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You can read white papers all day and never find a conclusive answer to the question of connectivity.
Is it better to have more bandwidth (FireWire), or more raw speed (USB)?
And when you add the question of support, with FireWire operating on a relatively open protocol (Apple-style) and USB entrenched in the plug-and-play game (Microsoft), the contest becomes even more esoteric. The early battles seemed to indicate that USB would satisfy more consumers, but the IEEE (FireWire) standard has gained ground. Now, we present a new battle, between a FireWire interface from an industry giant (TASCAM) and a USB device from a relatively new line offered by a competitor (Edirol). Both devices promise high- performance at well under $1,000.
But do they deliver?!?!!
TASCAM FW-1804
OK, TASCAM has been providing audio solutions for the home studio since cassette ruled the domain. Their more recent digital audio workstation offerings have not disappointed fans of their multi- track cassette recorders, however, with generous connectivity and control options. And the FW-1804 follows hot on the heels of their FW-1884, delivering a 2 rack-space unit for those of us who don't have enough real estate for the 1884's control surface, but still offering all the connectivity TASCAM is known for. As a relatively mobile "notebook" user, I was initially wary of the rack-mount unit, but it is actually rather lightweight and portable (if you're into that sort of thing). Furthermore, the FireWire connection is a little less cumbersome than a CardBus interface, and provides greater bandwidth than USB. Although I had to adapt the laptop's 4- pin FW port to the 1804's 6-pin connector (something TASCAM does not recommend, by the way, even though there is no way to power the 1804 via the 6-pin connector), once I powered it on and saw the warm glow of the front-panel buttons, I felt right at home (probably because I actually was at home).
The FW-1804 met my expectations. There are Neutrik and 1/4" inputs on four channels, with 1/4" inputs on the remaining four analog channels. The phantom power rated well and recording quality was very good. I have yet to actually use the ADAT optical in/out pair, but they are there, along with the ubiquitous S/PDIF in/outs...