Simultaneous inputs to a computer

  • Thread starter Thread starter buk
  • Start date Start date
I'm pretty sure, because the splitters are actually made for outputs, like headphones. Left and right are split so that both outputs still have left/right.
 
Flamed anonymously for misinformation? I asked to be corrected! :p

The powerBook has a stereo input. I am assuming it is line-level. However, if you buy a computer microphone, they often have stereo jacks, and not because they are a headset:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16836131024

That little guy has a TRS 1/8" jack on it. If its plugging into a microphone input that is apparently always going to be mono, why would it be on there?

Just laying out what I've seen to show what has led me to these conclusions. Happy flaming :)
 
cusebassman said:
That little guy has a TRS 1/8" jack on it. If its plugging into a microphone input that is apparently always going to be mono, why would it be on there?
Click to expand...

Balanced lines use a TRS or XLR. That is why it has the plug that it does.
 
But then the signal would be translated to unbalanced in the machine, and you wouldn't get a stereo input. At least that's how outboard gear works... I don't know. Nor do I honestly care, as my laptop serves me fine for taking in a stereo signal, and everyone spouts off about the fact that you shouldn't be using the line or mic input on your computer anyway, since usually that method ends up sounding like crap.

Which is funny because the built-in audio card on the G4 powerBook sounds pretty damn good. Ah well - my setup works fine, and Im sure with enough poking and prodding and the cables suggested above, the OP will be able to figure out what to do :)
 
According to Apple, the PowerBook G4 has a stereo line in and an integrated microphone (doesn't specify stereo or not). A balanced line mic plugged into that would give you the same thing on each channel, except it would be 180 degrees out of phase. A true stereo mic would give you stereo, but you would want it to have line level output.

Specs here: http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=75501
 
I would skip the onboard soundcard entirely. Look for an entry level soundcard as Tim O'Brien advised (about a hundred bucks), install it and then go to your computer management software and set that as you system soundcard - literally turn off the motherboard card if you can. Deal with the soundcard's inputs - you have a preamp right there.


Look at Reaper for software (google "reaper sound") its inexpemsive, powerful and stable.
 
irishfolker said:
According to Apple, the PowerBook G4 has a stereo line in and an integrated microphone (doesn't specify stereo or not). A balanced line mic plugged into that would give you the same thing on each channel, except it would be 180 degrees out of phase. A true stereo mic would give you stereo, but you would want it to have line level output.

Specs here: http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=75501
Click to expand...

Yup, just as I suspected - about my laptop, anyway. As for the PC input, I haven't used a PC soundcard for much more than hooking up my computer speakers in a long damn time. Thanks for the info!
 
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