Need advice: Connect BX5 studio monitors connection to MacBook Pro

[kennyz1]

Hello all,

I have:

Macbook Pro: System Version: Mac OS X 10.5.6 (9G55)
Pair of powered M-Audio BX5 studio monitors w/ XLR and TRS inputs

Previously, I used the monitors to connect to a Yamaha AW16G workstation.

I would like to connect the monitors to the Macbook Pro for use with Garageband and listening to downloaded music.

Can someone please advise on reasonably priced interface converters (less than $300) and any other caveats that may be involved?

Thanks very much…

Kenny

[FX120]

You can go out and buy a Firewire recording interface if you want. It will sound better, but you're looking at several hundred dollars for a decent one.

Or you can just get the cable you need to go from the 1/8" TRS headphone out on your MBP to a pair of 1/4" TS connectors for plugging in the monitors.

[mike1123]

I have the BX5a's and I use the Lexicon Alpha USB interface. I think it does its job and sounds fine. Can be had for around 80 bucks.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/439188-REG/Lexicon_ALPHA_Alpha_Studio_Desktop_Recording.html

Out of stock at the moment here, but the price is probably worth waiting for.

[kennyz1]

Thanks, I appreciate the responses.

I'll have a close look at the Lexicon, that is basically what I had in mind.

Cheers,

K

[thegoldenmackid]

I'd recommend either of Lexicon's two higher end models or if you wanted much smaller footprint; the Native Instruments Audio Kontrol 1 has some amazing quality.