Subject:Major problems solved, now for a new EASY question.

Posted by: jeepman83706

Date:2/8/2003 8:19:39 PM

First I want to thank everyone that helped me uncover what the deal was with my "issues" through the past few days. You guys rock! Ok, now that I am without a midi interface, I have a question. I need to hook up my keyboard to my computer. No my crappy soundcard does not have midi or a gameport, it's integrated into the motherboard. And to top it off, I have a flex case, so normal PCI sound cards won't fit, it has to be low profile (half height). So I need to know:

1) Are there any half height soundcards out there that will support midi hookups (through a game port is fine)?

2) Or should I resort to an external type soundcard...check out Soundblaster Extigy, or does someone know of something similar?

3) OR, should I just keep the current soundcard (really don't have problems with it)and try another USB MIDI interface, such as MOTU Fast Lane or something like it?

I am leary to go back to m-audio stuff, just bc of the issues I had with the MidiSport, perhaps there stuff just doesn't like my computer!

Thanks again:)

Subject:RE: Major problems solved, now for a new EASY question.

Reply by: Vocalpoint

Date:2/9/2003 8:26:57 AM

Jeep,

I have simply used my el-cheapo Soundblaster Live for MIDI input ONLY for 2 years and it has never let me down. I would never use it for any audio activity except for listening to music. But if you can't fit a card in the box - what's the plan? I am not aware of too many "half height" sound cards out there.

On another off topic note - are you starting to get just a little annoyed with the issues that keep cropping up with this "off-the-shelf" Gateway box? I know that cash is tight for ya but that's why these things were never designed for audio/video/multimedia work....too many crazy size issues and proprietary parts.

I am still concerned that no matter what happens MIDI wise - that single hard drive scene on that machine is going to come back to haunt you later in other ways with more popping and clicking....

Cuzin B

Subject:RE: Major problems solved, now for a new EASY question.

Reply by: dkistner

Date:2/9/2003 9:58:41 AM

My "off the shelf" Gateway box had room to drop in a second harddrive and an extra sound card. My guess is that if you try to do that with one of the free ones they give away with a second computer purchase, or buy from the low end, you'd be severely constrained.

We've got four Gateways here (not low-end ones) and have little trouble upgrading. Only thing is, the SB Live in my P4 is cabled into the motherboard, and even the very knowledgeable hardware geek in this house didn't want to touch it. But my Mia's residing quite nicely with the Live, so I have no complaints. My VX1120 monitor went green on me--literally--but they replaced it.
Sure beats our experiences with Compaqs!

Subject:RE: Major problems solved, now for a new EASY question.

Reply by: coolout

Date:2/9/2003 11:01:22 AM

usb is very reliable for midi although audio is a whole 'nother story.

if you're happy with your sound card you can get a cheap edirol usb midi interface for about $40 bucks if you just need a simple in/out.

i have a motu fastline but i think it was overpriced for what i needed it for. i paid $80 bucks and i only use one midi in.

i will say that the timing is much better than just using the joystick port and it was easier to set up and more reliable than the midi on my oxygen 8 controller.

it's just the edirol usb midi interfaces were always out of stock.

Subject:RE: Major problems solved, now for a new EASY question.

Reply by: jeepman83706

Date:2/9/2003 12:12:33 PM

Yes, I am tired of all the issues I've been going through. And I do plan on getting another computer that will be more suited for music creation. But for now, as long as I can get a usb midi interface that doesn't crash my computer through acid, then I'll be happy, for a while:) BUT, if I get the MOTU or Edirol 2x2 and it does the same thing that the MidiSport did, so help me God...