Tascam has a new line of entry level interfaces with drivers that have buffers as small as 4 samples (on Windows)! This is over a USB-C connection.

This is the smallest asio buffer size i am aware of on any interface. With some RMEand Focusrite buffers around 3ms at 64 sample, are we approaching sub-milisecond lantencies over usb? This would be awsome! Ill keep my eyes open for latency specs, as i have not seem them yet.

Just thought it was an intersting innovation, and a good sign for interfaces of all ranges.

https://Tascam.com/us/tag/546

Is it possible to use two Audio Interfaces on a single Computer ( Mac)
Also what's the use of Parch bay and ADAT card?
Thanks again!
Regards Norman!

In line with the apollo x rack units, UA updated their desktop interface line. They look pretty cool, however the conversion spec is a few db shy on the monitor outs compared to the rack units. Im also unclear on if UA is employing the hexacore dsp chips like they are in the rack units.

These differences can effect the relative value (cost vs. performance) of the new units. Either way i suspect these will be popular. Not sure if they are planning on a USB version of the new stuff or not.

Spec sheets:

×8 Rack unit

Apollo Twin X-

Apollo X4-

Hey everyone. Ive been comparing similar priced and spec'd interfaces from antelope and UA. The antelope synergy core and UA apollo x8.

There seems to be a fair amount of complaints on the antelope interfaces reguarding reliability (drivers software glitches), resale value, long term support, and life span. Antelope seems to come out with new versions much more often than other companies especially at that end of the market.

Antelope does have more connectivity options on the same interface madi, tb3, and usb3. which makes it less picky about the computer its connected to as opposed to the apollo. This isn't a deal breaker but does involve some consideration and planning, since a madi card from RMEis 1700$, and tb3 is just starting to be compatible with the new gen AMD chips.

Anyway any thoughts on sound quality, reliability, workflow, anything, related to these two manufacturers is welcomed. I would use this at a home studio for 2 years or so then possibly sell it for a flagship model in my new studio. Basic tracking, re amping, soft synths, and surround sound mixing, and playing video games/ watching movies for entertainment, would be primary uses. Essentially it would be the hub of an always on, multimedia work and entertainment system.

Having had technical issues with an 06' era Pro Tools m powered 7 system on a laptop at home, and issues with old mac pros and Mackie d8b's at the studios, it would be nice to have something that works without a lot of issues. Doesnt have to be bullet proof ala' RME, but i wouldnt be happy if there were more than very occasional hiccups.

Ultimate fidelity is welcome but not super critical since I'm not in a proper studio for listening, and these are mainly my own tracks ill be recording. For archiving and ultimate quality i will be choosing a low channel count mastering interface when i need it.

Hello,

I've just purchased a MacBook Pro 2018 with two thunderbolt 3 ports. I am new to this whole recording process and have Logic on my Mac. My question: what do you suggest as an audio interface? Does Thunderbolt 3 offer the lowest latency? Should I be purchasing an audio interface that can directly connect to my computer, or are adapters an acceptable solution? If I was to use adapters to say USB A - would this cause a dramatic change in latency?

I apologize for the many questions but I am very, very, very lost.
Any help is appreciated.

Thanks

Hi Recording O, I'm thinking of Micing my drums with my Scarlett 18i8 and having a separate audio interface for my vocals and guitar. Would it hurt to have two interfaces plugged into the computer at once all the time, and switch back and forth? My DAW's are Ableton and/or Logic Pro
Thank You!
-Colin

— Thunderbolt 3 Option Card delivers high bandwidth, low latency connectivity for Apollos to Thunderbolt 3-equipped Mac and Windows systems —

SCOTTS VALLEY, CA • May 2nd, 2018 — Universal Audio, a leading manufacturer of professional audio recording hardware and software, is pleased to announce the Thunderbolt 3 Option Card for Apollo rackmount interfaces is now shipping worldwide. The card is compatible with Intel’s new Thunderbolt 3 technology on the latest Mac and Windows computers.

“We’re really excited to provide integrated Thunderbolt 3 connectivity across our Apollo rackmount product line,” says Universal Audio CEO and Founder, Bill Putnam, Jr. “We’ve worked hand-in-hand with Intel to create rock-solid Thunderbolt 3 connectivity on Mac and Windows for Apollo that enables customers to get the most out of their audio workstation environment.”

The user-installable Thunderbolt 3 Option Card includes two Thunderbolt 3 USB-C ports, and easily slides into the expansion bay of Apollo 8, Apollo 8p, and Apollo 16 MkII audio interfaces. Bus power is provided to all downstream Thunderbolt 3 peripherals, allowing music producers to connect devices in series with the Apollo interface — including additional Apollo or Arrow interfaces, UAD-2 Satellite Thunderbolt devices, hard drives, monitor displays, and more.

Thunderbolt 3 Option Card is now shipping in stores worldwide at $499 MSRP.

Thunderbolt 3 Option Card — Key Features:

• User-installable Thunderbolt 3 Option card for Apollo rackmount interfaces
• Two Thunderbolt 3 USB-C ports for daisy-chaining Apollos or peripherals
• Provides 15W bus power to downstream Thunderbolt peripherals
• Thunderbolt 3 bandwidth delivers up to 40 Gbps for connecting hard drives, dual 4K monitors, and more
• Requires macOS Sierra/High Sierra or Windows 10 w/Anniversary (64-bit Edition)
  

Learn more about the Thunderbolt 3 Option Card here:
www.uaudio.com/thunderbolt-3-option-card

Hello lovely Recording.org Community!

So over the years I've been using a USB 2 audio interface, and the latency/lag is just very upsetting. I understand there are USB 3 or 3.1 interfaces, Firewire, and Thunderbolt, but what about PCIe interfaces to install inside your Computer?
Aside from that, USB 3 and 3.1 alone are much, much, much faster than USB 2. Would an audio interface with USB 3 or 3.1 would fast enough to not cause any latency when recording a direct mic signal?

I read about PCIe interfaces, but I can't seem to find one that has XLR inputs. Any suggestions? Or any suggestions in general on audio interfaces with 2 XLR inputs, MIDI input, and loud Mic Monitoring output?

Thanks in advance.

Representing a complete redesign of the Aurora line, the Aurora achieves significant performance and feature improvements with 14 new models slated to ship in March 2017.

http://www.lynxstudio.com/product_detail.asp?i=83

Onboard 32ch microSD recorder and configurable I/O platform mark new and unique capabilities for Lynx

JANUARY 19, 2017 – Anaheim, CA. Today Lynx Studio Technology introduces the Aurora line of A/D and D/A converters defining a major leap forward in the performance level, flexibility, channel count and features available in the converter/interface market. Representing the largest product offering from Lynx, the initial fourteen models will include models boasting up to 32 channels at 24 bit/192K with connectivity options to include Thunderbolt, USB, Dante and Pro Tools | HD all in a single rack space.

Designed to accommodate today’s needs as well as future requirements for the audio professional, the Aurora features an I/O platform that can be uniquely configured using different modules. The first three of these modules will include a pre-amp, an analog summing and a digital (AES3+ADAT) module to be released in 2017. As with current Lynx products, a host of new features and capabilities will continue be added periodically via firmware updates. All units include a unique onboard micro SD player recorder capable of up to 32 channels of direct recording and playback designed for confidence and field playback and recording. In addition two audiophile grade headphone outs and a new1-in 3-out Word clock I/O sporting Lynx’s exclusive second generation SynchroLock-2 sample clock technology are on every unit.

“We set out to create a new line of converters that improve performance, utility and flexibility of the current Aurora line.” Stated Bob Bauman, Co-Owner and Chief Hardware Engineer. “It’s taken us a while to top these converters on the performance end, but we’ve used technology borrowed from our Hilo and combined that with the latest FPGA technology to achieve these improvements in transparency, imaging and detail. The result is a converter that not only sounds better, but also offers several unique features we know audio pros will love.”

“People always worry when investing in audio gear, especially digital gear, that it will become obsolete tomorrow” explained Lynx Co-Founder and Chief Software Engineer DAvid A. Hoatson. “We’ve taken strides with Hilo and Aurora to keep current with new firmware updates and new L Slot cards. The Aurora will have all this, plus the ability to later add channels and I/O options like analog summing, digital I/O, preamps and more. It’s a tremendous value for our customers.”

Aurora models will be available March 2017. US Suggested Retail Prices are:

Number of Channels USB HD Thunderbolt Dante
8 $2,799 $2,799 $3,199 $3,299
16 $3,899 $3,899 $4,299 $4,399
24 - $4,999 $5,399 $5,499
32 - $6,099 $6,499 $6,599

• A new standard in analog to digital and digital to analog conversion
  

The Aurora represents the culmination of years of research and development dedicated to significantly improving upon the well-regarded Lynx Aurora 8 and 16 models used by professionals around the world.

For the first time Lynx introduces a 24 and a 32 channel model along with all new 8 and 16 channel models. Aurora significantly improves upon the spectacular performance and specifications the world has come to expect from the well-regarded Lynx Aurora line – each in a single rack-space. Providing an even greater level of wide open uncompressed and unequalized audio for studios, mastering facilities, remote recording, broadcast, live performance and production installations, these Aurora converters set a new standard in analog to digital and digital to analog conversion. Leveraging technology that was previously reserved for the Lynx Hilo combined with using the latest FPGA processors, the Aurora achieves the pinnacle of transparency and low distortion and noise.

• A converter for now and for the future
  

The Aurora’s future-proof design is expanded in the Aurora. New enhancements and capabilities will be made available through firmware upgrades. L Slot expansion slots allow for a wide array of current connectivity options to include Thunderbolt, Dante, Pro Tools|HD, USB and future formats. Expandable audio I/O modules are being developed to include preamp, analog summing, digital I/O (AES3 + ADAT) which will be available in 2017. This makes for an Aurora that will perform exceptionally for you now and remain innovative well into the future.

Also added to the line are two audiophile-grade headphone outs with independent volume control. A 480 X 128 TFT LCD display provides immediate access to all levels and functions – also configurable for future functionality.

Next Generation Aurora Mastering A/D and D/A Converter

• Complete redesign integrating Hilo Converter Technology (HCT) for analog I/O achieving significant improvements in transparency and reductions of both noise and distortion.
• Available in 8-channel, 16-channel, 24-channel and 32-channel configurations.
• LSlotTM expansion slot for Thunderbolt, Dante, USB, Pro Tools|HD connectivity and more.
• Configurable I/O - pre-amp, summing & AES3+ADAT modules to be released in 2017.
• Up to 32-channels of real-time recording and playback via on-board microSD card.
• 2 audiophile-grade headphone outputs
• 1 in/3 out Word clock I/O with Lynx exclusive second generation SynchroLock-2 sample clock technology
• Universal power supply
• Designed and built in the USA
  

Accessories

• 
  Lynx LT-HD
• 
  Lynx LT-USB
• 
  Lynx LT-TB Thunderbolt
• 
  Lynx LT-DANTE
  

Okay .. the readers digest version is I'm building a mini B studio ( studio A got moved to another location).

This started as a hobby for me way back in 1988 ( boy have we come along way). It's still a hobby now and will be my retirement hobby after my girls finish university ( if there's any money left LOL)

Anyhow, I'm struggling with the interface decisions ...

I've been a heavy MOTU user 2408 Mk3 / 1296 X 2 / which have now relocated to the other location .

Anyhow, to start the quest, I've been trying to figure out what to put in place for an interface. The studio is primarily line level sources and VST instruments. ( I'm running the latest Ableton 9.6).
I'm PC Based ( I5, 32 Gigs of RAM ) HP 8200 Desktop ... storage is not an issue

The monitoring system is Dynaudio BM6 Mk III the room has "some treatment" but could be improved

So I checked the used boards to see whats up ...

So I can grab ;

Antelope Orion
RME UFX
U/A Apollo
MOTU 16A
or an SSL AlphaLink with MADI Interface ( MADI Extreme)

I won't get to crazy but I can get the SSL solution with MADI card cheaper then the RME UFX and its compatible with my PC. Additionally they are claiming the MADI extreme driver solution is windows 8.1 and windows 10 compliant ..

I realize this gear has a lifespan I just though it would be fun to dabble in MADI for a change
(Well if the price is right)
... I also realize That the lifespan on this solution is limited if its not a legacy product by now..

Am I being stupid looking at the SSL product ( mainly for the MADI interest) and just shooting myself in the foot..? Is it too dated at this point? ... is the conversion sub par to current solutions out there?

The Orion is fine but I don't need that many channels... (8 at the most) its overkill..

The RME UFX is a solid performer from what I understand ( would consider this and it was initially my first pick)

THE U/A Apollo holds its place well ... ( not sure how the PC driver end is working)

the MOTU 16A or 1248 would do as well ..( would consider this but don't know how good they sound) my previous experience with MOTU has been stellar on the PC Platform... no issues.

at the end of the day I'm just looking for an AD/DA solution that will sound better and outperform my current MOTU 2408 MK3 and 1296 solution...

I'm just being swayed by the opportunity to try MADI and that's why I'm asking about the AlphaLink product

Thanks for taking the time to read this, This site for me has been fantastic and the quality of the people and knowledge base is amazing (some on here have legacy that makes me green with envy)

cheers
Guelph_Guy