Topic: Cheapest 4 Channel interface for a macbook

[run_run_run]

Something like SBD ~> 1 Channel, Omni ~> 1, Analog from an UA-5. I would not care about the pres so much as getting 24 bits into my macbook.  I could really pwn some local taping this way.

[ArchivalAudio]

cheapest?
but I really like my MOTU UltraLite it only has 2 mic pres, but can handle more 6 other trs line ins + one SPDIF-for 2 more channels its solid and glitch free.- firewire in and out- bus powered
I'd stay away from USB interfaces for doing multi track- unless that's your only option

you might ask why not go for a 4 channel recorder or a new 6 or 8 channel standalone the new Tascam 8 channel has promise!

I have mostly gave up on dragging my iBook and Motu and battery around
mostly do 2 track any way - unless I'm at festies where I can get power and patches and also bring an external firewire drive to record too.

I have and hated my Presonus Firebox it had more issues and glitches messed up more recordings than it made - a waste of money- but I got it right when it first came out. I know some who run it with windows units and they have good luck.  I can use it as a standalone mic pre if I am ever doing any FOH work and it works fine for that.

MOTU is designed & built for Mac's

will you ever run 4 mics? do you need more than 2 mic pres?
the MOTU traveller is cool too.
 
good luck
--Ian

[page]

You created a poll is why it needed a question....

more computers, less philosophy?   

[sunjan]

I'd stay away from USB interfaces for doing multi track- unless that's your only option

YMMV, but other lappy tapers have managed to run Fast Track Pro with reasonable results:
http://www.m-audio.com/products/en_us/FastTrackPro.html

Retails for $165 over at Google Shopping...
With that, you could probably eliminate the UA-5 from your chain too, avoiding the extra A>D>A step.