All the audio generated INTERNALLY by laptop (e.g., Additive drums, TTS-1 GM synth that comes with Sonar, other synths) you need nothing - just your DAW SW or other audio SW. You should ALREADY be able to hear and record that stuff on the laptop before you even get the QS8 or Nektar or any external HW.

However, if you want to bring audio from QS8, or other external audio sources, into the laptop and record, then YES you may need something.

Maybe all you need is a stereo 1/4" to mini 1/8" cable or adapter plug. Since the QS8 ONLY has 1/4" audio out's and you laptop audio in (assuming you have one like a Mic-in but I have no idea about you particular laptop. Does it have a Mic or line level in? If only mic does it allow both mic level signals and line level signals since you are bringing in a line level (-10db) from QS8 and plugging it into a a MIC level input which is MUCH More sensitive so you need to attenuate that internal at laptop)

Best bet is to get a USB audio box - you can expect a few "religious-like-fervor" suggestions grin from others here about "this" or "that" USB audio I/O boxes.

I'm NOT advocating the below sellers Sweetwater or Kraft Music - just showing what you want to look at. I've bought from BOTH, as well as Amazon, Musicians Friend, Guitar Center, American musical supply, MIDI world, and other - but by far over last 30 years I buy MOST HW, keyboards, guitars, amps, ... at one local store.

http://www.sweetwater.com/c695--USB_Audio_Interfaces

http://www.kraftmusic.com/live-sound-recording/interfaces/

Good Luck

Larry

Last edited by Larry Kehl; 10/19/16 06:55 AM.
Win10Pro,i9,64GB,2TBSSD+20TBHDDs,1080TI,BIAB'24,Scarlett18i8,Montage7,Fusion 8HD,QS8,Integra7,XV5080,QSR,SC-8850,SPLAT,FL21&others,Komp.14,IK suite&others, just a guitar player-AXE FX III &FM9T, FishmanTP, MIDIGuitar2, GK2/3'sw/GI20