Introduction; Functionality - Prism Sound ADA-8 Operation Manual

Prism Sound ADA-8 Multi-channel A/D D/A Converter Operation Manual - Revision 1.00

1 Introduction

The ADA-8 is the latest in the acclaimed range of Prism Sound 'Dream' A/D and D/A
converters which have become widely regarded as the world's best sounding converters.
Whilst continuing the tried and trusted 'no compromise' design philosophy of previous 'Dream'
products, the Dream ADA-8 adds a new dimension in flexibility, functionality and cost-
effectiveness:
• Eight channels of high-performance 24-bit A/D conversion;
• Eight channels of high-performance 24-bit D/A conversion;
• Sample rates up to 96kHz;
• Modular digital I/O options include popular interface standards and direct workstation
connections;
• Two-channel Monitor section follows channel pairs or a mix of all channels;
• Prism Sound 'Overkiller' progressive limiting of each A/D channel;
• Prism Sound 'Super-Noise Shaping' on each channel;
• Precise and repeatable software-controlled analogue input and output line-up levels;
• Eight-channel assignable bargraph meter array with over-detection;
• Renowned Prism Sound jitter-rejecting PLL technology and low-jitter master clock;
• Flexible synchronization options, including sync to AES11, wordclock or video sync;
• Flexible routing allows creation of D-D processing Paths for processing or format
conversion;
• Prism Sound 'MR-X' bit-splitting allows extended wordlengths and sample rates on 16-bit
media;
• Prism Sound 'DRE' allows extended wordlength performance on 16-bit stereo media;
• Optional DSP expansion facility for extended processing features, including synchronous
sample-rate conversion;
• Modular architecture allows special configurations: e.g. 16-channel D/A or A/D unit;
• Comprehensive store system for fast-access factory and user presets;
• Unique 'Access button' layout combines flexibility of menus with speed of dedicated
controls;
• Modular architecture provides future-proofing: A/D conversion, D/A conversion, DSP, digital
interfacing and utility hardware can all be individually upgraded;

1.1 Functionality

The ADA-8 provides eight channels of high-resolution, high-sample-rate A/D and D/A
conversion with a variety of processing and interfacing functions, plus a two-channel Monitor
with both analogue and digital outputs.
A/D and D/A Paths can be independently synchronized at 32, 44.1, 48, 88.2 or 96kHz sample
rates. Sync sources can be Local, WCK, AES11 or DI (one of the digital inputs), and can be
at a different rate from the Path's sample rate if required. Wordlengths of 16, 20 and 24 bits
are supported.
Digital output wordlength is managed by flat re-dithering, or by applying one of the family of
industry-standard Prism Sound SNS noise shaping algorithms. Bit-splitting using the Prism
Sound MR-X system (as implemented on the Prism Sound MR-2024T interface adapter and
licensed equipment from other manufacturers) is built-in, so that 20-bit and 24-bit recordings
at up to 96kHz can be made and replayed using 16-bit, low-sample-rate recorders. Encoding
and decoding of Prism Sound's DRE process (Extended wordlength recording on 16-bit
media without sacrificing tracks) is also included. Digital I/O for high sample rates can be in
1-wire or 2-wire ('Split96') format.
Analogue inputs can be individually aligned in software for 0dBFS levels of +5dBu to +24dBu
in 0.5dBu steps, with ±0.5dB trim in 0.05dB steps. The Prism Sound 'Overkiller' progressive
limiter feature is selectable per analogue input channel to allow louder tape levels by control
© Prism Media Products Limited, 2002 Page 1.6