Question 1

Do I need a external sound card or I can plug it in my Macbook pro?

Accepted Answer

You don't NEED an external audio interface, but you would be far better off getting one if you want to create music on your Macbook. The Atom in itself is just a controller, it is not an audio interface itself and there are no sounds built into it. The Macbooks internal soundcard would probably work, but it would be very limiting.

Question 2

Is this okay for someone who's never worked with such equipment before?

Accepted Answer

If you use or plan to use the Presonus Studio One DAW then I would say definitely yes, particularly if you are looking for something to create beats with. The integration between the Atom and Studio One (in particular the Impact instrument) is excellent right out of the box (and you don't get that  with the Maschine, at almost twice the price). If you are new to this game you will want as much done for you, and the Atom does just that, with very little setting up and configuring to do.  If you don't plan to use Studio One then I would say look around for something more generic. As a beginner, though, keep in mind that this will probably require more up front configuration. Good luck :-)

Question 3

Does this work with Android phone/tablet?

Accepted Answer

Yes it will but please ensure that you android tablet/phone meets the requirements. Review the following article please:
https://support.presonus.com/hc/en-us/articles/4410859372429-Using-PreSonus-products-with-Android-mobile-devices

Question 4

Can I use this as a drum machine for my Presonus Audiobox 96?

Accepted Answer

Atom is a USB drum-pad/controller, it plugs directly into your laptop or pc. Audiobox 96 is an interface for non-USB hardware such as guitars, mics, synths and other non-USB MIDI devices. Atom can be used with presonus studio with full features or ableton live with less features.

Product Dimensions	17.2 x 36.2 x 2.49 cm; 907.18 g
Item model number	ATOM SQ
Colour	Black
Compatible Devices	Android, Mac, PC, iPad, iPhone
Connector	USB-C
Hardware Interface	USB Type C
Supported Software	Ableton Live
Musical Style	Electronic
Instrument Key	Any
Number of Keyboard Keys	32
Size	0
Hardware Platform	PC/Mac, iOS, Android
Item Weight	907 g

ATOM SQ, hybrid MIDI Keyboard/Pad Performance and Production Controller with Studio One Artist, Ableton Live Lite and Studio Magic recording software bundle

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