Multiple UAD-1s and PCI-X G5s? Magma expansion the solution?

[amathie]

I'm new to this forum so excuse any repetition from previous posts.

I understand that there is a conflict between UAD-1 cards and the PCI-X controller chip on PCI-X macs, which limits the available DSP. It seems that one card is worthwhile but that the inefficiency is increased when multiple cards are used, perhaps even reducing the available DSP as a second card is added. My questions are;

a) Have I understood the issue correctly?

b) If multiple cards are run through a Magma expansion chassis, does this overcome or improve the problem?

Thanks

Dual 2GHz G5, 2Gb RAM, Lynx AES 16 PCI card in slot 2

 

[MPC]

a) yeah, pretty much.

b) Magma helps. In my experience the PCIX problem causes about a 15%-20% hit in UAD-1....I use a magma and I'd estimate I get about 10% of it back.....but, UA has been pretty diligent about trying to improve this, so things may be better now. Last time I had a UAD1 card inside the G5 it was with version 3.6, so with 3.8 results may be better, perhaps someone else is better setup to answer that.

 

[amathie]

MPC

Thanks for the reply. I'm glad things seem to be working for you. Could you let me know the following

What sequencer are you using - Logic - Nuendo etc?

What computer?

What model of Magma?

How many cards in the Magma?

Thanks very much

 

[MPC]

I'm using a Dual2.5 G5, 3.5gig RAM, 2WD Raptor HD. Nuendo3 and DP4.5 are my sequencers. 7slot Magma 33mhz, I believe, it's one of the ones that won't work with HD so people are letting them go cheap, got mine for $275. It has 3 UAD 1 cards and a TC Powercore. I'm also using a 2408mk3 with some external converters.