AD conversion for DAT

[macros4]

For a portable classical-recording rig i intend to use DAT with external converters and preamps; since DAT is 16bit, how can i interface the converters that currently are on the market - my eyes are set on the 20bit Lucid AD/DA

If i run the S/PDIF out of the Lucid into a DAT machine (perhaps an ebay'ed Tascam DA30?) S/PDIF in, will it merely cut the last 4 bits off the signal? If so, will this make it sound awful? (are these good choices for gear?) Thank you in advance for your input

[jake-owa]

The Sony DATs have excellent converters. Hell some studios use their DATs for the converters alone.

[macros4]

Originally posted by jake-owa
The Sony DATs have excellent converters.

as good as the Lucids? impressive... but is this so on the less expensive models as well? the PCMR300, for instance?

[Track Rat]

With any converter, you wouldn't ever want to truncate the last bits. I'm sure it's selectable to 16 bits. The Apogee Mini-Me looks good.
http://mercenaryaudio.com/apminpreor.html

[macros4]

Track: i can't find anything in the online manual or specs that discusses bit-depth options; only 20 is listed. Are there any comparable converters at lesser prices than the Apogee that still does 16-bit? is there an inexpensive converter that dithers well? thanks

[jake-owa]

Originally posted by macros4
as good as the Lucids? impressive... but is this so on the less expensive models as well? the PCMR300, for instance?

I really don't know how they stack up against the Lucid converters. I really doubt Sony would use any other converters for the DATs, it would not be cheaper for them once they're using one type in production. I really don't have all the details on the Sony converter story, try a Google search.

The Mini-Me has variable requencies and bit rates.

www.apogeedigital.com/products/prod_minime.html

[DigitMus]

I have used the MiniMe for classical recording and it did a creditable job. I was using it at 24bits, though (into a Masterlink). The converters in it are better than the ones in any DAT I've used, even at 16bits, and the mic pres are quite nice (in a Grace or Earthworks, uncolored way). The built-in limitng and compression can be a real life saver, particularly when recording live where unexpected peaks can pop up (and you don't want to set levels too low at 16bits).

Scott

[macros4]

I like the idea of the mini-me but don't have that kind of budget at this point. Digit - u bring up an interesting point: the Masterlink; how are the ADCs on the Alesis? Good enough to wait before getting something on par with the Mini?

[DigitMus]

Yeah, the Masterlink converters aren't bad, and you can record at 24bits, and/or higher sample rates. I wouldn't rely too much on the built-in signal processing (not that its bad, I just have better) but the editing functions are great. A pair of good mics, 2 channels of clean preamps & a Masterlink = a good live to stereo recording rig.

Scott

[Harvey Gerst]

At our studio, we use the Lucid AD9624 into the Tascam DA-30 MkII and it's superior to the sound of the Tascam converters, IMO. Is it a huge difference? Not really, but it's definitely an improvement.

[macros4]

thanks all for ur advice - i think i'll probably go for the alesis: its the best bang for the buck at this point.

[c7sus]

Here's a site you miay want to check out. They cater to concert and remote tapers.

This is their preamp/AD converter page.

http://www.micsupply.com/preamps.htm