After Research.....Pwn Interface? AES?

[NJSpeedbeast]

Alrighty, looking for ways to save money while getting quality, I stumbled upon this. And then I checked it out physically at Guitar Center.

http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/PreSonus-FIREPOD-10Channel-FireWire-Interface-with-Cubase-LE?sku=184131

Firewire cable into computer. The guy there (never can trust them) said that I would be better off with this because I wouldn't need a mixer. He said plug it in, and I am good to go. (with $50 power supply). Would this retain quality though? Also, any way to hook it directly into speakers and hear the mics? (no computer)

Also, on another note, other than SM57's and 58's....what other quality mics are there easy on the wallet with good quality. Also, will the 58 be decent as a practice mic with my band?

Thanks for answering these questions everyone.

[jurialmunkey]

1. If it has internal mic pre-amps and hardware monitoring, then you wont need a mixer. Quality will be exactely the same unless you have a really good mixer or pre-amp.

2. I doubt you could use it just as a mixer without a computer. Sometimes these sorts of things do have external use but to hazard a guess, I would say you wouldn't be able to.

3. As far as other Mid-Range mics, I like the RODE NT5's. Under $399 for a Matched Pair of Directional Condensors. Perfect for a stereo pair of Drum Overheads, or single usage as condensors. Great quality. I recommend buying the matched pair but you can buy them individually. If you already have 57s and 58s and are recording, then you definately need a matched pair of condensors for drum overheads if you are doing drums. And they work great in other applications too.

4. If you mean using a 58 for vocals. Then YES! There is possibly not a better mic for live vocals in a band setting.

[NJSpeedbeast]

Thanks man, you helped me a lot.