Need Laptop Setup Recommendations, What's the best value mobile hardware? Options

[automatyk]

Hi, I'm new to the site and to making music, I was hoping to get some good advice before throwing down my hard earned cash money on gear.

I'm using Reason on an Apple computer. That's all I have at the moment. I'm looking to get a midi keyboard controller and an audio interface so that I can record vocals in the future.

From what I've read, it seems that the Tascam US122 is a popular and affordable interface. What do you guys/gals think about the Edirol PCR30 for the controller? Is that all I'm going to need for a basic mobile rig? Am I missing a piece? Or, should I just get a second job and save up for the Novation 25 audio extreme?

- Thanks

[Dasa Soul]

the PCR30A COMES WHIT MIC PLUG IN AND PHANTOM POWER , that u will need for a good condencer mic I HAVE PCR30 and maudio firewire410 and a adk 51 mic, the fw410 $299 on ebay gives u 4 in 8 out +7.1 sound . the tascam 122 ,has some driver probs , read the coments .

[automatyk]

I looked at the PCR-A30, but it doesn't have an XLR connector, just a 1/4". I think that the PCR30 with a Firewire 410 is probably my best bet, but that puts me at about $500. Any opinions on the OZONE?

[Dasa Soul]

the fw410 has a small prob .that is u have to live it on ,all the time or u loose ur setings . when u tuen the power of , a lot of people like the the MAUDIO MOVILE PRE ,

[automatyk]

Right on! The MobilePre looks great. I like the price too. Does it really matter that it's USB and not Firewire?