New Comer/ Newbie, Help newbie Options

[Dipp]

Hi guys!

Please help me. I need all the recommendations that i can possibly get from this group..
Here's the scene:


I am a keyboardist[musician] and haven't used my keyboards with a Mac/Pc using Midi. I know what it can do but haven't tried it. I believe a midi interface is best for this setup. What is a good brand that will work with Mac since I will be soon exploring Mac as well.

Also, what is a good audio interface and a good software? Is Garage Band enough? Im not sure though if Gband supports midi.

I have read about M-audio. Is this a good brand? MOtu is a bit expensive If there are complete starter kits out there, please let me know. Are there suppliers here? I am looking for a Sonar Power Studio-like gear that will work for Mac and PC.

Thanks for reading!

Best Regards,

dp

[Jim Hoyland]

Well you really asked a bundle there.

Theres a huge range of midi / audio interfaces out there, most of which are cross-platform. As others have mentioned the m-box from Digidesign is pretty good and includes ProToolsLE and you now have the option of the Pro version which connects via Firewire rather than USB1. M-Audio also do a bunch of combined keyboards / midi interface / audio interfaces which will work with ProTools M-powered.

Since you're on a Mac forum I really would suggest Logic as an all in one software option. The Express version is pretty damn cheap and offers most of the features of the pro version including support for Garageband instruments and Apple Loops and in my experience musicians find the workflow pretty easy to get round.

RME do offer some fantastic interfaces so its worth looking at these too. If you have a local music store try and set up an appointment to try out a few options, or go to a trade fair if there's one near you.

And yes, subscibe to Sound on Sound for honest and full reviews of pretty much everything out there. The discussion forums on their website cober just about everything you'll need.