Apple Soundtrack - Manual (Page 25)

Chapter 2 Setting Up Your System 25
PCMCIA
PCMCIA is a consumer standard for connecting devices to a laptop computer. PCMCIA
provides a lower data-transfer rate than FireWire or USB, but provides a compact,
affordable solution for connecting an audio interface to your computer, while keeping
your USB and FireWire ports available for other devices. Most current Macintosh laptop
computers support PCMCIA connections via a built-in card slot.
Audio Cabling
There are several types of audio cables and connectors used on professional and
consumer audio equipment, at a range of prices and levels of quality. When connecting
microphones and musical instruments to an audio interface or a mixer, make sure the
interface has the proper input jacks for the type of connectors and cables you plan to use.
XLR
XLR cables and connectors are used on professional-quality microphones, monitors, and
other musical equipment. They provide a high-quality, balanced signal at +4 dB level.
1/4-Inch Audio
1/4-inch connectors (sometimes called “phone plugs”) are used on a wide variety of
professional and consumer musical equipment, including musical instruments and
amplifiers, speakers, and external effects devices. They can be either balanced (+4 dB)
or unbalanced (–10 dB). Some devices require Tip-Ring-Sleeve (TRS) connectors to
transfer the audio signal.
RCA
RCA connectors are used on consumer audio equipment such as home stereo systems
and videocassette recorders.
XLR connector (balanced)
1/4-inch Tip-Ring Sleeve (TRS) connector
1/4-inch Tip-Ring (TR) connector
RCA connector (unbalanced)