ADAT to HD 24: The Evolution of Digital Audio Recording Technology

In the 1990s, the world of digital audio recording was dominated by two competing formats: the Alesis ADAT and Tascam's DA88. While both systems revolutionized the way audio was recorded, they had significant differences that influenced their adoption.

ADAT and DA88: Competing Formats in the 90s

Both Alesis ADAT and Tascam's DA88 were prevalent among audio professionals in the 1990s. However, I personally used the DA88 more often and found it to be highly compatible with SMPTE timecode from computer sequencers, delivering reasonable quality. The DA88, like the base model ADAT, initially recorded at 16-bit resolution. However, later models advanced to 24-bit resolution, while ADAT machines eventually reached 20-bit resolution.

ADAT became particularly popular for a period, evidenced by its use in recording Alanis Morissette's massive-selling album 'Jagged Little Pill,' where multiple machines were used to achieve synchronized audio.

After the success and widespread use of ADAT, the industry began to look towards newer technologies that could further enhance the recording process.

Hard Disk Recording: The Next Generation

The Alesis HD 24 marked the next advancement in digital audio recording. This system recorded 24 tracks of audio directly onto hard drives, making it a very robust solution for recording multiple channels of audio. One of its key features was the ability to synchronize several units easily, thus providing even more channels for recording.

The HD 24 was particularly advantageous for transferring multiple ADAT VHS tapes to hard drives. This seamless migration was possible due to its compatibility with the ADAT format, allowing professionals to take advantage of the extensive library of ADAT recordings while embracing the future of digital audio recording.

Conclusion

From the innovative Alesis ADAT to the robust and versatile Alesis HD 24, digital audio recording has continuously evolved. Each technology marked a significant leap forward, driven by the need for better sound quality, more channels, and easier synchronization. The journey from the magnetic tape of the 90s to the hard disk recording of the 2000s exemplifies the ongoing evolution of audio technology that is essential for the audio industry.