Macbook Air interface?

[matthewHUB]

Hi all,

I read the guide about recording through your mac. The MBA doesn't have a line in. I can't decide whether to buy one of these external sound cards like the m-audio transit, and use a stereo sony mic that i got when i bought my minidisc player (<$100), or buy an xlr-usb adapter like this:

http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/MicMate/

I would then need to buy (or borrow) a single condensing stereo mic. I will be recording instrumental lessons (cello masterclasses etc) and want very good quality quality without having to carry about a large usb interface. Is a high quality obtainable through these single xlr to usb devices? there is another one here:

http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/MicPortPro/

I've only ever used paired condensers (Rode Nt-5s), so i'm not sure what kind of single stereo condenser would be best. Any help would be much appreciated.

Best,

M

 

[TEG]

The iMic from Griffin Technology might serve you better for input. Or you could purchase on of the many USB Mics out there in the world.

TEG

 

[matthewHUB]

Yes i saw the Griffin iMic, but then i'm restricted to using my cheap sony mic... which is ok but by no means stellar.

My max budget is around $400. If i could get a decent adapter and single xlr (which at a later date i could buy another one and have true stereo with a proper interface) then i'd be happy. Are the USB mics any good? Are they comparable to XLR condensers?

 

[Sesshi]

USB Mic seems like the easiest problem-solver to me.

 

[matthewHUB]

but i'd prefer to have en external sound card. whats the smallest most portable 2 track xlr USB interface out there?

 

[Sesshi]

Edirol UA-25. I'm not incredibly impressed with it, but it will do the job. It's bus powered.

 

[matthewHUB]

how are you not impressed by it? How does it compare to the equivalent modules form digidesign/m-audio/tascam?

 

[Sesshi]

It's audio output is not amazing. The fact that it does all of what it does from 5v @ 500ma is however amazing. I mean - if you want bus powered, it's probably your best option. But it's not your best option soundwise if you can allow yourself a wallwart.

 

[jr1478le]

I would recommend the Apogee Duet
Small and easy to move around.

 

[matthewHUB]

Apogee Duet is firewire. no fw on the MBA. it's a perfect size though. is there anything comparable in size/portability in USB?