External Soundcards

Posted by: Kevin, UK

External Soundcards - 01/19/05 12:08 PM

Sorry if this is a bit off-topic, but I'm sure you guys must have some relevant comments/experience.

Following some problems with the sound on my laptop, I have decided to move to an external sound card. I have been offered good deals on the following 2 products:

Trust 510ex Usb 5.1 Sound Expert External

Soundblaster Live! 24 bit External

Have any of you had any experience with either of these?

Many thanks
Posted by: Jim Wintringham

Re: External Soundcards - 01/20/05 01:38 PM

The SoundBlaster cards for pc's have the ability to load 'soundfonts'....which are digital instrument samples. There are hundreds of them (free) on the web, or you can buy commercial samples. So, for that ability (if it applys to the card you are looking at)...I like the SoundBlaster. I don't know what the other card is like, so I cann't help you with that one.
Other options for you, though, might be to look at 'soft synth' sounds...that will work with the card you already have in your laptop. This type of sound usually has a bit of delay to it when played 'live'...but is great for playing things that you have already recorded.
And the cheapest way to go would be to get midi cables, and use your Casio as the sound device...playing the midi on the computer, and routing the midi data, thru the midi cables, to youe keyboard. You can also record the Casio as 'audio' using the line in or 'mic' input to the laptop, from your Casio's headphone or line out plug.
Here is a free audio recorder program: http://audacity.sourceforge.net/

And here is a really nice midi/audio sequencer program..at a great price: http://www.pgmusic.com/powertracks.htm

Posted by: Kevin, UK

Re: External Soundcards - 01/21/05 11:59 AM

Hi Jim,

Many thanks for your response. I have ordered the Soundblaster Card. I already have the PowerTracks software (purchased on your recomendation when we had our own little community at the Casio Forum) I hope you are on commission!
Posted by: DJWhite

Re: External Soundcards - 01/21/05 03:47 PM

I have been advised to buy the Midiman Mobile Pre by my engineer.

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Posted by: Jim Wintringham

Re: External Soundcards - 01/22/05 06:16 AM

Hi Kevin, Have you been to the pianoman's Casio forum? It is starting to really take off. http://www.originalz.com/casio/casio_bbs/
Posted by: Kevin, UK

Re: External Soundcards - 01/22/05 07:45 AM

Hi Jim,

I wasn't aware of this other Forum - I will give it a visit. Many thanks for the tip.

Kevin.