RME Audio ADI-8 DS User manual

User’s Guide
ADI-8 DS Mk III
A true industry standard
SyncAlign™
SyncCheck™
SteadyClock™
Hi-Precision 24 Bit / 192 kHz
Reference Low Latency Conversion
8-Channel Analog <> AES / ADAT Interface
24 Bit / 192 kHz Digital Audio
ADAT <> AES Format Converter
24 Bit Interface
AES-3

2 User’s Guide ADI-8 DS © RME
Important Safety Instructions ..................................4
General
1 Introduction ...............................................................6
2 Package Contents.....................................................6
3 Brief Description and Characteristics.....................6
4 First Usage – Quick Start
4.1 Controls - Connectors - Displays............................7
4.2 Quick Start Operation..............................................8
5 Accessories...............................................................9
6 Warranty...................................................................10
7 Appendix..................................................................10
Usage and Operation
8 Front Panel Controls
8.1 A/D Reference......................................................14
8.2 A/D State - Meters................................................14
8.3 A/D Output ...........................................................14
8.4 Patch Mode..........................................................14
8.5 Clock Section.......................................................15
8.6 D/A Input ..............................................................16
8.7 D/A State - Meters................................................16
8.8 D/A Reference......................................................16
Inputs and Outputs
9 Analog Inputs / Outputs
9.1 Line In...................................................................18
9.2 Line Out................................................................19
10 Digital Inputs / Outputs
10.1 AES / EBU............................................................20
10.2 ADAT Optical .......................................................21
11 Word Clock
11.1 Word Clock Input and Output...............................22
11.2 Technical Description and Background...............23
11.3 Cables and Termination.......................................24
Technical Reference
12 Technical Specifications
12.1 Analog..................................................................26
12.2 Digital Inputs ........................................................27
12.3 Digital Outputs......................................................28
12.4 Digital ...................................................................28
12.5 Connector Pinouts................................................29
13 Technical Background
13.1 Terminology .........................................................31
13.2 Lock and SyncCheck...........................................32
13.3 Latency and Monitoring........................................33
13.4 DS – Double Speed .............................................34
13.5 QS – Quad Speed................................................34
13.6 AES/EBU – SPDIF...............................................35
13.7 Signal to Noise ratio in DS / QS Operation..........36
13.8 SteadyClock.........................................................37
14 Block Diagram.........................................................38

User’s Guide ADI-8 DS © RME 3
Important Safety Instructions
ATTENTION! Do not open chassis – risk of electric shock
The unit has non-isolated live parts inside. No user serviceable parts inside.
Refer service to qualified service personnel.
Mains
• The device must be earthed – never use it without proper grounding
• Do not use defective power cords
• Operation of the device is limited to the manual
• Use same type of fuse only
To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock do not expose this device to rain or
moisture. Prevent moisture and water from entering the device. Never leave
a pot with liquid on top of the device. Do not use this product near water, i. e.
swimming pool, bathtub or wet basement. Danger of condensation inside –
don't turn on before the device has reached room temperature.
Installation
Surface may become hot during operation – ensure sufficient ventilation.
Avoid direct sun light and do not place it near other sources of heat, like ra-
diators or stoves. When mounting in a rack, leave some space between this
device and others for ventilation.
Unauthorized servicing/repair voids warranty. Only use accessories
specified by the manufacturer.
Read the manual completely. It includes all information necessary
to use and operate this device.

4 User’s Guide ADI-8 DS © RME

User’s Guide ADI-8 DS © RME 5
User’s Guide
ADI-8 DS
General

6 User’s Guide ADI-8 DS © RME
1. Introduction
RME's ADI-8 DS is an 8-channel high-end AD/DA converter with a truly unique feature set. The
device combines excellent analog circuit design with the latest generation of outstanding low
latency AD/DA converter chips. Along with its integrated SteadyClock, the ADI-8 DS offers AD
and DA conversion of the highest quality.
When developing the ADI-8 DS we used all our experience, and also the experience of our
customers, to create a unique, excellent and high-quality unit. Although the ADI-8 DS is built to
highest reference standards, it still offers the typical, outstanding price/performance ratio known
from RME. ADI-8 DS features will excite you – but even more the performance and smartness
that it shows in solving any given task. Have fun!
2. Package Contents
Please check that your ADI-8 DS package contains each of the following:
•ADI-8 DS
•Power cord
•Manual
•1 optical cable (TOSLINK), 2 m
3. Brief Description and Characteristics
The ADI-8 DS is an 8-channel hi-end AD and DA converter in reference quality. In a standard
19" box with 1 unit height the device offers numerous extraordinary features like Intelligent
Clock Control (ICC), SyncCheck, SteadyClock, four hardware reference levels up to +24 dBu,
AES/EBU and ADAT I/O, 192 kHz sample rate, and a digital patch mode.
•8-channel AD converter, full symmetrical design, 119 dBA
•8-channel DA converter, double balanced output, 120 dBA
•Low latency conversion: less than 12 samples delay
•4 x AES/EBU I/O per D-sub, 8 channels @ 192 kHz
•2 x ADAT I/O, 8 channels @ 96 kHz, 4 channels at 192 kHz
•Word clock input and output
•2 x 8-channel level metering
•Noise suppression on power-on and power-off at the analog outputs
•Comprehensive digital patch mode for full interconnectivity

User’s Guide ADI-8 DS © RME 7
4. First Usage – Quick Start
4.1 Controls - Connectors - Displays
The front of the ADI-8 DS features 16 LED level meters, six select keys and 27 LEDs providing
a detailed status display.
The analog input sensitivity can be changed in the area A/D REFERENCE.
In A/D STATE 8 level meters show the digital input level per channel.
The LEDs in A/D OUTPUT indicate which digital output currently carries the signal of the analog
to digital conversion. With Patch Mode active the analog input signal is in some cases not avail-
able on the digital outputs ADAT and AES.
The comprehensive PATCH MODE turns the ADI-8 DS into a format converter, distributor and
router, adding many advanced functions to the basic AD and DA conversion.
In the CLOCK SECTION the current clock reference and frequency multiplier is chosen.
The digital input signal of the DA-converters is chosen by pushing the D/A INPUT button.
In D/A STATE 8 level meters show the digital input level per channel.
D/A REFERENCE defines the analog reference level of the analog outputs. This level is
reached at full scale of the DA-converters, thus matching the front panel level meter's level indi-
cation.
The rear panel of the ADI-8 DS has eight analog inputs, eight analog outputs, mains power,
word clock I/O, and the digital inputs and outputs AES and ADAT.
ANALOG INPUTS: Eight balanced Line inputs, 1/4" TRS inputs and D-sub.
ANALOG OUTPUTS: Eight balanced Line outputs, 1/4" TRS outputs and D-sub.
AES I/O (25-pin D-sub): The D-sub connector provides four AES/EBU outputs and four
AES/EBU inputs. The 25 pin D-sub connector is wired according to the widely spread Tascam
standard (pinout see chapter 12.5). The AES I/Os are transformer-coupled. The high sensitivity
type input accepts all common digital sources, even SPDIF.
ADAT I/O MAIN (TOSLINK): Standard ADAT optical port.
ADAT I/O AUX (TOSLINK): Transmits further channels at activated sample multiplexing.
WORD IN (BNC): A push switch allows to activate internal termination (75 Ohms).
WORD OUT (BNC): Standard word clock output.
IEC receptacle for power connection. The specially developed, internal hi-performance switch
mode power supply lets the ADI-8 DS operate in the range of 100V to 240V AC. It is short-
circuit-proof, has an integrated line-filter, is fully regulated against voltage fluctuations, and sup-
presses mains interference.

8 User’s Guide ADI-8 DS © RME
4.2 Quick Start Operation
After connection of all cables and power-on of the device, the configuration of the ADI-8 DS
begins in the CLOCK section. Choose a clock source and a sample rate.
Connect the TRS-jacks or the D-sub connector with the analog signal source. Change the input
sensitivity by pressing A/D REFERENCE until the input level is sufficient to avoid noisy opera-
tion. Try to achieve an optimum input level by adjusting the source itself. Raise the source’s
output level until the red Over LED flashes at the loudest parts of the signal, then reduce the
level a bit until no more Overs are detected.
The analog line inputs of the ADI-8 DS can be accessed by using D-sub (for an optional XLR
multicore) and 1/4" TRS jacks. Both are internally connected, so not operational at the same
time. The electronic input stage is built in a servo balanced design which handles unbalanced
(mono TS) and balanced (XLR, stereo TRS jacks) correctly, automatically adjusting the level
reference.
On the DA-side just choose the desired digital input by pressing D/A INPUT. A coarse correc-
tion of the analog output level can be done by pressing the D/A REFERENCE button.
The ADI-8 DS stores all current settings and automatically activates them when the device is
turned on.

User’s Guide ADI-8 DS © RME 9
5. Accessories
RME offers several optional components for the ADI-8 DS:
Part Number Description
OK0050 Optical cable, Toslink, 0.5 m (1.7 ft)
OK0100 Optical cable, Toslink, 1 m (3.3 ft)
OK0200 Optical cable, Toslink, 2 m (6.6 ft)
OK0300 Optical cable, Toslink, 3 m (9.9 ft)
OK0500 Optical cable, Toslink, 5 m 16.4 ft)
OK1000 Optical cable, Toslink, 10 m (32.8 ft)
BO25MXLR4M4F1PRO Digital Breakout Cable Pro, AES/EBU
25-pin D-sub to 4 x XLR male + 4 x XLR female, 1m (3.3 ft)
BO25MXLR4M4F3PRO same, 3 m (9.9 ft)
BO25MXLR4M4F6PRO same, 6 m (19.8 ft)
BO25M25M1PRO Digital D-sub Cable Pro, AES/EBU,
25-pin D-sub to 25-pin D-sub, 1m (3.3 ft)
BO25M25M3PRO same, 3m (9.9 ft)
BO25M25M6PRO same, 6m (19.8 ft)
BO25MXLR8M3 Analog Breakout Cable, 25-pin D-sub to 8 x XLR male, 3 m (9.9 ft)
BO25MXLR8M6 same, 6 m (19.8 ft)
BO25MXLR8M10 same, 10 m (33 ft)
BO25MXLR8F3 Analog Breakout Cable 25-pin D-sub to 8 x XLR female, 3 m (9.9 ft)
BO25MXLR8F6 same, 6 m (19.8 ft)
BO25MXLR8F10 same, 10 m (33 ft)
BOB32 BOB-32, Universal breakout box, 19" 1 Unit height. The professional
digital AES/EBU breakout solution

10 User’s Guide ADI-8 DS © RME
6. Warranty
Each individual ADI-8 DS undergoes comprehensive quality control and a complete test at IMM
before shipping. . The usage of high grade components should guarantee a long and trouble-
free operation of the unit.
If you suspect that your product is faulty, please contact your local retailer.
Audio AG grants a limited manufacturer warranty of 6 months from the day of invoice showing
the date of sale. The length of the warranty period is different per country. Please contact your
local distributor for extended warranty information and service. Note that each country may
have regional specific warranty implications.
In any case warranty does not cover damage caused by improper installation or maltreatment -
replacement or repair in such cases can only be carried out at the owner's expense.
No warranty service is provided when the product is not returned to the local distributor in the
region where the product had been originally shipped.
Audio AG does not accept claims for damages of any kind, especially consequential damage.
Liability is limited to the value of the ADI-8 DS. The general terms of business drawn up by Au-
dio AG apply at all times.
7. Appendix
RME news and further information can be found on our website:
http://www.rme-audio.com
Distributor: Audio AG, Am Pfanderling 60, D-85778 Haimhausen, Tel.: [phone] / 91810
Manufacturer:
IMM Elektronik GmbH, Leipziger Strasse 32, D-09648 Mittweida
Trademarks
All trademarks and registered trademarks belong to their respective owners. RME, Hammerfall
and DIGICheck are registered trademarks of RME Intelligent Audio Solutions. SyncAlign,
SyncCheck, ZLM, SteadyClock, ADI-8 DS and Intelligent Clock Control (ICC) are trademarks of
RME Intelligent Audio Solutions. Alesis and ADAT are registered trademarks of Alesis Corp.
ADAT optical is a trademark of Alesis Corp. S/MUX is copyright Sonorus.
Copyright ©Matthias Carstens, 10/2012. Version 1.0
All entries in this User’s Guide have been thoroughly checked, however no guarantee for cor-
rectness can be given. RME cannot be held responsible for any misleading or incorrect informa-
tion provided throughout this manual. Lending or copying any part or the complete manual or its
contents as well as the software belonging to it is only possible with the written permission from
RME. RME reserves the right to change specifications at any time without notice.

User’s Guide ADI-8 DS © RME 11
CE / FCC Compliance
CE
This device has been tested and found to comply with the limits of the European Council Direc-
tive on the approximation of the laws of the member states relating to electromagnetic compati-
bility according to RL2004/108/EG, and European Low Voltage Directive RL2006/95/EG.
FCC
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device,
pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protec-
tion against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses,
and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the
instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no
guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does
cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning
the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or
more of the following measures:
- Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
- Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
- Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is
connected.
- Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
RoHS
This product has been soldered lead-free and fulfils the requirements of the RoHS directive.
ISO 9001
This product has been manufactured under ISO 9001 quality management. The manufacturer,
IMM Elektronik GmbH, is also certified for ISO 14001 (Environment) and ISO 13485 (medical
devices).
Note on Disposal
According to the guide line RL2002/96/EG (WEEE – Directive on Waste
Electrical and Electronic Equipment), valid for all european countries, this
product has to be recycled at the end of its lifetime.
In case a disposal of electronic waste is not possible, the recycling can
also be done by IMM Elektronik GmbH, the manufacturer of the ADI-8 DS.
For this the device has to be sent free to the door to:
IMM Elektronik GmbH
Leipziger Straße 32
D-09648 Mittweida
Germany
Shipments not prepaid will be rejected and returned on the original sender's costs.

12 User’s Guide ADI-8 DS © RME

User’s Guide ADI-8 DS © RME 13
User’s Guide
ADI-8 DS
Usage and Operation

14 User’s Guide ADI-8 DS © RME
8. Front Panel Controls
8.1 A/D Reference
The analog input sensitivity of the AD-converters is referenced to digital
full scale level (0 dBFS). The choices are: +4.2 dBu (-10 dBV compatible),
+13 dBu, +19 dBu and +24 dBu. As the adaptation is performed in the
analog domain, the ADI-8 DS achieves the highest possible values for
Signal to Noise ratio and distortion in any setting.
8.2 A/D State - Meters
The 8 level meters of the D/A STATE show the digital value (dBFS) of the input level per chan-
nel. The red LED OVR is lit in half brightness 2 dB before full scale level (-2 dBFS), and full
brightness at 0 dBFS.
8.3 A/D Output
The converted analog input signal is available at the ADAT and AES outputs simultaneously.
When using Patch Mode, one or both of the digital outputs no longer carries the A/D signal, but
a digital input signal (AES or ADAT) instead. The corresponding LED will be off then.
8.4 Patch Mode
Patch Mode controls the direct digital connection
between all I/Os. 8 different modes are available.
Each mode is clearly visualized by 6 LEDs.
Pushing the button repeatedly steps through the
following modes:
Format conversion
1. AES input to ADAT output
2. AES input to AES output
3. ADAT input to ADAT output
4. ADAT input to AES output
Double format conversion, parallel output mode
5. AES input to ADAT and AES output
6. ADAT input to ADAT and AES output
Bi-directional format conversion
7. AES input to ADAT output and ADAT input to AES output
Pass-through mode
8. AES input to AES output and AES input to AES output
Notes:
In modes 1 to 4 AD-conversion is still available on the AES or ADAT output.
In modes 5 to 8 AD-conversion is not available.
In single speed mode, the ADAT output signal is mirrored to the ADAT AUX output, so two
ADAT devices can receive the same signal from the ADI-8 DS. This feature is available in any
mode as long as the unit does not use sample rates higher than 48 kHz.

User’s Guide ADI-8 DS © RME 15
8.5 Clock Section
The source and frequency of the unit's clock is configured in the CLOCK section. The button
CLOCK lets you step through the options external clock (Word, AES, ADAT) and internal clock,
and sets the sample rate range for both an external and the internal clock.
WCK, AES, ADAT
Defines the corresponding input as clock reference. A missing or invalid clock source signal is
indicated by flashing of the corresponding LED.
INT (Master Mode)
Activates the internal clock.
With a setting of INT (internal clock) it is mandatory that the clock rate of the sources is
synchronous to the ADI-8 DS. Therefore the external device has to be synchronized to the
ADI-8 DS word clock output or AES/ADAT output.
The ADI-8 DS thus has to be master, all devices connected to it must be slave. In order to avoid
clicks and drop outs due to faulty or missing synchronicity, a special process called SyncCheck
compares the incoming data and the ADI-8 DS internal clock. The SYNC state is indicated by a
flashing (error) or constantly lit (OK) LED.
44.1, 48
Activates the internal clock at 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz.
DS, QS
With the DS LED additionally lit, the sample rate will be 88.2 or 96 kHz, with QS lit it will be
176.4 or 192 kHz.
A selection of DS and QS is also possible when
using external clock (Slave). If the ADI-8 DS should
operate at 192 kHz, but receives a synchronous
word clock of 48 kHz, the button STATE allows to
activate DS or QS mode. This way, AD-conversion
and digital outputs are configured to operate in the
frequency ranges Single Speed, Double Speed or
Quad Speed.
Using AES as clock source the STATE key is disabled, as the sample rate is clearly given by
the input signal. ADAT misses such information, therefore when ADAT is clock source the
STATE has to be set manually.
Single Speed
All outputs carry a signal in the range of 32 kHz up to 48 kHz.
DS (Double Speed)
The AES outputs 1-8 carry a signal in the range of 64 kHz up to 96 kHz. ADAT stays at no
higher than 48 kHz, with the data transmitted in the S/MUX format.
QS (Quad Speed)
The AES outputs 1-8 carry a signal in the range of 176.4 kHz up to 192 kHz. ADAT stays at no
higher than 48 kHz, with the data transmitted in the S/MUX4 format. Therefore ADAT is limited
to 4 channels (2 per optical output) in this mode.

16 User’s Guide ADI-8 DS © RME
8.6 D/A Input
The button D/A Input selects the signal source of the DA-converters. A
currently active Patch Mode does not disable this function, the DA-
conversion is always available.
Each input has its own SYNC LED. If a valid input signal is applied,
SyncCheck is automatically active. SyncCheck takes the chosen clock
(internal, external, etc.) as reference and compares it with the input
clocks. Inputs which are not synchronous will be signalled by flashing of
the corresponding SYNC LED.
8.7 D/A State - Meters
The 8 level meters of the D/A STATE show the digital input level per channel as digital value
(dBFS). The yellow 0 dBFS LEDs become active already 2 dB before full scale level (-2 dBFS)
with half brightness, and full brightness at 0 dBFS.
8.8 D/A Reference
The analog output level of the DA-converters is referenced to digital full
scale level (0 dBFS). The choices are: +4.2 dBu (-10 dBV compatible), +13
dBu, +19 dBu and +24 dBu. As the adaptation is performed in the analog
domain, the ADI-8 DS achieves the highest possible values for Signal to
Noise ratio and distortion ratio in any setting.
When selecting +24 dBu the LEDs +19 dBu and +24 dBu are lit at the same
time, indicating that the TRS jacks stay at +19 dBu while the D-sub
connector outputs are operated at +24 dBu.

User’s Guide ADI-8 DS © RME 17
User’s Guide
ADI-8 DS
Inputs and Outputs

18 User’s Guide ADI-8 DS © RME
9. Analog Inputs / Outputs
9.1 Line In
The ADI-8 DS rear has 8 balanced Line inputs, provided by 1/4"
TRS and a 25-pin D-sub connector. Both are internally connected,
so can not be used at the same time. The electronic input stage is
built in a servo balanced design which handles unbalanced (mono
jacks) and balanced (XLR, stereo jacks) signals correctly, auto-
matically adjusting the level reference.
When using unbalanced cables with XLR or TRS connectors be
sure to connect pin 3 (- or ring) to 1 (ground). Otherwise noise may
occur, caused by the unconnected negative input of the balanced
input.
The 25-pin D-sub connector follows the pinout known from devices
manufactured by Tascam (pinout see chapter 12.5). Your local
dealer will supply analog breakout multicores D-sub to XLR in Tas-
cam pinout in different lengths.
The ADI-8 DS uses a completely symmetrical signal path that guarantees an exceptional sound
quality, outstanding low distortion and highest Signal to Noise ratio in all level settings.
One of the main issues when working with an AD-converter is to maintain the full dynamic
range within the best operating level. Therefore the ADI-8 DS internally uses hi-quality elec-
tronic switches, which introduce no additional noise or distortion to the audio path. A/D
REFERENCE allows for a perfect adaptation of all 8 channels to the most often used studio
levels.
Each analog input has its own level meter, so every channel can be checked for input signal
and overloads easily. The red LED OVR lights up 2 dB before full scale level (-2 dBFS) with half
brightness, and full brightness at 0 dBFS.
The ADI-8 DS uses the following level references:
Reference 0 dBFS @ Headroom @ +4 dBu Other RME devices
+24 +24 dBu 20 dB -
+19 +19 dBu 15 dB LoGain
+13 +13 dBu 9 dB +4 dBu
+4.2 +4.2 dBu 12 dB at -10 dBV -10 dBV
The setting +4.2 dBu equals -10 dBV with 12 to 15 dB headroom. Set to +24 dBu the ADI-8 DS
is compatible to SMPTE (+24 dBu @ 0 dBFS, +4 dBu with 20 dB of headroom).

User’s Guide ADI-8 DS © RME 19
9.2 Line Out
The ADI-8 DS has 8 balanced Line outputs on the rear,
provided by 1/4" TRS and a 25-pin D-sub connector. They
have their own output drivers respectively and can there-
fore – in contrary to the inputs – be used simultaneously.
The electronic output stage of the TRS jacks is built in a
servo-balanced design which handles unbalanced (mono
plugs) and balanced (stereo plugs) correctly, automati-
cally adjusting the level reference. The maximum output
level is +21 dBu.
When selecting +24 dBu the LEDs +19 dBu and +24 dBu
are lit at the same time, because the TRS jacks stay at the
+19 setting, while the D-sub connector outputs are oper-
ated in the +24 setting.
The electronic output stage of the D-sub connector does not operate servo-balanced! When
connecting unbalanced equipment, make sure pin 3 of the XLR output is not connected. A
connection to ground can cause a higher THD value (higher distortion)!
The 25-pin D-sub connector follows the pinout known from devices manufactured by Tascam
(pinout see chapter 12.5). Your local dealer will supply analog breakout multicores D-sub to
XLR in Tascam pinout in different lengths. The maximum output level at the D-sub connector is
+27 dBu.
Each output channel has its own 7-segment level meter, so every channel can be checked for
output signal and overloads easily. The level data are taken directly in front of the DA-converter.
The yellow 0 dB LEDs light up 2 dB before full scale level (-2 dBFS) with half brightness, and
full brightness at 0 dBFS.
To maintain an optimum level for devices connected to the analog outputs, the ADI-8 DS inter-
nally uses hi-quality electronic switches, which introduce no additional noise or distortion to the
audio path. D/A REFERENCE allows for a perfect adaptation of all 8 channels to the most often
used studio levels. The different output levels guarantee optimal conversion results, while still
being compatible to any attached analog equipment.
The ADI-8 DS uses the following level references:
Reference 0 dBFS @ Headroom @ +4 dBu Other RME devices
+24 +24 dBu 20 dB -
+19 +19 dBu 15 dB HiGain
+13 +13 dBu 9 dB +4 dBu
+4.2 +4.2 dBu 12 dB at -10 dBV -10 dBV
The setting +4.2 dBu equals -10 dBV with 12 to 15 dB headroom. Set to +24 dBu the ADI-8 DS
is compatible to SMPTE (+24 dBu @ 0 dBFS, +4 dBu with 20 dB of headroom).

20 User’s Guide ADI-8 DS © RME
10. Digital Inputs / Outputs
10.1 AES/EBU
The four AES/EBU inputs and outputs are provided on the rear of the ADI-8 DS via a 25-pin D-
sub connector with Tascam pinout (pinout see chapter 12.5). A digital breakout cable will pro-
vide 4 male and 4 female XLR connectors. Every input and output is transformer-balanced and
galvanically isolated.
The inputs can be used in any combination, e. g. it is sufficient to connect an input signal only to
input 3. In slave mode, this input is automatically being used as clock source. If more than one
signal is present, the one furthest left is being used as clock source, i. e. the active input with
the lowest number. Channel Status and Copy bit are ignored.
In standard operation the AES outputs carry the converted analog input signal. When activating
Patch Mode the currently chosen digital input data is present at the outputs instead, see chapter
8.4.
The ADI-8 DS supports Single Wire only, in the range of 32 kHz up to 192 kHz: a total of 8
channels, 2 channels per AES wire. The effective sample frequency equals the clock on the
AES wire. In case a conversion from/to Single, Double and Quad Wire is required, the RME
ADI-192 DD, an 8-channel universal sample rate and format converter, is highly recommended.
Besides the audio data, digital signals in SPDIF or AES/EBU format contain a channel status
coding, which is being used for transmitting further information. The output signal coding of the
ADI-8 DS has been implemented according to AES3-1992 Amendment 4:
•32 kHz, 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz, 64 kHz, 88.2 kHz, 96 kHz, 176.4 kHz, 192 kHz according to the
current sample rate
•Audio use
•No Copyright, Copy permitted
•Format Professional
•Category General, Generation not indicated
•2-Channel, No Emphasis
•Aux bits audio use, 24 bit
•Origin: RME
Emphasis
AES/EBU and SPDIF can contain Emphasis information. Audio signals with Emphasis have a
strong high frequency boost and thus require high frequency attenuation on playback.
An Emphasis indication gets lost! This information is neither passed on to the ADAT output,
nor to any of the AES outputs!
Connecting devices with coaxial SPDIF
ports to the ADI-8 DS inputs is accom-
plished by simple cable adapters
XLR/RCA. To achieve this, pins 2 and 3 of
an XLR plug are being connected to the
two contacts of a Phono/RCA plug. The
ground shield of the cable is only con-
nected to pin 1 of the XLR plug.
The same is true for the outputs, but a male XLR connector is used then. Note that most con-
sumer HiFi equipment with phono SPDIF inputs will only accept signals with Channel Status
‘Consumer’! In such cases the above adapter cable will not work.