Topic: Soundcard for Macbooks?

[Depechemode1993]

So I never actually figured out what to do with my macbook for transfering shows. I have audacity and I really like it, but I only have a line in jack to my laptop. What are some of the quality soundcards that I can use externally through a usb. (if thats even possible?) I am not really good with computers and that sort of nature but, I want to get back into taping as I now have time! (and some cash)  thanks everyone.

Ryan

[Patrick]

What format are you going to be transferring from?

[Depechemode1993]

What format are you going to be transferring from?

DAT, Cassette, MD. I'll probably be soon getting an R-09.

[greenone]

I use an older version of what is now the ESI-Pro U24. Anything in their Waveterminal line should do the trick via USB.

[nic]

you would really be better off with a firewire based sound card than usb.
while a couple of years ago most external interfaces were usb, today they are firewire.

look at the Presonus Firebox

[shruggy1987]

for transfers the M-Audio Firewire 410 is solid and well priced.  Its powered over firewire on the macbook.  I wouldn't use it for too much analog in, but it has optical and coax in which are fine.

[scb]

doesn't the macbook have an optical in?

[nic]

doesn't the macbook have an optical in?

true.
the inputs and outputs are 1/8" stereo mini & optical.
my Powerbook has them as well

[greenone]

you would really be better off with a firewire based sound card than usb.
while a couple of years ago most external interfaces were usb, today they are firewire.

If he's transferring DATs and cassettes, why drop $300 on a firewire interface when a $150 USB interface will do? Once he has the R-09, he'll be able to just use a card reader or connect directly anyway...

[noahbickart]

The Macbook has a bit accurate optical line in. If all you want to do is transfer DAT, etc. at 16/44.1 you don't need to buy anything other than an optical cable, unless your dat deck only has coax connections...

-Noah

[Depechemode1993]

The Macbook has a bit accurate optical line in. If all you want to do is transfer DAT, etc. at 16/44.1 you don't need to buy anything other than an optical cable, unless your dat deck only has coax connections...

-Noah

I don't see an optical in on my macbook? Thanks everyone for you help. it is greatly appreciated! +T to all.

[scb]

the the same jack as the line input

[phreshie]

digi/optical in is on the left side - power, 2 usb's, optical, headphone - in that order
so let me get you guys right if i go optical in from say dat/hd recorder, i only need a program to run the audio into, not itunes, right
sorry to chime in here but i just got myself one of these powerbooks and i'm trying to figure out its potential for taping/transfering

tx

[greenone]

You got it...iTunes doesn't record, but I think new Macs are bundled with Sound Studio - check your Applications folder for it. That should do the trick.

[bgalizio]

You got it...iTunes doesn't record, but I think new Macs are bundled with Sound Studio - check your Applications folder for it. That should do the trick.

My Intel iMac wasn't. But, Sound Studio is cheap. Audacity is free.