M-Audio M-Track Quad vs. Focusrite Scarlett 18i8

[holy ghost]

Hi, sorry for what I am sure is a common first thread thread topic, but I'm hoping there might be some insight into my particular audio interface needs.

I have just recently switched to Linux, and just breaking into the Linux audio world. I was using Studio One and a Presonus Firestudio Mobile to record my band, but my new laptop doesn't support Firewire and I use it with Linux exclusively as the laptop I bought came with Windows 8 (worst mistake of my life!) and I've wiped Windows off when I installed Ubuntu. So I am not currently the most technically adept at the nuts and bolts of Linux, and looking for the interface that will give me the least amount of hassle in terms of installing.

My options that best suit my needs, based on (what I've read) Linux compatibility are:

Focusrite Scarlett 18i8
http://www.moogaudio.com/focusrite-scar ... -7060.html

M-Audio M-Track Quad
http://www.moogaudio.com/m-audio-m-trac ... -6606.html

I'm hoping for something with 4 mic preamps fore recording a band, and what would be great was if the Focusrite Scarlett was easily compatible so I could take advantage of the additional line inputs.

Can anyone weigh in if either of these are easily useable in the Linux world?

Thank you in advance for any insight you can offer.

[epifone]

I've just ordered the 18i8 from Amazon. I'll let you know how I go....

[Shadow_7]

The focusrite looks like the better piece of hardware. The M-Audio one doesn't seem to publish noise specs and has a FAQ that seems to suggest quirks.

http://us.focusrite.com/usb-audio-inter ... rlett-18i8
http://www.m-audio.com/products/en_us/M ... ADNew.html

[ubald]

Hi epifone,

I'm planing on buying a 18i8 and beafor I do I'd like to have somme news from you.

Have you receve the device and have you had time to try it on linux ??

Regards

[ubald]

I actualy buy a 18i8 and I have problem with the device I cant control properlu the phone output so I think of returning it to the reteler. Sad beacose it seam to be a good device.