Converter Noob!

[Sixstringer7]

I am about to make the leap from LE to HD. I have a question regarding something like an Apogee 16x or Lynx auora 16 (as examples).

Why would you need so many outputs? I may not be understanding the uses here. Sixteen inputs, obviously, but sixteen outputs? I may have been spending too much time in "LE Land" where you have stereo outs or a USB connection to your Command 8 for outputs. What does one do with so many outputs?

Also, will the Apogee A/D16x work without the D/A16x? If this is your set-up can you no longer use the connection to a Command 8 or something of that nature?


These questions are probably sounding stupid, but, I have never had a use for them with an LE system.

Thanks.

[JFreak]

You need outputs, if you have outboard gear that you use via hardware inserts, or if you mix out of the box using some great classic console. Or if you have a front-of-house gig and you need to feed multiple monitor outputs.

Other than that, you only need what your monitors require.

Yes, Apogee AD box and DA box are two separate boxes and can work separately or together. Their HD card is just emulating the Avid HD192 interface. Connection to Command|8 goes via USB and it doesn't matter which interface you're using.

[Sixstringer7]

Thanks JFreak.

With LE, my Command 8 is connected via USB cable. The output from Pro Tools is sent via this connection, and then to the monitors (basicaly). There was no need for additional outputs.

So, the Apogee A/D 16x will work with a PT HD system independently of the D/A 16x, correct? Only the A/D 16x is required and the output will still come from the Command 8 if desired?

I was wondering why the Lynx Aurora was so much more expensive. It has the 16 outputs in it already.


Thank you.

[JFreak]

No, the C8 does not get audio via USB, in only moves the faders. Audio comes from the analog side of C8 and needs a separate interface for it.

Are you thinking about Digi 002 which looks like C8 a bit? It is a firewire interface and audio is routed via that connection. It is a standalone interface/controller but incompatible with HD systems.

[Firechild]

If I were you I would choose one of the "new" AVID interfaces. They sound better than most converters on the market and you are sure your interface will be compatible for every new pro Tools update.

[Sixstringer7]

The new converters are so expensive right now that it is hard to pull that trigger for me. I am just getting started with a PCIx system for the time being.

Which brings me to another question(s)...

Is it possible to use 8 analog ins on a 192io and 8 analog ins on a 96io to record tracks? My belief is that it is fine but you are limited to 96k recordings. Furthermore, can you use the digital ins on the 192io as well for 24 simultaneous channels in the scenario?