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Fozz_uk · Jan 21, 2004, 07:42 AM

OK, I'm going to get a 12" powerbook which I'd like to plug my guitar into. Since all laptop soundcards are rubbish I want a USB thingy which will give me quality audio but is guitar friendly, hoping to spend less than �80.

When I've got the audio in there could I use the laptop as a sound recorder/editor (i guess GarageBand would do that..?) and as an effects pedal somehow?

Any Ideas?

Fozz

spiky_dog · Jan 21, 2004, 08:22 AM

GarageBand has a basic set of plugins and filters available in addition to the whole "amp emulation" sound. As for USB audio devices, I would advise going to some place like samedaymusic.com or zzounds.com and browsing around their USB Audio Device sections. Once you find devices with specs you like, then Google (and search in Google Groups with the additional string: group:rec.audio.pro as well) for reviews.

Minty Fresh · Jan 21, 2004, 10:14 AM

I play guitar, and I've already hooked it up to my Powerbook, and used it in Garage Band. I used a 1/4" to 3.5mm adapter to plug it into the Audio In on the Powerbook...and it works pretty well. Garage Band has a lot of filters that can change the way it sounds just like effects pedals!

But this is just a temporary solution. I order the M-Audio Mobilepre USB Preamp, which has 1/4" inputs for instruments, as well as XLR inputs for mics. I got it for US$140.

http://www.m-audio.com/index.php?do=...81bca7ff458be3