Topic: EDIROL R-44 (PART IV)

[macdaddy]

the r-44 does not resample

can i sync all 4 channels to the external clock of the ad2k+ via spdif..?

[Fried Chicken Boy]

There is a single clock in the R-44 that syncs all the channels, so if you are recording on all 4 channels on an R-44 at the same time they will all be in sync.  Also of note, we (acidjack, danlynch, hi and lo and I) have several times been able to clock-sync two R-44's via S/PDIF through a Sound Devices USBPre2 for a total of 8 perfectly synced channels; it's painlessly easy to do.  Don't know for sure, but I imagine you might be able to do that through any device that has both S/PDIF in and out connections.

[Gutbucket]

the r-44 does not resample

can i sync all 4 channels to the external clock of the ad2k+ via spdif..?

Yes.  In that case the R44 uses the ad2k clock source via the inbound SPDIF stream instead of it's own internal clock. The four channels will always be clocked the same, regardess if the machine is using it's internal clock (all analog inputs) or the SPDIF clock source (digital input, with or without additional analog channels).

[macdaddy]

so the dif. btwn the r44 and the 680, besides the extra channels, is the 680 has better stock preamps, but is much more finicky in regards to consistent field power and accepting a spdif digi-in..?

edit:
also, any concerns re: build quality..? i have a few taper buddies who swear off edirol products, though they just vaguely cite build quality as a reason...

thanks, in advance.

[Gutbucket]

R-44 is tough and hearty, I have no concerns about it's build.  It seems to have proven it's reliabily with everyone around here.

Not sure about the comparison between preamps.  My R-44 is Oade modded.  The 680 pres may be quieter than the stock R-44 ones, but I'm not sure of that. I don't hear a significant difference between the two, but I've never set up a dedicted test.

The R-44 is simplier to set up and run and generally problem-free, the 680 has more channels and options for simultaneous adjustment of gain for all channels or combinations of them.  My 680 has had no problems with power or digital inputs, but obviously others have has some issues.

Practically, I think it comes down to how many channels you really want / need.

[cybergaloot]

Just something to keep in mind, when I had my R-44 apart I noticed that it does have one of those quarter sized "watch" batteries in it I assume to hold settings. I wish I had taken the time to write down the number. If you have had yours for years and it will no longer keep the settings, it may need a new battery.

[kirk97132]

Don't know for sure, but I imagine you might be able to do that through any device that has both S/PDIF in and out connections.

it must be a unit that can just clock from the spdif stream.  otherwise you will get the same audio that on that spdif signal too.

[macdaddy]

would a  Lexar 16GB SDHC Memory Card Professional Class 10 card do the trick for 4ch @ 24/96..?

[justink]

would a  Lexar 16GB SDHC Memory Card Professional Class 10 card do the trick for 4ch @ 24/96..?

it should.  i've done that with cheaper brands.

[macdaddy]

thanks. anyone try the 32gb version..?

[justink]

thanks. anyone try the 32gb version..?

your best bet is to run the card how you would for a show... while at home.  put it through the extremes at home, and it shouldn't fail you in the field.

[macdaddy]

just joined the team

 

[Gutbucket]

Nice.

[audiolino]

Hi!
I am a happy owner of an R-44 (no mod).  I am a violinist, living in the north of germany. I intend to do some classical chamber music recordings. By now, my Mics are a pair of Neumann Km 184  and a pair of Rode Nt5. I try to get 2 used Sennheiser MKH 40.

I read thru all 4 parts of the R-44 thread, and I just registered to post my question refering to preamps:

Does it make sense to use a RME Quadmic, does anybody now about the increase in quality?

Would be glad if somebody knows and/or tried out.
-audiolino

[cybergaloot]

Interesting, the RME Quadmic can take 7-30V DC or 7-30 AC (written on the back of the unit, RME's web site says "Operates with voltages ranging from 7-38V DC, 7-27V AC"). Anyway, I have no experience with this particular unit but have seen people run their computer interfaces in the field. I've never heard anything bad about them but don't know how the Quadmic would measure up against something like a Grace V3.