HELP NEEDED with digital recording hardware selection - can you help?

Question

I am looking for an interface that will allow me to take FOUR SIMULTANEOUS INPUTS (working all at the same time!) capable of up to 192 KHz sampling rate on ALL inputs that also has 4 outputs that will also work SIMULTANEOUSLY. I see ads for interfaces that say "4 in, 10 out" but they do NOT have inputs that work SIMULTANEOUSLY. The device I need can exceed these qualifications, but it is necessary that it works at 192 KHz and has 4 inputs and outputs that work simultaneously. It would also help if it had a good reputation for reliability and excellent sound quality. I am currently using a Tascam US-122 adapter, but I want to record up to 4 simultaneous tracks, and it has only 2. Also, it MUST work with Mac OS 10.4 or later. Thanks!!!

Answer 1

I think any decent recording hardware will work with a Mac.
Incase your after the software as well... my apologys if you already have it.
http://www.apple.com/logicstudio/

Answer 2

The audio interface simply converts the signals coming from the microphone into something that your computer can understand. The simplest solution is the Shure x2u (XLR to USB interface). The SM57 with x2u interface runs about $200 USD ( £127). The x2u interface will allow you to plug almost any professional grade microphone into a USB port on your computer. The advantage, if you want to use the mic to connect to a mixer as you expand your setup or perform live, just unplug the x2u and you are good to go. The SM57 is being sold primarily as an instrument mic. I would also look at the SM58 which is a bit cheaper and intended more for vocals, but also does quite well for instruments.