Usb/firewire Vs. 1/8" Input, Which is Higher Quality Recording? Options

[Isomer]

I am setting up my recording studio and
have gotten mixed messages from people. All I want to do is have at least 2 mic inputs with phantom power and volume control going into my computer. I have found the Duo by Midiman which gives you this and has a USB connection going to the computer. But there is also the option of buying a small mixing board and having its output connect to the small 1/8" input on the computer. What is considered the optimum quality recording? How are other people connecting their recording hardware to their computer? Thanks for any help.

[garysome1]

Generally, unless these is something lousy with the USB or Firewire device, the USB/Firewire device will sound better as it will likely have higher quality components like A/D and D/A converters and preamps.

However, I have used the 1/8" inputs to my B&W G3 for years and had no problems or concerns with the sound quality. I recently bought a Tascam US-428 because I got it cheap and will admit the sound is better but it is not exposing something that had been crippling my music. It sounds fine either way.

If you are trying to build the best system possible, don't use the 1/8" audio. If you are recording your $175 guitar/DOD FX-50B distortion accompanied by a Korg DDD-5 drum machine then the 1/8" should be fine. (Said as an owner of the FX-50B and past owner of the others!). If you are recording a concert grand then spend a lot of money on interfaces, preamps, and mics.

In the end, I suggest trying the 1/8" I/O and if you aren't happy, spend up.