Thanks for the feedback. After reading your responses, I think I should expand my definition on how/why I'm using the laptop.
We've begun using a number of SW apps that permit you to record and produce a live video capture with snychronized audio and graphic insertion. Mainly using freeware such as Microsoft Producer and Encoder and a relatively inexpensive product called Camtasia. The uper level execs at our company have been making requests to record live events for live streaming, webcasting, and eventual on-demand viewing across a network.
When hosting or producing the show from our studio or campus, we can capture and process on high-end (cough,gag, wheeze) PCs. However, when we travel, laptops are the default platform.
I have used a product developed by Sonic Foundry, Vegas Video, that works well with both desktops and laptop platforms for recording audio only. Works great with line level inputs, mic inputs are another problem.
I prefer, as most of us would, using balanced signals. Unfortunaltely that's not something that platform makers usually consider. As you would expect the recording controls on the Microsoft side are wanting and Camtasia is slim as well. I wouldn't expect them to be robust.
I've used both the XLR Mains from the Mackie - set to line level out, and the unbalanced headphone signal into a line in port, it's usually the best. However platforms that only suport mic level ins are the problem. I think that's where a DI would be useful for no ther reason than to convert the impedence.
Bob - I have used the newer Mackie with Firewire outputs in a broadcast studio environment and yes it's an expensive board. Although, if your working in a full-blown DV edit environment it's a dream come true. Unfortunately for me, it's bit too beefy for a portable/flyaway solution.
Again, thanks for the input and I apologize for not making myself as clear I should have. I will however take your suggestions inot consideration for home audio recording set ups.
thanks,
Mike
