Browsing the threads, there are numerous issues with USB only powered controllers - especially those with built in soundcards.
Instead of possibly creating more problems by using USB powered hubs, why not just cut the +5 VDC USB line inside the controller, put a simple +5 VDC regulator in it, a jack, and then attach a 1 amp wall wart. Hercules did this when going from the 4-MX to RMX2 controller.
Should eliminate power issues, and I bet sound better to - especially if the controller is driving long interconnects to self powered speakers.
Or you could use a USB cable like Pioneer have for the WeGo that add’s power (designed as the iPad could not provide enough juice). Just hook it up to a decent USB phone charger
The pioneer cable is insanely priced though, copies can be had for sub $15.
Isn’t that a simple Y-cable? You usually get them with portable HDD drives (since USB 2.0 couldn’t handle current required for HDD to work - USB 3 solved that). In fact, I have one right here.
Some laptops didn’t/don’t have enough juice on their USB ports to provide the full 500ma. I dont believe this was ever a 2.0 vs 3.0 problem
But yep, same concept anyhow, just with a full-size USB socket instead of Mini USB. No-one really needed a cable of that sort before DJ controllers and Ipad’s, hence pioneer cranking up the price I guess.
That other cable you posted would work I’m sure, but the cable looks very thin, which probably means zero shielding - never a good thing for audio devices. And fewer interconnects is better IMHO. Personally I spent the extra $10 just to be sure I don’t have problems. Damned if I’m paying $35 for an official Pioneer one
If there is no longer a 5VDC line from the laptop, then no. It really depends on the capacity and grounding of the controller. Just tried this on a WeGo tho and it worked fine with no issues.
