Sound f/x What USB Output Device Do You Use From Your CPU?

[Matthew Gallagher]

Hey folks, just finished my first year at a regional semi-professional theatre in New Jersey as their sound designer/ engineer (we'll use the title loosely) after being out of the biz for about 10 years (spent those 10 years and currently involved in emergency services). I know, I have a lot to catch up on. We currently use an older version of Show Cue System (version 9) and are shortly to upgrade to Version 11. We have a standard desktop CPU that I at least bought a Radial AV2 DI for input to the console to kill the buzz and give actual stereo (last guy thought a 3.5mm to single XLR adapter was good enough).

Looking to do more with SCS for the shows as I know it can do quite a bit, so what type of output device (USB I'm assuming) would you recommend from my CPU to send balanced audio to multiple speakers and works well with Show Cue System ( i.e. point of sound speakers, surround speakers, maximum of 6 to 8 speakers)? Fairly small budget here, as I usually donate my pay for each show back into upgrading equipment(thankfully I have a good full-time job and I'm single, lol). Any help and recommendations are greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

Matt

 

[lakota651]

Hi Matt,

Start by looking at these interfaces. After you find one that looks good to you; check Craigslist if used is an option. Though, be sure to test it before money changes hands.

Presonus Audiobox 1818
M-Audio M-Track Eight, Profire610, Profire2626
Focusrite Scarlett 18i6, Scarlett 18i20

Then, if you are also are looking for a snake on the cheap to connect to the interface try Monoprice.

Snake Cables - Monoprice.com

Cheers!

Lakota