using 1/8" laptop output for DJ sets?

[miercoles]

Anybody doing this?

Aside from having multiple outs - is there a significant sonic difference? I don't need multiple outs - and less equipment is always better.

...this is for bass heavy music.
any opinions/experiences are greatly appreciated!!!

thanks!

[H20nly]

it'll be a nice wedding.

[BlissVox]

I djed with the macbook pro 13" output and no headphones without a problem.

Its pretty good audio for an onboard output.

[3phase]

macs are pretty good but my fireface 400 has defently more pound in the bass and transparent highs..

the sonic difference is relevant and easy to get.. but the mac output is allready good enough to do it.. its not total crap..
just not as heavy as a pro interface..
on bigger gigs and systems i wouldnt do it without the fireface

[teknobryan]

how would you monitor? You only have one stereo out. You would have to split it into two monos.

[Piplodocus]

I'd say it depends on the laptop, and depends on the interface you're comparing it too. Some of the laptops at work make noticeable horrible whining sounds on the audio/headphone outs. Some PCs (or the mentioned macs) have much better ones. Then if you compare them to a cheap £40 "passable" interface, or a Pro £600+ one you'll tell a difference again. If it runs through a bit of a crappy DJ PA it's mostly academic though!

[miercoles]

thanks for all of the replies!

I'm using a macbook pro 2009. I meant to mention that before as I realize that's an important factor!

I have a few portable soundcards - echo audiofire 2, mbox 2, maudio 1814 - any of which can fit into my backpack, but sizing down is important to me. I've used all in live situations, but I could do with a single stereo out as of now. I don't need to monitor.

whatever is smallest while sounding good is priority!

anyway, its good to have all of your input so thanks.