Hardware

Requirements

  1. m-series mac:

    Any m-series mac is recommended. The min-spec m4 mac mini is a beast and only costs $530 with an edu discount. SousaFX is currently untested on Windows.

    Note

    To optimize your mac for audio performance, check out these articles.


  1. audio interface:

    The RME Babyface Pro is highly recommended.

    The Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 4th Gen is decent.

    You may also want to invest in a DI such as the TrimTwo or MixingLink to prevent venues’ mixing boards from accidentally sending phantom power into your interface.


  1. headphones, in-ear monitors, or loudspeaker:

    In ear monitors are vastly preferrable to headphones or speakers for being able to hear yourself while performing live.


  1. XLR microphone, or Yamaha SilentBrass™ mute & PersonalStudio™:

    I use the Audio-Technica Pro35 clip-on mic.

    If you’re using a SilentBrass mute you’ll need an eighth inch TRS to dual quarter inch TS cable to connect the PersonalStudio’s headphone output to the audio interface’s line inputs.


  1. tuba:

    A LED sousaphone bell is optional.


  1. wireless game controller:

    SousaFX is developed and tested with a PS4 controller, and an Xbox Elite 2 controller. The Xbox’s layout is more ergonomic than Playstation, and the Playstation’s buttons are more responsive than Xbox.

    All gamepads listed here are supported.


  1. velcro straps to attach the controller to the tuba:

    I used to use lettuce wraps, now I use monoprice’s cable ties.

Examples