Up for sale rare PC studio professional class PCI sound card:
MARIAN TRACE 8
One of the best PCI cards ever made for musicians/studios...
Works on Windows : from XP to 11(requires some skills)One of the rare PCI cards,that still works on new systems!!!
The Marian Trace 8 is a professional-grade PCI audio interface designed for high-end studio recording and playback. While it is an older model, it remains respected for its high-speed data transfer and low-latency performance.
Key Specifications
Audio Quality: Supports up to 24-bit / 192 kHz resolution.
I/O: Features 8 analog inputs and 8 analog outputs (16 channels total).
Versions: It was produced in two main hardware variants:
Trace 8 TRS: Equipped with 6.3mm balanced jack (TRS) connectors.
DSP Engine: Includes the "Beast" DSP mixer, which allows for zero-latency routing and hardware-based mixing.
Expansion: Features the TDM SyncBus, allowing you to sync and cascade up to 8 Marian cards in a single system.
Technical Compatibility
Slot Type: Standard PCI (32-bit, 3.3V/5V). Note that modern motherboards often use PCIe, so an older board or a specific adapter is required.
OS Support: Originally designed for Windows XP through Windows 7, but legacy drivers are available for Windows 10 and 11.
Drivers: Full support for ASIO 2.1, WDM Audio, and DirectSound.
The internal components of the Marian Trace 8 are designed for high-end digital signal processing and low-latency stability. Here are the key internal elements:
Core Hardware Components
FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array): The "brain" of the card. It powers the "Beast" DSP Mixer, handling all 48 channels of routing and mixing with 40-bit internal precision without taxing your computer's CPU.
ADC/DAC Converters: High-performance 24-bit / 192 kHz converters. While Marian uses industrial-grade chips (typically from AKM or Cirrus Logic), the circuit design focuses on maintaining a high dynamic range and linear frequency response.
PCI Busmaster Controller: A proprietary controller that manages high-speed data transfer directly through the PCI bus, allowing for ultra-low latencies (down to 2ms).
Low-Jitter Clock Generator: A high-precision internal oscillator that ensures stable digital synchronization, which is critical for audio clarity at high sample rates.
Internal Connectivity & Expandability
TDM SyncBus Connector: An internal physical header that allows you to link up to 4 Marian cards. This creates a shared 32-channel audio bus and ensures sample-accurate synchronization across all devices.
Fail-Safe Flash Memory: Stores the hardware firmware. It is designed to be updated safely, allowing for hardware improvements or bug fixes without the risk of "bricking" the card.
Balanced Analog Stages: The PCB layout uses high-quality operational amplifiers (Op-Amps) and balanced circuitry to ensure signal integrity and noise rejection.
Drivers can found on web:
Customs fees and any compatibility issues on buyers responsibility!