Differences in ADC (what's best?)

[superpunkmuffin]

My broth just acquired a Line 6 8 track recording system, and the quality he can get out of it is a mile better than my Firewire 410. (with same equipment (no pre-amps (hardware or software) applied), same environment, and sample and bit depth settings)

His recorded sound sounds like the original signal going in, whereas you can hear my Firewire sounds like a recording.

Since the nominal spec is identical, I wondered if there is anywhere that has good comparative reviews of the actual performance of ADCs on this kind of kit?

Any thoughts or opinions appreciated, as I'm keen to change this 410

Brigs

 

[mshilarious]

It's a conjecture that the ADC is responsiblefor the difference. Indeed, the spec on the ADC alone between the units is similar, which suggests they are probably using similar quality converters. The difference could just as easily be in their preamps.

You'd need to get these units side-by-side in the same studio, same mics, and same instruments, and then patch analog line out from one to line in on the other. That would give you a better idea if the ADC or preamps are more responsible for the difference, or indeed if there is as much difference as you think there is.

 

[superpunkmuffin]

"You'd need to get these units side-by-side in the same studio, same mics, and same instruments, and then patch analog line out from one to line in on the other. That would give you a better idea if the ADC or preamps are more responsible for the difference, or indeed if there is as much difference as you think there is."

That is indeed exactly what I did, though as you suggest, it could be the preamp quality as well, as that's the other element not under control.

However, whether built-in pre-amp, or ADC, the quality was significantly better on the Line 6 equipment, surprisingly so. So I'm still curious to know what unit of this type has the best Pre-amp/ADC?

 

[mshilarious]

However, whether built-in pre-amp, or ADC, the quality was significantly better on the Line 6 equipment, surprisingly so. So I'm still curious to know what unit of this type has the best Pre-amp/ADC?

Well, to answer that, someone would have to use every bit of kit out there, no? And you haven't specified a price range. I mean, how about an RME Fireface 800? But that's three times the cost of the Line 6 . . .

Once you get to a certain point, to improve quality further you are looking at non-integrated units, meaning separate preamps, converters, and interfaces. Again, it's all about your budget.

But if you can discover that the ADC on the M-Audio is OK compared to the Line 6, then you can just spend a couple hundred on an external preamp, and if you shop carefully, you won't need to replace that when you upgrade your converter.


PS: This thread should actually be a couple of forums up, in the Rack. No, there are no moderators, so it won't get moved.