Best way to hook up studio moniors

[Andrew.Glose]

I'm slowly starting to build my home studio setup. I'm looking at monitors now, and don't know the best way to hook them up to the cpu. I've got a Vaio AR Laptop.

How do you all go about sending the audio signal from the computer to the monitors? Headphone out, etc?

I'd also like to be able to use them as speakers for the music I listen to, as well.

What's the word?

Andrew

[megadan]

generally you would need or want a decent interface that would support whatever outputs you need (RCA, 1/4", whatever)
Does your laptop have firewire?

[Andrew.Glose]

Originally Posted by megadan

generally you would need or want a decent interface that would support whatever outputs you need (RCA, 1/4", whatever)
Does your laptop have firewire?

How do I find that out?

I'm not extremely pc savvy.

[Andrew.Glose]

Just did some research. Yes, I have a firewire input (Sony calls it i.LINK).

[megadan]

very good. That means you'll be able to use a wide variety of pro and semi pro gear. If you're just listening, a simple two channel with a volume control would be perfect. If you're recording, 8 tracks or more, I highly recommend the MOTU interfaces.

But to see all your options, just google "audio interface" or "FireWire interface" and you'll find lots of options. Cheers!

[DocBop]

If you want to start simple you can plug the speakers directly into your computer. Most have an headphone out, some might even have an audio out. These tend to be a 1/8" mini jack like on MP3 players. So first your need to find out what type of jacks your speaker have. Then a get a connector that goes from 1/8" stereo mini jack to two separate outputs. Then you need cables to go from those connectors to your speakers. Once you know the type of jack on your speaker go to a electronic's or music store they can help your get the cables and adapters you need.

Now if you plan to do a lot of recording then you might want to get and interface. They have better sound and you will connect your speakers to outputs on your interface.

[Andrew.Glose]

Awesome.

Thanks.

[blipndub]

I run everything into an analog mixer and send the control room outs to a small power amp and power my speakers off of that.