AD/DA converters: dedicated vs multi function

[cbennett]

Hi,

I'm currently looking to upgrade from my mixer's onboard converters to a higher-end unit but the vast range of prices confuses me.
There are a number of dedicated AD/DA converters (such as those from Apogee, Lynx, UA, etc) costing in the neighborhood of $2500-$3000 and up, and then there are units that offer conversion along with other extras like preamps, multiple connectivity configurations, etc (such as RME's Fireface 800 and 400) that cost about 2/3's as much.

Now, I don't need onboard preamps because I have good stand-alone preamps, and I don't need multiple ins and outs as I only record 2 channels at a time. So using RME's Fireface as an example, I've read such good things about it's 'sound,' but if it is so good, how could it cost so much cheaper than a dedicated AD/DA converter, especially with all the added functions? I mean, I know the RME unit is excellent, but in packing in so much functionality at that price point, there must be a compromise somewhere, and I wonder if that compromise lies in the converters themselves (which is all I really care about). I guess what I'm really asking is, negating everything other than the conversion itself, despite how good everyone says it sounds, is there any comparison between the converters in a
multi-function unit and those in a stand-alone unit?

I've tried my best in comparing conversion-only specs between units but must admit that the only thing I understand is 'dynamic range.' And I understand that one converter isn't necessarily better than another one, but that they rather come in different 'flavors' - like preamps, but c'mon! There must be some sort of tangible difference between a specialized unit vs a slightly less expensive multi-function unit, albeit one by a very reputable name.

I appreciate any help you can offer. Thanks!

[Jonsey]

I think you have kinda answered your query yourself in the middle of your post. There is a differance which can be subjective to a certain degree but IMO and many would agree, the dedicated converters are better quality with out the frilly bits.

If you dont need the frilly bits like headphone monitoring etc, go for the dedicated converters like apogee because they are a better quality.

How much better? well, thats another post.

[Legacy]

I still think that the more money rule still applies to gear. Get the best 2-channel dedicated A-D you can in your budget. If it has other features its a guarantee that money was taken away from components in the A-D circuit (probably the analog side?) to accomodate the other features.

Don't know your budget but since this is the 'high-end' I would look at the 2-channel Prism or DCS converters. They are both about $7000. and extremely detailed and natural sounding.

-S