RME M-16 DA
The RME M-16 DA is a 16-channel high-end DA converter, designed for easy operation while offering a comprehensive feature set. Combining excellent analog circuit design with the latest converter chips and RME’s superior SteadyClock technology, the M-16 DA delivers state-of-the-art DA conversion for 16 channels.
Connectivity and Features
RME’s M-16 DA is a 16-channel high-end DA converter, designed for easy operation while offering a comprehensive feature set. The unit combines excellent analog circuit design with the latest converter chips and RME’s superior SteadyClock, resulting in a state-of-the-art DA conversion for 16 channels.
The M-series converters have been conceived and optimized for professional studio, stage, and broadcast applications. Combinations of the M-16 DA and M-32 DA converters allow for setups with 16, 32, 48, or 64 channels, according to your individual application or budget. The unit’s unique set of features includes three hardware reference levels up to +24 dBu, MADI I/O and ADAT input up to 192 kHz, 6.3mm TRS and D-sub outputs, remote control via MIDI, and operation across a wide range of mains voltages, all packed into a 2U enclosure.
The M-16 DA extends RME’s MADI line with multichannel conversion in reference quality at an unbeatable price/performance ratio.
Highlights
- 16-channel* DA converter, double balanced output, 118 dBA
- 19″ enclosure with only 2 units height
- 1 x MADI I/O, 32 channels @ 96 kHz, 16 channels @ 192 kHz
- 4 x ADAT In, 16 channels @ 96 kHz, 8 channels @ 192 kHz
- Automatic Delay Compensation: no user operation necessary when stacking units
- 16* LED level meters with 6 LEDs each
- SteadyClock™ – pristine sound quality independently from the quality of the external clock signal
- SyncCheck™ – unique technology to check clock synchronization
- Noise suppression on power-on and power-off at the analog outputs
- All settings are stored permanently
- Fully remote controllable via MIDI and MIDI over MADI
Features
The M-16 DA offers exceptional DA conversion from MADI and ADAT formats in a compact 19″ unit with only 2U height. The balanced analog outputs based on RME’s reference design from the ADI-8 QS guarantee excellent S/N and THD specs across a wide analog level range. Three different hardware levels are available. Utilizing up-to-date converter technology, the device not only works up to 192 kHz but also achieves a real-world signal-to-noise ratio of 118 dBA on all channels. The units have separated driver stages for the TRS and D-sub outputs. The servo-balanced TRS jacks will work up to +21 dBu. When selecting +24 dBu, the balanced D-sub connector outputs will provide the higher output level while TRS stays at the +19 dBu setting.
SteadyClock™ guarantees perfect sound quality through efficient jitter suppression, making the device completely independent of the quality of external clock signals. Intelligent Clock Control displays every clock status via flashing LEDs and retains the last valid input sample rate in case of external source failure. Other renowned RME technologies like SyncCheck allow quick detection of clock problems.
All M-series converters are fully remote controllable and configurable via MIDI. Each unit’s complete status can be monitored, including all front panel displays. Individual IDs can be set for each unit, enabling separate control of multiple units via a single MIDI channel. Control software for Mac and PC is supplied, allowing easy remote control, including MIDI transfer via MADI (MIDI Extender).
The M-series has optical and coaxial MADI inputs. In case of input signal failure, the source is switched immediately if a valid signal is present on the other input.
The M-16 DA’s four ADAT inputs provide simple connectivity with other studio equipment. Combining with RME’s HDSPe RayDAT allows the transfer of 16 channels from a Mac or PC with regular optical Toslink cables at an unbeatable price.
All settings are retained when the unit is powered off.