The Ferrofish A32pro is based on a new modular hardware platform and packed with analog and digital interfaces. In addition to the 32×32 balanced studio-quality analog inputs and outputs and the stereo main out up to 192kHz, the A32pro offers both ADAT and MADI – probably the most widely used digital audio interfaces available. In addition to the optical first MADI module, another SFP MADI module can be added. Different modes allow redundant operation of both interfaces: If one fails, the other one is activated automatically. Speaking of redundancy: If desired, two power supplies can be connected to the device. All power supplies and interfaces are permanently monitored: In the event of a failure, an error message is output on the TFT screens and on the General Purpose Output (GPO) to connect it to additional hardware.

Packed into a compact 1RU, the highly integrated converter is equipped with 32 x 32 balanced analog channels, brought out on eight D-SUB connectors. They deliver studio levels up to +20dBu, individually adjustable in 1dB steps.

The sophisticated design, using the latest generation of ESS converters, accompanied with a temperature-compensated clock and jitter reduction PLL, guarantees best crystal clear sound up to 192kHz. The A32pro is not just a converter, but thanks to its flexibility, using a sophisticated routing matrix, it is also a digital format converter for integrating your existing and future MADI and ADAT equipment.

32 Analog Inputs, 32 Analog Outputs    Up to 192 kHz    8 D-Sub Connectors    ADAT and MADI Digital Support    Flexible Internal Routing Matrix    4 High-Resolution TFT Displays    Redundant Power Supply    Remote Control via USB & MIDI

Four high-resolution pin-sharp TFT displays provide detailed level information for all 32 analog input and output signals - allowing the overview of the signal flow in and out of the unit. Also the status of all digital interfaces, clocking- and GPIO status and loaded preset is visible all the time.

The MADI I/O system of the A32pro is provided as dual SFP ports for MADI modules. So a variety of different configurations (single or double (redundant) in single- or multimode or coaxial) is possible. The I/O support MADI delay compensation, 64- and 56-channel formats and port redundancy. MADI streams can be used to send and receive embedded MIDI messages.

The A32pro provides a sophisticated internal matrix for the free routing and splitting of all 128 inputs to all 128 outputs in blocks of 8 channels. The headphone output allows it to monitor every mono, stereo, or even in M/S (mid/side) I/O channel from the front of the unit.

For reliability, the A32pro can be powered by two power supplies. Both power supplies are permanently monitored, and switched without interruption in case of failure. Warning message is shown on the screen and/or send by MIDI to be able to react on this failure.

A comprehensive remote software, called RemoteFish, for PC and MAC is available to control the A32pro series. In addition to USB, the A32pro can also be connected via MIDI (by simple MIDI commands) or MIDI-over-MADI. All Ferrofish devices are automatically detected and listed in the software.

The modular platform is ready for expansion: Two slots for optional DSP sticks open a whole new world for multichannel audio processing. From a single module configuration to redundant dual SFP Modes (Single-/Multimode or Coaxial), everything is possible.

Each ADAT port transfers eight channels at a sample rate of 48kHz (32 inputs + 32 outputs). A SMUX/2 mode up to 96k is also possible.

Related Questions and Answers

Q: 1. Is Digiface USB, USB class compliant?

A: Yes it is: The Digiface USB has a Class Compliant mode. Like any audio interface the Digiface USB should have a data transmission to the computer as undisturbed as possible. The easiest way to guarantee this is to connect it to its own bus, which should be no big problem as most USB 2.0 interfaces are a double bus design. A check in the Device Manager can be done as follows: ¾ Connect the Digiface USB to a USB port ¾ Start the Device Manager, View set to Devices by Connection ¾ Select ACPI x86-based PC, Microsoft ACPI-Compliant System, expand PCI Bus

Q: 2. Can you digitize vinyl records from an analog turntable or would baby face be better choice since it has a pre-amp?

A: The Babyface has microphone preamps. It would be helpful to know whether the turntable you will be using has phono level output or line level output. If the output is line level, then you can use any USB audio interface that accepts line level input to digitize vinyl. If the output level from the turntable is phono level, then you will need a phono preamp specifically for use with turntables such as the Rolls VP29 Phono Preamp (B&H # ROVP29), Bellari VP549 Phono Preamp (B&H # BEVP549), or ART Precision Phono Preamp for Turntables (B&H # ARPRECPHN). The ART USB Phono Plus Phono Preamp with USB (B&H # ARUSBPPPS) also features a built-in USB audio interface.

Q: 3. I'm planning use same speakers for HTPC and turntable. Can I use that device as some kind of pre / pro with turntable when my HTPC will be switch off? And if answer is yes then how can I set up volume?

A: The The Aurora 16 USB from Lynx Studio Technology will not operate in standalone mode. A more appropriate device for your HTPC setup would be the RME Fireface UFX II USB Audio Interface; B&H# RMUFX2.

Q: 4. good for mastering? I want to go DAW USB RME ADI ANALOG OUT some outboard gear RME ADI ANALOG IN - USB DAW

A: Yes, the RME ADI-2/4 Pro SE 2-AD/4-DA 768 kHz, High-Performance Converter (Black Edition) would be suitable for mastering.

Q: 5. Can I play an analog source and have it digital out via coaxial in real time?

A: Yes, the RME ADI-2 Pro FSR BE Reference AD/DA Converter with Extreme Power Headphone Amplifiers and Remote is able to route an analog audio source to its digital outputs in this manner.

Q: 6. Is the DSD in this model a Quad-DSD (DSD256)?

A: This device can handle DSD256 playback.

Q: 7. Can the adi-2 pro FS be used as an audio interface to record analog input to Adobe audition and other DAW?

A: Yes this will act as an interface for direct input into your computer.

Q: 8. Would this permit me to plug a microphone into one of the XLR ports or do I need a seperate mic pre?

A: No, the RME ADI-2 Pro FSR does not have any mic preamps built-in so it is not intended for connecting microphones. You would need to use a separate mic preamp. As another option, you may like the RME Babyface Pro FS 24-Channel 192 kHz Bus-Powered USB 2.0 Audio Interface (B&H #RMBABYFACEPF) which has two analog XLR inputs with mic preamps.

Q: 9. Could I use the line outputs with active studio monitors?

A: The LINE outputs of the RME ADI-2/4 Pro SE 2-AD/4-DA 768 kHz, High-Performance Converter (Black Edition),BH # RMDI24PROSE, may be used to drive most active (powered) studio monitors.

Q: 10. Can this be hooked up to my RME UFX Plus to add 16 more input channels at 96Khz?

A: Yes it can.