On Tue, May 24, 2016 1:27 pm, Martin McCormick wrote: > > Basically, are there any good new USB sound cards these > days that record and play stereo under Linux? > > Thanks for any suggestions.
Lexicon Alpha (powered by USB) and Lexicon Omega (external supply) are excellent broadcast-quality USB audio interfaces which "just work" with Linux. Another excellent device is the Shure X2U, which is particularly adapted to portable use (USB powered; fits in a pocket). Tascam is another manufacturer of broadcast-quality USB devices, but I have no direct experience with Tascam USB. For quality gear of this genre, it is advisable to shop and purchase throug broadcast suppliers such as fullcompass.com and bswusa.com. The analog side of professional audio devices utilizes balanced inputs and outputs, and balanced cabling and connectors. Properly designed balanced circuitry guarantees freedom from hum. The best and most common balanced connectors are of the XLR design, but 3-conductor 1/4-inch phone jacks and plugs (TRS = tip, ring, sleeve) also are used, particularly when panel space is limited. RLH