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Hey i'm ordering my new 24" iMac soon than will come the digi 002 rack. I'm just not sure how the multi-channel preamp works with the 002 can anyone sum that up for me? What does it need to have/do? Also which would you recommend on a budget. The guy at my local pro audio store recomended a prosonus one not the firepod but another one that was 1300 bucks which is way to high for me. so can anyone help me out? thanks in advanced.

Comments

Reggie Tue, 09/12/2006 - 08:53

You could get something like the Mackie 800r and run through the ADAT lightpipe for up to 8 more channels. The Presonus one was probably the Digimax type. It is OK too, but I would take the Mackie over it. I have used the Digimax, but I have only heard clips from the Mackie. So if the audio store has both, set them both up and see if you can tell a difference in sound, noise, etc. There are many other cheaper (lesser quality) options too. If you can't tell a difference, then get whatever is cheapest and figure it all out later when you CAN tell a difference and have developed your own taste in audio gear. Don't blindly trust the pro audio store clerks unless you have no choice. Or unless you are blind.

Reggie Tue, 09/12/2006 - 14:14

ADAT lightpipe is just a digital connection that can transmit digital information from one digital piece of gear to another. It can carry 8 channels of 48KHz audio. I believe the digi002 has at least one ADAT input. Ummmm...don't really know what else to say about it?

BTW, I don't know that I would really call a Digimax "pro." Of course if guy is trying to sell it to you, it is. :roll:

pmolsonmus Wed, 09/13/2006 - 19:52

If you're just starting out, the Pres in the 002r should be fine if you can live with 8 inputs (4 mic and 4 line) at one time. If you need more than that you'd better be sure your room can handle what you're trying to record.

If you absolutely need a preamp for additional inputs then I strongly suggest you look into something with considerable color as the digi's pres are very clean and neutral. The majority of budget pres are little more than marketing ploys to get people to spend money.

If you describe what you're trying to record we can help more, but doing a search on mic pres on this site should be your first step.

If you're trying to record a band live and get everything on its own track you're probably better off with a mixer with subs or going the ADAT optical route to stay on budget. You can pick up a used ADAT for very few bucks and that adds an add'l 8 tracks.

Phil

therecordingart Thu, 09/14/2006 - 08:14

How many channels do you want? What is a realistic budget that you want to spend? What will you be recording?

If you are good with a soldering iron you can build some JLM Audio Baby Animal pres. I just finished 4 channels for under $600 U.S. including the rack case, front panel, and power supply.

One thing that I will say is that 2 good channels are better than 8 mediocre channels.