Thoughts on multiple sound cards
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Posted on Dec 05, 2005 03:25 pm
Timmaaaaay
Member Since: Nov 22, 2005
Okay, so it looks like I'm going to bite the bullet and buy a pre-configured system. I've learned a lot in the process of deciding whether or not to build a unit (versus buy), but I'm still not comfortable going the DIY route. The off the shelf will cost more in the end, but I'm afraid to mess up (which would be more costly).
I do need some help/advice regarding sound cards and if anyone has used multiple cards and run into compatability issues. I will be running Cubase SX3 and am looking at the Sweetwater Dual core 2.8 rig. I plan to have them install two Delta 1010 PCI cards so I'll have 16 tracks I can record at once (I'm planning on doing some live recordings). But I also have a Frontier Dakota card and was thinking of installing that too... primarily because it has adat lightpipe (I also have the matching Tango 24 multichannel converter unit). Or should I just try selling the Dakota and Tango and be happy with the two Delta 1010's? Thanks in advance for your input (LOL). This forum has been a great help.
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Dec 05, 2005 08:41 pm ADAT could be handy to have. Don't know much about the Dakota. Should be able to install it along with the Deltas if u have enough slots. Make sure u have a power supply that can handle all the cards. Don't think u will be able to use the Dakota and the Deltas at the same time, but will have to switch between the two depending on what u need at the time. As I said, ADAT may be handy with many outboard units or multi channel preamps. U will be able to use the Deltas at the same time. I have a similar setup, a Delta 1010 and a VSL 2020 with ADAT. I use 2 pentiums, one for tracking and one for mastering. I use the Delta to record and the 2020 as an interface between the two pentiums to keep things in the digital world. Two little fiber optic cables between the two computers beats 16 cables.
Dec 05, 2005 08:45 pm That's what I wanted to hear. I will likely use the Delta 1010's for input and the Dakota for mastering. I will have enough PCI slots and enough power supply to accomodate. I contacted Frontier Designs, Cubase and M-Audio, but so far this forum has the most prompt response. Keep it coming.
Noize2uCzar of MidiAdministrator
Since: Apr 04, 2002
Dec 05, 2005 09:42 pm Yep, soundmind got it right. You will be able to use the Delta's together without any problem other then the PSU issue's. But the audio clock on the Dakota will probably not be able to sync up with the Delta's clock's so that isnt a good idea.
That said though you may be able to install it and use it seperately for other task's such as exporting via the light pipe and such as you suggested.
Be sure and let us know of any issue's you might encounter going this route as it might help other's along the way.
And Welcome to HRC by the way.
BleakA small pie will soon be eatenMember
Since: Aug 26, 2004
Dec 06, 2005 02:06 am Can't imagine two Delta's would be a problem. I run the 1010 and an SB audigy 2 with no probs what so ever.
Dec 06, 2005 09:02 am I believe that ASIO drivers only support the use of one soundcard at a time.
Make sure that WDM drivers are available for your dakota.
Dec 06, 2005 09:05 am Yes, natively ASIO supports only a single sound card...but many manufacturers have hacked the ASIO standard to allow for multiples of the same type of card, or cards that use the same driver package...such as any in the Delta series, for example.
