Using an A/D converter with spdif or AES/EBU outputs to input to LE

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Using an A/D converter with spdif or AES/EBU outputs to input to LE

Hello All,

Newbie here. I'm trying to use my Roland MMP-2 modeling preamp to handle to the A/D conversion necessary to record through logic. My problem is that I don't know what I need, (if it is at all possible) to find some kind of converter that allows an Spdif or AES/EBU digital output to transfer the data to Logic using a USB. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks so much!

Powerbook G4 15", Mac OS X (10.4.3), 1.5 Ghz, 1Gb Ram

Posted on Jan 5, 2006 9:20 PM

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Answer 1

David_Pye

Level 4

2,325 points

Jan 6, 2006 2:01 AM in response to vaugh047

Yeah, you need any audio interface with AES/EBU or SPDIF. One with SPDIF shouldn't be too hard to find, but AES you normally only find on pretty expensive gear.

While you're at it you may as well get something which has some additional inputs. I think you'll find it hard to find something with the necessary coaxial digital inputs which doesn't have a few extra inputs and outputs as well.

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Answer 2

vaugh047 Author

Level 1

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Jan 6, 2006 10:28 AM in response to David_Pye

David,

Is there one you could recommend? I see that things like the mbox and firebox have those capabilities but they also include the A/D and D/A conversion which I'd rather not pay for, since I already have it with the mmp-2. I'm assuming that what you're really paying for when you purchase an mbox or a firebox is a.) the A/D and/or D/A conversion, which I don't need and b.) the protools LE or equivalent software which they are often bundled with. Thanks so much for your help. I'm really just getting into digital computer recording. In the past, I've always used tape or a self-contained digital multi-tracker, so some of this stuff is quite confusing. Anyway, thanks again!

Chris

Powerbook G4 15" Mac OS X (10.4.3) 1.5 Ghz, 1Gb Ram

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Answer 3

David_Pye

Level 4

2,325 points

Jan 6, 2006 4:11 PM in response to vaugh047

Edirol make an spdif to usb interface, but it's only on optical not coax, I don't know of a single one which is JUST Coax Digital to USB.

Sorry. Have a google around you may found something thats all I'd do.

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Answer 4

vaugh047 Author

Level 1

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Jan 6, 2006 9:41 PM in response to David_Pye

I probably sound like an idiot saying this...but, what does that mean? The difference between coax and optical, that is. Thanks.

Chris

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Answer 5

mlehmann

Level 4

3,206 points

Jan 7, 2006 6:40 AM in response to vaugh047

Coax is coaxial cable with usually rca plugs. Optical is optical fiber with little square connectors. M-Audio does some box to convert from one to the other. However, you'll probably spend more by buying the convertor plus the USB interface than a single interface. If you have an available PCI slot, check out M-Audio Audiophile 2496. This has a SPDIF input and is pretty cheap.

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Answer 6

vaugh047 Author

Level 1

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Jan 7, 2006 10:42 AM in response to mlehmann

So, I guess I'll also have to buy some kind of PCI chassis? Is there no usb interface made that has s/pdif inputs, or am I completely off the mark on this. Just to try to clarify things, I''ve got a Roland MMP-2 mic modeler that also supports A/D conversion at 24 bits. What I'd like to do is use this as my audio interface inbetween instruments and Logic, however to do this I need to find something that can translate that s/pdif into the USB slot on my powerbook, preferably without losing any bitrate in the process. Thanks again!

Chris

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Answer 7

mlehmann

Level 4

3,206 points

Jan 7, 2006 11:40 AM in response to vaugh047

No, you don't have to have a PCI chassis. This was just a suggestion for an affordable product in case your computer was a G4 or G5 tower.

There's plenty of USB and FW interfaces but I can't think of one that has only S/PDIF inputs. Anyway, to have proper monitoring, an audio interface with analog outs is useful. Look at M-Audio Audiophile USB, this is an affordable solution. However, if you can afford it, I'd rather check Focusrite Saffire or Presonus Firebox. Those FW interfaces are way better than the M-Audio and have better drivers too.

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