RME : ADI-648 RME

24-bit/96kHz, 2 x 64-channel MADI-to-ADAT Format Converter

64 channels of high-quality conversion!

In the digital world, devices like the ADI-648 from RME are necessary to convert formats between different types of digital inputs and outputs. This unit offers format conversion from MADI to ADAT and vice-versa. The ADI-648 offers 64 channels of 24-bit audio at up to 48kHz, and 32 channels at up to 96kHz. Transmission happens over a single line, either coaxial (BNC) or fiber optic (network). In both cases the cable length can be more than 100 meters. Convert between digital formats with the ADI-648!
 

RME ADI-648 at a Glance:

• Overview
• SyncAlign
• SyncCheck
• I/O
• Remote Control

Overview

The MADI channels are transferred to and from 8 ADAT optical inputs and 8 outputs via TOSlink. Furthermore, the ADI-648 contains an easy-configurable 8-channel 16x16 Matrix Router. Any of the outputs, which are divided into 8-channel blocks, can be fed from any 8-channel input block, both on the ADAT and the MADI side. With this, there is not only free routing within the M-A and the A-M conversion, but also splitting and routing within the same format. An 8-Channel input block can be routed to any number of output blocks in parallel. Using more than one unit, several MADI signals can be combined to one.

The ADI-648 is compatible to all forms of increasing the sample rate (Double Speed). It supplies word clock in single or double speed, distributes 96kHz signals in Double Wire mode into the MADI data stream, or per Sample Split (S/MUX) to the ADAT ports, but is also capable of double MADI rate (96k Frame). The ADI-648 thus represents an ideal MADI front-end for the Hammerfall and Hammerfall DSP series.

SyncAlign

SyncAlign includes several methods and techniques to guarantee absolute data alignment with regard to time and channels. SyncAlign also controls the timing among the channels, no matter how much are used, they will always start sample-aligned.

SyncCheck

When working with several digital sources it is not only necessary that these are all properly locked, they also have to be totally synchronized, or drop outs and crackling occurs. RME's exclusive SyncCheck checks all input signals. In clock mode Master the synchronous operation to the internal clock is checked. This unique technology helps to find errors immediately. The actual state of each input is displayed in the settings dialog. Of course, multiple devices can be cascaded and synchronized sample-accurate using word clock. The ADI-648 accepts 56 channels, 64 channels and 96k frame at its input, and can be set to generate those formats at its output. This way the ADI-648 even serves as perfect interface between otherwise incompatible MADI devices!The ADI-648 includes SteadyClock, a digitally controlled clock, especially developed by RME for MADI operation. It allows for operation without an additional word or AES clock line. The reference clock is extracted in highest quality from the MADI signal itself.

I/O

The rear of the ADI-648 looks clear and tidy. Eight ADAT optical inputs and outputs each, two MADI inputs and outputs each (coaxial, optical), word clock I/O (BNC) with switchable termination, and two DIN MIDI jacks offer unbeatable flexibility and compatibility. The ADI-648 is compatible to MADI interfaces of companies like Sony, Merging, Lawo, Euphonix, Stagetec, Junger, Audio Service, AMS and others.

Remote Control

The ADI-648 can be remote controlled completely via MIDI. Also all controls and LEDs on the front plate - the complete status - can be read via MIDI. Each ADI-648 can be programmed with its own ID, providing a separated remote control of multiple devices via a single MIDI channel. The Windows software MIDI Remote can be downloaded for free from the RME website. It can use any existing MIDI port within the system to perform remote control and status requests of all ADI-648 via a simple mouse click. The software provides both a front-panel like operation (see above) and an extended Matrix display. Most appealing is the combination with a Hammerfall DSP(e) MADI, offering a direct control of the ADI-648 via MADI. The remote control software then uses a virtual MIDI port of the card that directly sends and receives MIDI data via MADI.

Features:

• Input MADI: 1 x BNC, 1 x optical
• Output MADI: 1 x BNC, 1 x optical
• Input ADAT optical: 8 x TOSlink, 24-Bit, Bitclock PLL
• Output ADAT optical: 8 x TOSlink, 24-Bit
• Input word clock: BNC, Signal Adaptation Circuit (functional from 1.2 Vpp input signal), switchable termination
• Output word clock: BNC, low-impedance driver stage, 4 Vpp into 75 Ohms, short-circuit-proof
• MIDI input and output: via two 5-pin DIN jacks
• Sync sources: MADI, ADAT optical, word clock, internal
• Varipitch: by input signal or word clock
• Sample rates: 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz, variable (Sync/word clock)
• Sample rate range: MADI: 32kHz - 96kHz, word clock: 27kHz-105kHz, ADAT: 33kHz - 57kHz
• Jitter: Internal clock < 1 ns, word clock In < 2 ns, ADAT In < 2 ns
• Jitter suppression on external clock: circa 30dB (2.4kHz)
• Jitter sensitivity: all PLLs operate even at 100 ns Jitter without problems
• Power supply: internal switching mode ps, 100 V-240 V AC, 50-60Hz, 10 Watts
• Warranty: 2 years