I am using a MacBook with Garageband to do demos. I bought an ART Tube MP w/ USB that actually sounds decent for recording bass but is causing the drivers in Garageband to crash continually, which forces me to go into GB's preferences and switch drivers. This is only a temporary fix. Is there something I am overlooking, maybe in the audio/midi setup on the Mac? Can I install stronger drivers? I am trying to like this ART unit but am also considering a Presonus usb interface, as my Mac is a newer one without Firewire. Any help on this would be greatly appreciated.
I've just got an M-Audio Fast Track Pro to record into my Macbook using Garageband. I've only had it a week, but haven't found any problems yet. Not sure about where you are, but the price is rather reasonable too. Linkage
It might sound dumb, but I use a 1/4 inch to 1/8 inch cable to plug directly into the Macbook's input, and it sounds fine to me.
Thanks for the replies. Actually going direct into the MacBook doesn't sound dumb. Someone else just said that to me today and I'm going to try it out.