Genex GXD8 8-Channel D-A Converter

Genex digital audio converters combine unrivalled sonic purity with refreshingly affordable prices, and the advantage of operating in both PCM (up to 24-bit/192kHz) and DSD (Direct Stream Digital) formats. Flexible connectivity is ensured by a comprehensive range of optional interfaces including AES/EBU, ADAT, MADI and SuperMAC.

The Genex GXD8 uses advanced delta-sigma A-D/D-A converters in conjunction with a DSP-free design, precision crystal-based Phase Locked Loops and ultra-low noise and distortion analogue circuitry to deliver unrivalled sonic purity in critical digital audio recording and production applications.

In standard form, the Genex GXD8 and Genex GXA8 are equipped to convert 8 channels of analogue audio to / from 24-bit/96kHz digital audio (or 4 channels of 24-bit/192kHz). An optional AES expansion card adds 4 extra AES inputs / outputs to the 4 supplied as standard, enabling the conversion of 8 channels of 24-bit/192kHz digital audio using dual wire mode. The addition of optional DSD output and input cards equip the Genex GXD8 for 8 channel conversion to and from DSD (Direct Stream Digital), the 2.8224MHz bitstream which forms the basis of the Sony SACD (Super Audio CD) format.

A comprehensive range of optional interfaces ensures that Genex converters integrate easily into any system. In addition to the AES and DSD cards already discussed, an 8 channel ADAT I/O enables connection to a wide variety of popular DAWs. A new MADI interface enables up to 56 channels of 24-bit/96kHz PCM digital audio or 24 channels of DSD to be carried long distances over a single optical fibre cable, ideal for use on live location recordings and broadcasts.

In addition to this standard performance, the Genex MADI card also incorporates extended functionality including the ability to transfer up to 24 channels of 24-bit/192kHz PCM digital audio or 24 channels of DSD. Meanwhile a new interface for Sony’s proprietary SuperMAC format can carry up to 24 channels of DSD data via Ethernet.

DSD (Direct Stream Digital) is the 2.8224MHz bitstream which lies at the heart of Sony’s SACD (Super Audio CD) format. Suitably equipped domestic listeners enjoy a frequency response from DC to 100kHz and a dynamic range greater than 120dB, in either stereo or 6 channel formats.

Genex GXD8 Key Features

• 8-channel delta sigma D-A converter
• Sampling rates from 44.1kHz to 192kHz
• Standard GXD8 converts 8 channels of analogue audio to or from 24-bit/96kHz digital audio
• Supports bit depths of 16, 20 and 24
• Slaves to pull-up and pull-down sample rates
• Bit-split encode/decode for 2-channel 24-bit/96kHz recording onto or recovery from legacy 8-channel 16-bit recorders
• DSP-free design, with ultra-low noise and distortion analogue circuitry
• Precision crystal based PLLs with conversion clock output

Genex GXD8 Options

• AES expansion card provides an extra 4 AES/EBU inputs and outputs in addition to the 4 already on each converter. This enables 8-channels of analogue audio to be converted to or from 24-bit/192kHz digital audio using dual wire mode
• DSD I/O card converts 8-channels of analogue audio to or from DSD, the 2.8224MHz bitstream which forms the basis of the Sony Super Audio CD (SACD) format
• Pro Tools® interface converts 8-channels of analogue audio to or from a Pro Tools® compatible format for direct connection to your hard drive.

Also supports metadata allowing sample rate and bit depth tp be set from the Pro Tools© application.