USB specs
I'm thinking about using an older Dell Computer (about 7 or 8 years old) for recording, and I'm wondering the following:
1. Are there are any limiting factors with USB ports in older puters? If so, what USB specs do I check?
2. This forum shows agreement that the computer's soundcard is a non-issue since the GNX (in my case, 3k) acts as the sound card. Is there a procedure to set up the GNX so it functions as the soundcard?
thanx!!
1. Are there are any limiting factors with USB ports in older puters? If so, what USB specs do I check?
2. This forum shows agreement that the computer's soundcard is a non-issue since the GNX (in my case, 3k) acts as the sound card. Is there a procedure to set up the GNX so it functions as the soundcard?
thanx!!
Comments
System is prob PIII (limited) hdd small, ram options slower, and maybe not the size or capacity needed for DAW applications. HDD is also probably slower in speed. hard to say without actual specs.
The interface is only a routing part of the daw. Controls the flow of audio I/O and has nothing to do with the program material.
You could add a USB PCI card to that machine for 15-20 bucks and have more updated hardware for USB comm. Check the system specs to see if that is an option.
Using this as ONLY for recording may work out just fine. What you need is RAM and HDD space. I still would recommend at least a Pent 4.
I've seen guys go to PC Computer shows and come back with 2 yr old systems and have excellent results in DAW use. One paid $75 for a P4 Dual core, 3Pci , 1 Pci e, 6 USb ports, Firewire, 500W power supply and a decent HDD 160Gb. DVD writer with lightscribe.
people are unloading these things cheap! If you only use as a DAW, you never have to worry about backrunning crap programs eating up resources and registry garbage. Connect to internet ONLY to update OS, java, Netframework, and other programs. OR you can just use your other pc for that and use a USB flash device to import files.
Most dedicated PC's like this will have Internet access BUT firewall all traffic ONLY to DAW services, Updates, etc. EVERY other internet option is BLOCKED and firewalled. Your PC will boot fast, you wil have no garbage in startup areas, system ini etc etc. BEST way to go!!
IF you are dedicating the PC to DAW recording, The GNX interface is fine, but you are limited to its hardware bit spec. Opting for an internal soundcard like the EMU 0404, etc will yield more resolution in your audio and give you additional options when running plugin's etc. Many of these cards come with bundled plugins VST's , VSTi's that are excellent for DAW synth, and other greater performance plugins instead of using GM (general midi) host instruments. I would absolutely recommend a decent hardware audio card for any DAW recording/playback.
Most of these cards also have MIDI integration. So instead of having to use USB to MIDI adapters you can go direct to the card for flawless midi implementation. If you plan on using a midi controller like a keyboard, pad controller etc, have a good soundcard that supports direct MIDI function so you are not playing around with USB Midi latency and issues surrounding MIDI. Midi is very important part of any DAW.