m audio?

[TGEvans]

hey all.any one use any m audio kit? may be getting a deal on an m audio fast track and want some feedback on them.any good? just want something to plug and play to get ideas down.t

[ryan0583]

I've got one of these and it's good. Really simple to use, and excellent if all you want is to be able to plug in an instrument/mic to record ideas.

[thisnameistaken]

I've got their Firewire 1814 here which I use with Pro Tools M-Powered. It's a good interface, never had it crash either or Mac or PC, sounds good, tons of quality I/O for the money. All the knobs and switches feel a bit cheap though. I've never had a failure on it (I've been using it 18 months) but mine doesn't travel often. If you're looking for something portable maybe look elsewhere for something more rugged, but for a home studio it should be fine.

[TGEvans]

looks like i will be getting the fast track pro now.seems good for £50.will let you know how i get on.t

[Eight]

M Audio have a very good rep amongst home producers etc.

I have one of their audio interface/controller keyboards and a 1x1 midi interface from them. Cheap, but never miss a beat.

[Bottle]

+1 for the fast-track pro - good interface. Needs some care setting up, especially if you're using Windows (XP). Should plug straight into a Mac without too much hassle, although it's recommended that you install the drivers anyway to make use of all the features. What application did you have in mind for the box?

Works well into Audacity, very low latency. Haven't really tried it with the bundled software (IIRC it comes with Pro-Tools M-Powered and Ableton Live M).

Fine for dual mono or stereo recordings - have had good results with my Rode NT4 microphone as well as recording/practicing with bass direct. Still haven't quite figured out how to use the SPDIF inputs at the same time though, also haven't tried the MIDI interface either.

Good luck, and let us know how you get on

Ian