Hello All,

I am wondering if there is a way to record using S/PDIF. Right now I have Sonar X1 and using an M-Audio Ultra to record. The Ultra says it is an 8x8 interface but only has 6 inputs and uses 2 from S/PDIF. I would like to use all 8 so I can record my drum set. Is there a convertor or adapter I can purchase to allow me to record analog signal thru S/PDIF?

Also, from your experience is it a good solution to? I really need those 2 inputs and don't have the budget to purchase a new interface.

Thanks

You probably don't have the budget for a decent A/D converter, either.

OK, more seriously, do any of your current devices have a digital out? I used to record from my Roland Fantom from its 24-bit digital out, into the digital co-axial connector on my Echo Layla. I've since stopped doing that, for clock-sync reasons.

Yeah. Just get a two channel mic preamp that has a spdif output. Set the mic pre for the same sample rate as your interface box and you are good to go. The only thing to watch for is make sure the mic pre has the same type of spdif jack (optical or RCA type) as your interface box. But, even if they are different you can get a converter box to convert optical to RCA and RCA back to optical.

Your S/PDIF isn't two pairs - it's one pair input going to one pair output. I did the math and 6 analog  and 1 stereo pair makes seven outs.
So, without reading the manual I'm not sure where the 8x8 comes from, but it wouldn't be the first time M-Audio created a spec that
wasn't technically correct. Maybe the 6 and the stereo pair are supposed to be 8? Anyway, if you're trying to record 8 separate analog
inputs, I think you're going to need a different AI setup. Otherwise, you may have a problem balancing that stereo channel.

The S/PDIF operates as a stereo input and there is a S/PDIF stereo output too.

six analog in/out plus two digital in/out equals eight inputs/outputs


FWIW, I use the now discontinued Roland MMP-2 mic modelling preamp. It's a bit of a lump but it works well and has S/PDIF coax in/out. I've just searched Ebay and they appear to be still selling at around the $100 mark.

There are more options too, but the MMP-2 is something that I can personally recommend.

SPDIF works great, just MAKE SURE you go into your audio interface control panel and set the SYNC source to EXTERNAL DIGITAL, verify it's locked, and you're good to go.

You could get something like this, which would add 8 inputs to your rig. 400 bucks, though. 

That unit looks nice, with 3 easy payments, that's a good way to add 8 channels of tubed pres. However that doesn't help with the Ultra as it only has SPDIF, and the unit in the link is ADAT optical. SPDIF is only stereo except when encoded and/or decoded for surround etc. I was looking for and ADAT 8 pre add on like this. Thanks bit!

SPDIF is a format but will only allow two channels (1-stereo pair) of input/output...very nice way to get across the isolation barrier of you are picking up interference, by going optical...

Something like the Kurzweil Rumor has outstanding A/D built into it (limited to 24/48khz I believe) that would allow you the extra inputs...

Frankly the A/D on the Kurzweil stuff is probably some of the best sounding converters I have ever used, and I've gone through Apogee/Lynx/PT/Edirol/Motu/M-no-audio/etc...

But if you're just looking to get the extra stuff with the existing equipment save your money or do extra takes...