advice on buying new convertors

[kassonica]

Hi All

I've been using a Motu 828 Mk11 for a couple of years and it's served me well but it's time to upgrade and I want to take it to a pro level. I've been looking at the Apogee ensemble. Any thoughts?

Myprice range is in $3000-4000 and i'd like it be firewire.

Much Thanks in advance

Kassonica

[PeterR]

Lynx aurora 8 with firewire card is another option. Lets you use the 8 digital i/o on aurora simultaneously with the 8 analog i/o. No preamps tho'

[Chris H]

I would look at the RME Fireface 800 as a serious option.
http://www.rme-audio.com/english/firewire/ff800.htm
Having the total mix software for monitoring etc is a real bonus. The MOTU 896 is a similar bit of kit in the MOTU range but the Fireface is more versitile and most say the clock is better than the motu's. Also having firewire 800 is a bonus. More bang for buck than the Apogee ensemble and i would not assume that the apogee sounds better because of the "name". I have not used either product but in picking others brains this seems to be the best option.

[Kris]

I second the Fireface idea. Its next on my list

[Barney Loveland]

My vote goes to the Metric Halo 8 channel interface. Mine hangs off the adat in and out of a %#%^$ 002 and rocks my PT (Looser's Edition). And if I don't need the 16 inputs when I use Logic i'll use firewire. 8 mic pre's with 48V, or line in or instrument, software panel controlable, very flexible router. BTW Mac only so pc people keep walking, sorry!

[heathen]

I bought an Apogee rosetta 800 recently and it sounds superb, was about 4 grand, but the firewire card is about $700 extra. The Lynx Aurora would be a good bet as they are a fair bit cheaper and probably just as good as the apogee. Either is a major step up from the motu.