Do I need a converter if I just use softsynths?

[BGTD]

Hi everyone,

I'm a new DP user and I've got a question. Most (nearly 99%) of the music I compose in is done using softsynths. It's my understanding that what I need is a premium D/A converter more so than A/D, is that correct? I have been using a AP2496. Is there something out there that would do a "better" job? Understanding that "better" is a relative term, of course. I guess what I'm asking is what would be considered a "pro" piece of gear is this regard?

My budget is pretty flexible.

Thanks in advance,

Erik

[chrispick]

Hi everyone,

I'm a new DP user and I've got a question. Most (nearly 99%) of the music I compose in is done using softsynths. It's my understanding that what I need is a premium D/A converter more so than A/D, is that correct? I have been using a AP2496. Is there something out there that would do a "better" job? Understanding that "better" is a relative term, of course. I guess what I'm asking is what would be considered a "pro" piece of gear is this regard?

My budget is pretty flexible.

Thanks in advance,

Erik

Yeah, you really just need D/A for ensuring a clean monitoring signal. If you're not recording analog, no need for an analog converter, right?

Benchmark makes the DAC1 which runs around $950. Apogee makes the Mini-DAC which runs around $900. Both are brands popular and reputed by pros and semi-pros.

[BGTD]

Thanks Chris,

Man, $900 for a DA converter! They must almost work magic for that kind of money. Hard to imagine the difference at this point.

Cool website BTW. I used to live in Hollywood now I'm up in Portland. My sis works for Nike up here in advertising. She's always got stuff working. I'll throw you're name in the mix (I see you've worked for them before) if you'd like.

Erik

[BGTD]

you really just need D/A for ensuring a clean monitoring signal

Right, the sound coming out of the monitors. But does a D/A converter actually improve the quality of the sound generated by the synths or does it just improve what's coming through the monitors?

[chrispick]

Cool website BTW. I used to live in Hollywood now I'm up in Portland. My sis works for Nike up here in advertising. She's always got stuff working. I'll throw you're name in the mix (I see you've worked for them before) if you'd like.

re: referral - Yeah, man, absolutely. Thanks for the consideration. And thanks for the kind words regarding my website (I designed and built it).

re: D/A converters - My opinion is: If you intend to make money off your mixes, they're a worthy investment. If you only have a project studio and make music for fun (and aren't driven to attain optimal mixes in-house), they're not really necessary; most audio interface D/A would be suitable enough.

re: Hollywood - Ah, the glitz and the grunge. I've spent my time in it.

[chrispick]

you really just need D/A for ensuring a clean monitoring signal

Right, the sound coming out of the monitors. But does a D/A converter actually improve the quality of the sound generated by the synths or does it just improve what's coming through the monitors?

No, it doesn't improve the sound generated exactly. It only improves the integrity of the signal outputting to analog by minimizing jitter. The practical result is your can hear better separation and definition of frequencies. That is, you'll be better able to hear how your VIs really sound -- and, more importantly, how they mix together.

You could, if you wanted, generate your sounds in-the-box, rough mix them at home with your existing interface D/A just to get a sense of things, then port your audio stems to a mix house for optimal mixdown.

Oh, another D/A worth checking into: RME ADI-2. Around $700.