Connect to Mac Garageband

Ross

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Hi Grie:
I record on a Mac, using GarageBand or Logic. The Apogee interface looks to be of reasonable quality (for the price). However, it accepts only 1/4" input. I have 3 interfaces that I use for different situations, and they all accept 3-prong XLR inputs (for microphones) as well as 1/4". I record using both a mic for acoustic and 1/4" for electric instruments, so the two-input capability is necessary. If you intend to record ONLY using electric instruments, the Apogee might be suitable....

However, another thing I noticed is that the Apogee has no headphone output for monitoring. One of the biggest problems in home recording is latency (a slight delay in hearing yourself when recording). To minimize latency, most recordists monitor by plugging their headphones into the interface, rather than the computer. This is not possible with the Apogee. Anyone using it would have to monitor through the computer's output, thereby increasing latency.

If you're looking to buy an interface, I'd recommend a Focusrite Scarlett 2i2. Mine cost around $150 new. The sound quality is better (i.e. cleaner) than its predecessor, an M-Audio unit.
 

griehund

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Hi Grie:
I record on a Mac, using GarageBand or Logic. The Apogee interface looks to be of reasonable quality (for the price). However, it accepts only 1/4" input. I have 3 interfaces that I use for different situations, and they all accept 3-prong XLR inputs (for microphones) as well as 1/4". I record using both a mic for acoustic and 1/4" for electric instruments, so the two-input capability is necessary. If you intend to record ONLY using electric instruments, the Apogee might be suitable....

However, another thing I noticed is that the Apogee has no headphone output for monitoring. One of the biggest problems in home recording is latency (a slight delay in hearing yourself when recording). To minimize latency, most recordists monitor by plugging their headphones into the interface, rather than the computer. This is not possible with the Apogee. Anyone using it would have to monitor through the computer's output, thereby increasing latency.

If you're looking to buy an interface, I'd recommend a Focusrite Scarlett 2i2. Mine cost around $150 new. The sound quality is better (i.e. cleaner) than its predecessor, an M-Audio unit.

Thanks for the info Ross. What a wonderful new excuse to lock myself in the man cave with my gear and my beer fridge. Any suggestions on how to change my voice from Satchmo to Ricky Nelson? :rolleyes:
 

Ross

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Any suggestions on how to change my voice from Satchmo to Ricky Nelson? :rolleyes:

Ha! I'd be happy to sound as good as Satchmo!

PS The learning curve can be steep. I'd be happy to offer any advice etc, based on the many mistakes that I made along the way!
 

Christopher Cozad

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+1 on the Focusrite Scarlett (I have a 2i4) series. While I also have several interfaces (including an Apogee Duet), I like the Scarlett for it's versatility while remaining simple to use, and it's Monitor (headphone) capability.

All that said, the Apogee Jam is definitely a cool little tool to play with, though you will likely find you outgrow it quickly for the reasons Ross stated.

And, for better or worse, with enough money invested in the right technology, you can sound like anyone you want. :)

Christopher
 
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