PC Sound Card

Chris Clementson · **Voice Seeker** Joined: 14 Jan 2008 Posts: 216

Are we talking about a laptop computer here? And if so, how do we propose to plug a PCI sound card into a laptop?

Emmett Andrews · **Voice Talent** Joined: 17 Jul 2004 Posts: 132

Frank Frederick · **Voice Seeker** Joined: 29 Dec 2006 Posts: 142

Frankly speaking, Frank; I will be Frank with you... you don't know how long I have waited to do that...

Think simple. What are you trying to do with your sound card? Do you need multiple inputs? Do you need multiple outputs?

One of the easiest ways I have found to get great sound, use a phantom powered microphone, with a good pre-amp too and is a USB device is the CEntrance MicPortPro - around $120.00 USD. There is a cavaet: sometimes it takes a while to get them, so ask if they are in stock when you order.

Do a Google search and read the reviews or I can put you in touch with some people who own them and like them... I don't know of anyone who has not liked the product - yet.

There are a couple of options other than the MicPortPro, but this is one of the best. MXL has a version, but cannot monitor through the device (no earphone jack), there are a couple of good little devices from M-Audio (some have problems with PC's, some are just plain outlandish), and others... find what is right for you.

"Will you get a better sound?" Yes! Why? First off, most on-board sound cards on a laptop are simples, meaning you cannot monitor audio while you record. Additionally, most laptop sound cards are designed to replicate sound at 16 bit, 44,100 kHz. Some laptop sound cards can do 48 KHz, but this is really mis-leading as it is what is called interpolated 48 kHz.

Good luck

Toodles

Frank Frederick
"The Voice" tm

Chris Clementson · **Voice Seeker** Joined: 14 Jan 2008 Posts: 216

The whole issue of how "good" a sound card is can be settled with this audio benchmark utility:

http://audio.rightmark.org/index_new.shtml

Cameron Thomas · **Voice Talent** Joined: 06 Dec 2006 Posts: 479

Now that things are running "ok" for now with Vista and the external SB card, I have been thinking of upgrading to an M-audio. Have you heard of any issues with Vista compatibility at all?

I mix through a Mackie and through the external card to a USB port. Should I expect anything unusual if I upgrade?

Thanks in advance,
Cameron

Frank Cabanski · **Voice Talent** Joined: 12 Dec 2005 Posts: 87

I hired a consultant to check my home set-up. He recommended bypassing the card, listening to audio via the USB interface I use to record, through studio monitors instead of headphones.

Thanks for all the tips and advices.