I need help choosing an interface and control surface

Author
Post
Essentials Only Full Version
rsbkeys
Max Output Level: -90 dBFS
  • Total Posts : 27
  • Joined: 2010/12/26 15:43:26
  • Location: Newtown, CT
  • Status: offline
2011/02/23 12:12:48 (permalink)

I need help choosing an interface and control surface

I can't seem to get a clear answer from anyone including tech support from various manufacturers, so perhaps someone here can help.  Here is my desired set up.  I need 16 simultanious preamped audio inputs (XLR mike inputs) each assigned to its own track in X-1 Producer running on a Dell XPS 420.  I don't really feel the need for a full front end mixer as I'm content to work within the software once the audio tracks are cut.  I do however want a full function control surface that can also handle 16 tracks simultaniously.  I've read and viewed everything I can find on the subject and paid attention to these forums.  I was interested in the Zed r16, exactly the interface I'm looking for, but I just dont need the front end mixing while it's midi control sufrace functions are a bit limited.  Enter the Mackie MCU-Pro with its associated Expansion units and the new Onyx Blackbird Firewire interface.  I read up and decided that 2 Blackbirds and the MCU units will give me exactly what I need,  However, do to the substantial cost for all this hardware, I decided to check with Mackie support to be sure that everything will work together as desired.  I presented my explanation and needs to their Q&A department (apparently a third party) who to my disamy informed me that my PC wont recognize more that one Firewire unit at a time.  So I suggest to them that I connect the 2 Blackbirds together with their built in ADAT ports.  When they got to me, even they seemed suprised that the Blackbirds owners manual implys that this will in fact work.  I'm not however overwelmed with confidence given the tentative nature of their last reply!  Can anyone give me insite and a clear answer on how to get what I need as described above?
#1

2 Replies Related Threads
    AT
    Max Output Level: 0 dBFS
    • Total Posts : 10654
    • Joined: 2004/01/09 10:42:46
    • Location: TeXaS
    • Status: offline
    Re:I need help choosing an interface and control surface 2011/02/23 18:26:36 (permalink)
    IF you are using sonar go for the VS700C (controller unit).  It fits like a leather glove w/ SONAR and hits like an iron one.  Your fingers won't need to leave it to track, edit or mix.   I think they have dropped in price - not that much more than the Mackies.

    As far as preamped ADDA interfaces - you have lots of options.  It all depends upon how much you want to spend.  Get a Focusrite (lots of people like them here), TC (you can stack units), or an 8 channel w/ ADAT and add the Behringer 8x8 ADAT unit (which is cheap but has a good reputation).

    That is probably the best way to go.  Be advised it is likely to be more expensive than the A&H, tho.  But even with Mackie you are paying extra for the extra control.

    https://soundcloud.com/a-pleasure-dome
    http://www.bnoir-film.com/  
     
    there came forth little children out of the city, and mocked him, and said unto him, Go up, thou bald head; go up, thou bald head.
    24 And he turned back, and looked on them, and cursed them in the name of the Lord. And there came forth two she bears out of the wood, and tare forty and two children of them.
    #2
    rsbkeys
    Max Output Level: -90 dBFS
    • Total Posts : 27
    • Joined: 2010/12/26 15:43:26
    • Location: Newtown, CT
    • Status: offline
    Re:I need help choosing an interface and control surface 2011/02/24 10:34:03 (permalink)
    Excellent advice.  I've read and heard so much my head is spinning and a clear list of options like yours is really appreciated.
    #3
    Jump to:
    © 2024 APG vNext Commercial Version 5.1