Hardware

Requirements

  1. mac or windows computer:

    Any m-series mac is recommended.

    • m1 macbook pro, 8 cores: SousaFX takes two minutes to start, and idles around 4.8 GB RAM, 9% CPU.

    • windows 11, DDR4 2666, i7-9700K, 8 cores: Five minutes to start, idles around 4.5 GB RAM, 14% CPU.

    Note

    To optimize your computer 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™:

    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