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RME ADI-2 DAC FS 2-channel DA Converter

2-channel Digital-to-analog Converter with SteadyClock FS, Extreme Power Headphone Output, Super Low Noise IEM Output, AutoDark Feature, and Remote Control
$1,299.00

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RME ADI-2 DAC FS 2-channel DA Converter
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Reference-class Digital-to-analog Conversion

RME’s ADI-2 Pro has become a reference for pro D/A conversion. Now, RME sets its sights on the high-end home audio market with the ADI-2 DAC, which shares the same technology but swaps some of the Pro’s studio-centric features for ones that are deemed essential by hi-fi enthusiasts at Sweetwater. With an adapted feature set and much-simplified operation, the ADI-2 DAC centers on audiophile-grade D/A conversion along with two amazing-sounding outputs for headphones and in-ear monitors; and of course, a remote control! Housed in a compact half-rack form factor, this little gem is packed with the finest high-end electronics, delivering reference-class conversion from SPDIF coaxial, SPDIF optical (ADAT compatible), and USB to RCA, XLR, TRS, and mini-TRS.

Feature-packed and immensely versatile

The ADI-2 DAC features balanced and unbalanced analog outputs, RME’s Extreme Power headphone output, a Super Low Noise IEM output, proprietary SteadyClock FS technology, a four-stage hardware output level control, DSP-based signal processing, external power supply operation, class-compliant USB compatibility, and sample rates up to 768kHz, as well as DSD and Direct DSD playback for matchless high-resolution sound.

Optimized for in-ear monitors

On top of offering superior headphone listening, the ADI-2 DAC is optimized for IEMs, which have become a popular choice for audiophiles looking for a light alternative to bulky over-the-ear monitors. Since IEMs operate on lower voltages than traditional headphones, the ADI-2 DAC has a dedicated IEM output that provides exceptional sound quality and prevents accidentally destroying the IEM drivers with overly hot signals.

Reliable clocking with jitter-free performance

RME has earned its reputation as an industry leader in digital-to-analog conversion in part because of its SteadyClock technology, which significantly reduces jitter and digital interference for pristine audio quality. SteadyClock FS, the latest iteration of the technology, improves upon previous designs with an updated analog PLL driven by a low phase noise oscillator that lowers jitter below a picosecond, or one trillionth of a second, a range referred to as femtoseconds that is well beyond human perception. It’s as analog as digital can get.

Thoughtfully designed for focused listening

The allure of audiophile-grade componentry is to create an immersive listening experience. And, while quality audio is the essential factor for creating that experience, it is not the only factor. To that end, RME has equipped the ADI-2 DAC with a comprehensive remote control with many of the most commonly used functions, including switching loudness, parametric EQ, and bass/treble on and off. And the extended infrared remote is equipped to control up to four different future RME devices. Another feature that improves the listening experience is the ADI-2 DAC’s AutoDark mode, which was inspired by numerous requests by RME customers. When AutoDark mode is activated, it blacks out lighted elements on the interface, such as function keys, volume knob, and the standby button, after 10 seconds of non-use. So, your environment is free from distracting equipment lights when you want to sink in and focus on the sound.

RME ADI-2 DAC Features:

  • Class-compliant high-end DA converter with professional reference-grade quality
  • SteadyClock FS
  • Compatible with iPhone and iPad
  • Remote control included
  • 1 SPDIF coaxial input
  • 1 ADAT/SPDIF optical input
  • 1 USB 2.0 input (USB 3.0 compatible)
  • 1 RCA analog unbalanced stereo output
  • 1 XLR analog balanced stereo output
  • 1 Extreme Power headphone output
  • 1 Super Low Noise IEM output
  • High-resolution IPS display
  • CC mode

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Tech Specs

  • Type: DA Converter
  • Channels: 2
  • A to D: No
  • D to A: Yes
  • Sample Rate: 768kHz
  • Bit Depth: 32-bit
  • Analog Outputs: 2 x XLR, 1 x Dual RCA Stereo
  • Digital Inputs: 1 x Coax (S/PDIF), 1 x Optical (S/PDIF, ADAT)
  • Headphones: 1 x 1/4" (phones), 1 x 1/8" (in-ear)
  • USB: 1 x Type B
  • Rack Spaces: Half-rack
  • Power Source: 9V DC power supply (included)
  • Height: 2.05"
  • Depth: 5.9"
  • Width: 8.5"
  • Weight: 2.2 lbs.
  • Manufacturer Part Number: ADI 2 DAC FS

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Customer Reviews

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Rated 5/5

Just absolutely amazing

This solves everything! I wanted something that could power any headphone and be able to switch to my monitors at the touch of a button all while delivering amazing sound quality. The sound is incredibly clear with so much details. Even the manual is high quality.
Music background: Audiophile
Rated 5/5

Superb solution for digital music!

I've tried a lot of DACs, but never have I had one that brings such an incredibly crystal clear, driven, high fidelity rendition of my digital media to my loudspeakers that also has SO much to offer beyond just being a DAC. Even if you were to ONLY use this as a DAC, and ignore all the other features, it's still cheaper and as musical and pleasant to listen to as DACs that cost 50-500% more.

The tactile experience, incredibly detailed and well-written manual to explain its many features, and customizability are off the charts. Don't be intimidated by the giant feature list, if you just want something that will fit into even the highest end audio systems and produce superb music, this will do that too (and has balanced outputs for such systems!), but if you want hifi without all the fuss, you can pair this up with a great power amp of your choice and it'll act as a digital source preamp for all your needs. No separate preamp needed!

No regrets at all, if you've never experienced high quality digital source music through a great DAC, this will blow your mind. If you've already tried others but are looking for something a bit more, don't even bother looking beyond this price point unless you enjoy throwing money away. This can do it all. On top of that, RME USA has EXCELLENT service and responds to queries incredibly quickly.
Music background: Musician and audiophile
Rated 5/5

Just Wow.

This little box is a monster! I've heard incredibly expensive standalone DACs that are cost 10X what this RME does- and they don't sound as clear or as punchy as this. It drives even the toughest headphones with ease, though you could invest in a standalone headphone amplifier, honestly, it isn't necessary! For reference, I am using this with Focal Stellia, Focal Clear Pro, Sony MDR-7520, and Westone W60s headphones/IEMs. The best way I can describe the sound would be CRYSTAL CLEAR, HIGHLY REVEALING, and SHOCKINGLY TRANSPARENT. You can use the RME ADI 2 DAC FS with any computer, or USB compliant device (iPhone, Android, iPad, etc) and it won't bat an eye. It gets incredibly loud from all outputs... and if you've ever heard HISS with IEMs, you will be shocked how dead silent the IEM output is on this little box. Light, easy to transport, fantastically clear and punchy....and then we have all the very well thought-out features like a real parametric EQ, CrossFeed, M/S Polarity, just to name a few. It is rare to find the kind of features presented here, in even stand alone DACs, but to find them on a DAC that is a powerful headphone amplifier as well, is a real treat. I used this with an RNHP and Grace Design M920 to see what sounded best (keeping the RME in the chain as the pure DAC, then using the Neve and Grace as headphones amps, respectively). The RNHP was good, but it didn't improve the sound of the internal headphone amp in the RME...in fact, the big shock for me, was how much BETTER the RME sounded as an all in one unit. The RME has a punch in the low end, and a clarity in the highs, as well as a perfectly presented mid presentation... that the Neve, frankly couldn't match. The RNHP was great, don't get me wrong.. but it seemed to sacrifice the clarity in the highs and punch in the lows.. for an ever so slightly forward push in the low and high mids. The Grace Design M920 and M900 that I tested (these sound identical, likely using the same internal amp as this was the stated goal of Grace, to replicate the M920 in a smaller box for far less cost)...these both had a more natural presentation than the Neve, but still definitely lacked the upper clarity that is just immediately obvious on the RME. If you want an all in one unit that lets you play with the sound, or leave it in its original glory... while presenting a painfully transparent picture (in a good way, as in you hear EVERYTHING, no forgiveness here) you should buy this box right now. It vastly outpaces units 10X its cost. Shout out to Jason Thiele for being amazing as always!
Music background: Professional Keys Player, Audio Engineer, A/V Crew Director, Audiophile.
Rated 5/5

Excellent dac

At this price point this dac can't be beat. Improved performance of node 2i and my cd player. Highly recommended
Rated 5/5

A little amazing jewel

Once one takes a moment or two navigate the menu structure, this little gem is a beast. It kicks the Sc^*t out of many other DACs at all levels (Pun intended)
Seriously…Take the time….Learn the menu(s) It doesn't get any better …!
Music background: Engineer
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