Belkin v. Matrox hubs, considerations...
Well, now that Matrox DS1 is shipping, we're faced with a challenge. Cost concerns aside, does the Matrox DS1 hub (assuming it performs as advertised) have enough of the right stuff, or are we gonna' wait until the first quarter of '13, for the ExpressDock.
I drew up this flow chart, to illustrate the ways in which I might use either one. All cables originate from the computer (rMBP), splitting to either the Belkin or Matrox device, depending on which I've got.
CONCERNS/NOTES
*I've had difficulties using my Apple SuperDrive (CD/DVD) on powered USB 2 hubs. For the Matrox DS1 scenario, I'm plugging it directly into one of the rMBP USB 3 ports. I'd be surprised if it works on a Matrox DS1 USB 2 port, and I need the Matrox's USB 3 for external audio equipment (Not going to be upgrading THAT to thunderbolt anytime soon. Same goes for my external HDD).
*Presently, I use an adapter for the rMBP's (hybrid?) 3.5mm audio-out port to a Toslink optical audio cable, which runs to my A/V receiver. I would be surprised if the audio out ports on EITHER of these two hubs supports digital, and so I might very well have to keep my direct rMBP-->A/V receiver hookup, despite the ones on the hub. I'll likely use the mic port on the hub, however.
*With the Belkin, My USB 3/Firewire external HDD is going to have a dedicated Firewire port. A nice advantage over my USB 2 solution, using the Matrox (of course I COULD plug it into the free USB 3 port on the rMBP, but I'm trying to make USE of the dock here
)
*The thunderbolt passthrough port on the Belkin is irrelevant for this scenario, because I'm just going to use a TB-->DVI-D adapter to my external monitor (not a thunderbolt device), anyway. Nice perk though, if I were to buy a thunderbolt monitor. Not gonna' happen soon. Additionally, the rMBP sports a second TB port anyway, for future needs.
Upshot is, I'm having a whole lot of trouble justifying the wait, to buy the Belkin instead of the Matrox. And it's cheaper, too.
Just noticed, Belkin changed their ExpressDock design, w/ all TB ports on back, no e-sata (fine by me).