RME ADI-2 FS

Product overview

The RME ADI-2 FS is a compact and extremely flexible 2-channel high-end AD/DA converter in a 9.5-inch housing, with first-class conversion from and to SPDIF, AES and ADAT at up to 192 kHz, a High Power headphone output and SteadyClock FS.

As the successor of the renowned ADI-2, the ADI-2 FS has been completely redesigned, for example with the complete analogue input stage of the ADI-2 Pro, while keeping the same easy operation and I/Os. Balanced analogue inputs and outputs, monitoring via the headphone output, 3-stage hardware input and output level control and the additional modes DIG and ANA make it a universal tool and a flexible problem solver: an AD/DA converter in professional studio quality, a powerful headphone amplifier, a multi-format converter with monitoring, an analogue impedance converter, level adapter, balancer and distribution amplifier. It is also an ideal supplement to RME interfaces, adding two analogue inputs and outputs and an extra headphone output.

Key features

• 2 servo-balanced analogue line inputs on XLR/TRS combo jacks, input level +4, +13 or +19 dBu
• Balanced XLR and unbalanced TRS line outputs, usable at the same time, +4, +13 or +19 dBu
• High Power headphone output: 0.1 Ohm, +19 dBu, 0.7 W per channel, THD -110 dB, click-free relay
• SPDIF coaxial (AES/EBU compatible) and optical I/O, also ADAT up to 192 kHz with S/MUX4
• Mode DIG: digital format converter between SPDIF, AES and ADAT with DA monitoring
• Mode ANA: analogue loop-through up to +22 dBu as line preamp, level adapter, balancer or distribution amp
• SteadyClock FS and Intelligent Clock Control, sample rates 32 to 192 kHz
• Variable output level: the VOL knob can also control the rear line outputs
• 6-LED level meters with multiple brightness stages and peak hold
• Flexible power: lockable 24 W supply included, 9 to 15 V DC for battery operation

Reference class analogue and clocking

The analogue inputs use the advanced circuit design of the ADI-2 Pro, with outstandingly low noise and distortion and an extended frequency response. Three settings for input and output levels give perfect compatibility in the analogue domain. SteadyClock FS, RME's clock technology for maximum jitter suppression and lowest self-jitter, guarantees superb sound quality completely independent from the quality of the reference clock.

Versatile format conversion

The coaxial RCA I/O has switchable Channel Status to make it fully AES/EBU compatible (cable adapter required), and the optical TOSLINK ports handle SPDIF up to 192 kHz and also serve as ADAT I/O, even at 192 kHz. With the input set to DIG the unit works as a digital format converter with simultaneous monitoring: the signal is recreated bit-accurately and freed from jitter, available on both digital outputs and on the analogue and headphone outputs.

Analogue loop-through (ANA)

The output selection ANA connects the analogue output circuitry directly to the analogue input circuitry. The AD converter keeps converting the input to SPDIF, AES or ADAT, while the analogue path handles levels up to +22 dBu. Gain and attenuation come from the input and output level settings, or fully variable with the VOL knob, so the ADI-2 FS also works as a line-level preamp and as a balanced to unbalanced converter.

High Power headphone output

A down-scaled version of the ADI-2 Pro's Extreme Power output stage delivers up to 0.7 W per channel, 0.1 Ohm output impedance, a maximum output level of +19 dBu and very low THD of -110 dB. It offers the same 120 dBA SNR as the rear outputs and a relay ensures click-free switching.

In the box

• RME ADI-2 FS
• User's guide
• External switching power supply, lockable connector, DC 12 V, 24 W
• Power cord

Optional RME accessories: RM-19-X 19-inch rack adapter, Unirack, AUTOK car lighter cable, AKKUK battery cable and TOSLINK optical cables.

RME ADI-2 FS: frequently asked questions

Can I add it to my RME audio interface?

Yes. Connected via ADAT or SPDIF, it adds two analogue inputs and outputs and a headphone output to RME interfaces, at up to 192 kHz with S/MUX4 on ADAT.

Can it convert between digital formats?

Yes. In DIG mode it converts between SPDIF coaxial, AES/EBU (Professional or Consumer Channel Status) and ADAT, with the signal also monitored on the analogue outputs and headphones.

Does it need a computer or driver?

No. The ADI-2 FS is a stand-alone converter with digital and analogue I/O; it stores all settings and recalls them at power on.

Can it run from a battery?

Yes. The DC input accepts 9 to 15 V for continuous operation, so a battery, rechargeable battery or 12 V power bank can be used for mobile and ground-isolated work.

Where can I buy the RME ADI-2 FS in India?

The RME ADI-2 FS is available from Shivansh Electronics, Kolkata, West Bengal, India, with delivery across India.

Workflow 1: Expanding an RME interface

Add two high-quality analogue inputs and outputs plus a headphone output to an interface with ADAT or SPDIF.

Connections

Setup

1. Select the input with DIG IN and set CLOCK to the digital input.
2. Choose ADAT or SPDIF format with DIG OUT.
3. Set input and output levels to +4, +13 or +19 dBu.
4. Monitor on headphones with the VOL knob.

Tip: At 192 kHz the optical port still carries ADAT with S/MUX4.

Workflow 2: Digital format conversion

Convert between ADAT, SPDIF and AES/EBU, with monitoring.

Connections

Setup

1. Press ANALOG INPUT LEVEL until DIG lights up.
2. Select the digital input with DIG IN.
3. Set DIG OUT to PRO for AES/EBU or CON for SPDIF.
4. Listen to the converted signal on headphones.

Workflow 3: Stereo AD/DA in the studio

Convert analogue processing to digital and back at up to 192 kHz.

Connections

Setup

1. Set the input level so the yellow -3 LEDs light only at peaks.
2. Choose the clock master and sample rate.
3. Select the output format.
4. Monitor on the XLR outputs or headphones.

Workflow 4: Analogue line tool

Match levels, balance or distribute analogue line signals.

Connections

Setup

1. Press ANALOG OUTPUT LEVEL until no LED lights, then wait one second for ANA.
2. Set input +4 dBu and output +19 dBu for 15 dB gain, or the other way round to attenuate.
3. Feed the XLR, TRS and phones outputs at the same time.
4. Use the digital outputs as a parallel digital copy.

Workflow 5: Headphone amplifier for a digital source

Listen to a CD player, streamer or console output on headphones.

Connections

Setup

1. Select the input with DIG IN.
2. Set CLOCK to the digital input.
3. Adjust the volume with VOL.
4. Optionally route VOL to the rear outputs for active speakers.

Workflow 6: Mobile and battery operation

Use the converter away from mains power or ground-isolated.

Connections

Setup

1. Connect the battery with the RME AKKUK cable or a 12 V power bank.
2. Set input level and format.
3. Record the digital output.
4. Monitor on headphones.