RME ADI-648

RME ADI-648 Overview

This Multichannel Audio Digital Interface offers format conversion from MADI to ADAT and vice-versa. The ADI-648 thus combines the world's most successful multi-Channel interface with the professionals' exclusive high-end interface. MADI offers 64 channels of 24-Bit audio at up to 48 kHz sample rate, and 32 channels at up to 96 kHz. 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.

The MADI channels are transferred from and to 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 (merging).

Here are some application examples:

• Managing long distances with a single cable
• ADAT breakout box for devices with MADI interface
• Connecting MADI-based equipment to RME's Hammerfall series
• ADAT optical patchbay and router
• MADI coaxial / optical or vice-versa converter and splitter
• MADI redistributor, patchbay and router
• MADI Merger

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 96 kHz 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 also represents an ideal MADI front-end for the Hammerfall and Hammerfall DSP series.

RME ADI-648 Features

SyncAlign® and SyncCheck®, technologies known from and proven by other RME products, allow for perfect sync between all channels and easy notification of error states. And 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 compact device with 19" width and 1HU has numerous further outstanding features, like Intelligent Clock Control (ICC) and storing of the settings. It's even possible to transmit 16 MIDI channels in parallel to all 64 audio channels. A fully automatic input selection between optical and coaxial input offers a useful redundancy mode for critical applications. Extensive status displays give information about Lock and Sync states, audio content and the physical quality of the incoming signal.

Talking about clock: 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.

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, Jünger, Audio Service, AMS and others.

RME ADI-648 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.

 

RME ADI-648 Tech Specifications

• 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: 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz, 88.2 kHz, 96 kHz, variable (Sync/word clock)
• Sample rate range: MADI: 32 kHz - 96 kHz, word clock: 27 kHz-105 kHz, ADAT: 33 kHz - 57 kHz
• Jitter: Internal clock < 1 ns, word clock In < 2 ns, ADAT In < 2 ns
• Jitter suppression on external clock: circa 30 dB (2.4 kHz)
• Jitter sensitivity: all PLLs operate even at 100 ns Jitter without problems
• Power supply: internal switching mode ps, 100 V-240 V AC, 50-60 Hz, 10 Watts
• Dimensions: 483 x 44 x 200 mm
• Warranty: 2 years

RME ADI-648 Connectivity

• 1 x MADI I/O (optical and coaxial)
• 8 x ADAT I/O (optical)
• 1 x MIDI I/O
• Word Clock I/O
• RME Remote

RME ADI-648 Optional Accessories

• MIDI breakout cable (BOHDSP9652MIDI)

RME Products Review / See All ZenPro Audio Reviews Here: Review Page   I have used RME PCI cards and breakout boxes and converters over the years, and have never seen an issue with reliability or stability. Overall I think the most stable PC drivers in the industry would have to have RME among them: I mean this stuff just works…and works…and works. As Vince from Sham-Wow says, “you know the Germans make good stuff”. In this case I would certainly say it is proven true.   Digital connectivity is never easier than choosing the right RME product, from ADAT to SPDIF to AES to TOSLINK to MADI to Wordclock, they really have it all. Latency is virtually non-existent thanks to ultra low latency drivers and on board DSP power that takes the load off your computer. “Totalmix”, RME’s internal routing matrix is INCREDIBLE. It took me a while to wrap my brain around it but once I did, I realized I can send anything anywhere at anytime with no noticeable latency at all. Multiple headphone mixes and splits? No problem, RME is on it with Totalmix.   The “Steadyclock” wordclock technology is also just awesome stuff. I have witnessed this clock snap those 1’s and 0’s in line on many a device and it always made an improvement when it was the master. Many RME devices have Steadyclock as standard, it can make a real difference. The A/D and D/A conversion of RME is clean and neutral for the most part, not huge or small or anywhere in between, but pretty true to the source overall. An RME converter will never get in the way of a good recording.   Conclusion: No matter the connection you need to make, RME has it covered. My personal experience has been glitch free and for that reason I am proud to be an authorized RME dealer.