gleiter...
I just went thru this myself...
I can't answer you for sure but here's what I know...
The original AI3 was 20 bit. The Alesis site now claims that the AI3 is 24 bit. My guess is that these newer units have just started shipping or the first run was under produced and the demand higher than expected resulting in a backorder.
The dealers I talked to all said they were expecting delivery in two weeks a week ago. I couldn't find anyone who had actually received a 24bit version though.
Still probably one of the most cost effective ways to add to the 001 albeit not the highest quality convertes... probably on par with 01 though. If you do find one in a store MAKE SURE IT'S THE 24 BIT VERSION.
STAudio makes a 24 bit unit that is cheaper. They have very limited distribution and support in the States so I am reluctantly waiting to see if the Alesis materializes.
FWIW, the 'B' company (don't want to say the word around [img]images/icons/wink.gif[/img] ) here claims to have a unit coming out in August which will be inexpensive as well ($250 US I think). Look at their site if you want details.
I'm hoping for an Alesis unit to appear at GC. I'm not ready to prepay for vaporware just yet.
Compare these links:
Alesis:
AI-3 24 bit
Alesis: reference to 20 bit
mention of older 20 bit models (also named AI3)
ST Audio:
Adam 24
The 'Other' Brand:
ADA8000