Solution To Interface Challenge Options

[evolution]

Hi!

I have a TLAudio 5052 going into a motu 828mk11 . I've had feedback that the sound could be better and I've read that the motu is not considered the best sound due to poor pre-amps. I'm assuming that doesnt matter to me as I'm using the preamps in the 5052.

Questions

1) Is the 5052 pre amp good enough to not worry about the motu pre amps?
2) What do people think about the 5052 sound
3) If I need to replace the motu, what would be the best solution? I need multiple inputs (8 max)

Thanks!

A

[kayj_prod]

Hi!

I have a TLAudio 5052 going into a motu 828mk11 . I've had feedback that the sound could be better and I've read that the motu is not considered the best sound due to poor pre-amps. I'm assuming that doesnt matter to me as I'm using the preamps in the 5052.

Questions

1) Is the 5052 pre amp good enough to not worry about the motu pre amps?
2) What do people think about the 5052 sound
3) If I need to replace the motu, what would be the best solution? I need multiple inputs (8 max)

Thanks!

A

I use quite a bit of TLA valve gear and I really like the sound of the pres. Not exactly transparent, but I find they colour the sound in a nice way. The 5052 is really well spec'd so you should be able to get a great sound on it presuming your sources are equally good! If you have the digital I/O upgrade you can bypass the analogue circuitry on your MOTU completely.

The MOTU pres are OK, but for the money you pay for lower end MOTU stuff they're never going to be the best. I think a lot depends on what sources you're putting through them.

As for the last question, budget is everything! I usually opt to put my most important sources through my best pres and have fewer of them.