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RealBand
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Joined: Apr 2009
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OP
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Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 89 |
Greetings forum,
I use RB with VST sounds. I am considering buying an inexpensive laptop for a backup. If I am using the BIAB VST sounds, does it matter if I have a high quality sound card? I do not know that much about computers so forgive my ignorance. Thank you for your help.
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RealBand
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Joined: Sep 2007
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As far as simple listening or monitoring, any sound card is CD quality. If you want to record with it you will likely want something better.
R.
"My primary musical instrument is the personal computer."
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RealBand
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Joined: May 2000
Posts: 38,502
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Get the laptop first and then cross that bridge, the built in soundcard will most likely sound great for playback, not so great for multitrack recording purposes. Stillm, for a program like BIAB, with only the one Audio track, the built in soundcard can indeed get a lot of work done.
But IMO you should have the laptop inhand and try things before considering the purchase of an aftermarket soundcard. Take your time and shake it down.
--Mac
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RealBand
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Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 89
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OP
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When I am using the VST sounds, does that require use of a sound card?
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RealBand
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Joined: Sep 2007
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You will be able to hear the VST sounds with your computer's sound card.
R.
"My primary musical instrument is the personal computer."
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RealBand
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Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 89
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OP
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Posts: 89 |
What I am asking is: Does the quaqlity of my sound card matter if I am using VST sounds? For example would I benifit from using an external device like an Apogee Duet?
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RealBand
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Joined: Aug 2006
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As Mac said the built in has Cd quality, it will sound good. Sure if you want to drop the caaash go for it, Apogee stuff is right on, but pricey!
HP Win 11 12 gig ram, Mac mini Sonoma with 16 gig of ram, BiaB/RB 2026, Reaper 7, Harrison Mixbus 11 , Presonus Audiobox USB96
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RealBand
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Joined: Sep 2007
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Quote:
What I am asking is: Does the quaqlity of my sound card matter if I am using VST sounds? For example would I benifit from using an external device like an Apogee Duet?
We do not know whether your VST instruments have better than CD quality, which is at 44.1 kHz sample rate, 16-bit depth. If you want to record or play sound of greater than CD quality (typically 48 kHz, 24 bit or better), you will need a sound card to match, very good monitors to hear the difference, and a correspondingly larger hard drive to contain the larger samples.
For simple mixing and monitoring, your present sound card is probably adequate.
I STRONGLY advise you to educate yourself thoroughly before you spend ANY amount of money on outboard gear. The knowledge you gain will save you time, money, and aggravation. Mac's signature line contains a link to Audiominds.com, which contains great FAQs on basic sound and recording from which you would benefit. For a systematic intro to the practical basics of digital audio, I recommend PC Recording Studios For Dummies. This is not meant to be patronizing. I have over 30 years experience in sound and recording, but digital audio was topping me until I found this book. (The colored text is a link to the item in question.)
R.
Last edited by Ryszard; 06/15/09 12:55 PM.
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