RME ADI-2/4 PRO EX

RME ADI-2/4 Pro EX – High-End AD/DA Converter, USB DAC and Headphone Amplifier

The RME ADI-2/4 Pro EX is a reference-quality audio converter designed to deliver professional performance for Hi-Fi listening, mastering, music production and high-end headphone applications. It combines a 2-channel analogue-to-digital converter, a 4-channel digital-to-analogue converter, a high-resolution USB DAC and a powerful headphone amplifier with balanced and unbalanced outputs in a single compact unit.

The latest EX generation features next-generation ESS converters, with the ES9823PRO for A/D conversion and the ES9039Q2M for D/A conversion. Optimised analogue circuitry, SteadyClock EX technology and RME's advanced DSP processing deliver exceptionally accurate reproduction, extremely low distortion, wide dynamic range and outstanding configuration flexibility.

Reference AD/DA Conversion up to 768 kHz

At the heart of the ADI-2/4 Pro EX is a 32-bit conversion architecture supporting sampling rates of up to 768 kHz. The ES9823PRO A/D converter and ES9039Q2M DAC are combined with carefully optimised analogue circuitry to ensure transparency, precision and signal stability.

The 2-channel analogue input and 4-channel analogue output architecture allows the unit to operate as a recording and mastering converter, multichannel USB DAC, digital format converter and monitoring system. Compatibility with USB, AES, S/PDIF and ADAT makes it suitable for professional audio installations and advanced high-end listening systems.

Extreme Power Headphone Amplifier and True Balanced Mode

The Extreme Power headphone section is designed to drive a wide variety of headphones, from high-impedance models to particularly sensitive IEMs. IEM, Low Power and High Power modes allow the output level to be matched to the connected load while maintaining an exceptionally low noise floor.

True Balanced mode uses DAC channels 3 and 4 to provide independent balanced headphone operation, separate from the rear XLR outputs. A 4.4 mm Pentaconn connector is also available, while the headphone and line outputs can operate simultaneously with independent signals.

Advanced DSP, Equalisation and Listening Control

The powerful internal DSP provides a wide range of audio processing and sound customisation functions. Features include a 5-band parametric equaliser, quick Bass and Treble adjustments, Crossfeed for headphone listening and RME's Loudness system, designed to maintain natural tonal balance even at lower listening levels.

The high-resolution IPS display provides access to settings and operating information, including peak level meters, a 30-band spectrum analyser and status information for digital connections and clock synchronisation. The ADI-2 Remote software also allows convenient control of numerous parameters from a computer.

RIAA Phono Functions and Vinyl Digitisation

The ADI-2/4 Pro EX also offers considerable flexibility for vinyl enthusiasts. Its RIAA mode provides the equalisation required for record playback and digitisation, while the analogue inputs allow external sources and phono preamplifiers to be connected.

Selectable balanced input impedance of 94 kOhms or 47 kOhms facilitates matching with different configurations, including systems using balanced MM cartridges. Digital gain adjustment and selectable reference levels allow precise control of the incoming signal.

Professional Connectivity and USB-C

The USB-C connection with USB 2.0 Class Compliant interface allows direct connection to compatible computers and devices without necessarily relying on proprietary drivers. In computer mode, users can select either a stereo configuration with 2 inputs and 2 outputs or a multichannel mode with 6 inputs and 8 outputs.

Connectivity includes optical S/PDIF and ADAT inputs and outputs, coaxial S/PDIF and AES/EBU connections via the supplied breakout cable. SteadyClock EX technology provides highly stable clock operation and precise digital synchronisation, while factory calibration brings internal clock accuracy to ±1 ppm.

Professional Construction and Connection Protection

The compact half-rack 9.5-inch chassis, with a height of 1U, is designed for professional installations and reference-quality Hi-Fi systems. The new EX version introduces independent protection against overcurrent and DC voltage on headphone outputs, together with an advanced power supply protection system against incorrect polarity and overvoltage.

A dedicated ground terminal is also provided for connecting a turntable or other equipment requiring an earth connection. The supplied remote control manages numerous functions, including volume, balance, input selection, equalisation and Loudness settings.

Main Features

• Professional AD/DA converter with 2 analogue inputs and 4 analogue outputs.
• ESS ES9039Q2M DAC and ESS ES9823PRO A/D converter.
• 32-bit conversion and sampling rates up to 768 kHz.
• High-resolution USB DAC with stereo and multichannel modes.
• Extreme Power headphone amplifier with IEM, Low Power and High Power modes.
• True Balanced headphone output with 4.4 mm Pentaconn support.
• Two 6.3 mm stereo headphone outputs.
• Four D/A conversion channels with independent XLR and TRS outputs.
• Balanced XLR/TRS analogue inputs with RIAA mode.
• 5-band parametric equaliser, Bass/Treble, Crossfeed and Loudness.
• SteadyClock EX with factory-calibrated internal clock accuracy of ±1 ppm.
• USB-C Class Compliant, AES/EBU, S/PDIF and ADAT connectivity.
• High-resolution IPS display with 30-band spectrum analyser.
• Remote control and ADI-2 Remote software.
• Advanced headphone output and power supply protection.
• Dedicated ground terminal for turntable connection.

RME ADI-2/4 Pro EX Technical Specifications

The RME ADI-2/4 Pro EX is an exceptionally versatile component for anyone seeking reference-quality digital-to-analogue conversion, a headphone amplifier capable of driving demanding loads and professional audio processing. Its combination of ESS converters, SteadyClock EX technology, advanced DSP and comprehensive connectivity makes it a high-end solution for Hi-Fi systems, high-end headphones, mastering and vinyl digitisation.