[gpforet]

About 4 years ago I migrated from hardware sampling for sound effects to a software based solution and have never looked back.

Using a laptop, Sound Cue System software, and a M-Audio firewire 410, I can trigger effects with hot-keys, have the software direct the sound to 1 or more of the M-Audio's 8 outputs, and place sound anywhere in room. This includes hiding a speaker in a sofa next to a phone and having the phone ring sound placed appropriately in the set. For a recent production, I spent the time to record over two hours of night sounds in the woods as well as record other show specific sound effects such as cars approaching and leaving on a gravel road, doors opening and closing, etc. Then, using Sound Cue System, I was able to have the night sounds playing continously in the background as one track, while still manually triggering cars approaching, doors opening, etc.

I can't say enough about how this software has improved my ability to deliver effect sound design to a show.