[linux-audio-user] which device to purchase for SP/DIF or AES/EBU?

[Russell L. Harris]

I have just installed AGNULA/demudi-1.1.0 in my desktop machine (Intel  
Celeron processor).

My need is to transfer two channels (that is, stereo) digitized sound  
back and forth between a Tascam CR-RW2000 and a Pentium-class desktop  
computer, so that the sound can be edited.  The Tascam has both SP/DIF  
coaxial and AES/EBU inputs and outputs.

I have no need for multi-channel operation (other than stereo), nor for  
midi or routing.

Recent postings on the alsa-user mail list make me lean toward purchase  
of a RME sound card, but I am confused as to which RME cards ALSA  
supports.  I also am confused as to whether a "multiface" or "digiface"  
is required.  The RME web site says that ALSA drivers are available for  
the DIGI9652 and the DIGI9636; but these models are not listed on the  
ALSA Sound Card Matrix web page.

Another possibility is to purchase a USB or Firewire device which  
supports SP/DIF or AES/EBU input and output.

The main consideration is ALSA support:  which devices (manufacturer  
and model) work reliably and bug-free under ALSA?

RLH