Emu XL-7 & MP-7 User's Group

Ok, a few things to clarify here:

- A sound card does not necceasarily have a MIDI port on it, in fact by 
definition it doesn't.  The Sound Blaster series typically does, but most 
'pro' cards don't, you need to buy a separate MIDI box.  I personally 
would never recommend a sound blaster card to anyone looking to do 
anything serious musically, though there are certainly people out there 
using them.  Might want to look into the MIDIMan Midisport series, 
something like the 2x2 is only $70 tops, and a great way to get midi into 
and out of the computer.  The 1x1 is even cheaper if money is an issue.

- No sound card will have a USB input, that should be part of your 
motherbaord, and most computers built in the last few years have at least 
two on the back already.  All you'll need is a USB cable to hook the XL-7 
directly up to the computer.  Keep in mind though, that as of right now, 
you can only use the USB functions to transfer Patterns from the XL-7 to 
E-Loader and back.  OS Updates and Presets must still be transferred via 
MIDI.

- Be sure to go to the Emu website and get the latest version of the OS 
(ver1.31) for your XL-7, as well as the newest version of E-Loader.  Both 
contain info on how to install and use them.  If you still need help, let 
us know, we're always glad to help out.  Welcome aboard too!

rEalm




  Just picked up the XL-7 last week, and wanted to see if someone could 
point me in the right direction of a sound card that would be ideal for 
using the MIDI in/outs, and also the E-Loader software. I'm fairly new to 
the gear, but seem to be picking most of the learning stages up, and have 
just lost myself in it so far. (which is good!) It also helps that one of 
best friends has a few pieces of gear too, from which I can learn some 
valuable info from.

  I was looking at the Sound Blaster Audigy Platinum with the front panel 
mumbo jumbo, however it doesn't seem to have a USB input. Does anyone have 

any suggestions or feedback? thank you