Multiple Interfaces

[szlafarski]

Hey guys!

 

So I'm looking at getting a Tascam FW-1082 unit, and combining it with either my Apogee Duet or a new PreSonus unit (relocating to a new studio).

 

I'm eager to get the Tascam because I would love to have a control surface and good interface with plenty of Ins and Outs etc. I know that creating an aggregate device is necessary to run two interfaces at a time in Logic. My question is, can both be used at one given time for the same function? In this case, Input? I would like to use the 4 mic inputs on the Tascam and either the 2 XLR inputs on the Duet or the x inputs on the PreSonus unit.

 

So, that being said, could I record multitrack across two or more interfaces in Logic at a time, or does one have to be designate for Output and the other for Input.

 

Thanks!

[Scott Jackson]

I'm looking at getting a Tascam FW-1082 unit, and combining it with either my Apogee Duet or a new PreSonus unit (relocating to a new studio).

 

I'm eager to get the Tascam because I would love to have a control surface and good interface with plenty of Ins and Outs etc. I know that creating an aggregate device is necessary to run two interfaces at a time in Logic. My question is, can both be used at one given time for the same function? In this case, Input? I would like to use the 4 mic inputs on the Tascam and either the 2 XLR inputs on the Duet or the x inputs on the PreSonus unit.

 

So, that being said, could I record multitrack across two or more interfaces in Logic at a time, or does one have to be designate for Output and the other for Input.

 

That's the idea of adding an additional interface, more inputs and outputs. If set up properly you should be able to utilize all of your i/o's.

 

Just be aware that not all interfaces/devices can be used as an aggregate device. I know that the original Apogee Duet could NOT be used as an aggregate device. Not sure about the new USB one but the earlier Firewire one could not.

 

Do a little research and make sure that the Tascam and the Presonus are compatible with aggregate device before making your purchases.

[EdgarRothermich]

As Scott said, that's the idea. The real life results is a complete different story.

I found it a hit an miss and it really depends on the specific device you are using. Especially with the selected clock sources and the drift setting, that is where it gets really tricky.

[RedBaron]

I have a Digiface, UCX & Prism (clock master via ADAT) in one big aggregate. It's rock solid, sample accurate, and exactly consistent even after reboots. Maybe due to the Prism clock and RME drivers.

 

The SRC (aka drift) is a bit of a joke in my opinion. Latency seems to flip flop when trying to use non-hardware clocked devices. Enough to cause phase inconsistencies, especially with parallel compression etc.

 

But, yeah, I expect it's a bit of a crap shoot. I know Apogee and Metric Halo were having trouble with aggregates.

 

My big problem with aggregates is that they're only as fast as your slowest audio interface, as far as latency goes. I'd prefer to be able to monitor keyboard stuff through my fastest interface at lowest possible latency. Unfortunately, the slowest audio interface in an aggregate slows down the quicker interfaces, by increasing their Safety Offsets to match the latency of the slowest interface.

 

D