Best AD converters

[dagosto]

I am looking for the best sound converters that are also easy to use. I hear the Lynx Aurora is pretty tight but I don't know how to interface it with my PC. The Fireface is awesome but is firewire the best route? Some guidance would be greatly appreciated.

[puffpastry]

I've always sketched a little on the AES/EBU format just because of the fact that the clock signal is embedded within the audio. I've read opinions from various mastering engineers, Bob Katz being one of them, that tend to dis on the format. From what I understand, there is a substantial amount of jitter in AES/EBU as compared to SPDIF. The jitter can be compensated for by removing the subcode clock signal, although a stable SPDIF system is an easier and less expensive route to go.


Having said that, let me refer you to Bob Katz's site, Digital Domain. It's a wealth of information.

Too bad Aardvark isn't around any longer. They really made some nice stuff.