Latency

[Altitudes]

I realize most computers aren't fast enough to process the sound to the speakers, so how do you guys deal with this? I've heard of using two preamps: one to monitor through an interface (podxt) for a quick n' dirty cab sim, and one to run the dry signal into the computer to be processed with an amp simulator plugin (boogex). Are there other techniques/methods to cut down the delay in the signal? Any other suggestions?

 

[Zuranthus]

get a new computer...mines bout 4 years old & i don't have latency issues till i pile on multiple effects
or maybe your drivers suck. don't use DX, shit is crap, ASIO is better

 

[Loren Littlejohn]

Yeah gonna have to agree better computer for wet/software monitoring.

If it's dry then monitor straight from the hardware.

 

[Altitudes]

Yes, my driver is shit and I don't have a fast processor >.<

How many of you guys use laptops for audio recording?

 

[JBroll]

We'll soon have a 'Totally Sick Fucking Sadistic Loons' subforum for the few around...

They're usually used just for mobile recording, wouldn't have one as a main rig... PM me if you want to build a new box on the cheap.

Jeff

 

[Loren Littlejohn]

I used to use a powerbook for recording. But even with that I could run gearbox at the same time as recording 8 drum tracks so really the only answer is a better machine.

 

[006]

Yeah before I got another G5 I only had my PowerBook G4 with a 1.33gHz and 768MB RAM to use and I did a lot of mobile recordings. Live shows, drum tracking at the drummer's place, and then guitar/bass/vocals at my house, all through my 8Pre/Saffire Pro into my PowerBook with no problems with latency or anything. As far as laptops go...I would never use a Windows laptop the way I use my PowerBook...just don't trust them enough and I despise Windows anyway. For those that think laptops are the worst idea...you've never had a PowerBook to try out in those situations

For the most part, though, I would say you just need to upgrade your PC because most any PC you can buy for $500 these days will be able to run recording software with little latency.

~006

 

[JBroll]

I can build one for you at $500 that'll just blow you (and $1500 production computers) away, I've talked with a few guys on the board about this stuff and I might be able to show off a really nice build one of our esteemed users is going for...

Jeff

 

[006]

I'm not doubting the ability to build a great machine. That wasn't the point though. I refuse to comment any further to avoid a rediculous debate. I'll just keep using my Macs and leave it at that.

~006

 

[JBroll]

Oh, of course. I'm not arguing that either, you can have your Fisher Price computers - you use them well enough... joking aside, you should have no problem upgrading to a good box (of any orientation, I'm not here to judge) for cheap.

Jeff

 

[MetalWorks]

How about the simple fact of getting an audiocard that is designed for recording?

I assume the standard laptop soundcard Mic input is being used?

If I were to be using a Laptop Setup I would have to imagine that I was going to buy some sort of PCMCIA Audio card that has ADAT inputs to use with a Digi Rack or TRS/XLR Inputs like the Delta Cards or something.

One of the first things I remember being advertised in my old Nuendo setup was the Zero Latency on my RME 9652 audio card.

 

[006]

I just used the FireWire400 connection on my PowerBook...had my MOTU 8Pre+Focusrite Saffire Pro+Glyph external drive all daisy chained and into that one port...again, never had a single problem.

~006

 

[Loren Littlejohn]

While I agree with 006 that the powerbook was great for mobile shit (and have yet to see a consumer ie: dell, compaq, hp etc work just as well) the idea that you can't build an XP desktop that will match a OSX tower is bullshit.

In fact my college bought a dell that I would say runs pro tools better than my G5 quad with 3 gigs of ram.... It is a server though (well thats what it was marketed for).