New - Pls Help. Confused About Hardware, iMac with 10.5 - need USB MIDI interface Options

[pigletto78]

Hi
I've been surfing the net to find a USB MIDI interface which will work with my Intel iMac using 10.5. I'm a bit confused and would welcome any advice.

I would like to connect my Yamaha PSR 550 to the Mac and use Garageband. I also have an acoustic guitar and would like to buy a mic and also be able to connect this and also record vocals. I think I need a 'condensor' mic for this?

So in short, I need a USB Midi device with Mic for vocal (and mic for acoustic guitar without a pickup), and Midi input.

I would rather spend a bit more on something with all these features than a 1 MIDI in/ 1 MIDI out cheapo wire, but I don't want to end up paying for things I will never use as a beginner amateur.

I've seen some bad feedback on some models which don't yet have drivers for 10.5.

Can anyone help recommend some hardware?! Thanks in advance.

Hannah

[DeniseMusic]

Once again, thank you for all the information. I certainly have a lot to learn. Some of the info is over my head at this point but i will read more on these subjects that you mentioned. The iMac is wonderful. With my former computer I had enough time to go make a cup of tea while I wait for the internet to open. Now I blink and it's there. My interface should be here any day and I'm so anxious to try it out. One thing that i don't like about the iMac is that the sound is poor. I'll have to look into what it takes to hook up other speakers and whether I can use the ones that are connected to my PC (but i kind of doubt it). Take care and thanks again!!! I really appreciate your taking the time to share your expertise.
Denise