Hi all. I'm getting ready to spring for a Korg M3-61 with the free Radias add-on promotion that they're doing. The problem is, up to this point, I've never worked with hardware. I've used soft synths, DAW sequencers, and midi controllers only. I've always wanted to have the realtime feel of a hardware workstation. When I get my M3, I want to be able to use it that day without any hangups so I'm doing a bit of research now.
My current sound card is a X-fi Xtreme Music. It doesn't have the appropriate inputs for the M3 so I'm going to have to change this. I'm going to keep using my Logitech Z-2300 2.1 setup. They're not monitors but I'm not serious about production. Music is more of a hobby for me. These speakers require my interface to have a 1/8in stereo output. I'd also like my interface to have decent quality mic preamps so that I don't have to go outboard. It's pretty important that it have a breakout box. That way I don't have a wiry mess coming from the back of my PC and, frankly, it'll be easier for me to understand.
Right now, I'm looking at the Emu 1616M and the X-Fi Elite Pro. The Elite Pro wont be as nice as the Emu but it's half the price and the M3 is already a $2500 hit. They both have the necessary inputs and outputs. Would the difference between the two be noticeable enough for me to go with the Emu? Will the X-fi be too latent for live monitoring of my M3? Any further suggestions regarding interfaces are welcome.
This is another option that I'm exploring:
Keep the Xtrememusic for playback only and use a USB2.0 interface for the input. Is this possible and what are the possible problems that can arise from this?
I'm sorry that this has been so long but I'm really trying to make sure that I get this right from day one. I'll be incredibly grateful for any help.
Cheers,
Brian
Making the Korg M3 work with my rig
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- KVRAF
- 9531 posts since 6 Oct, 2004
Hi. The E-mu has it's merits, but too many complexities and driver debates. An m-Audio 24/96 pci runs $60-$100 new, has line and midi i/o, spdif, about a 12" breakout, and most important, rock solid drivers, with ease of install and use. You will be able for example, use Reaper to record the Korgs midi, or audio output.
But the E-mu has a great software bundle, if you check the webpage, and if you need such apps, consider that several folks here have E-mu cards, and help out new owners, should complexities arise.
Also, the Line6 Toneport UX2, popular with guitarists
http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/ ... sku=249701
has extensive FX/modelling software, has line and mic ins, and preamps, and coupled with a $30-$50 midi interface from Cakewalk, E-mu or Yamaha, would make a krushing combo. Guitar FX boxes are the best thing ever to find a mid synth, and Korg built-in FX already are high end.
Happy shopping!
But the E-mu has a great software bundle, if you check the webpage, and if you need such apps, consider that several folks here have E-mu cards, and help out new owners, should complexities arise.
Also, the Line6 Toneport UX2, popular with guitarists
http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/ ... sku=249701
has extensive FX/modelling software, has line and mic ins, and preamps, and coupled with a $30-$50 midi interface from Cakewalk, E-mu or Yamaha, would make a krushing combo. Guitar FX boxes are the best thing ever to find a mid synth, and Korg built-in FX already are high end.
Happy shopping!