I'm distressed.

[Rhino_Rick]

HI! I've been doing much research on this forum (it's VERY informative!) the past few days and I'm quickly coming to the conclusion that each soundcard has it's pluses and minuses compared to others. Just like cars. Just like women.

I currently own an AudioTek Inca 88 16 bit card, and I'm returning it to upgrade to something 24 bit. I'm currently using convertors to go from XLR to 1/4 inch on it. The results of a sample recording weren't too bad, but it wasn't too good, either.

I originally thought I was going to go with the Hoontech C-Port, but then I read that it only has 2 mic pre's (I'm new to all this stuff) and that I'd need to pick up other mic pre's to record more than 2 things at once with any bit of quality. I also don't own a mixer, so I'd need to pick up lots of $15 XLr to 1/4 convertors to record up to 8 tracks.

After more reading, I decided the Aardvark Q10 was definitely my choice. It's a little pricier, but it's got XLR or 1/4 ins (skip buying convertors) with 8 mic pre's. Fantastic! But then I was reading that some of the Q10 users aren't even USING the mic pre's at all and that they're buying external tube pre's.

So I think I'm in a no-win situation.

I need 8 XLR in with good mic pres. Plain and simple.

Should I:

1) Buy a mixer and get some neat tube pre's? But then, what card can I get 8 channels on without paying for 8 bypassed mic pre's?

2) Skip buying a mixer, grab the Q10 for the XLR in's, pick up some mic pre's

3) Grab a C-Port, grab a bunch of convertors, grab mic pre's

I'm seeing that there really isn't an easy way to undertake this task.
I'm assuming that I lose something when I use a convertor to go from XLR to 1/4 inch? So.. what do you guys propose? You kind of see what I need to accomplish.. I just don't see a clear-cut path to getting this ball rolling!

Thanks,
-Distressed in Detroit
(Rick)

[Mofracky]

I didn't think that just converting XLR from a mic to 1/4" would work! I thought you needed mic pre's.

If the card your getting has mic pre's, and you were ok with the sound from just converting XLR to 1/4", don't worry about getting a redundant (better) mic pre...

I would say get a mixer with direct out or inserts on each channel , that will allow you to use the mic pre in the mixer ... you'll get a lot of bang for the buck, and it's fun to play with faders....

(Disclaimer, this is my second post.)

Mo.

[Gidge]

get the Q10, youll be more than happy with the preamps....the only drawback is that it is only 24bit/48khz capable, which isnt an issue in my book...my card is 96khz capable and i still record at 48khz.....

[Rhino_Rick]

Hey guys thanks for the responses.

Mofracky, if I go that route, what card do you I suggest picking up? I'm definitely not rich, but I needs to 'ave all the bases covered!

Gidge, think the Q10 without a mixer will do the trick for me? I'm usin' Cubase. I like it alot.

Thanks guys-
-Rick(Distressed)

[Mofracky]

I just bought the Motu 828, but mostly because i needed portablitiy, and expandablity. The 828 ( http://www.motu.com/english/motuaudio/828/body.html) runs via firewire, you can pick it up for $699. I *think* the general consensus around here is the m-audio Delta 1010, 10 in 10 out, pci host adapter, (the 1010 LT has no breakout box). ( http://www.midiman.com/products/digital.php ), some one said around $560.

Mo.

[Tom Hicks]

Not sure how all the various models compare on price but...
check out the other Hoontech models above the c-port.They have another breakout box with all XLRs.
Tom

[Gidge]

Rick, in my opinion yes....those pres in the Q10 are, in my opinion (again) as good or better than the Mackie mixer pres that we all drool over for the price.....8 channels of pres this good would easily cost you what you are getting the whole unit for....that is a fact and anybody that wants to debate it, feel free.....

and if you get it from Bayview, they throw in a decent mic....
http://www.bayviewproaudio.com