2021 M1 iMac - USB Hubs

[mdHAT]

I took the plunge and pre ordered the new iMac this morning. I am pretty excited about.

But then I realized I need USB-A ports for my Audio Intreface, drum machine, and midi controller.

I didn’t really see any options to my taste on Amazon. And, I don’t know why they cost so much ($100+). I don’t really need an HDMI port, or additional USB 4 ports. Do you guys have any suggestions?

Are there any options that don’t cater to the laptop market avalible? Something that will look attractive on the desk? Maybe even rack mounted?

 

[4sallypat]

 

[Shirohana]

I took the plunge and pre ordered the new iMac this morning. I am pretty excited about.

But then I realized I need USB-A ports for my Audio Intreface, drum machine, and midi controller.

I didn’t really see any options to my taste on Amazon. And, I don’t know why they cost so much ($100+). I don’t really need an HDMI port, or additional USB 4 ports. Do you guys have any suggestions?

Are there any options that don’t cater to the laptop market avalible? Something that will look attractive on the desk? Maybe even rack mounted?

Just upgrade your cables to usb c. That’s what I’m doing for my audio interface and midi controller. Much cheaper and a lot less bother.

 

[mdHAT]

Yes, I came to the same conclusion last night. I ordered several adaptors.

 

[BrentT]

But then I realized I need USB-A ports for my Audio Intreface, drum machine, and midi controller.

I didn’t really see any options to my taste on Amazon. And, I don’t know why they cost so much ($100+). I don’t really need an HDMI port, or additional USB 4 ports. Do you guys have any suggestions?

Amazon has a wide variety of USB-C hubs. Just look for one with the number and type of ports you want. I got one with 4 USB-A 3.0 ports but 2 SD card slots. That only only cost $15.

If you only need a few USB-A ports you can get little USB-C to USB-A adapters that is a clean, no dongle, way to go. Those were 2 for $8.

 

[Fishrrman]

My suggestion is that you get a POWERED hub.

Also, be aware that some peripherals may not work properly unless "directly connected" to the Mac.
I'm thinking the audio interface could be one of these...

 

[neilw]

My suggestion is that you get a POWERED hub.

Also, be aware that some peripherals may not work properly unless "directly connected" to the Mac.
I'm thinking the audio interface could be one of these...

The Apple USB optical drive is one. 🤬

 

[davegoody]

The Apple USB optical drive is one. 🤬

The Apple USB SuperDrive works fine on my Powered USB3 Orico Hub, no issues whatsover

 

[neilw]

The Apple USB SuperDrive works fine on my Powered USB3 Orico Hub, no issues whatsover

Oh that is good to know, I'll need to do some more experimenting then.

 

[eneisch]

The Apple USB SuperDrive works fine on my Powered USB3 Orico Hub, no issues whatsover

Would you mind posting which model Orico Hub you own? Are you using a USB C cable to connect it to the Mac? or an USB C to USB A adapter?

 

[macsound1]

I'm really hoping for one like this that connects to the USB C port on the back and gives me USB A on the front and or back.

Or something like this, considering how light the M1 iMac is, you could totally put it under the foot.

 

[neilw]

I'm really hoping for one like this that connects to the USB C port on the back and gives me USB A on the front and or back.
View attachment 1778993
Or something like this, considering how light the M1 iMac is, you could totally put it under the foot.
View attachment 1778994

I feel certain that someone will come out with stuff like that... unfortunately hard to know how long it'll take.