New firewire input device - How will I power my monitors?

[SomethingImplied]

I've been looking to spend in the ballpark of $700 on a new firewire input device because I need to be able to multi-track drum recordings....

Over the last 5 or 6 years I've managed to scrape by with a Digitech GNX4:

http://www.digitech.com/Classic/GNX4.php

, which has proven to be one hell of a durable and functional workstation. However, the preamp just isn't cutting it anymore, I need to upgrade.

Call me a n00b, but with the ones I've been considering ( Lexicon FW810 S, Focusrite Saffire Pro 40, Presonus Firestudio Tube ) I'm starting to wonder why none of these have XLR out. My lame old GNX has balanced XLR outs, so once I upgrade, how will I connect my monitors? Am I supposed to get XLR -> 1/4" line converters? Don't you lose sound quality doing that?

Thanks,
-Aaron

[kooz]

you can get a digi oo2r for less than that. with the money you "save", you'll be able to afford the TRS-XLR adapters

[Jam]

Originally Posted by SomethingImplied

Am I supposed to get XLR -> 1/4" line converters? Don't you lose sound quality doing that?

Thanks,
-Aaron

You could get a plug convertor but I'd suggest just getting some new cables.

Without checking the units you're looking at, I'd guess the outputs are TRS ( Tip, Ring,Shield ) jacks. Which for most purposes are identical to an XLR.

From a manufacturer's point of view TRS jacks take up less space on the panel and offer the same performance electronically.

So to summarise I'd suggest, after the appropriate research, TRS to XLR cables.

James

[psalad]

Originally Posted by kooz

you can get a digi oo2r for less than that. with the money you "save", you'll be able to afford the TRS-XLR adapters

That's a good idea, why be productive when you can spend your time learning a new DAW?