So, 32bit recording?

[Pathfinder]

I was looking at getting an inexpensive AI even though I have the Focusrite 18i20 3rd gen. Per my last post it is , well not user friendly.

Anyway loaded at a $400+ SSL12 and liked the software I saw, adat expandable. Also because it is much more portable n will run on usb if needed.
So I record everything at 24bit 48k. 
I really want to try this SSL12  but have no idea what the bit difference would mean, as far as What to change, etc. or do I change anything.  Seems like I be recording some empty bits or something?

Is their a simple answer.? Like, doesn't matter, you can only do 24 so it will be 24!

\Thanks

 

 

 

Edited Saturday at 11:00 PM by Pathfinder

[Mr No Name]

32-Bit Conversion Explained - SSL Audio Interfaces

 

23 January 2025 15:15

This FAQ aims to demystify what 32-bit conversion technology implies, resolve the most common misconceptions and provide some insight as to why we use 32-bit converters in SSL products such as PURE DRIVE QUAD, PURE DRIVE OCTO, SSL 12, SSL 18, SSL 2 MKII and SSL 2+ MKII

“Do I still need to worry about setting the input gain when using my SSL device that has 32-bit converters? I’ve heard 32-bit devices can’t be clipped...”

In short - yes, you do still need to set an appropriate gain to make sure your SSL device does not run the risk of clipping.

Why?

We use 32-bit fixed point (also referred to as ‘integer’) converters. The confusion comes from a small subset of audio devices on the market that happen to use a 32-bit floating-point recording system. These devices usually involve complex multi-converter systems per recording channel (most often two converters, covering different ranges) as a way to achieve an extended dynamic range at the A-D stage. Also, the digital stream from the A-D stage is presented in a 32-bit float format, which numerically allows for a dynamic range beyond that of the actual converter stage. Such products are designed to suit specific industry needs like field-recording, where astonishingly high dynamic range material needs to be recorded or where it is not possible to know beforehand exactly how loud your source is going to be. Imagine been tasked with recording a space shuttle lift-off and having to ask for another take because your recorder clipped...

Our friends at Sound Devices do offer products aimed at field-recording applications that deploy 32-bit floating point recording formats, if you’re curious to find out more about the technology.  

https://support.solidstatelogic.com/hc/en-gb/articles/24642897272221-32-Bit-Conversion-Explained-SSL-Audio-Interfaces

 

looks like a decent interface tbf.

[Pathfinder]

34 minutes ago, Mr No Name said:

32-Bit Conversion Explained - SSL Audio Interfaces

 

23 January 2025 15:15

This FAQ aims to demystify what 32-bit conversion technology implies, resolve the most common misconceptions and provide some insight as to why we use 32-bit converters in SSL products such as PURE DRIVE QUAD, PURE DRIVE OCTO, SSL 12, SSL 18, SSL 2 MKII and SSL 2+ MKII

“Do I still need to worry about setting the input gain when using my SSL device that has 32-bit converters? I’ve heard 32-bit devices can’t be clipped...”

In short - yes, you do still need to set an appropriate gain to make sure your SSL device does not run the risk of clipping.

Why?

We use 32-bit fixed point (also referred to as ‘integer’) converters. The confusion comes from a small subset of audio devices on the market that happen to use a 32-bit floating-point recording system. These devices usually involve complex multi-converter systems per recording channel (most often two converters, covering different ranges) as a way to achieve an extended dynamic range at the A-D stage. Also, the digital stream from the A-D stage is presented in a 32-bit float format, which numerically allows for a dynamic range beyond that of the actual converter stage. Such products are designed to suit specific industry needs like field-recording, where astonishingly high dynamic range material needs to be recorded or where it is not possible to know beforehand exactly how loud your source is going to be. Imagine been tasked with recording a space shuttle lift-off and having to ask for another take because your recorder clipped...

Our friends at Sound Devices do offer products aimed at field-recording applications that deploy 32-bit floating point recording formats, if you’re curious to find out more about the technology.  

https://support.solidstatelogic.com/hc/en-gb/articles/24642897272221-32-Bit-Conversion-Explained-SSL-Audio-Interfaces

 

looks like a decent interface tbf.

EDIT: BUMMER_USB power only-that lets me out. Too bad really because i like the small size and the features? Damn it~

 I was looking at the volt476P also, but the reviews were NOT thilling.

 

 

Edited Sunday at 07:03 AM by Pathfinder

[Chaps]

41 minutes ago, Pathfinder said:

EDIT: BUMMER_USB power only-that lets me out.

 

 

Is the USB power only a problem because you don't want to connect it to your computer? You can buy USB chargers that plug into an AC wall socket that could power the device. They aren't very expensive. I have several of them.

[Pathfinder]

10 hours ago, Chaps said:

Is the USB power only a problem because you don't want to connect it to your computer? You can buy USB chargers that plug into an AC wall socket that could power the device. They aren't very expensive. I have several of them.

I guess it would only take the power it needs, correct? SSL does not even comment if the ac adapter is safe or not. They just say use the included usb cable . It is 3.0 which is a plus.I guess they wanted to save money. 
IDK, I am an A\C guy or at least I want the option-But thanks for reminding me I have  ton of those, but still not sure.

Gets worse for me the more I read. If I use an ac adapter I will not have midi and I use midi a lot. It has regular 5 din or whatever midi i]o's but thats more cables and a small midi interface. Nope! Too bad, bad design imho. For me anyway

Edited Sunday at 05:45 PM by Pathfinder

[Chaps]

50 minutes ago, Pathfinder said:

I guess it would only take the power it needs, correct? SSL does not even comment if the ac adapter is safe or not. They just say use the included usb cable . It is 3.0 which is a plus.I guess they wanted to save money. 
IDK, I am an A\C guy or at least I want the option-But thanks for reminding me I have  ton of those, but still not sure.

Well, if you use the USB port connected to desktop computer, or a laptop that is plugged into a wall socket, that is AC power converted to DC power. I've never seen a charger warning that it may output too much power for certain devices, only that it has enough power to charge/run certain devices. The user guide for the SSL 12 says "SSL 12’s power is based on the USB 3.0 specification (900mA) so ensure you are connected to a USB 3 port and not a USB 2 port."  I would think any USB 3.0 charger would be compliant. It's too bad you don't want to connect to a computer because there are many advantages to doing so. Software/firmware updates, control of the device using software, and multiple inputs/outputs recognized in the DAW are what come immediately to mind.

The audio interface I use, the Steinberg UR24C can be powered by either connecting it to a computer, which can both power the device and connect to the computer for digital audio, or powered by an AC adapter, which also connects to the interface via USB. I connect with USB C 3.1 because it powers the device, gives me very fast transfer speeds, lets me blend all audio sources with software for the headphones, and lets me use Direct Monitoring with FX in my headphones. That series is worth checking out if you are still shopping around.

Steinberg UR-C Audio Interfaces

 

Edited Sunday at 06:23 PM by Chaps

[Pathfinder]

5 minutes ago, Chaps said:

Well, if you use the USB port connected to desktop computer, or a laptop that is plugged into a wall socket, that is AC power converted to DC power. I've never seen a charger warning that it may output too much power for certain devices, only that it has enough power to charge/run certain devices. The user guide for the SSL 12 says "SSL 12’s power is based on the USB 3.0 specification (900mA) so ensure you are connected to a USB 3 port and not a USB 2 port."  I would think any USB 3.0 charger would be compliant. It's too bad you don't want to connect to a computer because there are many advantages to doing so. Software/firmware updates, control of the device using software, and multiple inputs/outputs recognized in the DAW are what come immediately to mind.

The audio interface I use, the Steinberg UR24C can be powered by either connecting it to a computer, which can both power the device and connect to the computer for digital audio, or powered by an AC adapter, which also connects to the interface via USB. I connect with USB C 3.1 because it powers the device, gives me very fast transfer speeds, lets me blend all audio sources with software for the headphones, and lets me use Direct Monitoring with FX in my headphones. That series is worth checking out if you are still shopping around.

Steinberg UR-C Audio Interfaces

 

OK Wait, of course I want to connect to my PC and use my daw? I never liked any bus driven devices with the exception of the small enclosures for nvme m2 drives and such. Just an old stubborn Italian guy. I like Electricity to run my devic es and USB for audio data and midi data.........I know, I am a dinosaur. Thanks for all the info- it's appreciated.

[Pathfinder]

I keep looking and the SSL is te only one I like, damn. Just in case I do NOT have a free USB C input but I do have 2 USB 3.2 A inputs open on rear of PC and I read this:

 

A standard USB 3.2 port, also known as USB 3.2 Gen 1, typically outputs a maximum current of 900mA at 5 volts, which translates to a total power output of 4.5 watts; this is the same as the older USB 3.0 standard.