Which Sound Card Should I Buy?

  • Thread starter Thread starter BBN
  • Start date Start date
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BBN

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Hello all,

I've been DJ-ing for about a year. I'm getting ready to set up a home studio to record my mixes and sample sounds from my LPs. I'm really confused on which sound card will be right for me. I'm looking for near CD quality, if not CD quality. I was thinking of getting the Aardvark DirectPro 24/96.

Also, what good software can I use to break down the tracks that I mix? I don't want to hear a pause between tracks, any suggestions?

If it helps, my gear list is:
Pentium 533,
128 K Ram,
12 gig hard drive,
12x CD burner,
2 Gemini PT2100 turntables,
Numark 1885x mixer,
Yahmaha NS-10 monitor speakers.

Thanks for everyones help,
TNA
 
The choice of a soundcard will vary depending on many things. For one thing, the number of inputs/outputs. From my point of view, Aardvark, Echo, Delta (M-Audio), etc. all make good soundcards. It’s really finding a model that has the features that will best suit your personal needs and the amount of money your willing to put. For opinions, the search key on this site may be a good help.

As for the software, I believe that most of them end up doing about the same thing. It’s basically a question of how comfortable you feel using any of them. That’s why trying their demo versions would be a good step to decide. Check their minimum computer requirements. One software that is generaly accepted as a good program for beginners is N-Track. It’s also one of the cheapest, I think. A lot of people I know who make electronic music use Cubase. Cakewalk is mentioned a lot on this BBS. Others to look for are ProTools, Vegas (Sonic Foundry), Logic (Midiman), etc... You can try most of them first for free.
 
How many inputs/outputs do you need...if you are just recording mixes and doing samples , sounds like you only need a stereo input?....does any of you equipment use S/PDIF outs?......
 
Also are you looking for good demo quality or pro commercial quality?....
 
Hi Guys, Thank you for all the good insight,

Gidget:
Right now I'm just recording mixes and sampling sounds. But in the future I plan on adding sound modules and beat machines to my studio.

I dont think any of my equipment uses S/PDIF. Also, I'm look to get good demo quality sound, professional quality would be great, but demo sounds just fine for me.

Thanks again,
DJ TNA :rolleyes:
 
the M-Audio cards would be a great pick for you...the Delta Audiophile has a stereo input and goes for $159....the Delta44 has 4 ins and outs and goes for around $220...both are 24bit96khz cards.......if you are only needing one input at a time, the Audiophile will do it for you....
 
Gidget, your the best!

Thank you for all your help... I can't wait to check out these cards.
DJ TNA
 
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