Tascam US-122 vs. Mic Input

[Twitch]

I want to start recording on my lap top and am just wondering how much difference it will be if I run my mic through a tascam US-122 compared to a mic through the microphone line? I'll probably be using audacity as the software and am not looking for anything insane, just a good representation of my tone.

 

[Marinblues]

Re: Tascam US-122 vs. Mic Input

There's a big difference. Laptops typically use a cheap onboard Ac97 soundcard. It ok to listen to music, but not that cool for recording. The Tascam will offer much superior Digital to Analog conversion.

The microphone output is very low and requires a preamplifier. A laptop soudcard does offer the ability to "preamplify" an input signal, but it really not adequate for any serious recording purposes. The Tascam has a proper inbuilt preamplifier.

 

[Twitch]

Re: Tascam US-122 vs. Mic Input

Well thanks Marin, I'll look into picking up a US-122 or similar for cheap tomorrow. (post Xmas sales rock!)


Bringing me to my next question, my lap top does not have firewire but what other USB boxes are comparable to the Tascam US-122?

 

[Reckless Abandon]

Re: Tascam US-122 vs. Mic Input

I like the US-122. I use it with cakewalk. I just wish it allowed my to record each input on a different track. (Maybe it doe sand I just cannot figure it out)

 

[Twitch]

Re: Tascam US-122 vs. Mic Input

Thanks for the input guys, after browsing online for a while it looks like the Tascam might be my best bet. I'll try to get some recordings up for critiquing in the next couple of weeks.