Introduction; Supplied Contents; Brief Description And Characteristics - RME Audio ADI-8 PRO User Manual

1. Introduction

Congratulations on your purchase of a ADI-8 PRO. This hi-quality analog to digital and
digital to analog converter includes ADAT optical and TDIF-1 digital interfaces. It precisely
converts analog audio data into a digital data stream and into the format of your choice. New-
est circuit technology combined with latest integrated circuits result in a unique and outstanding
device, meeting highest quality standards. The ADI-8 PRO will excite you even after many
years of operation.

2. Supplied Contents

Please ensure that all the following parts are included in ADI-8 PRO's packaging box:
ADI-8 PRO
Manual
Power cord
2 x 2m optical cable (TOSLINK)

3. Brief Description and Characteristics

The ADI-8 PRO is an 8-channel analog to digital and digital to analog converter in a 19"
rackmount enclosure of 1 U height. Latest 24 bit converters using 128 times oversampling re-
sult in more than 110 dB dynamic ratio. This value is not only printed in the brochure, thanks to
our Low Jitter Design it is available with every sold unit.
The servo balanced analog inputs and outputs are fitted with both D-sub (for optional XLR mul-
ticore) and 1/4" TRS jacks. The signal path from the jacks to the ADC is totally balanced. The
digital inputs and outputs are available at ADAT optical and TDIF-1 connectors.
One of the main issues when working with an AD-converter is to maintain the full dynamic ran-
ge within the best operating level. RME's ADI-8 PRO includes electronic switches of the
newest technology, which introduce no additional noise or distortion to the audio path and op-
erate as remote controlled level attenuators. Two switches on the front panel control all elec-
tronic switches of all channels for a perfect adaptation to the most often used levels -10 dBV
and +4 dBu. Each analog input has a 'Signal Ok' and 'Over' LED, so levels and Overload are
easy to check.
The AD-converter can provide internal clocks (44.1 and 48 kHz) at all digital outputs. The uni-
que Intelligent Clock Control technology (ICC) enables a flexible operation with internal clock at
44.1 and 48 kHz, external word clock or the digital input signals. These options, also available
for the DA-conversion, are easy to understand and easy to use. The current state of locking
and clock synchronisation is shown by blinking or constant lit LEDs.
The digital section of the ADI-8 PRO includes two outstanding functions. Bit Split allows to
split one 24 bit signal to two 16 bit outputs. This technique allows for example to use two 8-
channel 16 bit tape recorders to record 8 channels in 24 bit resolution. Using Bit Combine will
put the splitted signals back to one full 24 bit signal. The method of splitting/combining is com-
patible to the method used by Yamaha in their digital mixing desk 02R, so the ADI-8 PRO
can be used directly in 24 bit operation with this desk!
Furthermore the unique Copy Mode allows to use the device completely in digital domain.
Copy Mode routes the digital input to the digital outputs ADAT and TDIF. As these operate
simultaneously with identical data the ADI-8 PRO not only turns into a superiour
ADAT/TDIF converter but also allows copying between devices of the same format and a dis-
tribution to different devices. In Copy Mode both Bit Split and Combine are also available, so
the functionality is boosted again. That's why we call our ADI-8 PRO an Intelligent Audio
Solution.
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User's Guide ADI-8 PRO © RME