RME introduces the next generation: Welcome to the ADI-2 EX series!

Just in time for HighEnd in Vienna, audio enthusiasts and mastering professionals are in for a real treat: RME is presenting the evolution of its reference converters with the brand-new EX Series. In addition to the ADI-2/4 Pro EX and the ADI-2 Pro EX, RME will unveil the ADI-2 DAC EX to industry professionals for the first time in Vienna, where they can examine it in detail. Below is an exclusive overview of the most significant upgrades to these top-of-the-line models.

Key Features of the EX Series

RME has significantly enhanced its core technology in key areas to take reliability and performance to a new level of quality.

• New ESS converter chips: The use of state-of-the-art ESS chips (including the ESS9039Q2M for D/A conversion) has noticeably improved the SNR, THD, and THD+N.
• Robust Connectors & Protection Circuits: Both models now feature a modern, lockable USB-C port with a 1.8-meter cable. Additionally, an active fuse-less power supply protection circuit provides absolute protection against overvoltage and reverse polarity. The headphone outputs also have a channel-independent hardware protection circuit against direct current (DC).

RME ADI-2/4 Pro EX – The Flagship Mastering Interface

The Pro version is the undisputed benchmark for studio and high-end setups and offers additional hardware enhancements.

• The new ESS9823Pro A/D converter guarantees completely transparent analog-to-digital conversion with optimized noise and distortion levels.
• Vinyl and microphone upgrades: RIAA equalization is now available in line mode (0 dB gain), which allows for the use of external preamps and simplifies the use of MC systems. A separate ground screw provides a ground connection for turntables. Additionally, extended reference levels up to -35 dBu allow for direct connection of dynamic microphones.
• Flexible Source Selection: ADAT channels 3 and 4 can now be selected directly as the headphone output source.
• SteadyClock EX - Precision calibration of the internal clock: Each device is factory-calibrated to a sample rate accuracy of ±1 ppm. Additionally, the internal clock can be fine-tuned in the menu by ±50 ppm in steps of 0.1 ppm. This allows the sample rate to be precisely matched to otherdevices even without external synchronization (“Sync without Sync”).
• Available starting in late Q3 2026; pricing to be announced.

RME ADI-2 Pro EX – A fresh take on the all-in-one classic

Building on the proven design of the ADI-2 Pro FS R Black Edition, the ADI-2 Pro EX combines high-end studio AD/DA conversion, a dual headphone amplifier, and a multi-format interface supporting up to 768 kHz (AES, SPDIF, and ADAT). Here’s what’s new in the EX version:

• Optimized Housing: The larger chassis has integrated ventilation for improved cooling and blends seamlessly with the ADI-2/4 Pro's design.
• A sophisticated desktop look: The high-quality chrome feet, borrowed from the ADI-2 DAC FS, give the unit an elegant look on your desk.
• More power and flexibility: The output power of the headphone jacks has increased in both balanced and unbalanced modes. A new TS trigger output enables synchronous current control for external equipment and power amplifiers.
• Partial grounding effectively prevents leakage currents without creating unwanted ground loops. The NT-RME-13, a lockable, universal power supply suitable for use worldwide, is included.
• Available starting in early Q3 2026; CHF 1699.-

RME ADI-2 DAC EX – Pure listening pleasure

The popular hi-fi and headphone amplifier is getting a new look.

• Optimized DAC Design: The larger, vented housing ensures optimal cooling performance while maintaining a consistent look throughout the series.
• Dual Optical Inputs: There are two optical inputs on board that can easily be switched using the existing remote control.
• Optimized IEM output provides an extremely low background noise level combined with a higher output.
• SteadyClock EX - Precision calibration of the internal clock: Each device is factory-calibrated to a sample rate accuracy of ±1 ppm. Additionally, the internal clock can be fine-tuned in the menu by ±50 ppm in steps of 0.1 ppm. This allows the sample rate to be precisely matched to other devices even without external synchronization (“Sync without Sync”).
• Available starting in late Q3 2026; pricing to be announced.

To experience the future of high-end audio firsthand, make the RME booth (Booth H X4, P05) at HighEnd in Vienna a top priority on your itinerary!