Introducing the Apogee X-Series.
Changing the Face of Digital Audio... Again.
Featuring BIG BEN's C777 clocking
technology and optional X-Series Expansion Cards for direct connection to Symphony
Pro Tools | HD and computers equipped with FireWire 400
The AD-16X and the DA-16X, Apogee’s latest and most advanced conversion
systems, take the legendary quality of Apogee a huge step forward. Features
such as a redesigned power supply, standard 192kHz sampling rates, the
C777 clocking technology found in Big Ben, and optional Symphony,Pro Tools HD, and
FireWire expansion cards, make the AD & DA-16X the most powerful and
flexible conversion combination ever. And, not only does the X-Series
hardware offer unequaled, groundbreaking technology but it makes it available
at a fraction of the cost associated with previous, premium Apogee gear.
Advanced High-Definition Conversion
The most critical component in the digital recording environment is proper,
high-quality conversion and since the dawn of digital recording the most
desired converters have been made by Apogee. With up to 192k standard
sample rates, the AD & DA-16X combine Apogee’s legendary conversion
quality with the very latest in high-definition digital to provide unrivaled
flexibility and quality.
Redesigned Power Supply
Enabling optimum conversion requires a state of the art power supply.
The fully redesigned power system of the AD & DA-16X incorporates
a specially designed Synchronous Switching power supply that works in
conjunction with Apogee’s very stable low jitter clock and filtering
technology to provide superior heat and noise performance and an improved
transient response over our previous linear power supply. This creates
a power system that delivers total efficiency and provides an ideal environment
for premium conversion.
Redesigned Analog Section
Incorporated in the AD & DA-16X are the very latest developments in
Apogee’s groundbreaking analog circuit design. Through sophisticated
implementation and optimal configuration, the selection of premium, contemporary
opamps allows the X-Series to deliver conversion performance never before
heard, while maintaining the signature Apogee sound: Clear, transparent,
focused and punchy.
C777 Clocking used by Big Ben
The AD & DA 16-X use Apogee’s C777 clocking technology. Famous
for keeping Big Ben on time, the C777 utilizes an entirely digital process
that Apogee has developed with the most advanced Direct Digital Synthesis
(DDS) technology and DSP-based digital filtering. With a stable, crystal
based digital PLL handling the clocking, AD-16X and DA-16X are able to
intelligently manipulate incoming signals and adapt to them accordingly.
The result? The most aggressive jitter reduction ever and an astonishing
and noticeable difference in sound quality.
Connect with Symphony, Pro Tools HD or any
FireWire Enabled Computer
Like the Rosetta 800, the AD & DA-16X offer an expansion
card slot that greatly increases connectivity possibilities. Add an optional X-Symphony card to connect to Apogee's revolutionary Symphony system, Add an optional X-Series HD card and connect your AD & DA-16X directly to your computer
via your HD Core Card, or Add an X-FireWire card and enjoy a direct,
low latency connection that supports the FireWire 400 standard.
SoftLimit: Maximize Levels, Minimize Overs
One of the greatest difficulties in digital recording is getting an adequate
level without clipping and unwanted distortion. Soft Limit is an analog
peak limiter that enables the capture of an additional 4-6 dB of level
without going into an ‘over’ condition. Short of purchasing
a very expensive stand-alone compressor/limiter, there is currently no
product on the market that handles this process better than SoftLimit.
UV22HR: Dither Down with 24-bit Detail
UV22HR is Apogee´s industry standard technology for reducing the
word-length of a high-resolution digital signal to 16 bits for the CD
mastering. UV22HR is also being employed to produce dramatically improved
internet and computer audio content without increased file sizes or data
rates. It is estimated that 8 out of 10 hit records are mastered using
Apogee’s UV22HR technology.
High Performance Output
The DA-16X uses Apogee’s newly developed electronically balanced
line drivers. Originally designed for the Mini-DAC, these line drivers
are able to simulate true transformer behavior. The circuitry is an ultra
low output impedance, high current driver, capable of running levels up
to 26 dBu to the most complex or low impedance loads. Recording studios
utilizing vintage audio-equipment will find this particularly valuable.
Ultimately, the output performance of the DA-16X achieves perfect symmetry
when used in balanced mode (even with an unsymmetrical load) and no increased
distortion when used unbalanced.
