Echo sound cards

[stereo71]

Does anyone have experience with the Echo
sound cards like Gina, Darla, etc.? I am
looking for a quality card/breakout setup
to transfer analog sources to hard drive,
and this seems like the way to go if a PC
is involved. Any recommendations?

TIA

[Paul L.]

I know a couple people with the Gina and they like it a lot. That one has the breakout box.

I have the Mia card, which is internal, and am very happy with it.

You can see some reviews and links at

http://www.pcavtech.com/soundcards/

I don't think the guy has a test of the Mia on his main page, but he does test Echo Audio's earlier designs and rates them all as his reference, getting excellent measurements in all categories.

[Todd Fredericks]

I have the Gina (20 bit) and I'm very happy with it. The breakout box really does the trick of keeping stuff quiet (no PC noise/etc.). The coax in/out's are excellent too (I have my dat linked to it). The software was a bit dodgy for a couple of years but now after several different releases (free downloads) it seems fine. Try and find a used one for a better price. If you have any specific questions, I'll try and answer them...

Todd

[stereo71]

Thanks for the input! I'll get my DAW set up
and go from there...

It does seem that the software issues have been
addressed, as well as early incompatibility
problems with certain chipsets.

Can I ask what software package you use, like
or dislike? My main interest at first will be
transcribing LPs, and tapes of live performances.

[RetroSmith]

I agree.

I have the GINA 24 bit card with the breakout box, and its pretty great. My 24 bit GINA allows SPDIF to my Alesis ADAT multitrack, which means, kiddies, that i can transfer an 8 track mix digitally to Cool Edit , all 8 tracks at the same time, and thats pretty groovy.

Most other cards wont let you do that, you have to transfer 2 tracks at a time, then change cables....thats a drag.

I HAD the GINA 20 bit card, and it was great also. I wanted the higher bitrate and the ADAT sync. If you just want great sound, tho, the 20 bit is fine. (to be honest, I cant tell much difference in sound quality alone between my old 20 bit GINA and my 24 bit!!)

hope this helps.

mikey