using this computer to both record and edit. My friend has several recording programs he said he would show me, and i currently own a small mixer. What else do i need? I noticed that the laptop (as opposed to my desktop where i use the line-in for my recording) only has a headphone out and a mic in. i didn't think that i should record through the mic jack and assumed that there is some sort of external unit i would have to purchase. Am i correct in thinking this, if so what do i need?
any info is much apriciated.

 

[Paul881]

You do indeed need an external soundcard because the interface that came with your Dell is a toy by comparison to what you need to record audio/midi. First you need to decide what sort of inputs you will use (Midi only, audio only or midi+audio)

Then how many inputs you will need to record simultaneously, 1,2,4,6 etc. And what type i.e midi and audio together?

That will point you in the direction of either a midi only interface, a midi and audio interface, a small mixed unit or a large (4+ inputs)interface.

If its midi only or midi and a couple of audio inputs a USB connection will probably be fine for your needs. More than that and you will need a Firewire interface...if the Dell supports it or you will need to buy a PCMIA card/firewire interface card too.

The delta quattro (around $280) from MAudio http://www.midiman.net/products/m-audio/quattro.php is a decent audio and midi interface and is available in a firewire version too (Firewire has the advantage of a wider bandwidth, faster interface which means less hassle, more signals). At the top end of the market is the MOTU range at $1000+

Hope this helps.