Soundcard options

[spacemusicman]

With the help of a few people here (thanks to those who assisted), I finally got my new VST software up and running with the multitrack software.

I realize (as I figured) that the integrated soundcard on the computer is not a viable option (a crappy Realtek).

However, I do have one PCI slot open, but it's a short one and I don't understand what it is used for, and I don't have any standard slots available. Is there such a thing as a soundcard that can be used via USB or firewire? Or can someone tell me what this short PCI slot is for and if there is any hardware available for it?

Thanks again,

DB

 

[Bowerz]

No, you cannot get a USB souncard as it has to go directly through the motherboard and not a BUS interface. I think you can get PCI ports though which increase the amount of slots which will be housed in an external enclosure.

 

[braden_]

um i don't know what bowerz is talking about.

spacemusicman, if you google usb audio interface or firewire audio interface you'll get tons of options. these interfaces take the place of your sound card on your computer. i use a presonus firewire interface and am very happy with it. but there are many to choose from, so do some research to find one that fits your needs.

 

[TimOBrien]

Here's a good guide and tested suggestions that work: http://www.tweakheadz.com/soundcards_for_the_home_studio.htm

(You'll want to bookmark and READ through all of Tweak's Guide...)

 

[Willyc510]

um i don't know what bowerz is talking about.

spacemusicman, if you google usb audio interface or firewire audio interface you'll get tons of options. these interfaces take the place of your sound card on your computer. i use a presonus firewire interface and am very happy with it. but there are many to choose from, so do some research to find one that fits your needs.

I Have a Reltek sound card too, so i set out to fix the same problem. I have a Tascam US-122L usb audio interface that i plug my mic into. Unfortunatly, it sounds the same as if i were to plug it into the Reltek soundcard The Vocals come out really weak. If you could give me some tips on what to do now that be amazing! I'm sure this will help Spacemusicman too.

 

[Loglisci44]

I have a US-144. WHen the fellow at guitar center sold it to me ( i was Super Uber Noob, now im just Uber Noob) he said it bypassed my soundcard in my computer. That the U-144 had its own internal soundcard for operation. First off is this the truth? Second off If i get an upgraded soundacard for my computer how would i utilize it if the US-144 bypasses it (if that is even the case).

 

[legionserial]

I Have a Reltek sound card too, so i set out to fix the same problem. I have a Tascam US-122L usb audio interface that i plug my mic into. Unfortunatly, it sounds the same as if i were to plug it into the Reltek soundcard The Vocals come out really weak. If you could give me some tips on what to do now that be amazing! I'm sure this will help Spacemusicman too.

Does the Tascam have a preamp in it?

 

[Loglisci44]

If i am reading right (which i think i am) the US-144 that i bought brings me to the "mixerless approach". It completely replaces the internal soundcard i have with my computer and I do not need to upgrade. Correct?

 

[rikismyname]

I have a US-144. WHen the fellow at guitar center sold it to me ( i was Super Uber Noob, now im just Uber Noob) he said it bypassed my soundcard in my computer. That the U-144 had its own internal soundcard for operation. First off is this the truth? Second off If i get an upgraded soundacard for my computer how would i utilize it if the US-144 bypasses it (if that is even the case).

i need this answering to.

 

[Chili]

If i am reading right (which i think i am) the US-144 that i bought brings me to the "mixerless approach". It completely replaces the internal soundcard i have with my computer and I do not need to upgrade. Correct?

i need this answering to.

Welcome to the site guys.

You are correct, the US144 will act as your sound card for your DAW application. You will do your mixing in your software. You will want to use the US144 to monitor what you are recording and mixing, so be sure to plug your speakers into the US144.