Audio Interface Advice?

KSTONER wrote on 1/8/2011, 5:55 PM
Before I begin I'll get a few things out of the way. Currently my system is:
OS: Windows 7 Home Premium (64-bit)
Audio Card: Whatever came with my computer, I think it's Realtek HD or something.

Anyway, I've been thinking about buying an audio interface for my computer, but I don't where to even begin in terms of what I should look for.

I plan to use it in Vegas and/or ACID (if possible?) whilst recording voice-overs or a reaaaallly low-end music session.

I figured I would go after something along the lines of M-Audio's Mbox Mini 2, however times have changed and it seems as though there's a new version of the Mbox out, and I'm not too sure what works and doesn't work with Vegas in terms of Audio Interfaces.

My budget is around $150-$200 and I'm not a brand-whore in this area, so fire away!

Comments

rraud wrote on 1/9/2011, 7:47 AM
Laptop or desktop, internal or external, do need you mic pre-amps?
Lots of opinions and preferences.
I prefer the Echo products for their rock-solid drivers. For an external mic pre interface, the 'Sound Devices USB Pre' would be great for VO/narration, it's a bit pricey but worth it, in terms of sound, build quality, re-sale value, ect.
KSTONER wrote on 1/10/2011, 6:02 AM
Thanks for the reply!

Sorry for not being more specific.

It's a desktop system and I was leaning more towards external, however I'm open to anything as long as it gets the job done.

Excuse my ignorance, but I'm not too sure as to what mic pre-amps are so I did a quick Google search and I can say that I'll probably need one...I could be wrong though. :)

I had my eyes on this: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=NavBar&A=getItemDetail&Q=&sku=737377&is=REG&si=rev#anchorToReadReviews

But I'm not too sure what the general consensus is on M-Audio and Windows 7 as of late.
rraud wrote on 1/10/2011, 8:14 AM
If your planning on using any 'professional' type microphone, you will need a pre-amp with XLR input connectors. Most large diaphragm mics (the norm for narration) require Phantom Power, so the M-Audio Mobile Pre would likely work for narration. Having a on-board headphone amp makes set-up somewhat easier.
One of my clients had an earlier model Mobile pre. It sounded OK, but was a pain to get working, (drivers) so I'm not fond of M-Audio products, and it's compatibility with Vegas may be questionable since M-audio wants you to use PTs. (Pro Tools) Of course my experience with that device was many years ago, so your mileage may vary. Maybe someone else could comment on this.
KSTONER wrote on 1/10/2011, 12:17 PM
Either way, thanks for your suggestions.

Anyone else care to chime in?