USB question:

[themeanreds]

Hi y'all

This neanderthal is about to dive into computer recording. I'm looking to start simple; just something to get me started on home demoing.

I just got a Dell Inspiron 1505 (1.66ghz Intel Duo, 1g of RAM), and my next step is to find a decent audio/midi interface.

Someone has offered to sell me a Tascam 428 (hasn't named a price yet, though). It looks like a great way for me to get started, and while the 3-D mixer is not essential, it would be nice.

My question applies to the 428's USB connection:

I'm running an external hard-drive which I would like to usse for recording (200g Maxtor 3100) off of one of my computer's USB ports.

I've heard that USB can be a bit sluggish. Obviously, people are using USB interfaces successfully, but I'm wondering if I would run into problems by using the hard-drive connected to one USB port and the 428 connected to another USB?

Thanks!

[where02190]

I assume this a a USB2.0 drive and port. If so, while not as fast as FW, it will work. If it's USB1.1, forget it, the buss is too slow.

[themeanreds]

I ended up taking a chance on this:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&ih=002&item=120010295328&rd=1&sspagename=STRK%3AMEWN%3AIT&rd=1

Looks like it should do the job.

[EnemyofSilence]

I hate to tell ya this, but that Dell looks like it has

"One ExpressCard slot 54mm 1.5 V and 3.3 V"

The audio interface on that auction needs "Available Type II CardBus slot (PCMCIA slot)"

Different animal entirely, and it won't work.

BTW, ExpressCard is a new thing. I'm not aware of any audio interfaces available for it yet. For the time being, USB or Firewire are the options to persue.

[themeanreds]

Originally posted by EnemyofSilence
I hate to tell ya this, but that Dell looks like it has

"One ExpressCard slot 54mm 1.5 V and 3.3 V"

The audio interface on that auction needs "Available Type II CardBus slot (PCMCIA slot)"

Different animal entirely, and it won't work.

BTW, ExpressCard is a new thing. I'm not aware of any audio interfaces available for it yet. For the time being, USB or Firewire are the options to persue.

You are 100% correct. I'm a putz. :mad: :( :freak:

Anyone want to buy a complete EMU 1616 PCMCIA Card Audio/Midi interface for $155/shipped?

[4sightsounds]

I'm willing to buy that card off of you, if you're willing to do the transaction via paypal.....let me know.