Ben; Ah, ok. I think I know what you are thinking of, and it makes sense. I come from a Linux background, so things are different, for sure. For input, I have this new Griffin Power-something-or-other that I am still learning how to use. It has a "line/mic" switch on it that increases gain. I have used it only to record from a tape deck; even in Line setting, the tape deck signal was *way* too strong; I had to reduce it drastically to not get this box to clip. I have 4 basses kicking around the house; 1 is a Fender active bass, and another Fender might get a pre-amp put in. But, from my little experiment above, I don't think that signal strength from passive instruments will be a problem. (4 bases? Two daughters play a bit, too) GarageBand looks interesting; anyone tried it yet? Thanks; John Stewart Ottawa, Canada.