I've read the recording guide a couple of times but have yet to purchase required cables/external soundcards/etc. until I get some feedback on my "default" setup. Hoping you guys could help me determine what I really need.

Ive got an all digital setup: CDJ 800's and a DJM 800. My laptop is a relatively new HP Pavillion dv 8000, Media Edition. The soundcard it came with is a "Conexant HD Audio input" and offers 2 jacks: 1)Headphone symbol(with SPDIF spelled out under it) and 2)Microphone symbol. My "Recording Control" menu only shows 3 distinct categories: 1)CD Audio 2)Microphone and 3) Wave Out Mix.

I don't mind spending the money for an external soundcard, but I'm curious if anything can be recorded (with moderate quality) using this default setup simply needing an 1/8" to RCA cable and Audacity?

If not (which I'm assuming), what are the technical differences between lower and higher quality external soundcards? Basically, what specs do I need to make sure I get, to ensure I get my moneys worth?

Thanks everyone...

I can't be too sure since the headphone says "SPDIF", I would guess that means it's like a Mac and doubles as an optical output...

Hi,

When you start to use your laptop for recording keep in mind that laptops are very noisy (electrical). and you should look for one which supports standardized features such as CPU and GPU spread spectrum.

Additionally make sure it has firewire on it. many of the professional quality sound cards for laptop / desktop use have firewire (NOT USB) counter parts.

hope this helps =)

-djf