New 16-Channel A/D with ADAT & S/MUX Interfaces from Apogee
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Rear Panel
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July 25, 2001Apogee’s new AD-16 is a 16-channel 24-bit A/D
converter, operating at sample rates up to 96 kHz. The system offers ADAT optical output for compatibility
with a wide range of digital audio systems, and can sync to word clock, or its own internal
high-stability clock. Word Clock output is also provided.
For the first time in an Apogee A/D conversion system, the AD-16 supports the Sonorus S/MUX
specification for sample-splitting of high sample-rate audio data into multiple ADAT-style optical
interfaces. Additional light-pipe outputs are provided to deliver up to 96 kHz digital audio from all 16
channels in this mode. An expansion card can be added to offer either TDIF or AES interfacing.
An LED indicates signal status on each channel, with the intensity modulated by the signal level to
give an “analog-like” display. A second LED per channel indicates “overs”. The balanced analog
inputs are configured in two groups of eight channels on 25-pin D connectors.
The AD-16 includes Apogee’s industry-standard word-length reduction system, UV22HR, for reduc-ing
the word length from the native 24 bits to 16 for CD mastering, Internet audio and other applica-tions,
and SoftLimit to maximize digital output level without overs. The features are activated with a
pair of buttons, and may be optionally applied to channels 1–8, 9–16 or all. The AD-16 features an
elegant and effective user interface, including a power switch, sample rate/sync selector, clear
“overs” button, and two buttons for Soft Limit and UV22HR respectively, and closely matches the
companion DA-16 16-channel D/A in appearance.
“With the AD-16, like the DA-16, we’re offering an application-focused architecture with the features
that people really need,” said Apogee’s President, David Kimm. “Without sacrificing quality, these
new products enable us to make high-quality conversion more accessible, and more available to a
wider range of creative people,” Kimm concluded.
The AD-16 will ship in the third quarter, 2001. For more information, visit their web site at www.apogeedigital.com. |
