Advice please! (interface related)
 

Hi Guys (and gals)!

I have finally moved and I am in the process of adapting my setup to my new practice/work/office space!

Until now, I have used a mixer with a built in USB interface, but in my new setup it will be slightly different.

My setup is as follows:

All sources (bass, guitar, keyboard, mics etc) run into a Yamaha mixer (through DI's when neccessary). From the mixer I have various outputs going to different amps, monitors etc, and a L + R going to another mixer that controls the inputs/outputs to the rest of the house etc.

I would like to add an interface into the equation, but I have realised that I am really out of touch!

I was thinking that I would like to hace a permanent L+R running to the interface connected via USB to the PC (running Win7) but also have an extra input for plugging in bass etc directly, without having to change connectors.

I was looking at the M-Audio Mobilpre MKII, which has a switch to choose between the rear inputs and the front inputs, but I have read on various occasions that M-Audio "aint what it used to be!"

I also liked the Yamaha Audiogram, but read also that the direct monitoring is hard wired, so you always get a clean signal (not that I usually use effects, but who knows!)

I am now looking at the Focusrite Scarlett 212, which only has 2 inputs.

So now, my questions to (you) the experts!

:help: Is there anything negative about running the instruments through the mixer before the interface, or would direct be better?

:help: If I were to use aux sends to the interface, instead of the outputs, I could choose which channel I wanted to assign to each input. Is this a good or bad idea?

:help: What are your opinions on the Scarlett?

:help: Better alternatives?

Thanks to all for any input you may have!!

USB mixer: http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/X1204USB

Maybe my OP was too long (I do that a lot!) but a USB mixer is what I used before, but I would like to use my analog desk with an interface.

Thanks though!

:help: bump :help:

Yeah - too much to read. :)
If your interface says 16 Digital I/O, but you only see a few inputs, you can add on analog inputs with devices like the ADA8000, or the new ADA8200
http://www.behringer.com/EN/Products/ADA8200.aspx

Akai EIE...$140 or so from Amazon for the 16-bit version (which I have); there's also a 24-bit version for around $100 more.

I've only had mine for a couple of weeks, but so far I LOVE it!

Toss all your mixer stuff in the closet and get the Scarlett 18i lol!

It's packed for $300!