Audio interface for live laptop performance?

Asked by rhodes54 (415

) July 29th, 2009

I’m using Mainstage with a MacBook. What’s a good sub-$100 audio interface for live use? I currently have a Behringer UCA-202, but wonder if I can’t get better results from something else. Only need two ins and outs. Monitor out would be nice but not essential.

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3 Answers

For under $100 you really won’t get decent results. You need to consider the cost of the interface, as well as the reliability and drivers. I would say minimum $250—$300 for a decent Firewire or USB interface. The Apogee Duet is really nice and runs $500.

jeffpetersen (194

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Do you think I’ll notice THAT much of a sonic difference? This is mostly for live playing in clubs through a Roland RD-500. won’t really be using it for recording. Thanks

rhodes54 (415

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It’s hard to say what you’d notice. Depends on the PA system, mostly. The point being, If you already have a crap soundcard, you’re not going to improve things with a different crap soundcard.

jeffpetersen (194

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