Advice on audio interface

[Ofer]

My RME FF400 is giving me issues. On occasion it crashes and there are a few seconds (2-4) of beeps. I narrowed it down to the fact that W10 doesn't natively support fire wire anymore. So I am looking for another interface. As I need a coaxial spdif input in limits my choices to these:
1. RME UC. It is practically the same card as the FF400 but with a USB interface.
2. Motu ultralight Mk5. Cost new like a used RME UC
3. Motu ultralight Mk4. More in my budget.

Options 1&2 are over my budget. I would rather not spend more then ~450$ on a card. The question is, to those who have experience with both, is how much of a difference is there between the Motu mk4 and Mk5? is the difference audible? in terms of drivers and ease of use? any input will be welcomed.

Thanks

 

[DavidV]

Hi Ofer,
I do not have both, so I can't compare. However, I'm currently using an Mk4, never had a problem with it. I've never used the coax input though.
I would download the manual (if you haven't already) and carefully read it, to make sure it fits your needs.

 

[Ofer]

Hi David,
Thanks for your reply. Do use it with W10? What convolver do you use?

Thanks,

 

[DavidV]

Ofer,
Yes, Win10.
I use Jriver as player with its own convolver.
My setup is a 7.1 with tri-amped mains, bi-amped center an 3 subs. So I use all the analog outs of the Mk4, plus a Behringer Ada8200 connected through ADAT to get an extra 8 outputs. Pretty modest setup from a hardware standpoint, but works quite well for me.