Using Tascam-1800 with Avid Mbox3 (SPDIF)

[slimcult]

I'm trying to get more inputs, so I was thinking about using a Tascam-1800 with SPDIF out into my Avid Mbox 3 to get more channels. The issue is I'm using Protools 8LE. Is this gonna work? Any suggestions?

[JoelG]

Yes, you should be able to connect the tascam to the MBox using SPDIF as long as the Tascam can run standalone (not connected to USB). Set the MBox as the master clock and slave the Tascam to it. You will only get 2 more channels though.

Joel

[Pat.m]

I had a US-1800 for a while and it wasn't even aggregate-able, so I wouldn't rely on it being able to operate properly in standalone. If you have both, I would sell them both and buy an M-Box Pro (which should be able to function with your version of Pro Tools); or, seeing as you would still probably have to put in some extra $ for the upgrade, you could sell the US-1800 and buy a "higher" end preamp to use with the M-Box. E.X. something like this: http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/TPSII/.

[JoelG]

I've generally liked any ART gear I've used, especially for the price. But if the user wants more analogue inputs, they'll need to get something that has SPDIF output.

But, I'd also recommend replacing the current setup with an interface that has the necessary inputs..

Joel