Soundcard addition

Hello, I just joined the forum.

I'm looking at buying a VAIO VPCEB1PFX/B and I wonder if I can add a sound card such as one of the Creative Soundblaster series. I use a music notation program called Finale for arranging and composing music, and with enough RAM and the right sound card, authentic orchestral sounds can be produced. Usually an integrated sound system results in instruments that sound like kazoos. If I can't upgrade the sound system of the Vaio, I would be deprived of one of my main usage items. This computer is in addition to my desktop, but still, I'd really like to be able to use it for Finale. Thanks!

 

Creative cards are for gaming primarily. Sound sweetening that they also advertise is a hit-or-miss from my experience (depends on specific piece of music). I'd recommend looking elsewhere for sound card for music composing and producing.

With that said, there are plenty of pro and semi-pro USB sound cards (they are USB-powered so it's just on USB connection for both power and data). M-audio, Line 6, Roland, etc. Alternatively, you can use something like Indigo IOx in the ExpressCard slot (don't know of any other ExpressCard based solutions).

 

the indigo IOx or DJx is the best solution for portability
otherwise.. usb dac + amp.. for which there are hundreds if not thousands of solutions, head-fi.org

i strongly recommend the iox (it has audio input), the djx does not have an audio input but it has two outputs, and a slightly wider dynamic range

 

If you have a FireWire (also known as IEEE 1394 and iLink) port, that's a good alternative to USB. You generally get lower latency and less risk of drop-outs, as the worst case latency is much lower for FireWire than USB 2.0.

 

VPC-EB does not seem to have one. Besides, SONY laptops never come with powered Firewire, but rather iLink version, which means extra wire for power (bulkier). But a nice Presonus would be good indeed.