5.1 Surround Sound monitoring audio interface suggestions

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Level 1

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5.1 Surround Sound monitoring audio interface suggestions

I will be editing some live theatricals for Blue Ray, and want to use 5.1 Surround Sound tracks edited in Sound Track Pro. But I need an Audio Interface to be able to monitor the 6 channels of output in the editing, before I burn the Blu Rays. Does anyone have a manufacturer / model recommendation for an audio interface that will allow me to monitor this surround sound mix on my Mac?
I have speakers, and will need to get an amp, or will one of the Bose systems connect with this inrerface? And I don't need multi-channel input as much as output. I'm a newbie - your advice would be much appreciated.

Powerbook G4, Mac OS X (10.4.11), Final Cut Studio

Posted on Jun 15, 2009 7:58 AM

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Answer 1

mlehmann

Level 4

3,206 points

Jun 15, 2009 10:28 AM in response to Stucker

Anything by MOTU should work fine. If you can afford it, Apogee Ensemble is great. And if MOTU is priced too high for you, take a look at Focusrite Saffire series.

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Answer 2

Stucker Author

Level 1

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Jun 19, 2009 9:57 AM in response to mlehmann

Thank you! I had come across MOTU, and you reaffirmed my first impression.
But really appreciate the info about Focusrite Sapphire.
Now, do you have any reccommends for 5.1 surround sound amplifiers?

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Answer 3

mlehmann

Level 4

3,206 points

Jun 19, 2009 12:23 PM in response to Stucker

I usually recommend powered monitors instead of passive monitors and an amplifier. It depends on the money you're willing to spend on it. M-Audio have a few solutions that are interesting and not too costly. If you have more money available, check out Mackie or better yet, Adam or Genelec.

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Answer 4

Jun 30, 2009 4:09 AM in response to Stucker

I use the Focusrite Sapphire for 5.1 surround editing in Soundtrack Pro. Works very well. Very simple to set up and use. Good interface software and they keep updates posted on their website.
For monitors I use the M-Audio LX4's. You can buy them in a surround package with powered woofer. They are small but are good quality. Not sure if they are still made as I got mine a few years ago.
Good luck.
This set up gives me realtime monitoring from SP.

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