Mytek AD 96 Reviews

[brandondrury]

Mytek AD 96 Description
Stereo96 ADC is a two channel hi-end Analog to Digital converter for recording and mastering applications. The main feature of this converter is its outstanding sound quality which makes it suitable for the most demanding projects when preserving the original signal quality is a required.

Stereo96 ADC features include:

- 44.1, 48, 88.2 and 96kHz internal sampling frequencies
- Ext. wordclock sync 25-100kHz or 256x Superclock(tm)
- 120dB Dynamic Range
- 24 bit resolution
- High performance SuperShaper-HR™ psychoacoustic noiseshaping algorithm for 16 bit output
- Switchable precision 10 turn-trimpots or input gain knob
- Wordclock output can be used as a hi-end house clock.

[brandondrury]

Quality: 9
The Mytek is supposed to sound great. That's what I was told just before I bought it. While I can't say that the Mytek sounds bad, I have to say that cheap, crappy converters sound quite a bit better than I had imagined.

For the typical home recording guy struggling with inadequate acoustics and non-major label talent, I have a hard time recommending the upgrading of converters. There are more effective things you can put your money into in my opinion.

Don't take my word for it. Take a listen yourself. AD Converter Shootout: Mytek AD96 vs Presonus Firestudio

Reliability: 10
I've owned two Mytek AD96 converters since late 2004. Never once has the Mytek ever had one had a single problem. They have been bulletproof.

Overall Rating: 8
Overall, I give the Mytek AD96 and 8. It's not that there is anything wrong with the Mytek, but these days I'm looking for the most bang for my recording buck. I'm placing my money into products that are going to bring my recording studio more business and allow my clients to walk away happier.

The benefits of the Mytek are so subtle that I'm not sure than any of my clients would care.

I'm not saying there aren't benefits, but it's clear to me that they are slim.

[Ericcc]

Good review. I have bought a Mytek AD96 myself recently comming from a RME fireface 400. To me the difference is 25% better then before. More accuracy, faster transients etc.. These things build up in a mix. Mixing, let's say, 8 tracks leaves me with more transparancy and detail now then I could achieve with the Fireface 400.

Another thing is that the Mytek clocks my Benchmark DAC-1 and that sounds better as well. So, you don't 'only' profit on the AD side but also on the monitoring side.. Just a thought..

Best,
Eric

[brandondrury]

To me the difference is 25% better then before.

Wow! Maybe mine ARE broken! For me, the difference is 1%.

Brandon