What recording software are you using??

I have Nuendo 3 on my computer, but I had that more as a trial to see how it was.

I might consider purchasing Pro Tools, depending on how much of a deal I can get from it. Pro Tools doesn't require M-Audio correct? (better make sure before I buy it)

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Pro Tools doesn't require M-Audio correct? (better make sure before I buy it)

There are different versions, you choose based on the hardware you're planning on buying.

One of the systems I have in use right now is a M-Audio/ProTools rig. It's got 16in and feeds an Allen and Heath Mixer. Drawbacks are that I'm stuck buying expensive control surfaces when I want direct interface/automation.

Next system I build will be an Ardour System. First off the software is free and continuously being updated. You can download the Ubuntu Studio bundle which contains ardour for free here: http://ubuntustudio.org/

The other nice thing about it is your hardware options. Anything that is ALSA (Advanced Linux Sound Architecture) compatible will work. Here is a list from Alsa:

http://bugtrack.alsa-project.org/main/index.php/Matrix:Main

Notice that ALL usb devices should work without a hitch. Ardour allows you to use inexpensive control/interface products like the Behringer BCF2000:

http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/Behringer-BCF2000-BControl-Fader?sku=701763&src=3SOSWXXA

Add an M-Audio Delta 10/10 and you're good to go:

http://www.m-audio.com/products/en_us/Delta1010-main.html

That entire system is under $700USD investment if you shop around.

A more versatile setup I've seen recommended is using a Behringer DDX3216 & an RME HDSP9652. Bang for buck these setups are unmatched.

I forgot to mention I have a 24 channel Mackie Mixer. I don't think I would need that Behringer.

I have ubuntu on my PC, so that is an option. However, I really would like to keep that partition clean because I do research in the Computer Algebra field, and use ubuntu for my work.

No one suggests the MOTU here? I have heard REALLY good things about it from a few people. Just curious, since I am not sure how the preamps sound on it.

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No one suggests the MOTU here? I have heard REALLY good things about it from a few people. Just curious, since I am not sure how the preamps sound on it.

MOTU makes great stuff. I did some work at a place that used MOTU 828's I think attached to their protools systems. I didn't get alot of exposure to them because most of the time I was working on a Waveframe or Pyramix machine. It's tricky even with a 24 track mixer, for $900 all in you have to be creative. Do you want a control interface for the software you'll be using? or will you be happy just pumping the mackies outputs into a soundcard and making any software adjustments with a mouse??

Well, what I wasn't sure about the MOTU was whether or not I would have to use the Mackie.

I know you can plug XLR directly into the MOTU, but I was debating whether or not I wanted to send my drums to the Mackie, then from the Mackie to the MOTU. Would that be pointless?

I think the MOTU has monitoring stuff in it, so I might be able to just run directly into the MOTU (if I need monitors).

Also, I haven't used a firewire device since my old digital camcorder. Ever since USB2.0 came out, it seems like everything uses that. How will my latency be with the firewire400?

I am building a new computer in November (hopefully when AMD releases their new stuff [not sure if I will go amd, but prices will drop when it comes out]), and am planning on going quad core (i need 4 cores for my research, so no, its not a waste).

My current specs are:
AMD Athlon FX-55 2.66Ghz
2gb of Corsair ram (CAS latency 2-3-3-6 if I remember correctly)
I am using on the onboard audio card, which is really nice, its a Realtk that is capable of 7.1

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I was debating whether or not I wanted to send my drums to the Mackie, then from the Mackie to the MOTU. Would that be pointless?

Not at all. If you have the Mackie already I would use it, it will make your life alot easier. If you run directly into the MOTU and don't have a control interface for whatever software you're using, you are effed. I guess if you've got nothing but time you could pull it off but mixing with a mouse is HELL.

You should be fine with your existing computer. Latency issues are really hard to pin down sometimes, before you actually purchase your software/gear research on the net for people who have the same or similar setups and look to see if any are complaining about unexpected conflicts.

Check out the FireFace products from RME Hammerfall at www.sweetwater.com

The 400 at $1K may work for you, but you will probably want the 800.

On the Cheap I am using the firewire Berhinger FCA 202 (2 channel) for all of $80. It is 24/96 with unbal in on 1/4" and bal out on TRS. For the money it is a decent piece. I do not use my Echo Indigo IO card any more.

The FCA has a decent headphone amp with vol control.

I came across this article today. Thought you folks would find it interesting.

Linux: It's Not Just For Computer Geeks Anymore

http://www.keyboardmag.com/story.asp?sectioncode=29&storycode=17973