RME ADI-2/4 Pro EX AD/DA Converter  From RME

Latest-Generation ESS Conversion

The ADI-2/4 Pro EX features RME's latest converter design with the ESS9823Pro A/D converter and ESS9039Q2M D/A converter, delivering improved signal-to-noise ratio, lower distortion and even greater conversion accuracy. Combined with RME's optimized analog circuitry and SteadyClock EX technology, the unit continues to provide transparent conversion and exceptional clock stability.

Enhanced Connectivity

A new lockable USB-C connector replaces the previous USB connection while maintaining USB 2.0 compatibility. The robust connector ensures a secure connection in mobile and studio environments, and a matching 1.8 m USB-C cable is included.

Advanced Protection Circuitry

The hardware has been further refined with several new protection features. A channel-independent DC protection circuit safeguards each headphone output individually, while a new active fuse-less power supply protection system detects incorrect polarity and overvoltage conditions before damage can occur.

To improve installation flexibility, the ADI-2/4 Pro EX now includes a dedicated ground terminal for connecting turntables or providing an earth connection where required. The unit is also compatible with the upcoming RM19-III rackmount adapter.

SteadyClock EX: Factory-Calibrated Clock Precision

SteadyClock FS has been expanded with factory calibration of the internal clock to an accuracy of $\pm 1$ ppm. In addition, users can adjust the internal sampling rate by $\pm 50$ ppm in 0.1 ppm increments, allowing precise synchronization with external equipment even without a dedicated word clock connection—an approach RME refers to as "Sync without Sync."

Extended Analog Performance

The analog input section has also been significantly extended. Reference levels now reach down to -35 dBu, allowing direct connection of dynamic microphones and supporting many additional recording applications. RIAA equalization is now available in Line mode (0 dB gain), enabling the use of external phono preamps while simplifying integration of moving coil cartridge systems. Selectable balanced input impedances of $94\text{ k}\Omega$ and $47\text{ k}\Omega$ provide optimal matching for balanced moving magnet cartridges. The higher SNR of the updated DAC further improves the already very low phones output noise floor with the lower reference levels, in both unbalanced and balanced mode.

Extended Linear Analog Range (ELAR)

The ADI-2/4 Pro EX features a refined version of its predecessor's (ADI-2/4 Pro SE) Extended Linear Analog Range (ELAR) technology, designed to preserve the maximum signal integrity throughout the complete analog signal path.

ELAR combines the outstanding performance of RME's latest converter architecture with carefully optimized filtering to achieve outstanding transparency and an exceptionally linear frequency response. The result is reference-grade audio quality that retains a remarkably analog purity while offering full DSP flexibility for versatile sound shaping.

Greater Monitoring Flexibility

The ADI-2/4 Pro EX further extends its flexible monitoring capabilities by allowing ADAT channels 3/4 to be selected directly as the headphone source. This provides additional routing options for digital monitoring and simplifies a variety of recording, mixing and playback workflows without requiring external routing solutions.

As with its predecessor, the ADI-2/4 Pro EX combines high-end AD/DA conversion with extensive digital and analog connectivity, powerful DSP processing, flexible routing and comprehensive metering, making it suitable for recording, mastering, broadcast, audio analysis and reference playback.

New Features at a Glance

• New ESS9823Pro A/D converter with improved SNR and THD+N
• New ESS9039Q2M D/A converter with enhanced SNR, THD and THD+N
• Lockable USB-C connector (USB 2.0) with included 1.8 m cable
• Channel-independent headphone DC protection
• Active fuse-less protection against reverse polarity and overvoltage
• Ground terminal for turntables and earth connection
• Compatible with the new RM19-III rackmount adapter
• SteadyClock EX with $\pm 1$ ppm factory calibration and user-adjustable $\pm 50$ ppm fine tuning
• Extended analog reference levels down to -35 dBu
• RIAA equalization available in Line mode (0 dB gain)
• Selectable balanced input impedance ($94\text{ k}\Omega \text{ / } 47\text{ k}\Omega$)
• ADAT channels 3/4 selectable as headphone source
• ELAR, Extended Linear Analog Range technology