need some help with bits and such

[aramism]

i was helping a buddy of mine set up a bunch of shit in his studio and he has this situation we have been trying to figure out. i was hoping someone here could chime in.

he is running an alesis XT-20 ADAT into a digi LE interface via lightpipe for the extra 8 channels of A/D/A. considering that it is 20-bit, what is lost in a 24 bit session? does he need to keep his levels down to not lose information? any other words of wisdom on this topic are appreciated (besides telling him to get another DAW rig. his money is better spent on other instruments and gear at the time)


thanks

 

[Loren Littlejohn]

I thought I remember reading somewhere that the lowest 4 bits get discarded.

Don't take my word for it man, please.

 

[Tommy Gun]

I believe I've heard the same thing. I guess the best way to find out would be to do a comparison recording, if that's reasonable.

 

[aramism]

do the levels have anything to do with it? not sure but i remember reading somewhere about taking precautions with the levels or something along those lines when you are taking about bit loss. could be wrong though.