Api a2d

[ovdojoey]

Okay this is my first post and I am fairly new to this forum so please don't kill me for asking a seemingly simple question.

Right now I have a MOTU 828MK3 interface which connects to my computer via firewire and I run Logic Pro. With that being said - I have heard the hype of this API A2D preamp, and I really want one.

I understand the whole idea behind connecting the insert so I can run my JoeMeek OneQ channel strip on the audio as well, but how would I connect the A2D to my interface in a way that I do not sacrifice the pres built into the API.

I am guessing that I would use the optical out on the A2D to go into my optical in of the MOTU... but is their going to be any loss of quality by doing so? I am sorry I am just learning so much by reading this forum... I always thought it was simple as pressing record and jamming out... I just want to make sure that the conversion inside of the MOTU won't downgrade the A2D.... and if it will is there any recommended A/D & D/A that compare in price with my MOTU that will be outstanding?

And finally - an unrelated question. I bought a Rode K2 Tube and did not like it at all... maybe I was unfamiliar with the sound a tube microphone should have but it was much to sensitive and it made my vocals sound like crap, so I am returning it. I purchased a Shure SM7B and also have SM57, BETA 58, Rode NT1A. I need something that I can get a great smooth acoustic guitar sound and and male vocals, preferably another condenser microphone. Any good suggestions?

Last thing - with enough time and work should I be able to get a good sound from my current setup including the A2D I want... (you can hear my current sound at: myspace.com/foundyesterday) ? I run my JoeMeek Preamp/ Channel strip on every track but find the gain gives me some fuzz when I get into the 55 - 60db range. Hopefully API can solve my problems...

Thanks for any responses and sorry for the long post - don't kill me I know you're all somewhat skilled at what you do but thats why I am asking for help.

[Chris Nighman]

The A2D is great. You'll have to connect it via SPDIF, not optical. Since the conversion is taking place in the API unit, the 828 will have no affect; it's just passing the digital signal to the computer. Unless you have a patchbay you'll have to have access to the back of the unit for patching things into the inserts. Hope this helps. As for the microphone recommendation, there's this one company...

[Audio Hombre]

And finally - an unrelated question. I bought a Rode K2 Tube and did not like it at all... maybe I was unfamiliar with the sound a tube microphone should have but it was much to sensitive and it made my vocals sound like crap, so I am returning it. I

don't feel bad. the mic is utter crap.

[ovdojoey]

Thanks for the feedback... yeah I don't know where I went wrong with the K2 - but I will say... "don't buy gear based on online reviews..."

I will connect it using the spdif... I can't wait to buy it :)!

I am still looking for a microphone - I have heard good things about a really cheap MXL V6... but I really don't want to buy something that sounds cheap.

[jeremynothman]

The K-2 is alright - but nothing amazing to me...
With any mic though - it's gotta suit the source - there's no magic bullet.

If you want something for YOUR voice, go out with a reference track (maybe something you've recorded in the past) that was intended for your voice, and try singing over it with a bunch of different mics. You might find one then that accentuates/attenuates your voice in the right places!

[useme2305]

you should definitely check out the AT4047. great on vocals and amps.i just recently discovered that it works GREAT on the floor tom. very deep and grainy with beautiful bleed from the snare if positioned correctly.