***With today's laptops, one really does NOT need to invest in aftermarket soundcard device to get great sound from laptop to PA. This is likely due to the large consumer interest in playback of DVDs, the playback side of the built in soundcards now rivals what we can get from aftermarket sound devices (not so for the Recording side of the game, but since we are talking Live Performance with BiaB here, not a problem, or shouldn't be.). ***

If you intend to use the VSC DXi or some other software MIDI synthesizer for any MIDI tracks, then you only need an adaptor to convert the earphone output of the laptop to a PA input. You should also get a Ground Loop Isolator for guaranteed hum-free quiet operation in different locations.

Here is one example of the type of adaptor to connect the Earphone Jack output to dual RCA Stereo connects such as the Tape Inputs found on many of today's PA systems:

(Note: I am using the RadioShack website for the sake of convenience in this post and to let you be able to view pictures of what these things look like. You can find these items at many different places or at Radio Shack. )

http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2290564

And here is a relatively inexpensive but proven in the field example of the Ground Loop Isolation transformer:

http://www.radioshack.com/product/index....rentPage=search

If your PA system does not have RCA inputs, You can use adaptors like these at the end of the above cable to change the RCAs to 1/4". I think its a good idea to get a pair of these "barrel adaptors" and carry them with you anyway, just in case you encounter that house PA or the shared PA with another act some day:

http://www.radioshack.com/product/index....rentPage=family


**When using the Earphone Jack as output to PA, make sure that you visit the Windows Sound Mixer and turn the Master fader plus any outputs that BiaB is using UP ALL THE WAY. Adjust volume at the PA or mixer board proper. This is because the Line Level signal works with less noise and more fidelity when it is *driven*. Earphone Jack level IS Line Level unbalanced audio, BTW.


--Mac

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