Question

I am in the market to upgrade my PC Laptop. It's dog slow. But it would be nice to be able to use that laptop with the StudioLive 16.4.2 AI.  Unfortunately since I need to be able to run Hyper-V VMs I cannot switch to a Mac.

Has anyone had any success with some of the currently available PC Laptops and if so, which ones and how?

I realize it's not supported. But I'd like to test one out and if it works, great.

Answer 1

To connect the StudioLive 16.4.2AI to a computer for recording/control purposes, the computer must have a valid firewire port or one that can be used with an adaptor. USB to Firewire adaptors are not supported and in general do not work for audio equipment. If you are buying a new computer the following articles will be helpful. 

Link: https://support.presonus.com/hc/en-us/articles/210046123-Choosing-a-PC-for-recording-with-a-Firewire-interface

Link: https://support.presonus.com/hc/en-us/articles/210047053-Is-there-a-Firewire-Compatibility-List-for-Firewire-cards-

Link: https://support.presonus.com/hc/en-us/articles/210046103-Finding-a-PC-laptop-to-use-with-your-firewire-audio-interface

If you purchase a PC with USB-C you would need to ensure that the USB-C port on the computer is an approved Thunderbolt 3 port.

Please review this video carefully to ensure that your computer is compatible.

Link: https://www.startech.com/faq/thunderbolt-3-or-usb-c-port

If you deem it compatible then the following is required.

• Apple's Approved Thunderbolt 2 to Firewire Adapter: https://www.apple.com/shop/product/MD464LL/A/apple-thunderbolt-to-firewire-adapter
• StarTech's Thunderbolt 2 to USB-C adaptor: https://www.startech.com/ie/Cables/thunderbolt-3-cables/thunderbolt-3-usb-c-thunderbolt-adapter~TBT3TBTADAP