Best Audio Interface solution for MBP?

I want to use an audio interface (audio module) connected to my MBP to play VST Software (ie Superior Drummer 2.0, BFD2, OWD, Addictive Drums, EZ Drummer ect) using my Roland V-Drums TD-12 as the trigger device.

Anybody using a sub $500 external sound module connected to their MBP that they can recommend to me?

Also, what method are you using (is fastest) to connect it to the MBP to keep latency low, Firewire 800, USB 2.0 or an ExpressCard/34 solution? Thanks


Codeseven

 

Thanks Jim.

I have to admit I'm at all this. I've only had my TD-12 kit for a few months and I'm already wanting to venture into the VST world.

I take it then that Firewire 800 is my best choice since I'm now learning that USB 2.0 is slower.

I'm not sure what you mean about needed inputs. I'll only be connecting my TD-12, MBP and the Audio Interface together.

Do you have a recommendation for an Audio Interface or Drum VST Software?

 

Thanks for the replies.

Yes, there are MIDI connections on my drum module (TD-12). I currently have my drum module and MBP connected via a MIDI to USB cable and have been messing around with the available free VST drum software demo versions out there like BFD2 and Addictive drums. I've also been trying the trial versions of Reaper and Toontrack. I haven't been very successful at using Garageband to host the VST's though.

All in all the VST's sound much better than the factory sounds from the Roland drum module (even the limited sounds in the trial versions) so I'd like to go ahead and purchase a full version of a VST software and as many have done (from what I've read on the net) also purchase a good sound module.

I'm only playing the sounds in realtime for practice and enjoyment but might some day want to also record so I'd like to have components and software that I wont have to upgrade to do so.

 

I think your right as far as only needing two I/O, for now anyway. Looking at several manufacturers these sound modules can go for allot of money but as you pointed out, probably overkill for what little I'm planning on doing.

I've seen both those modules mentioned. The M-Audio brand sometimes takes an opinion beating as far as quality but for the price your supposedly getting allot.

 

Sorry for the delay, thanks for the replies.

I'll be using VST software, Superior Drummer 2.0 and using my TD-12 to trigger my Roland e-drums. The sound module (Audio Interface) would be used in place of the basic sound solution in my MBP which wasn't designed to handle large sound files at low latency while playing live.

I've been looking at the Apogee Duet, Presonus Firebox and the Focusrite Saffire. Driver support is critical especially with each OS update. The Duet is very pricey, I've heard Presonus is slow on new drivers (as is M-Audio supposedly) so that leaves the Saffire. I'll look into the other links also, thanks.

 

DrumJim, I was thinking about using my 300GB WD VelociRaptor external e-Sata HD hooked up to a Merax e-SATA ExpressCard/34 I have. Would that be better than using a Firewire enclosure and the Firewire port? I was going to use the Firewire port for the Audio Interface.

I know there have been many problems with e-SATA ExpressCard/34's. Which one do you use? Thanks

 

Thanks DrumJim. Which e-SATA expresscard are you using? I got mine from Fry's last year, don't know if it's any good or remember what I paid for it. I've read that they go from $20-$200! and there are crappy e-sata cards out there.

 

Hi Liqourpuki. Those Duets are nice man and I like that their fully Apple friendly. I don't plan on recording but if I change my mind some day I'd hate to have to buy another AI. You definitely get what you pay for as far as decent DAC's.

I believe everything will be connected this way. TD-12> MIDI to USB> MBP> Firewire> to Audio Interface> Headphones/Speaker System. Also, in my case, I'll have an external HD loaded with the VST software sound library> e-SATA ExpressCard/34> MBP.