RME Audio MADI Converter Instruction Manual
User's Guide
MADI Converter
6 x Bidirectional
MADI Optical to BNC Converter
6 coaxial Inputs and Outputs
6 optical Inputs and Outputs
1 to 3 MIDI Distributor
Contents
1 Introduction ........................................................................................................3
2 Package Contents..............................................................................................3
3 Technical Specifications ...................................................................................3
3.1 Inputs..................................................................................................................3
3.2 Outputs ...............................................................................................................4
4 Operation ............................................................................................................4
5 Operation with MADI Bridge .............................................................................5
6 Inputs and Outputs
6.1 MADI Inputs........................................................................................................6
6.2 MADI Outputs .....................................................................................................6
6.3 MIDI Input and Outputs.......................................................................................6
7 Technical Background
7.1 MADI Basics .......................................................................................................7
7.2 MADI Converter Technology ..............................................................................8
8 Block Diagram....................................................................................................9
9 Warranty............................................................................................................10
10 Appendix...........................................................................................................10
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User's Guide MADI Converter © RME
1. Introduction
The MADI Converter is a useful tool for any kind of MADI signal. The device converts MADI
digital audio streams from optical format to coaxial and from coaxial to optical. The compact 19"
device with 1 unit height contains six bi-directional converters, operating fully independently. All
12 inputs are equipped with status LEDs on the front panel.
All input signals will pass through absolutely unaltered. The MADI converter will operate with
any MADI format, be it 56-channel, 64-channel, any sample rate, even out-of-spec data rates
and violations of the MADI standard. Special equalisation and highly sensitive input stages allow distances of up to 100 meters using coaxial cables – even between multiple units.
Additionally, a MIDI distributor copies one MIDI input signal to three MIDI outputs, removing the
need for an external MIDI distributor.
The MADI converter is an ideal companion to RME's MADI Bridge. The Bridge's six coaxial
inputs and outputs can be converted to optical, a format which is advantageous in live and installed setups, and for longer cable lengths. The device can be placed underneath the MADI
Bridge ideally. The coaxial BNC inputs and outputs of the two devices will be right next to each
other vertically, and can be connected with short patch cables without cable crossing and cluttering.
2. Package Contents
Please check that your MADI Converter package contains each of the following:
• MADI Converter
• Manual
• Power chord
3. Technical Specifications
3.1 General
• Power supply: Internal switching PSU, 100 - 240 V AC, 20 Watt
• Typical power consumption: 6 Watt
• Dimensions including rack ears (WxHxD): 483 x 44 x 242 mm (19" x 1.73" x 9.5")
• Dimensions without rack ears/handles (WxHxD): 436 x 44 x 235 mm (17.2" x 1.73" x 9.3")
• Weight: 2 kg ( 4.4 lbs)
• Temperature range: +5° up to +50° Celsius (41° F up to 122°F)
• Relative humidity: < 75%, non condensing
3.2 Inputs
MADI
• Coaxial via BNC, 75 Ohm, according to AES10-1991
• High-sensitivity input stage (< 0.2 Vpp)
• Optical via FDDI duplex SC connector
• 62.5/125 and 50/125 compatible
• Accepts any MADI signal
User's Guide MADI Converter © RME
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MIDI
• 1 x 16 channels MIDI
• 5-pin DIN jack
• Optocoupled, ground-free input
• Fixed MIDI Thru functionality
3.3 Outputs
MADI
• Coaxial via BNC, 75 Ohm, according to AES10-1991
• Output voltage 600 mVpp
• Cable length: more than 100 m
• Optical via FDDI duplex SC connector
• 62.5/125 and 50/125 compatible
• Fiber length: more than 500 m
MIDI
• 3 x 16 channels MIDI
• 5-pin DIN jacks
4. Operation
The user interface of the MADI Converter is characterized by a clearly structured architecture
and an unambiguous labelling of the front and rear sides.
The status of the 12 inputs is displayed by dedicated LEDs on the front panel.
The rear of the MADI Converter hosts six coxial BNC inputs and outputs, six optical inputs and
outputs, one MIDI input and 3 MIDI Thru outputs, all of them presented and labeled in a clear
and tidy way.
The specially developed internal high performance switching power supply allows operation of
the MADI converter with voltages ranging from 100 to 240 V AC. It is short-circuit-proof, has an
integrated line-filter, is fully regulated against voltage fluctuations, and suppresses mains interference.
Notes
• The INPUT LEDs of the MADI inputs are designed to light up with typical MADI signals. But
there is no real MADI detection and verification. Therefore, corrupt or non-standardized signals as well as high-frequency signals can cause the LEDs to turn on as well.
• The MIDI INPUT LED shows any MIDI activity, including MIDI Clock, MTC and Active Sens-
ing. The latter is sent by most keyboards every 0.3 seconds.
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User's Guide MADI Converter © RME
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