Questions for 0404 Users

[Borat]

I just installed my new E-MU 0404 for the first time today. I previously used the Chaintech AV710, which was really easy to setup thanks to the graphical guide by Mr. Radar. But I can't seem to find a step-by-step guide for this card. If there is, I apologize for this post.

Anyway, I just had a couple of questions. I followed these steps I found in an old thread:

Originally Posted by alexanderino

Hi Uzziah,

to enable ASIO, try this:

1. Download the foobar2000 ASIO DLL plugin
2. Extract only one DLL (SSE in your case) to foobar2000's components folder
3. Start foobar2000. Go to preferences -> playback and change output data format to 32bit fixed-point
4. Jump to Output. Select ASIO (dll version). Then press go to settings …
5. Select device E-MU ASIO
6. Make sure no resampler DSPs are activated in DSP manager. Close preferences
7. Open Patchmix. Load a new session, 44.1 minimum -10
8. Play a file with foobar2000

If all goes well, you should be enjoying ASIO just like I am right now Let me know how it goes.

Cheers,
Jason

1. Are these the optimal settings for using the 0404 with foobar2k?
2. Should it be locked in 44 in the Patchmix DSP?
3. I noticed there was a session for "ASIO 44.1 Direct Monitoring"? Shouldn't I be using that session?
4. I also don't understand why I'm not supposed to use the foobar Resampler (SSRC) anymore with my 0404 as opposed to when I was using the AV710. Wouldn't that be of better quality?
5. Why is it preferable to use ASIO rather than Kernel Streaming with this card if they are the same thing?
6. What settings do I use for the "Thread Priority" "Buffer Size 0-63" "Shift Output Channels" and "Use Direct input monitor" in the foobar ASIO tab?
7. I read in another old thread that for strictly music listening, the buffer size should be set high, but that it isn't the same as the "Buffer Size 0-63" in foobar, this is the buffer count. Where do I adjust this buffer size?
8. Should I use "32 bit fixed point" or "24 bit fixed point padded to 32 bit"?

I also noticed that almost everyone who owns the 0404 here has a modded version. I have never soldered before so I don't plan on starting with my $80 source. Can those who have modded 0404's respond with who modded it, and how much the service should cost.

Thanks.

[1UP]

There is no "best" setting. You can start with the procedure you posted and take it from there - experiment with different resampling and padding options in foobar. Note that Patchmix requires a different session to be loaded if changing sampling rates.

Modding is very worthwhile - price would depend on the modder - obviously, don't think about paying more than the card is worth! Although some people who do it for a living would argue with that

[Borat]

Thanks 1UP.

It does sound pretty good with the current settings. But I honestly was expecting a night and day difference over my AV710. As of now it's only night and later that night.

I'm just glad I didn't experience any huge problems with the drivers/Patchmix software off the bat. I was concerned after hearing about some having problems with it.

I also only chose to install the Patchmix DSP and the EMU0404 drivers. I hope that is all that's required. There were other programs on the install disc but I didn't want to bloat my computer with unnecessary software.

[[AK]Zip]

Originally Posted by Borat

I also only chose to install the Patchmix DSP and the EMU0404 drivers. I hope that is all that's required. There were other programs on the install disc but I didn't want to bloat my computer with unnecessary software.

Yea thats all you need.

[Borat]

Originally Posted by [AK]Zip

Yea thats all you need.

OK. Thanks [AK]Zip!

I see that you have your 0404 modded as well. Would you happen to know if a modded 0404 sounds better (I know this is subjective but would like opinions anyway) than a stock 1212m? I saw the 1212m for $159 at my local Guitar Center on closeout and could still return this 0404 to purchase that card. But if a modded 0404 can outdo the 1212m then I want to go that route.

[Gabe Logan]

I would also like to hear his comments on his modded 0404 to 1212 is.

Originally Posted by Borat

OK. Thanks [AK]Zip!

I see that you have your 0404 modded as well. Would you happen to know if a modded 0404 sounds better (I know this is subjective but would like opinions anyway) than a stock 1212m? I saw the 1212m for $159 at my local Guitar Center on closeout and could still return this 0404 to purchase that card. But if a modded 0404 can outdo the 1212m then I want to go that route.

[[AK]Zip]

I used to own the 1212. I actually found the sound to be very veil compared to a stock 0404. The modded 0404 does sound better in my opinion to the stock 0404, but how much better is arguable. My friend thought it was a bigger difference then I did. I have both a stock and a modded 0404 so I was able to do a AB between them and found that the sound improved overall between the 2. Im not going to go much into on what all changed because I really am not much for words, but the difference is there.

-Alex-

[Asmo]

Originally Posted by Borat

OK. Thanks [AK]Zip!

I see that you have your 0404 modded as well. Would you happen to know if a modded 0404 sounds better (I know this is subjective but would like opinions anyway) than a stock 1212m? I saw the 1212m for $159 at my local Guitar Center on closeout and could still return this 0404 to purchase that card. But if a modded 0404 can outdo the 1212m then I want to go that route.

The cost of modding the 0404 brings it over the cost of the stock 1212m, how about... modding the 1212m?

What I would do is this, buy both, take back the one you don't like. Some people will say they prefer the 0404, some (like myself) will tell you, the 1212m is better.

[[AK]Zip]

Originally Posted by Asmo

The cost of modding the 0404 brings it over the cost of the stock 1212m, how about... modding the 1212m?

What I would do is this, buy both, take back the one you don't like. Some people will say they prefer the 0404, some (like myself) will tell you, the 1212m is better.

I agree get both and return 1 you don't like.