Apple Final Cut Pro 7 - Manual (Page 204)

Tips for Selecting a Third-Party Audio Interface
When you select an audio interface, make sure it has the following:
• Connectors that match your audio equipment, such as XLR, 1/4" TRS, RCA, or TOSLINK
• Support for audio signal formats that your audio equipment uses, such as AES/EBU,
S/PDIF, or ADAT Lightpipe
• Enough audio inputs and outputs to connect your equipment
• Sample rate and bit depth at least as high as your audio equipment. For example, if
you have an audio device with a sample rate of 96 kHz and 24 bits, your audio interface
should at least match this.
Important: If you are considering purchasing an interface, make sure it supports Mac OS X
Core Audio. Final Cut Pro supports any audio interface that is compatible with Mac OS X
Core Audio.
USB Audio Interfaces
There are a wide variety of USB audio interfaces available. Most support two or four audio
channels at one time. USB audio interfaces vary in quality considerably, so take some
time to research before you purchase. The connectors on USB interfaces vary; some
interfaces have RCA connectors and others have both XLR and 1/4" TRS connectors. Very
inexpensive USB audio interfaces may have only a stereo miniplug connector.
Computer
USB
RCA connector (2)
Analog or digital VTR Audio interface
Make sure you don’t exceed the total bandwidth of the USB bus by connecting too many
devices. USB 1.1 has a fairly low data rate, so be careful not to add too many USB items
to the bus. Also, USB hubs can potentially cause audio problems. If you are having audio
problems with a USB interface connected to a hub, try removing USB devices and
eliminating the hub from the connection.
USB 2.0 audio interfaces are also available. Because USB 2.0 devices can handle high data
rates (similar to FireWire 400), you can treat them similarly to FireWire audio interfaces.
204 Chapter 12 Connecting Professional Video and Audio Equipment