Looking at my sound-system
 

It has been a few years since I looked at my sound-system on my PC. At present I am using a SoundBlaster Creative Audigy 2 ZS soundcard with a breakout box that has Min & Line inputs etc.

I have just upgraded my speakers from a 5.1 computer speaker set, also from Creative, to a M-Audio set of monitor speakers I am now looking to upgrade the SoundBlaster card.

I still want to hear the audio, obviously, but would like a better way to record sound, mainly for VO work that will be used on DVDs.

I am thinking along the lines of a USB box with Mike input controls, XLR,phono jack 1/4 etc. I presume I will still need an internal soundcard to drive the speakers, or can I finnaly get rid of the SoundBlaster card?

Can anyone recommend a decent USB box and any tips for things I should look out for.

Many thanks in anticipation.

Re: Looking at my sound-system
 

Vincent you are headed the right direction by ditching the soundblaster card in favor of an external USB device. The external device will hook up to your monitors so I don't think you will need the internal card. In addition you should be able to use the USB interface on your next computer.

Re: Looking at my sound-system
 

Thanks Kevin,

I am looking at the M-Audio Fast Trax Pro, I am reading some mixed views from Amazon customers - not sure of the user base that gives these rants & raves. It does seem like I can finally say good bye to my SoundBlaster card,

Any other USB devices that I should be considering?

Re: Looking at my sound-system
 

Sound Devices has a very attractive looking stereo USB interface called the "USBPre 2" that is 100% pro if your budget goes that far. It'll drive a pair of powered monitors but is only stereo so won't help with 5.1 if that's where you've gone with your new monitors. USBPre 2 Microphone Interface for Computer Audio | Sound Devices, LLC

Re: Looking at my sound-system
 

Thank you Steve, this device does look the business I will take a look at one. The other device I had in mind was a Focusrite Saphire 6, but this is only USB 1.1 - not sure if that will be a problem.

I am not into 5.1 sounds - have enough to contend with, with 2 speakers :-)