Given how you rave over this A/D, D/A converter is this something we should be thinking about for our home systems? Is there a more 2 channel friendly model?
Hi Bruce,
I rave about these converters because they deliver what I seek (i.e., I want the gear to get out of the way, to whatever extent is technologically possible). Some folks seek other things from their converters, such as what I call "enhanced detail", and others seek converters that make rough sounding recordings come back sounding "silky smooth". It really depends on what one seeks. Those who want "enhanced detail" or a "silky smooth" sound probably want something other than the converters that I find so wonderful.
I know many folks using the Metric Halo converters in their home systems and yes, I recommend them wholeheartedly (again, provided this is what a given listener is seeking).
For those who don't need microphone preamps or any of the addition processing capabilities and simply want a superb converter than can do justice to the 4x rates (176.4k and 192k), the LIO-8 is, in my view, a bargain -- even if one is using only two of its channels.
For those who want something less expensive, there is the ULN-2 but this tops out at 96k.
There are some caveats though:
1. With the LIO-8 or ULN-8, the connectors are not the standard types found on most home gear. (This is because there was no other way to fit this many connections without either using these connectors or making a *much* larger box. One needs to either purchase some sort of adapter (there are companies that build these) or build their own. I chose the latter course because I wanted the shortest possible adapters in order to use my preferred cables.
2. All the MIO boxes (2882, ULN-2, LIO-8 or ULN-8) involve a short learning curve. They are not plug-and-play boxes, since each offers a great deal of capability beyond simple D-A conversion. It takes a short while to "get" the software that allows one to get the most from these boxes. Again, these are powerful boxes and the software is the means of controlling all they can do.
3. Right now, the boxes are Mac only and connect to the computer via Firewire. However, a change is coming that will allow connection to Windows as well as connection via USB.
If all you want is the simplest possible version of these to run stereo up to 96k, the ULN-2 is ideal.
If you want to hear how good it can get (in my opinion, of course), I'd recommend auditioning an LIO-8 (which is simply a ULN-8 without the mic preamps or dsp).
Another thing I like about these products is the company behind them. I love the way they provide update paths for all their gear so none (so far) has ever been made obsolete. I find that sort of care for the customer laudable too. It is part of what has made me a fan.
Best regards,
Barry
www.soundkeeperrecordings.com
www.soundkeeperrecordings.wordpress.com
www.barrydiamentaudio.com