Low Profile Soundcards

[snookman]

Hey everyone, I've been looking to start recording some keyboard/acoustic/elec. guitar and limited vocals on my PC and want to upgrade my soundcard. The problem is my PC is 5100c (compact) and only accepts half height cards. So I did a litlle research and the best one I could find is an Audiotrak Prodigy 7.1 LT. Does anyone know of a different card or if this one is decent? I'm also getting a firewire interface and was looking at the Edirol/Roland FA-66 or the Presonus Inspire1394. I really like all the software that comes with the Inspire but there's no MIDI I/O. So maybe someone knows of a lowpro soundcard with MIDI I/O or could give some input on the Edirol FA-66. Thanks in advance

[morri53]

Have you thought about an external firewire or USB based interface? I use the M-Audio Firewire Solo and I'm really happy with it.

[TimOBrien]

If you're getting a Firewire interface, why would you want to upgrade your soundcard????

(The interface IS a soundcard...)

For midi, just get a MidisportUSB2x2. I've used one now on 3 different DAWs (including my current laptop) with zero problems.

[itsplayed]

What's your budget?

[snookman]

The main reason I wanted to upgrade my soundcard is because the soundchip on my motherboard doesn't support ASIO drivers (which I guess are better), and I would like higher quality output for just monitering. I did try an ASIO wrapper (ASIO4all i think) and it didn't work that great for me


My budget is about 350-400 USD...450 MAX


Thanks for responding

[snookman]

So now I'm confused, if I get a firewire interface I don't need a soundcard? If thats the case I'll just get the FA-66 and put the extra money into better moniters.I'm still open to comments and suggestions so please keep 'em coming.

[snookman]

Hey TimOBrien I just found a link you posted on another thread http://www.tweakheadz.com/soundcards_for_the_home_studio.htm

There is alot of good info on there I wish I would have seen it earlier..thanks

[itsplayed]

I would give serious consideration to M-Audio's Firewire 1814, besides for being an excellent choice upfront, it also allows for expandability via it's ADAT I/O.

[TimOBrien]

So now I'm confused, if I get a firewire interface I don't need a soundcard?

Nope, the firewire interface has both ins and outs so it is a soundcard.

Yup, Twek's guide is a really good place to start... anything there would be good for 'ya.

[the_binary_soul]

I wont go into the cooling problems with those tiny cases but the M-audio delta is half - length (front to back) if thats what you need but it sounds to me that your better off going for a firewire interface like everyone has already said.