I'd use the R09HR for ADC. The Audiophile 2496 will perform its ADC inside the computer, which is a particularly nasty EMI environment and may cause significant noise. The Audiophile 2496
might have great shielding, but I wouldn't count on it for a consumer soundcard. I know my old Waveterminal 2496 was surprisingly noisy for ADC, though I've never tested my Audiophile 2496.
Also, make sure your playback deck is in good shape and you adjust azimuth to ensure highest quality analog signal prior to ADC.
I have a quick question. For cassette transfers, is there an advantage if I go cassette deck > audiophile 24/96, or is cassette deck < r09hr just as good? Thanks in advance for any insights.