RME ADI-2/4 Pro EX — an ADC/DAC converter and high-end headphone amplifier

RME has introduced the updated ADI-2/4 Pro EX converter. It combines a two-channel ADC, a four-channel DAC, a headphone amplifier and a USB audio interface. The new model builds on the features of ADI-2/4 Pro SE.

Photo: official website rme

The model uses ESS ES9823Pro and ES9039Q2M converters with improved signal-to-noise and distortion figures. The specified signal-to-noise ratio of the analogue inputs reaches 127 dBA. The SteadyClock EX system adds factory calibration of the internal clock to ±1 ppm and manual frequency adjustment in 0.1 ppm steps for matching external equipment.

Photo: official website rme

The built-in DSP provides five-band parametric EQ, bass and treble controls, Crossfeed and Loudness. DSD recording and playback are supported, along with RIAA equalization for digitising vinyl records. The EX version has a separate ground terminal, switchable 94/47 kΩ input impedance and RIAA equalization available in line mode. An IPS display shows device settings, signal levels and a 30-band spectrum analyser.

Photo: official website yamaha

Analogue connections include two XLR/TRS combo inputs, a pair of XLR outputs and a pair of TRS outputs. The Extreme Power amplifier provides two stereo headphone outputs, balanced connection through a 4.4 mm Pentaconn socket and separate power modes, including an IEM mode. Line outputs and balanced headphone outputs can carry different signals at the same time. Digital connections include optical S/PDIF input and output with ADAT support, plus coaxial S/PDIF and AES/EBU through the supplied adapter cable.

Photo: official website rme

Other features include a locking USB-C connector with USB 2.0 support, independent DC protection for the headphone amplifier channels, active protection against power overvoltage and reversed polarity, control through ADI-2 Remote, and compatibility with the RM19-III rack adapter. macOS is supported natively. A MADIface-series driver provides full WDM and ASIO operation on Windows.

RME ADI-2/4 Pro EX is available for $3,000.