modding an RC car

Hi,
I have a quick question for cr0sh or anyone else who may know.

I understand that the Hex buffer will take a TTL input and sink or source a larger current and voltage on the output side, is there a common IC that does the reverse i.e. takes a 6,7,8 or more volt input and converts it to TTL on the output side, with some protection in between ? If switching speed is a priority is an opto isolator my best option ?

Thanks
Duane.