pro tools vs hoontech rack unit

[r0cker]

hi there, thanks for reading this. i was thinking of getting a digi 001 with pro tools le and i saw something about the hoontech rackmount break out box(dsp2496+adc+dac2000). it seems to be exactly the same as the digi 001 but without fully integrated software. if anyone could advise me of the differences between the two systems (apart from price!) i would be grateful, or if anyone has any first hand experience of the hoontech unit that would be useful too. also, does the dsp bit in the name mean it has a dsp chiop on it so my processor will have less strain?
any help much appreciatred
thanks in advance
cheers
r0cker

 

[Tuner]

Well I have first hand experience with the Hoontech and it sounds great - especailly considering the price. The only complaints I have about it are absolutely crap user guide and the two XLR pre-amps, which are piss weak. I haven't tried it next to a Digi but next to a Delta 1010 there was not a great deal of difference. Sure, it was noticeable if you really listened for it, but so was the price difference.

 

[r0cker]

could i compensate for the poor preamps by using a mixer?

thanks for your reply. i own a spirit f1 folio desk. could i use this instead of the preamps in the rack unit?
cheers

 

[ola]

You should use the folio instead of the preamps on the soundcard. I have a DSP24 + ADC/DAC2000 and the converters are great, considering the price, but the preamps are best left unused Connect the outs for each channel on the folio (direct outs if you have them or the effect sends).

I've heard that the preamps on the ADCIII unit are quite good but I don't think they beat the ones on your mixer. Basically, you get an ADCIII if you don't have a decent mixer.

Thus, all you need is a c-port setup and you'll have a good setup at a low price.

Cheers

/Ola