8-channel interface suggestion - $200-$600?

[ergalthema]

I'm considering a new interface for my Pro Tools 11.3.1 and MacBook Pro Retina.

I've been using the 003 Rack since 2008. I need 8-channels and it would be nice to have 8 preamps. But the 4-line + 4-pre configuration of the 003 has been fine for almost everything I've done.

My best mics are MXL 990 and SM58/57. I hope to invest in a nice condenser or two before too long. Maybe even before a new interface. Any advice on that would be appreciated too.

I've glanced at the Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 and Saffire Pro 40. I'm thinking something along those lines. Any suggestions or info?

[Hannibal Lecter]

shop for a used Presonus Digimax unit. It has an optical sync through ADAT using Toslink cable but limited to 48Khz. You'll have 18i/o all together.

or you can check this out: http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/8preUSB

I've worked with Saffire Pro 40, decent unit, preamps do get noisy when opening up hotter.

[ergalthema]

I was under the impression that the 003 pres were considered sub-standard. But I was just told that anything under $600 won't be much better. So, I'm probably going to focus on mics for now, unless someone has more info otherwise.

[Hannibal Lecter]

there's nothing wrong with 003 pres. they work, just not glamorous. I suggest honing your producing/recording/mixing chops before spending money of gear.

you should be able to record with 003 with good results. don't fall into gear trap.

[ergalthema]

I've had the same gear since 2008 basically, and I'm very happy with what I've been able to accomplish. Just trying to figure out the next steps for gear/options/etc. I might just want a new decent condenser that's different from the MXLs, so I have a different color to add.

I previously used a guitar multieffects modeling pedal direct, but recently got a Vox tube amp. Glad I have that option now. I upgraded my drums and it made a difference too.

[Hannibal Lecter]

glad to hear that. room acoustic is another to consider.

[VRW]

My suggestions may be a bit above your mentioned price range. As you are running a very nice powerful Macbook Pro it could make sense in the long run though.
2 very modern, recent, super fast interfaces with 8 channels and 8 preamps still under 1k. Those are future proof for sure as well. Check it out.

1) Focusrite Clarett 8Pre (Thunderbolt interface), fastest interface on the market (less than 1ms latency), high end audio quality etc. for $899.-
http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/Clarett8Pre
https://us.focusrite.com/thunderbolt...s/clarett-8pre

2) Presonus Studio 192 (USB 3 interface), super fast as well, very high quality stuff, latest release from Presonus for $899.-
http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/Studio192
https://www.presonus.com/products/Studio-192

The 003 was no bad thing for sure (had one myself back in the days) nevertheless it has become kinda legacy and it´s no bad idea to sell it as long as there will be
people with older systems being interested in it. Fact is there won´t be any recent driver for it soon and it doesn´t work very well with all the latest versions of Mac
OSX and Pro Tools anymore. Still you could get some bucks for it on Ebay etc.

If you are looking for a low budget yet good quality condenser mic which works really well with most sources, you may check out this one. Blue Microphones Bluebird
http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/Bluebird

You won´t regret it for sure .

If you are on a really tight budget maybe this bundle might be interesting for you too? The Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 has 4 pres/8 inputs, 8 Adat inputs, SPDIF Stereo In/Out,
2 stereo headphone outs. Not the 8 outputs you were asking for but maybe you get along with it?
http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/Blue18i8Bun
https://us.focusrite.com/usb-audio-i.../scarlett-18i8

Anyway.
One of the 2 audio interfaces mentioned at the beginning would be no bad choice at all probably and if you are looking for good quality condenser mics below 1k, keep
looking at the Blue Microphones. Beautiful on vocals, guitars and overheads in general. Nice stuff for the price!
http://www.sweetwater.com/store/manu...s/low2high/pn2

All the best to you,

VRW

[Southsidemusic]

A BIG +1 for the Clarett series! Very good mic pres for a very low price

[digi98]

18i20 pretty flexible. 8 Neutrik ins, spdif and optical. Just started testing, not very easy to switch sample rates, and I notice low signal level, some noise on monitor output, not clear if interference with PC as I have PC tower directly below the Scarlett.... Digi001 signal way stronger output level.

[KD11520]

If you're looking for a very versatile with great value LCD, look into the Shure KSM32. You can't go wrong.

I agree with the Clarett votes! Sell the 003 to close the gap in the budget.

As soon as they deliver reliable and robust PC drivers, the 8PreX is my next purchase.

I hope this helps!