Why are there so many 3rd gen mboxes for sale on ebay??

[Tony_Nailz]

Hello all,

I am long over due for a hardware upgrade. I haven't used my prehistoric (yet stable) 001 rig in almost a year now. As of now, I can't afford to upgrade my machine(s) so I am stuck at PTLE 8 for now. However, I am able to upgrade my hardware. At this time, I am considering Mbox pro or Digi 002. As I look on ebay, I am seeing a sea of 3rd gen hardware & I'm beginning to wonder why is everyone ditching them. As attractive as they look, there must be a reason why everyone is reselling. Therefore, I wanted to ask around to see why is everyone reselling their 3rd gen hardware? Is it worth a try or should I follow my instincts & stick with 2nd gen hardware? Would my setup be strong enough for 3rd gen hardware? Do the 3rd gen hardware have any flaws, issues or setbacks?

<FWIW>I know that my rig is very outdated but it's the best that I can do right now. Mbox 1 runs flawlessly but I seriously need more I/O & midi for pete's sake.</FWIW>
Any input would be greatly appreciated.
-Best Regards

[YYR123]

Seen people on here having issues with 3gen mbox - I wouldn't do it but then I don't have one so I can't say personally

I wouldn't risk a used one - I would go with a brand new one - for warranty and hopefully a new firmware loaded by avid

[RegenerationMix]

If you are considering a digi 002, then you should really look into a 003r+.

You can get the 003r used at a good price now. The 003r and the 003r plus, will give you plenty of ins and outs.


Chris

[YYR123]

Also you should know that the 002 and the 003 all versions are going to be EOL after ProTools 10

Just be aware

[Tony_Nailz]

Hello guys, thank you for your responses in regards to my upgrade efforts. I kinda figured that there "may" be an issue with the 3rd gen hardware. Then again perhaps ppl are having issues due to the fact that their machine specs aren't up to par to power the new hardware. Then again, the newer machines (ie. i3, i5 & i7) may run them with ease due to more modern chipsets. Considering the specs of my current machine, it might be in my best interest to roll with the 002 (at least for now). Furthermore, I would love to hear feedback from those who currently own & run 3 gen hardware, with no issues. What kind of cpu are you using? Which OS are you using? Which version of PT are you running? Which interface are you using?

My reason for asking? I will begin saving up for 3rd gen hardware & a new cpu. feedback will give me a basic idea of what works, what's stable & what will run smoothly and still have some head room to grow as new PT versions are introduced. Thanks again guys

[Ben Jenssen]

Why not just stick with your Digi001, with its eight analog I/O and buy something that you can run thru it via optical input? That way you don't have to buy an Avid interface, and you can keep using it when you go beond PT 8 LE.

[Tony_Nailz]

Originally Posted by Ben Jenssen

Why not just stick with your Digi001, with its eight analog I/O and buy something that you can run thru it via optical input? That way you don't have to buy an Avid interface, and you can keep using it when you go beond PT 8 LE.

Don't get me wrong, I love the 001 setup. Infact I dont see myself getting rid of it because it is so-so-sooo stable. Thing is, I am beginning to grow onto my PTLE 8 setup (newer features). If I could use 001 with PTLE 8, I would be a very happy camper. PTLE 6.4 don't have that many plugins, I want to go beyond PTLE 8 but my current machine & hardware is at it's max. So that is why I am looking to retire my Mbox 1 & get a newer mac so I can atleast reach PTLE 9 or even 10. Thanks for your response Ben
Best Regards

*Also, I have tried & tried to bridge my rig via SPDIF but all I am getting is white noise

[Ben Jenssen]

Originally Posted by Tony_Nailz

Thing is, I am beginning to grow onto my PTLE 8 setup (newer features). If I could use 001 with PTLE 8, I would be a very happy camper.

Sorry, I forgot 001 stopped at 6.4.

[Tony_Nailz]

Originally Posted by Ben Jenssen

Sorry, I forgot 001 stopped at 6.4.

no problem, thanks for the suggestion

[RegenerationMix]

Hi, i still say get an 003r over the 002. They are running about the same cost now used and you can get a great deal. I bought mine for $550 or less off ebay.

also there have been some buzzings that the 003 may not end at pro tools 11.

At any rate, avid has not said it will not work, just it will not be supported.

My pro tools 8.0.5 which is not supported, still runs perfectly on my Lion Macbook pro.

Chris