I'm in the process of spec-ing a budget remote recording rig. I want to go with Pro Tools and I want to be able to record 16 channels simultaneously. I plan on running the Digi002 rack with a 1.5ghz Powerbook using the 002's ADAT input for my 8 additional channels. The idea of a small format digital mixer with an ADAT output is appealing but may be cost prohibitive. On the other hand i could go with an analog mixer along with an outboard A/D box. I know I don't have have to use a mixer in this setup. I thought about getting a PreSonus DigimaxLT or the Mackie 800R, but I want the flexibility to be able to do monitor mixes or to be able to use the mixer for double duty in some sound reinforcement applications. Unfortunetly my decision will mostly come down to cost-effectiveness. I'm looking to spend around $1500 for either a 16ch mixer with an ADAT output or a combination of a mixer and an outboard converter with ADAT output. So far the most affordable outboard piece i've found is the Alesis AI-3 for around $400.
So, let me have it.
Comments
Bro, if you are planning on making money off this, You could alw
Bro, if you are planning on making money off this, You could always spend less now, make some money then upgrade your equipment in the future.
I think the pro tools is a good idea , but the converters are lacking.
So you may want to upgrade those (Apogee, etc)
I would look into the API stuff for portable mixer
http://www.apiaudio.com/
Look at their rack mounted gear. Granted it is expensive but their mixer features and mic pre's will yeild you far better results than anything mackie , alesis or presonus puts out...
Just my 2 cents..
Good luck.