Question for Mac / intel laptop owners

[ffutures]

Do the current incarnations of the Mac laptops, e.g. the ones that have an intel processor and can dual boot into Windows, have a microphone socket, or are the only options built-in microphone or USB microphone, like the iBook G4 I own? Not looking to replace the iBook, I just want to settle an argument with someone.

Comments

[elementalv.livejournal.com]

The specs for my MacBook include this item:

# Combined optical digital audio input/audio line in (minijack)

That help?

[ffutures.livejournal.com]

Optical? No, I meant ordinary microphone plugs. OK, thanks.

[elementalv.livejournal.com]

I think that's what it is, but dual purpose.

[ckd]

That's the "combined" part; it's both an optical-in and a line-level minijack port. (Not "ordinary microphone plugs" in the sense that it's not mic-level; you'd need an amplifier of some sort.)

[ffutures.livejournal.com]

OIC!

[sharikkamur.livejournal.com]

The line-in issue bit me when recording podcasts. If you're going to use the line-in you need a powered microphone. The best solution is to use a USB microphone if you don't want to use the (admittely very good) built-in mic.

[cdybedahl.livejournal.com]

I don't know if you count it as ordinary, but an iPhone headset works (both phones and mic) in a current Macbook Pro.

[ffutures.livejournal.com]

OK, thanks - sounds like some do, some (e.g. Macbook Airhead) don't.

[heliograph.livejournal.com]

http://www.apple.com/macbook/specs.html

Connections and expansion

MagSafe power port
Gigabit Ethernet port
Mini-DVI port
FireWire 400 port (up to 400 Mbps)
Two USB 2.0 ports (up to 480 Mbps)
Audio line in
Audio line out
Kensington lock slot

http://www.apple.com/macbookair/specs.html

Audio

Analog audio output/headphone out (minijack)
Built-in mono speaker
Built-in omnidirectional microphone

[ffutures.livejournal.com]

Thanks. Trying to persuade someone that he really ought to tell his customers that his spiffy equipment relies on the presence of a microphone socket, and isn't much use without it.