Topic: are there any 4-6 channel interfaces that have no mic pres?

[jnorman34]

i need to get at least 4 channels of discrete audio into my laptop.  i have external preamps, so dont really need a unit that has preamps in it.  FW or USB2 - seems either would be okay.  however, i read that continuous throughput for USB2 is not as stable as for FW, but it also seems that not many makers are including FW in new computers anymore.  so maybe investing in FW is not a good idea if my next computer wont have a FW input, or maybe no FW chipset at all.  thanks.

[live2496]

RME Multiface is rock solid. Here is a link to the newer Multiface II.
http://www.rme-audio.com/english/hdsp/multifa.htm

You can pickup a used Multiface and a cardbus hdsp card for around $500-600. That is what I would recommend if you want to save some $$$ and get something that is good quality and reliable. It has 8 analog inputs and outputs, plus ADAT and SPDIF.

The hdsp card plugs into a cardbus slot. Just make sure that your laptop has this. I am using a Lenovo R61 laptop and it accepts both cardbus and ExpressCard.

Edit: in checking I see you can get an ExpressCard version of the hdsp also.

[mblindsey]

...hmm...4-6 channel, I don't know. Ask for 2-16 and there a more options, for example:

http://www.apogeedigital.com/products/ad16x.php

--Michael

[Chris K]

M-Audio Firewire 1814 is a lower cost option. Good drivers. I use one with my 8 track rig and dig it. has xlr inputs on front, but also has 8 1/4" TRS inputs in the back. ADAT spdif and midi in/out as well.