Module 9

This module contains detailed setup procedures for specific types of Mainstage configurations, plus equipment recommendations.  If you have completed the course, you can find some possible next steps below.

Session 1: Mainstage plus your keyboard Download this video (control-click, Save…)	Session 2: Using Mainstage with Ableton Live Download this video (control-click, Save…)
Session 3: Quick access setup Download this video (control-click, Save…)	Session 4: More than one keyboard Download this video (control-click, Save…)

Recommended keyboard submixers

	Mackie Mix5	Mackie is a well-respected name, and this small format mixer is a good value. Two pairs of stereo inputs and one microphone pre-amp.
	Behringer Eurorack RX1602	This mixer offers eight pairs of stereo inputs in a 1U rackmount for very little money. The LED metering is helpful for setting output levels and troubleshooting. No mic pre-amps. I've used one for years, and it's decent.
	Rolls RM219	While it doesn't have the meter of the Behringer, this is a big step up in sound quality.
	Ashly LX-308B	Uncompromising sound quality. Make sure your cables and other components are of similar quality if you spend this much.

Recommended Audio Interfaces

	Behringer U-Phono UFO202	2 outputs	Simple output for your audio. This interface offers a small upgrade in sound quality over your Mac's headphone jack. The USB is also a more secure connection, as the Mac's headphone jack can loosen over time.
	PreSonus AudioBox USB	2 outputs	In addition to 1/4" outputs, this device also has two mic inputs for entry-level recording. I can't say I'm a fan of the inputs' sound quality, but the price is right. Also includes MIDI connections.
	Focusrite Scarlett 2i2	2 outputs	I can't speak from personal experience, but this should be an upgrade in recording quality over the PreSonus. No MIDI connections.
	MOTU MicroBook II	6 outputs	This interface is a good choice if: 1) you don't plan on doing any recording with a microphone, 2) you run backing tracks alongside Mainstage, or 3) you want higher audio quality than the other 2-output interfaces offer.
	MOTU Audio Express	6 outputs	The Audio Express offers a similar output configuration to the MicroBook II, but it includes two mic inputs for recording. It also includes MIDI connections.
	MOTU UltraLite-mk3 Hybrid	14 outputs	When it was time to upgrade the interface in my studio, I went with the UltraLite-mk3 and its flexible input and output options. All MOTU interfaces feature excellent sound quality and very high functionality. The latter is due to CueMix, the accompanying software, which allows MOTU interfaces to also function as standalone mixers. Great if you're heading out for live shows and need a mobile system.

Congratulations, you’ve completed the course!

You might be interested in…

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	Fluent Piano Take your playing to the next level with this video course.

Other modules:  Module 1 | Module 2 | Module 3 | Module 4 | Module 5 | Module 6 | Module 7 | Module 8 | Module 9  |  Downloads

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