24 bit problem...

[FUNKY]

Hi..
I need some answers guys..
Right now, I'm recording with my LIVE in 16-bit mode..
Need to know..I'm planning to get a 24bit soundcard (Aardvark>delta66) and I'm wondering..

What about that 24-bit..Shall convert the files into 16-bit later.. Don't know nothing about that..What's the procedure..I shall record the files into Cubase with 24 bit resolution..and? then?
Shall I need a faster harddisk, more RAm for those 24 bit files? To put the files on the CD..mixed..shall I convert it to 16-bit??

Tell me..I"m a newbie in this resolution convertion stuff?

Thanx
FUNKY

 

[Kaydis]

I'm no expert on Cubase, but I think I can answer a couple of your questions.

>What about that 24-bit..Shall convert the files into 16-bit later.. Don't know nothing about that..

To go to CD you will. Generally the 24 bit data is "dithered" down to 16 bits. Its kind of complex to explain, but basically there are algorithms to do the conversion and retain the highest fildelity.

>What's the procedure..I shall record the files into Cubase with 24 bit resolution..

Yes, I would think so, otherwise you wouldn't get any advantage from 24 bit A/D.

> and?

You probably want to keep things 24 bit or even 32 bit as much as possible through the whole recording, mixing, mastering process and only convert to 16 bits as the last step.

> then?

As a part of the mastering process the 24 bit data would be converted to 16 bit to go to CD.

> Shall I need a faster harddisk, more RAm for those 24 bit files?

Depends on whether your pushing the limits of your hard disk and memory spave now. In general though 24 bit data takes 50% more space so the answer would be Yes and Yes.

> To put the files on the CD..mixed..shall I convert it to 16-bit??

Yes, CD format is 16 bit only so eventually if you want it on CD it has to be 16 bits.

 

[oneArtist]

Funky,
If you do your recording and computer processing at 24 bit, you'll have higher quality sound. When you are ready to burn a CD, The signal will be dithered down to 16bit. Akai actually does some internal processing at 56bit for the same reason. The Alesis Masterlink will burn redbook 16bit/44.1K CDs or you can prepare a Master to send to a CD producer at 24bit/96K(which is DVD quality).
I looked at the specs of the Aardvark card and they were not very good. Compare card specs and reviews and keep asking questions.
Chuck

 

[FUNKY]

and ?!

What about the Delta66 card with the OMNI box?

I'm planning to buy it..Can it "do the job"?

I think that there are no dealers for other cards in my nearby, so I shall buy it Delta66 or Aardvark PRO..

oneartist, Kaydis what do you suggest me?


I'm in kinda a confusion..



FUNKY

 

[oneArtist]

Funky,
I tend to buy stuff over the internet - my selection, price, and sales tax are all better. But, if you want to buy close to home, many people on this BB use delta. I don't own it so I'm not the best to advise. Search these boards and go to www.alltheweb.com and enter your delta card and do a broader search. Do your own homework before you buy. If one of us is using a certain card, we tend to say this card is great, but there may be another that is better for the same price.

Chuck