Topic: Any issues with DPA4061>MMA600 > AD-20 > MD?

[dunebug81]

From looking at



this pic there doesnt seem to be any other inputs other then the XLR.  Is there a mod for a miniplug in?

I was reading up on the AD-20 and since its both a preamp and AD converter I was wondering if the MMA6000 would cause a problem.  I almost never need to turn up the MMA as the signal is plenty hot enough into the MD.  Typically I run 24-26/30 line in on the MD.  Id like to try out a stealthable A/D and people seem to like this one. 

If this wont work for me then is there a stealthable A/D out there?

[hyperplane]

If I recall correctly, the AD-20's lowest gain setting is +17 dB. Meaning, you have the gain dial turned down all the way and it's still boosting the signal by +17 dB.

I know that Sound Professionals offers an AD-20 with a mini-plug input that provides "plug-in power" (I'm guessing around 9V). So obviously, a "mod" for the unit is possible. Also, FWIW, I've read in some thread here at TS that someone did their own mod on the AD-20.

So, cheapest route might be getting the AD-20 used and modifying it yourself, or getting someone else to modify it.

It seems like you could eliminate the MMA6000 from your gear chain since the modd'ed AD-20 would provide plug-in power for your DPAs.

Lastly, poorlyconditioned wasn't impressed at all with the sound quality of the AD-20. So you might get more pleasing results running DPA4061 > MMA6000 > MD, that using the AD-20. But, that might depend on which MD deck you're using as well...

[dunebug81]

I wouldnt want to give up the MMA6000...it cost too much damn money to stop using it.  As far as I know all MDs sound the same.  Ive used several models over the last few years and Ive have not noticed any difference in any model being better then another, at least as far as self noise and whatnot. 

It looks like the AD-20 isnt the way to go, is there a small/stealthable A/D that has miniplug in and optical out?

[poorlyconditioned]

I wouldnt want to give up the MMA6000...it cost too much damn money to stop using it.  As far as I know all MDs sound the same.  Ive used several models over the last few years and Ive have not noticed any difference in any model being better then another, at least as far as self noise and whatnot. 

It looks like the AD-20 isnt the way to go, is there a small/stealthable A/D that has miniplug in and optical out?

I would just go line in on the MD.  IMO this sounds pretty good, as good, and maybe better than the AD20.
I really do not like the "flat" sound of the AD20.  In my experience a (stock) UA5 or DMIC20 will sound *a lot* better.  Unless you're willing to go there, stick with MD line in.

  Richard

[dunebug81]

I run line in now...just thought an A/D would do me some good.  Im really just looking for a new toy

[poorlyconditioned]

I run line in now...just thought an A/D would do me some good.  Im really just looking for a new toy

A nicer toy would be to replace the MD with an Edirol R09 or something...

  Richard

[hyperplane]

Thanks for chiming in Richard.

I didn't have too much input, other than pointing out the basics (that there is some type of "mini-plug mod" for the AD-20). As for Mini Disc, I've never used one but I had thought there was a difference in the quality between the cheapo ones from years ago and the newer HiMD units.


dunebug81, it's okay to admit it... you want to slut it up! 

[dunebug81]

I've never used one but I had thought there was a difference in the quality between the cheapo ones from years ago and the newer HiMD units.

I mean there isnt a difference between a low end HIMD vs a high end HIMD. 


dunebug81, it's okay to admit it... you want to slut it up! 

I know, I do!  There is nothing I can really add to my collection tho.

A nicer toy would be to replace the MD with an Edirol R09 or something...

No, I like the MD as its better then an r9.  I have no need for a larger more expensive recorder.