As Digidesign’s Mbox has now made its way into the ever-expanding world of Windows, the following are a few of the top questions and their answers we have encountered over the last few weeks. From time to time this type of information might change or be updated. If you have ANY questions, please call us!
Q: Does the Mbox on Windows XP have the same capabilities as it has on the Mac?
A: Yes! The Pro Tools LE 5.3.3 software release brings Windows XP support to Mbox, and includes all of the functionality of Pro Tools LE 5.3.1 software in conjunction with support for the full hardware feature set of Mbox.
Q: Are Windows XP sessions interchangeable with other Pro Tools systems?
A: As with other Pro Tools systems, Pro Tools LE 5.3.3 (Mac and PC) sessions are interchangeable with other Pro Tools systems, adding yet another degree of portability from which you can benefit.
Q: What does the ASIO driver do for me?
A: In conjunction with the new beta Digidesign ASIO Driver for Windows, you can achieve a whole new level of interaction with a number of popular third-party audio applications including Propellerhead Reason and Ableton Live.
Q: Does Mbox function on laptops running on battery power?
A: Yes. However, when running with phantom power enabled as well as driving headphone outputs, Mbox will consume close to its maximum power draw, which will drain the battery quickly.
Q: Can I record on FireWire drives with Mbox on a laptop?
A: Yes. We recommend Glyph’s Companion drive.
Q: Can Pro Tools LE 5.3.3 software be used without the Mbox connected to the computer’s USB port?
A: No. The Mbox needs to be connected to the computer’s USB port in order to use all the features of Pro Tools LE 5.3.3 software.
Q: Are Windows 98/Me or Windows 2000 supported?
A: No. Only Windows XP Professional and Home Edition with Service Pack 1 installed are supported.
Q: Does Mbox support any kind of USB hub?
A: No. The Mbox may require up to 500 milliamps of current across the plus and minus 5 volt power rails that USB provides. Some powered hubs do not supply the correct amperage (mA) even when powered. Unpowered hubs cut the power lines from the computer and are not supported.
Q: Is there anything different with Pro Tools LE 5.3.3 software running with Mbox versus running Pro Tools LE 5.3.1 software with Audiomedia III or Digi 001?
A: Mbox does not support simultaneous use of the analog and digital inputs (4 discrete inputs) and Mbox does not support the “Low Latency Monitoring” feature in Pro Tools (though the unit itself offers hardware zero-latency monitoring).