RME
ADI-2/4 Pro EX
2-AD/4-DA 768 kHz, High-Performance Converter
The ADI-2/4 Pro EX is the flagship model in the RME converter series. It combines updated converter technology with numerous hardware refinements, improved protection circuits, and expanded analog functionality. These features further enhance the converter's performance, precision, and reliability for professional studio, mastering, and measurement applications.
A multitude of devices compressed into one housing.
The ADI-2/4 Pro EX is a converter with two analog input channels and four digital output channels. It is housed in a half-rack (9.5") 1-U height enclosure. The latest 32-bit/768 kHz converters offer a signal-to-noise ratio of up to 127 dBA. Its reference-class technical specifications are combined with an unprecedented feature set. A powerful digital signal processor (DSP) adds useful audio processing, including a 5-band parametric equalizer (EQ), fast bass/treble adjustment, crossfeed, and a new concept in loudness sound control.
The ADI-2/4 Pro EX includes two servo-balanced analog inputs on combo XLR/TRS jacks; two separate balanced and unbalanced outputs on XLR and TRS; and two stereo Extreme Power headphone outputs on the front for easily balancing all headphones (including IEMs) via the Pentaconn connector.
Optical SPDIF I/O is also available and understands ADAT. Coaxial SPDIF (RCA) and AES I/O (XLR) are available via an included breakout cable. This universal set of input/output options offers superior quality and flexible connectivity to those who take a no-compromise approach to audio.
With independent balanced outputs for line and phones, balanced phones no longer mute the rear outputs. Balanced line and balanced phones outputs can be used simultaneously, even with different sources/signals. The balanced TRS input on the back can be fed from the Line 1/2 or Phones 3/4 signal path, which is perfect for handling insert effects during the mastering process.
The high-resolution IPS panel eases operation and displays additional functions provided by the DSP, including peak level meters, a 30-band analyzer with DIGICheck biquad filter technology, and a state overview screen listing the current states of SPDIF, AES, USB, and clock.
As a computer interface, the ADI-2/4 Pro EX offers stereo (two inputs/two outputs) and multichannel (six inputs/eight outputs) modes. It is compatible with macOS right out of the box. Under Windows, the ADI-2/4 Pro EX uses the RME MADIface series driver for full WDM and ASIO compatibility and optimal performance.
Extreme Power Headphones - The new Reference in Accuracy and Dynamic Range
RME’s Extreme Power headphone stage has been further improved to deliver even more powerful headphone outputs. With a special IEM mode, the low-noise Extreme Power design adds additional IEM power states (high power, low power, and IEM) for full IEM compatibility.
All three phone outputs feature a mute relay, overcurrent detection, DC protection, plug detection, and DSP control. This includes auto-assigning volume, volume ramp-up, auto-balanced mode, dual-phones mode, user interaction at overload detection, and a low impedance level meter with auto-scaling.
RME’s True Balanced mode enables balanced headphone operation independently from the XLR outputs. The device has two balanced input channels and four balanced output channels. Balanced headphones use only DAC channels 3/4, and the rear outputs can output an independent signal via DAC channels 1/2. In True Balanced mode, the maximum output level of the ADI-2/4 Pro SE rises to +7 dBu for IEM, +13 dBu for Low Power, and +25 dBu for High Power. The signal-to-noise ratio remains the same.
The latest generation of ESS converters.
The ADI-2/4 Pro EX features RME's latest converter design, incorporating the ES9823Pro A/D and ES9039Q2M D/A converters. This design delivers an improved signal-to-noise ratio, lower distortion, and greater conversion accuracy. When combined with RME's optimized analog circuitry and SteadyClock EX technology, the unit provides transparent conversion and exceptional clock stability.
Expanded Connectivity Options
A new, lockable USB-C connector replaces the previous USB connection, all while maintaining USB 2.0 compatibility. The robust connector ensures a secure connection in both mobile and studio environments. A matching 1.8-meter USB-C cable is included. The USB-C port is fully class compliant (UAC 2.0), a standard natively supported by operating systems such as iOS, macOS, Linux, and Windows 10 (since version 1709). It is also used for firmware updates. With an included external switched power supply featuring a lockable connector, the ADI-2/4 Pro EX can easily be powered by battery, opening up mobile applications as well as galvanically isolated use cases.
Advanced protection circuitry
The hardware has been refined further with several new protection features. Each headphone output is safeguarded by a channel-independent DC protection circuit, and a new fuse-less power supply protection system detects incorrect polarity and overvoltage conditions before damage can occur. For improved installation flexibility, the ADI-2/4 Pro EX now includes a dedicated ground terminal for connecting turntables or providing an earth connection as needed. The unit is also compatible with the new RM19-III rackmount adapter.
SteadyClock EX: Clock precision. Factory-calibrated.
SteadyClock FS now includes factory calibration of the internal clock with an accuracy of ±1 ppm. Additionally, users can adjust the internal sampling rate by ±50 ppm in 0.1 ppm increments. This allows for precise synchronization with external equipment, even without a dedicated word clock connection. RME refers to this approach as "Sync without Sync."
Extended analog performance
The analog input section has also been significantly expanded. Reference levels now extend down to -35 dBu, enabling the direct connection of dynamic microphones and supporting a wider range of recording applications. RIAA equalization is now available in line mode (0 dB gain), which enables the use of external phono preamps and simplifies the integration of moving coil cartridge systems. Selectable balanced input impedances of 94 kΩ and 47 kΩ provide optimal matching for balanced moving magnet cartridges. The updated DAC's higher SNR further improves the already very low headphone output noise floor with lower reference levels in both unbalanced and balanced modes.
Extended Linear Analog Range (ELAR)
The ADI-2/4 Pro EX features an advanced version of the Extended Linear Analog Range (ELAR) technology found in its predecessor, the ADI-2/4 Pro SE. This technology is designed to preserve maximum signal integrity throughout the entire analog signal path. ELAR combines the exceptional performance of RME’s latest converter architecture with optimized filtering, achieving remarkable transparency and an extremely linear frequency response. The result is reference-grade audio quality that retains remarkable analog purity while offering full DSP flexibility for versatile sound shaping.
Greater Monitoring Flexibility
The ADI-2/4 Pro EX expands its flexible monitoring capabilities further by enabling the selection of ADAT channels 3/4 directly as the headphone source. This provides additional digital monitoring routing options and simplifies recording, mixing, and playback workflows, eliminating the need for external routing solutions.
Extended Multi-Remote Support (MRC)
The ADI-2/4 Pro EX remote control has buttons for the following functions: standby, on/off, volume, balance, bass, treble, input selection (optical, coaxial, and USB), mute, loudness, and EQ. Additionally, four programmable buttons provide access to 61 different functions and commands, offering maximum flexibility. No other converter or comparable device has such a sophisticated and easy-to-use remote control that is also versatile.
