Hey Barry John, You actually can connect any heat into your craneborne r8, they have slot bypass switches under the silver block inside the chassis, you flip it tot he left and it bypasses the slot and there you go, 19inch racks can be connected all of that stuff. I own one. I have a Avalon 737 connected to mine.
In regards to the Cranborne adat8, you can bypass the slots, (if you wish, so you can go in or out of the cranborne without going through a 500 unit), the summing is great, the converters are as good as anything I have used (40 years in the industry, I have used a few). There is an insert on each slot (post 500 slot), so you can also use it as an in to bypass the slot. I have 2 R8’s (the version with the interface and ADAT masters) and an ADAT 8 (ADAT slave only), all currently loaded with EQ’s and Compressors ( and a couple of ‘colour’ modules, tape emulators and aphex exciters), all connected to my patch bay, ins, outs and inserts, as well as having the potential to go in or out of my DAW on any channel. It’s mega flexible. I looked at the flock, and I think they are an awesome idea, but, my god they are so expensive, and limited.
My setup : CA 500R8 (audio interface + slots) + pulse 16 + the bucket 500 rack 8 slot (DB25 to xlr )1st unit Fix audio + M-Track 8 ( as first aggregate device in logic ), very happy, lots of ins and out.
I have the cranborne 500 adat. I use 19” rack gear with it. Along with Burl 500 preamps. Works great. Not really following your cons on it. As it works great. I think you may need to get a little more up to speed on the cranborne 500. As I don’t believe your cons are valid on how to use it and it’s uses.
I own two, and probably get a third one. I like you maybe misunderstood that part. I can switch to any modules I want in any order by the bottom switch. hence patch bay mostly out of the picture. and cast has opened more space for me to use iso areas I didn't have. I was able to run one cable in conduit up on my roof then come down to a different room that was a storage room for my cabs, instead of using the drum room. now I can do live recording with a hole band. Not having to split drum performance then use my cab. it solved many issues. sorry for the novel. I love gear.
Yes you can use 19" rack gear via the insert points and choose to bypass the 500 module or not. I also have a great river preamp and the cranborne 500 camden pres for when I'm tracking, connected ADAT :) but most of the time it's filled with my WesAudio modules
As I am looking to upgrade my project/tracking only studio - this Cranborne with the Interface has been on my wishlist, but the comments are causing me to pause because I was certainly thinking of using it for pre's - a LOT - Neve, API, SSL, to get the color. I am new to this so I might be getting something wrong conceptually. I really want to get great tracks INTO the box, and leave mixing and mastering to the dedicated houses (as I have done a bit in the past). My current cobbled rig is a Tascam Celesonic via USB 3 to my DAW (Studio One Pro 5), with an MAudio Profire 2496 adding channels via ADAT. Kind of works well as I can use the Celesonic completely standalone for rehearsals and even record to Auria Pro on Ipad, or even multichannel GB.
@@trebleboost7 you're good bro. Using pre's is a great way to run the unit. That way it's the front end of your choice + interface. This dude is out to lunch.
Yeah, what the hell was he talking about with the PRE's? Everyone that has bad things to say about craneborn already owns 500 series. Comes off as "The new kid on the block" phase
I have the Flock patch which I use primarily to reamp an existing track and run it through analog hardware. If I’m recording a new instrument track I run it through the the OctoPre #1/2 front inputs then through any specific analog hardware via the Flock. 16 outs 16 ins is plenty I find for a home studio setup.
I love using my cranborne. I own two, thinking about a third one. I know you have much more experience then me. I have worked in a small studio when I was 17, 42 now unfortunately. lol.. the cranborne fits my needs, I have not had these issues, but everyone has different use for gear. to be able to mix in and out, and select what modules I want to use has been a game changer for me. and saved me money. I have a good bit of rack gear and patch bays. I still use some rack gear with my cranborne. I patch it threw the back of the unit. I use mic pre in mine, but if I don't want to go back through them I switch the modules off. or remove them. their is a switch in the back of the inside of the rack, so you can still use the empty slot to record with. I understand what your saying, or maybe. it's like switching logic pro to another DAW. all my plugins are purchased for Apple format. I would have to repurchase all them to use with PC. or maybe I totally miss understood. lol. either way glad you found something that works for you. Love the channel and transparency of your reviews.
I appreciate your content and perspectives in your videos, however, a few points to clarify on the Cranborne 500ADAT: You can use the Cranborne 500ADAT for non-500 series modules as there is a bypass switch to bypass the 500 slot and you can just patch into the back, which I do with some of my 19 inch gear. You can also use 19 inch gear in the insert slots, similar to a traditional console (with a Y cable), so you absolutely can and should use any type of gear with this unit. It is pretty much a console. Also, I do not understand the point you were trying to make regarding using preamps in the unit. Preamps work perfectly well in the unit, just like any other 500 series chassis. It literally was made to be used with preamps (Cranborne’s own Camden 500 preamp was the Company’s initial use case) with the switch on the front that can be toggled as an analog input to the module or as an ADAT input feeding the module. The beauty comes in as you can have a full channel strip setup by for instance having a preamp in the module slot then having an EQ or compressor in the hardware insert on that channel. All audio can pass between everything in the signal path before hitting the converters, using both the analog input or the ADAT input toggled.
Yeah, that's right. I have 2 free slots in one of my CA ADAT500's. I run a Neve 8803 though the insert channels, making sure I've pressed the switch for bypassing the module inputs. Also, the CA is incredible at AD/DA Conversion. I mean really incredible. CA is awesome
@@willmcelroy6376 I think it's a matter of taste largely, it's what I think sounds better and there is some consensus. I think they're better sounding than the Apollo X series. I really like the newer RME converters and the 500ADAT holds it own against RME. and certainly the clocking is better than the UAD ApolloX range IMHO. I use a 500 ADAT as the master word clock, with all the Apollo's running from that. On my mix bus, I come out of a couple of empty inserts on a 500ADAT, using their DA from ADAT, into AN HG2 and SSL Fusion or other mix bus stuff, and then back. it always sounds better to me than using the Apollo X8p. My suggestion is to see if you can get a retailer to loan you one for a week and try it out for yourself.
Great video and many thanks for taking us along with you on your studio journey. I think sometimes people forget there are phases of trial and error and adjustments that one has to go through along the way to arrive at their destination and even after that it is still tentative is situations dictate. I too have gone through gear.
Great video! We have Neve, SSL, RedNet, Apollo, Merging, RME, and a few other pre’s and A/D / D/A in-house. Cranborne’s Camden pre’s and the R8’s converters are very noticeably better than most others, just below Merging, which is at a different level than most other hardware available. Cranborne is THAT good. Period. The Cranborne is so faithful than in linear mode, it is right up there with the SPL mastering grade hardware.
Great Choice Barry, I use the Pulse 16 with the Cranbourne 500ADAT it works great. I have a set of 8 DAV Preamps that are permanently connected to the 8 analogue inputs of the Cranbourne for tracking, That leaves the 8 slots for eq or compression modules etc that can be used for tracking and/or mixing. Like you I have the Pulse 16 linked to my patch bay and my monitor controller. I can use the Pulse 16 for additional inputs as well with some other preamps if I need them
dude i loved your pic on the thumbnail of this video! made me imagine you as a cowboy who just went off his horseback , now standing in the desert, who just squinted as he was looking at the opps and scanning the area for the potential massacre that was about to take place, right before he spit on the ground.
I run an rme UFX II AND PULSE 16 Clocked to a Bla mkii incredible setup detail is bananas the difference between the 2 is 1 to 2% favoring the rme for tighter sound. they both compliment each other very well damn near identical when clocking from an external clock (that's the key) rock solid stability bluescreens NEVER!! Without an external clock believe it or not I FAVOR the pulse clock over the rme . I would still recommend and external clock. the clocking is the only weakness of the rme imho however you can't have it all for under 3k welcome to Rme ROCK SOLID STABILTY! 12+yrs using rme (it just works 100% Flawlessly) if i need more channels i will upgrade the the rme ufx plus without hesitation
I also own a BLA microclock mk2 and a sparrow mk2 (white). How much of a difference did you get clocking the pulse? And do you think the pulse will have better conversion than a white sparrow?
@@luisguimaraes2176 if I'm not mistaken the sparrow is an older A to D. Conversion of today in even cheaper interfaces have improved dramatically. I don't have experience with the sparrow unfortunately to give you a fair honest opinion. you'll have to print some tracks to test which is better. as far as clocking mk2 to the pulse substantial improvement way more depth instantly noticeable
I use the RME Digiface, the Cranborne 500R, the Presonus AR22, and an Aphex 500 series USB rack together as an aggregate device. I find the analog output that I use for zero latency monitoring much quieter on the Cranborne and the AR22 than that of the Digiface even though the A to D captures are equally as nice on all, as far as I can tell. I also use an Presonus Quantum 2626 for capture in that aggregate but despite Presonus’s claim that they have near zero latency monitoring, I can always detect just enough to be distracting so I do not that while live tracking. I also use a Wes Audio Calypso unit that is connected by DB25 cables to an analog patchbay that I can then route signal to and from that unit to whatever outboard analog gear I want. It sounds like a crazy Frankenstein setup, and I suppose it is, but it works for me, so I guess that’s all that matters
If you get your clock from the RME unit's it will improve the Pulse 16 conversion. Ultimately try a RME ADI-2 Pro FS as a master clock and you will be surprised. This will improve even a Presonus Quantum converter quite a bit. I know a RME ADI-2 Pro FS it's expensive but cheaper than having multiple costly UAD interfaces.
Go madi - adat is just clunky in 2023. You can tie in a ferrofish A32 or two… with no practical length limitations of where the boxes are in the room - 64ch I/o total per madi pipeline @ 48k. And .. the A32’s are db25.
Man I tell you! Everything im researching right now youre always talking about! that cranborne i was just watching a video on it right before this one! LOL!😂😂🤣🤣 I too said thta is awesome because i can hook it up via adat to my FF800.
I'm a little confused on your comments about the cranborne unit, it has insert points...which means you can patch that into your patch bays. Giving you access to your analog outboard. Now it is a bit annoying you can't control pre or post for the 500 series unit in that slot but I rest my case. Also, this is designed to expand your inputs AND route audio from your DAW. So yeah if you're only using this for outboard 500 series effects then yeah using preamps seems silly, but its really flexible when you think about it because your can choose whether to take from the analog input in the back OR from your daw. So if you need more inputs, the R8 adat is a fantastic choice if you're looking for flexibility!
@@BarryJohns I think the pulse and r8 are super competitive for what you’re looking for. I think even with that correction, it’d still be a hard call for me personally if I were in your shoes.
@@BarryJohns The conversion on the 500 adat is stellar as well. There is a bypass switch on the unit that allows you to run the ins and outs in line mode. So even is you don't have 500 series processing it can still be used as very good AD DA unit and summing mixer. Of course the inserts on the back for each channel can also be used for getting out to other gear in your rack so it is quite good compared to pulse.
I think the Ferrofish is a good choice, even if you don't use the AD conversion: the device is cheaper than a dedicated MADI/ADAT adapter... But if you ever feel the need to double your connectivity: A Ferrofisch A32pro (or the RME M32 series, if you want to spend more) would have DB25 connectors. Don't forget, that you can Daisy-chain three more units (64 channels I/O) into the MADI stream. Yes, it is an older protocol than AVB/Dante, but reliable and with really low latency. Interested to see if there will be a "Barry Rant" in a couple of weeks, like "these crazy German engineers §$$%&" Long story short: I think it is not Pulse vs Craneborne, because both devices would add to each other...and I learned a lot - again. Thanks!
hey barry great video! Something caught me as incorrect in your video tho regarding your comments about flock patch saying "it doesn't give you any analogue ins and outs"; but thats exactly what the Flock does? I own 2 of the main patch's and Its complete io is all analogue and the only digital part is the app telling the hardware which way to direct the signals. Anything like the pulse, antelope, cranborne, dante all has a digital conversions adding latency with each and every routing and is technically not analogue pass thru like the patch's are.
With the Cranborne unit, how many mic inputs can it handle per channel? Also can you add guitar effects to the mix prior to the DAW or is that a loop out back in kind of thing?
@@BarryJohns No, I use an Audient ID22 as my interface so use the software that comes with that. Also using Reaper so I use the 'ReaInsert' plugin essentially as a digital patchbay. Really dig your channel and you were a big reason why I chose the Ferrofish.
@@PodPeak I wasn’t sure if the Ferrofish needed it as well. RME and Ferrofish are owned by the same company. Totalmix is required with RME and also works with the Ferrofish, now I’m assuming only when connected to an RME interface. Toto all mix is insanely powerful but very hard to wrap your head around. I was curious what your experience was, but it’s best if you didn’t have to mess with it.
@@BarryJohns In your configuration the Ferrofish is just showing up on total mix as madi or adat inputs. Totalmix sees everything non rme the same. Likewise, the Ferrofish could be slaved to anything else with its own mixing software (motu, Metric Halo, etc).
Quick question, I am noob at producing but been playing and recording (as a musician) for a while now. I got myself a Id44mkII and would like to able to use a X Desk as a summing mixer out of my DAW. Will the Blacklion adat converter provide me adat for out of the box mixing, or do I need an actual interface? Thanks in advance.
Hi Barry, Thanks for all the helpful info! I had an RME + order placed back in April waiting for it to come available then... I made a recent Motu purchase. Vast improvement in conversion from my UA product. Just saw your video and am second guessing myself. Grass is always greener effect I guess. Almost went with a Lynx aurora n 16 but was pleased with the Motu and it gave me funding for other wants. Just wondering what you perceive with the RME conversion. I know the RME is a solid unit. Take Care, J
You need the cheaper ones with smaller jacks, since there is not a lot of space between the connectors. It won't affect the audio quality, because it either "ADAT Data Stream OK" or no connection. Never discuss this with audiophiles, they can hear something analog even in digital data light transmission 🙂
Good for you. Takes courage to leave pro tools but it's the right decision. I like Antelope but will look at your choice I. Curious. I get pushback from people that love in the box and think I am crazy for having so much analogue gear but I love analogue gear. Youake your own DB25 cables ? Wow crazy.
Hey Barry just be carful with craneborne audio ...I bought the usb unit and it came half assembled half the nuts for the 1/4 inch plugs are not installed on this unit .. the pan knobs on the summing mixer are messed up(three of them don't click at center position like the rest) BAD CUSTOMER SERVICE. Already sold my old soundcard to pay for the thing now have to shut down studio to return this Product And alot more BULL$%!T .Still have to figure out what im gonna do with no help from them..
Hi Dale. This is absolutely shocking to hear and I'm very disappointed that you experienced this with our 500R8. All I can say is that this is absolute not what the vast majority of our customers experience and if you contacted us and we weren't able to fix the issue alongside you and your dealer than that is something we must look into. All the best for the future and please accept our apologies. CA
Using a Presonus 4848, Ferrofish Pulse 16, Apollo 8 and a ADA8200. I’ve in sense eliminated all my patchbays. All my outboard is set up to be a click and drag like a plugin. Little latency. Flock Audio are absolutely price gouging. They’re capitalizing due to them being the only ones offering this type of product, once more company’s create their own versions they’ll have to slash their excessive prices.
Oh wow, I have no idea why you're saying not to put mic/pres into a Cranborne 500ADAT. I have a UAD Apollo 8, I wanted to add 8 x mic/pres via ADAT to track drums (16ch total). For this the Cranborne is perfect! I have vintage outboard pres going into Apollo's 8 line inputs, then I have 8 500 series mic/pres going into Apollos 8 ADAt inputs via the Cranborne. The 500 ADAT has 2 x headphone outs which are better quality than the Apollo ones. I've added a Cranborne EC2 (1 U rack 2 x pre with 2 x headphones) and using their CAST system I can use two slots of my 500 ADAT for EQ and send the EC2 outs into them. The beauty is I can track with 16ch of excellent mic/pres, then if I want to sum I can pull out the mic/pres and replace them with EQs and compressors. Each channel of the 500ADAT also has an insert, so I can use other outboard when tracking, or it's super easy to send audio out on an ADAT channel and process it again (with insert) to ore vintage outboard and back through the 500ADAT.
Look I think that is an amazing unit, that said due to the fact that you can use it as a hardware insert (ins and out) from your DAW, that’s not typical done with mic preamps (typically out only) which is why to me it makes more sense to put eq/compression in the Craneborne to get the benefit of the unit and put mic preamps in a separate 500 rack.
@@BarryJohns The main benefit is to get 8 extra mic/pres via adat, which you can't do with an Api style rack. I think that's what is designed for, to add adat channels, the summing aspect is an extra feature that Cranborne haven't heavily promoted. You can also link channels to make a channel strip - mic/pres slots 1 & 2, eq on 3&4, compression on 5&6 etc
HDX hands down best for the professional. Quit hating and do something creative. PT can't be beat editing. I don't use a lot of plugs. Magic is in the hardware and the talent. Just saying
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Hey Barry John, You actually can connect any heat into your craneborne r8, they have slot bypass switches under the silver block inside the chassis, you flip it tot he left and it bypasses the slot and there you go, 19inch racks can be connected all of that stuff. I own one. I have a Avalon 737 connected to mine.
In regards to the Cranborne adat8, you can bypass the slots, (if you wish, so you can go in or out of the cranborne without going through a 500 unit), the summing is great, the converters are as good as anything I have used (40 years in the industry, I have used a few).
There is an insert on each slot (post 500 slot), so you can also use it as an in to bypass the slot.
I have 2 R8’s (the version with the interface and ADAT masters) and an ADAT 8 (ADAT slave only), all currently loaded with EQ’s and Compressors ( and a couple of ‘colour’ modules, tape emulators and aphex exciters), all connected to my patch bay, ins, outs and inserts, as well as having the potential to go in or out of my DAW on any channel. It’s mega flexible.
I looked at the flock, and I think they are an awesome idea, but, my god they are so expensive, and limited.
My setup : CA 500R8 (audio interface + slots) + pulse 16 + the bucket 500 rack 8 slot (DB25 to xlr )1st unit Fix audio + M-Track 8 ( as first aggregate device in logic ), very happy, lots of ins and out.
I have the cranborne 500 adat. I use 19” rack gear with it. Along with Burl 500 preamps. Works great. Not really following your cons on it. As it works great. I think you may need to get a little more up to speed on the cranborne 500. As I don’t believe your cons are valid on how to use it and it’s uses.
I own two, and probably get a third one. I like you maybe misunderstood that part. I can switch to any modules I want in any order by the bottom switch. hence patch bay mostly out of the picture. and cast has opened more space for me to use iso areas I didn't have. I was able to run one cable in conduit up on my roof then come down to a different room that was a storage room for my cabs, instead of using the drum room. now I can do live recording with a hole band. Not having to split drum performance then use my cab. it solved many issues. sorry for the novel. I love gear.
Yes you can use 19" rack gear via the insert points and choose to bypass the 500 module or not. I also have a great river preamp and the cranborne 500 camden pres for when I'm tracking, connected ADAT :) but most of the time it's filled with my WesAudio modules
As I am looking to upgrade my project/tracking only studio - this Cranborne with the Interface has been on my wishlist, but the comments are causing me to pause because I was certainly thinking of using it for pre's - a LOT - Neve, API, SSL, to get the color. I am new to this so I might be getting something wrong conceptually. I really want to get great tracks INTO the box, and leave mixing and mastering to the dedicated houses (as I have done a bit in the past). My current cobbled rig is a Tascam Celesonic via USB 3 to my DAW (Studio One Pro 5), with an MAudio Profire 2496 adding channels via ADAT. Kind of works well as I can use the Celesonic completely standalone for rehearsals and even record to Auria Pro on Ipad, or even multichannel GB.
@@trebleboost7 you're good bro. Using pre's is a great way to run the unit. That way it's the front end of your choice + interface. This dude is out to lunch.
Yeah, what the hell was he talking about with the PRE's? Everyone that has bad things to say about craneborn already owns 500 series. Comes off as "The new kid on the block" phase
Lmao 🤣 I like how every video he calls out avids predatory business tactics, need to include waves too. 🤣👌
I have the Flock patch which I use primarily to reamp an existing track and run it through analog hardware. If I’m recording a new instrument track I run it through the the OctoPre #1/2 front inputs then through any specific analog hardware via the Flock. 16 outs 16 ins is plenty I find for a home studio setup.
I have a Craneborne 500r8 and I love it. It's amazing
I love using my cranborne. I own two, thinking about a third one. I know you have much more experience then me. I have worked in a small studio when I was 17, 42 now unfortunately. lol.. the cranborne fits my needs, I have not had these issues, but everyone has different use for gear. to be able to mix in and out, and select what modules I want to use has been a game changer for me. and saved me money. I have a good bit of rack gear and patch bays. I still use some rack gear with my cranborne. I patch it threw the back of the unit. I use mic pre in mine, but if I don't want to go back through them I switch the modules off. or remove them. their is a switch in the back of the inside of the rack, so you can still use the empty slot to record with. I understand what your saying, or maybe. it's like switching logic pro to another DAW. all my plugins are purchased for Apple format. I would have to repurchase all them to use with PC. or maybe I totally miss understood. lol. either way glad you found something that works for you. Love the channel and transparency of your reviews.
I appreciate your content and perspectives in your videos, however, a few points to clarify on the Cranborne 500ADAT:
You can use the Cranborne 500ADAT for non-500 series modules as there is a bypass switch to bypass the 500 slot and you can just patch into the back, which I do with some of my 19 inch gear. You can also use 19 inch gear in the insert slots, similar to a traditional console (with a Y cable), so you absolutely can and should use any type of gear with this unit. It is pretty much a console.
Also, I do not understand the point you were trying to make regarding using preamps in the unit. Preamps work perfectly well in the unit, just like any other 500 series chassis. It literally was made to be used with preamps (Cranborne’s own Camden 500 preamp was the Company’s initial use case) with the switch on the front that can be toggled as an analog input to the module or as an ADAT input feeding the module.
The beauty comes in as you can have a full channel strip setup by for instance having a preamp in the module slot then having an EQ or compressor in the hardware insert on that channel. All audio can pass between everything in the signal path before hitting the converters, using both the analog input or the ADAT input toggled.
You said exactly what I was going to. Great post.
Yeah, that's right. I have 2 free slots in one of my CA ADAT500's. I run a Neve 8803 though the insert channels, making sure I've pressed the switch for bypassing the module inputs. Also, the CA is incredible at AD/DA Conversion. I mean really incredible. CA is awesome
@@willmcelroy6376 I think it's a matter of taste largely, it's what I think sounds better and there is some consensus. I think they're better sounding than the Apollo X series. I really like the newer RME converters and the 500ADAT holds it own against RME. and certainly the clocking is better than the UAD ApolloX range IMHO. I use a 500 ADAT as the master word clock, with all the Apollo's running from that. On my mix bus, I come out of a couple of empty inserts on a 500ADAT, using their DA from ADAT, into AN HG2 and SSL Fusion or other mix bus stuff, and then back. it always sounds better to me than using the Apollo X8p. My suggestion is to see if you can get a retailer to loan you one for a week and try it out for yourself.
I have the 500R8 and it's AWESOME!! Cranborne all day!!
Great video and many thanks for taking us along with you on your studio journey. I think sometimes people forget there are phases of trial and error and adjustments that one has to go through along the way to arrive at their destination and even after that it is still tentative is situations dictate. I too have gone through gear.
Amen!
Great video! We have Neve, SSL, RedNet, Apollo, Merging, RME, and a few other pre’s and A/D / D/A in-house. Cranborne’s Camden pre’s and the R8’s converters are very noticeably better than most others, just below Merging, which is at a different level than most other hardware available. Cranborne is THAT good. Period. The Cranborne is so faithful than in linear mode, it is right up there with the SPL mastering grade hardware.
Is this comment still valid in 2024?
Bought my pulse 16 for 700 euros used in perfect conditions, connects easily with my fireface 802...nice piece of gear.
Barry I was just asking this very question! Great comparison.
Great Choice Barry, I use the Pulse 16 with the Cranbourne 500ADAT it works great. I have a set of 8 DAV Preamps that are permanently connected to the 8 analogue inputs of the Cranbourne for tracking, That leaves the 8 slots for eq or compression modules etc that can be used for tracking and/or mixing. Like you I have the Pulse 16 linked to my patch bay and my monitor controller. I can use the Pulse 16 for additional inputs as well with some other preamps if I need them
Awesome setup!
Flock makes analog so flexible. You will stay in the analog domain including mastering if you connect a summing on the Flock as well.
dude i loved your pic on the thumbnail of this video! made me imagine you as a cowboy who just went off his horseback , now standing in the desert, who just squinted as he was looking at the opps and scanning the area for the potential massacre that was about to take place, right before he spit on the ground.
I run an rme UFX II AND PULSE 16 Clocked to a Bla mkii incredible setup detail is bananas the difference between the 2 is 1 to 2% favoring the rme for tighter sound. they both compliment each other very well damn near identical when clocking from an external clock (that's the key) rock solid stability bluescreens NEVER!! Without an external clock believe it or not I FAVOR the pulse clock over the rme . I would still recommend and external clock. the clocking is the only weakness of the rme imho however you can't have it all for under 3k welcome to Rme ROCK SOLID STABILTY! 12+yrs using rme (it just works 100% Flawlessly) if i need more channels i will upgrade the the rme ufx plus without hesitation
I also own a BLA microclock mk2 and a sparrow mk2 (white). How much of a difference did you get clocking the pulse? And do you think the pulse will have better conversion than a white sparrow?
@@luisguimaraes2176 if I'm not mistaken the sparrow is an older A to D. Conversion of today in even cheaper interfaces have improved dramatically. I don't have experience with the sparrow unfortunately to give you a fair honest opinion. you'll have to print some tracks to test which is better. as far as clocking mk2 to the pulse substantial improvement way more depth instantly noticeable
I use the RME Digiface, the Cranborne 500R, the Presonus AR22, and an Aphex 500 series USB rack together as an aggregate device. I find the analog output that I use for zero latency monitoring much quieter on the Cranborne and the AR22 than that of the Digiface even though the A to D captures are equally as nice on all, as far as I can tell. I also use an Presonus Quantum 2626 for capture in that aggregate but despite Presonus’s claim that they have near zero latency monitoring, I can always detect just enough to be distracting so I do not that while live tracking. I also use a Wes Audio Calypso unit that is connected by DB25 cables to an analog patchbay that I can then route signal to and from that unit to whatever outboard analog gear I want. It sounds like a crazy Frankenstein setup, and I suppose it is, but it works for me, so I guess that’s all that matters
Another option could’ve been an older Antelope orion 32 giving 32 i/o over madi
Yes! An Orion 32 is better!
I agree the software routing on Antelope products is crazy awesome - no other interface has the routing options of Antelope.
Can you run inputs in sequence on antelope
If you get your clock from the RME unit's it will improve the Pulse 16 conversion. Ultimately try a RME ADI-2 Pro FS as a master clock and you will be surprised. This will improve even a Presonus Quantum converter quite a bit. I know a RME ADI-2 Pro FS it's expensive but cheaper than having multiple costly UAD interfaces.
Have Adat to connect
more Ins and out
Barry Is on a roll today!
Go madi - adat is just clunky in 2023. You can tie in a ferrofish A32 or two… with no practical length limitations of where the boxes are in the room - 64ch I/o total per madi pipeline @ 48k. And .. the A32’s are db25.
2km are the limit with multimode MADI :)
@@jangerhard4039 that might get to the otherside of my room :D
Man I tell you! Everything im researching right now youre always talking about! that cranborne i was just watching a video on it right before this one! LOL!😂😂🤣🤣
I too said thta is awesome because i can hook it up via adat to my FF800.
I'm a little confused on your comments about the cranborne unit, it has insert points...which means you can patch that into your patch bays. Giving you access to your analog outboard. Now it is a bit annoying you can't control pre or post for the 500 series unit in that slot but I rest my case. Also, this is designed to expand your inputs AND route audio from your DAW. So yeah if you're only using this for outboard 500 series effects then yeah using preamps seems silly, but its really flexible when you think about it because your can choose whether to take from the analog input in the back OR from your daw. So if you need more inputs, the R8 adat is a fantastic choice if you're looking for flexibility!
Yea, that was a miss on my part.
@@BarryJohns I think the pulse and r8 are super competitive for what you’re looking for. I think even with that correction, it’d still be a hard call for me personally if I were in your shoes.
@@BarryJohns The conversion on the 500 adat is stellar as well. There is a bypass switch on the unit that allows you to run the ins and outs in line mode. So even is you don't have 500 series processing it can still be used as very good AD DA unit and summing mixer. Of course the inserts on the back for each channel can also be used for getting out to other gear in your rack so it is quite good compared to pulse.
I think the Ferrofish is a good choice, even if you don't use the AD conversion: the device is cheaper than a dedicated MADI/ADAT adapter...
But if you ever feel the need to double your connectivity: A Ferrofisch A32pro (or the RME M32 series, if you want to spend more) would have DB25 connectors.
Don't forget, that you can Daisy-chain three more units (64 channels I/O) into the MADI stream. Yes, it is an older protocol than AVB/Dante, but reliable and with really low latency.
Interested to see if there will be a "Barry Rant" in a couple of weeks, like "these crazy German engineers §$$%&"
Long story short: I think it is not Pulse vs Craneborne, because both devices would add to each other...and I learned a lot - again. Thanks!
hey barry great video! Something caught me as incorrect in your video tho regarding your comments about flock patch saying "it doesn't give you any analogue ins and outs"; but thats exactly what the Flock does? I own 2 of the main patch's and Its complete io is all analogue and the only digital part is the app telling the hardware which way to direct the signals. Anything like the pulse, antelope, cranborne, dante all has a digital conversions adding latency with each and every routing and is technically not analogue pass thru like the patch's are.
What I said was it doesn’t do AD/DA.
Does 500adat has DC coupled outputs for sending cv messages to analogs?
I wish I could buy the UFX+ somewhere 😔
Hi Barry...please do a session on RME total mix ... you said you would ...cheers
ua-cam.com/video/GnsZj4yONtA/v-deo.html&themeRefresh=1
With the Cranborne unit, how many mic inputs can it handle per channel? Also can you add guitar effects to the mix prior to the DAW or is that a loop out back in kind of thing?
I recently picked up the pulse 16 to exclusively mix with my analog hardware. I'm loving it so far. I think it's an incredible value for the money.
Are you using totalmix?
@@BarryJohns No, I use an Audient ID22 as my interface so use the software that comes with that. Also using Reaper so I use the 'ReaInsert' plugin essentially as a digital patchbay. Really dig your channel and you were a big reason why I chose the Ferrofish.
@@PodPeak I wasn’t sure if the Ferrofish needed it as well. RME and Ferrofish are owned by the same company.
Totalmix is required with RME and also works with the Ferrofish, now I’m assuming only when connected to an RME interface.
Toto all mix is insanely powerful but very hard to wrap your head around. I was curious what your experience was, but it’s best if you didn’t have to mess with it.
@@BarryJohns I'm glad I don't have to!!!
@@BarryJohns In your configuration the Ferrofish is just showing up on total mix as madi or adat inputs. Totalmix sees everything non rme the same. Likewise, the Ferrofish could be slaved to anything else with its own mixing software (motu, Metric Halo, etc).
Quick question, I am noob at producing but been playing and recording (as a musician) for a while now. I got myself a Id44mkII and would like to able to use a X Desk as a summing mixer out of my DAW. Will the Blacklion adat converter provide me adat for out of the box mixing, or do I need an actual interface? Thanks in advance.
The x-desk does not have ADAT I/O.
Hi Barry, Thanks for all the helpful info! I had an RME + order placed back in April waiting for it to come available then... I made a recent Motu purchase. Vast improvement in conversion from my UA product. Just saw your video and am second guessing myself. Grass is always greener effect I guess. Almost went with a Lynx aurora n 16 but was pleased with the Motu and it gave me funding for other wants. Just wondering what you perceive with the RME conversion. I know the RME is a solid unit. Take Care, J
I’m checking back in, your videos wasn’t showing up.
Hum, I can see all of them.
@@BarryJohns, I wasn’t getting the usual alert.
@@mrflynn01 not sure, but happy you are looking!
Could the MOTU 16A be used as an alternative to the Pulse? Similar price, wonder if the conversion is better?
Yes via ADAT or AVB. Conversion is likely to be similar.
It took you 20yrs too leave pro tools…. Wow…. I left back in 2011 for Logic after my digi002 experience I was done with pro tools.
Hi Barry. Which brand or type of adat toslink cables would you recommend for connecting the Pulse 16?
You need the cheaper ones with smaller jacks, since there is not a lot of space between the connectors. It won't affect the audio quality, because it either "ADAT Data Stream OK" or no connection. Never discuss this with audiophiles, they can hear something analog even in digital data light transmission 🙂
@@derived-doom lol
Audioquest OptiLink-3. I tried many. This one gives you more transparency and nice top end.
Good for you. Takes courage to leave pro tools but it's the right decision. I like Antelope but will look at your choice I. Curious. I get pushback from people that love in the box and think I am crazy for having so much analogue gear but I love analogue gear. Youake your own DB25 cables ? Wow crazy.
Video feedback: the main camera view is jittery and stuttering
Yea, I noticed that, gotta figure that out.
Hey Barry just be carful with craneborne audio ...I bought the usb unit and it came half assembled half the nuts for the 1/4 inch plugs are not installed on this unit .. the pan knobs on the summing mixer are messed up(three of them don't click at center position like the rest) BAD CUSTOMER SERVICE. Already sold my old soundcard to pay for the thing now have to shut down studio to return this Product And alot more BULL$%!T .Still have to figure out what im gonna do with no help from them..
Wow, sorry to hear about your troubles.
Hi Dale. This is absolutely shocking to hear and I'm very disappointed that you experienced this with our 500R8. All I can say is that this is absolute not what the vast majority of our customers experience and if you contacted us and we weren't able to fix the issue alongside you and your dealer than that is something we must look into. All the best for the future and please accept our apologies. CA
Using a Presonus 4848, Ferrofish Pulse 16, Apollo 8 and a ADA8200. I’ve in sense eliminated all my patchbays. All my outboard is set up to be a click and drag like a plugin. Little latency. Flock Audio are absolutely price gouging. They’re capitalizing due to them being the only ones offering this type of product, once more company’s create their own versions they’ll have to slash their excessive prices.
We need a South Park version of Barry Johns.
Stand by😜
ummmm'K
@@BarryJohns
When will you do the "make your own cable" tutorial? Also welcome back to the videos, I was wondering if you are well as a few weeks passed by. thanks
Get an Antelope Orion 32!
X2
Oh wow, I have no idea why you're saying not to put mic/pres into a Cranborne 500ADAT. I have a UAD Apollo 8, I wanted to add 8 x mic/pres via ADAT to track drums (16ch total). For this the Cranborne is perfect! I have vintage outboard pres going into Apollo's 8 line inputs, then I have 8 500 series mic/pres going into Apollos 8 ADAt inputs via the Cranborne.
The 500 ADAT has 2 x headphone outs which are better quality than the Apollo ones. I've added a Cranborne EC2 (1 U rack 2 x pre with 2 x headphones) and using their CAST system I can use two slots of my 500 ADAT for EQ and send the EC2 outs into them.
The beauty is I can track with 16ch of excellent mic/pres, then if I want to sum I can pull out the mic/pres and replace them with EQs and compressors. Each channel of the 500ADAT also has an insert, so I can use other outboard when tracking, or it's super easy to send audio out on an ADAT channel and process it again (with insert) to ore vintage outboard and back through the 500ADAT.
Look I think that is an amazing unit, that said due to the fact that you can use it as a hardware insert (ins and out) from your DAW, that’s not typical done with mic preamps (typically out only) which is why to me it makes more sense to put eq/compression in the Craneborne to get the benefit of the unit and put mic preamps in a separate 500 rack.
@@BarryJohns The main benefit is to get 8 extra mic/pres via adat, which you can't do with an Api style rack. I think that's what is designed for, to add adat channels, the summing aspect is an extra feature that Cranborne haven't heavily promoted. You can also link channels to make a channel strip - mic/pres slots 1 & 2, eq on 3&4, compression on 5&6 etc
Support can be problematic. Support your move to migrate.
Cranborne is the best. I disagree with many of your comments about it.
HDX hands down best for the professional. Quit hating and do something creative. PT can't be beat editing. I don't use a lot of plugs. Magic is in the hardware and the talent. Just saying
Hardware units like Wes Audio and Bettermaker that has DAW control is the future.
😂😂😂😂😂
Behringer ada8200 hehehe
I have a Craneborn adat for sale.
How much lol
@@AH20XX send me dm