Topic: Transferring DATs from Tascam to MacBook

[tapeheadtoo]

Okay, so I think this is what I need to transfer DATs from my Tascam DA-20mkII (which has a digital coaxial out) to my MacBook (which has a digital optical in):

1.  digital coaxial interconnect cable
2.  coaxial-optical converter*
3.  TOSlink fiberoptic optical cable
4.  TOSlink to miniplug adapter

* such as this one:
http://www.amazon.com/Midiman-M-Audio-Coaxial-Bi-Directional-Converter/dp/B00006J074


Once I get everything set up, I should be able to input into an audio editing program such as Sound Studio, right?

Just wanted to double check with those more knowledgeable that I, before plunking down the cash for the box and cables.

Thanks in advance...

[keytohwy]

You got it.  If it matters to you, you might want to research whether the unit resamples as some do.

If you have a ton of DATs to do, maybe look into a DDS drive...

keytohwy

[tapeheadtoo]

Good point.  The files are 16/48 and I'd rather not resample to 44.1 unless the need arises...

[page]

Good point.  The files are 16/48 and I'd rather not resample to 44.1 unless the need arises...

i think what he's getting at is that some digital converters (from coax>optical or vice versa) will resample regardless of whether you are changing sample rates. Sort of like going digital>analog>digital (in an oversimplification). If that bothers you, then I'd echo the sentiments and suggest a little more research. There is some information here on TS.com about units which do and don't. Best of luck.

[datbrad]

Good point.  The files are 16/48 and I'd rather not resample to 44.1 unless the need arises...

i think what he's getting at is that some digital converters (from coax>optical or vice versa) will resample regardless of whether you are changing sample rates. Sort of like going digital>analog>digital (in an oversimplification). If that bothers you, then I'd echo the sentiments and suggest a little more research. There is some information here on TS.com about units which do and don't. Best of luck.

I think the OP was indicating that he wanted to archive the DATs at 48khz to preserve them at that rate, not drop them down to Red Book.

That being said, he definately should be concerned about the resampling issue as far as bit accuracy, because true cloning of digital audio requires the recording device to lock on to the digital clock of the playback device, something I expect is not something every PC based system can do.

[keytohwy]

The Mac is bit perfect, for whatever is fed into it.  Again, the weak link can be the coax>optical converter.

To the OP, I have one of these lying around somewhere, unused.  If you are still in need, let me know...

keytohwy