Isa one digital vs api a2d

[Succulence]

I have owned both an A2D and an ISA one at the same time and have a/b'd them on vocals. I did not have the a/d card on the ISA one however, so have no compared their conversation quality. The A2D was slightly better sounding as measured by differences I noticed in how smooth transients were (sss's and what not). Slightly smoother on the API. However, if I were to track and album and used the ISA one to punch in vocals it would have been impossible to distinguish the two. The ISA one is a great preamp and also a great solution to a lot of studio/recording needs in a little box (DI w/through, headphone, high quality a/d option). So the question might be about which features you think will be more helpful to you. They're both great units.

[trustsound]

Originally Posted by Succulence

I have owned both an A2D and an ISA one at the same time and have a/b'd them on vocals. I did not have the a/d card on the ISA one however, so have no compared their conversation quality. The A2D was slightly better sounding as measured by differences I noticed in how smooth transients were (sss's and what not). Slightly smoother on the API. However, if I were to track and album and used the ISA one to punch in vocals it would have been impossible to distinguish the two. The ISA one is a great preamp and also a great solution to a lot of studio/recording needs in a little box (DI w/through, headphone, high quality a/d option). So the question might be about which features you think will be more helpful to you. They're both great units.

Thanks man, If the difference is only subtle. I'll be happy with an ISA one with digital and save a thousand bucks.