FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

FERROFISH MADI SFP MODULE

The following Ferrofish devices use SFP modules as optical MADI interface: PULSE16, PULSE16 MX, PULSE16 DX and VERTO MX.

SFP (Small Form-factor Pluggable) is a specification for modular network transceivers. Using SFP modules makes it easy to upgrade to MADI or change the connection type. At the moment we offer two different types of modules:

  • Multimode (default)
  • Singlemode (on request)

Designed for small spaces SFP modules using the LC (Lucent Connector) plug. Having half of the size of the common SC connector LC is used in high-density applications. Modules for multimode fiber cables use a black, sometimes beige release lever, modules for singlemode fiber cables feature a blue one.

What is the advantage of the MADI interface with SFP modules?

SFP modules are easily and quickly interchangeable, making it easy to switch between different transmission modes. This eliminates the need to convert a device from multimode to singlemode or vice versa. In addition, you also have free choice of connectors and are not restricted to SC or LC plugs.

What is the difference between SC and LC connectors?

The SC connector (subscriber connector) is the quasi standard for optical MADI transmission and is characterized by its plastic housing in a rectangular design (cross-sectional dimensions of approx. 9×9 mm) and its push-pull technology. The connector locks automatically when inserted and unlocks when removed. Another advantage is the possibility to create duplex plugs (two plugs are connected via a duplex clip) and thus to connect or disconnect duplex connections at the same time.

Designed for small spaces SFP modules using the LC (Lucent Connector) plug. Having half of the size of the common SC connector LC is used in high-density applications. In the duplex version, it takes up only the space required by the RJ45 connector, thus takes up considerably less space than the SC connector.

Modules for multimode fiber cables use a black, sometimes beige release lever, modules for singlemode fiber cables feature a blue one.

What is the difference between singlemode and multimode MADI transmission?

A multimode glass fiber (quasi MADI standard) consists of a core glass with a diameter of 50 µm or 62.5 µm, a cladding glass with a diameter of 125 µm and a coating. The light-conducting core consists of glass, quartz or plastic fibres and is used to transmit the signal. The sheath causes a total reflection and thus a guiding of the radiation in the glass fibre core. With multimode fibers, distances of up to 2000 m can be bridged.

A single-mode fiber is a glass fiber whose diameter has been reduced to such an extent that it behaves like a waveguide. This type of data transmission does not exploit total reflection, but diffuses the light almost without impact at the interface. The single-mode fiber, which is sometimes also known as single-mode fiber, usually has a core diameter of typically 3 to 9 µm, but the outer (sheath) diameter is also 125 µm. Due to their construction, single-mode fibers are more expensive to produce than multimode fibers, but they ensure better long-distance transmission. With singlemode fibers, distances of up to 10 km can be bridged without repeaters.

Singlemode cables are usually yellow in colour, while multimode cables are usually orange.

Which SFP modules are usable?

Ferrofish offers its own SFP modules that are fully compatible with the devices. It is recommended that only SFP modules from Ferrofish be used, as third-party modules cannot be guaranteed to function properly.

How to upgrade a Pulse16 with a MADI module?

The Pulse16 includes an empty SFP slot. In addition to the SFP module, it needs an upgrade code of the Pulse16 firmware:
1. To receive the upgrade, please contact us via email.
2. Please tell us the serial number of your device. It can be found on the left side of the screen after pressing MENU.
3. We will send you the code for the upgrade.
4. Please select the item MADI SFP in the menu.
5. Enter the code. Use SELECT to select the first digit, then press MENU to move to the next digit. When done, hold down the MENU button for quite some time.
6. After successful confirmation, all MADI functions are now available.

This turns your Pulse16 into a Pulse16 MX.

How do I convert my VERTOMX to single mode?

The VERTOMX ships with a multimode SFP module as standard. To switch to single mode MADI, you’ll need an SFP single mode module from Ferrofish, which can be purchased directly from Synthax USA.

Removing a SFP Module

The SFP module is locked against unintentional removal. To release the lock, please proceed as
follows:
1. Remove the optical cable or the rubber dust cap.
2. Now you can fold down the bar at the top of the module. This removes the lock.
3. Now pull on the bracket to remove the module
4. Protect the socket again with the dust cap.

Inserting a SFP Module

  • The module can be inserted with the clip closed.
  • Please make sure that the lock is engaged.
  • If the module is not connected to a cable, please leave the dust cover on the socket to prevent contamination.

VERTO 32 / VERTO 64

Specifications

Dante I/O

  • 2x RJ-45 Ethernet port (PRIMARY/SECONDARY), 1 GBit Network
  • 64 x 64 channel I/O (Dante Brooklyn II board built-in)

ADAT I/O

VERTO 32: 4x ADAT Input + 4x ADAT Output, optical TOSLINK

Channel count:

  • 32×32 channels at 48kHz,
  • 16×16 channels at 96kHz

VERTO 64: 8x ADAT Input + 8x ADAT Output, optical TOSLINK

Channel count:

  • 32×32 channels at 48kHz
  • 16×16 channels at 96kHz

MIDI I/O

  • 2 x DIN5 connector for MIDI embedding/de-embedding

Wordclock I/O

  • BNC: 1 x input, 1 x output
  • 75 Ohm Termination set by default (switchable via Dante)

Power Supply

14.4VA (1.2A at 12V)

  • Polyfuse internal, self-resetting
  • 1 x power supply included

Operation

  • Temperature range: 41°F up to 113°F (+5°C up to +45°C)
  • Humidity: <75%, non-condensing

Weight/Size

  • Weight: 0,9 kg
  • Dimensions: 22 x 9 x 4,5 mm (without rack ears)

Optional accessories

  • 19“ Rack mountain kit, metal (for mounting 1 x Verto in a 19” rack-space)
  • Multi-range Power Supply 12V (EU)
  • ADAT Cable Locking Plate (Part. No. 7027)

VERTO MX

Specifications

Dante I/O

  • 2x RJ-45 Ethernet port (PRIMARY/SECONDARY), 1 GBit Network
  • 64 x 64 channel I/O (Dante Brooklyn II board built-in)

MADI I/O (AES10)

Coaxial I/O (2 x BNC)
Optical I/O (2 x LC port via SFP, Multimode – Singlemode SFP module optional)

Channel count:

  • 64 x 64 channels at 44.1, 48kHz
  • 32 x 32 channels @ 88.2, 96kHz
  • 16 x 16 channels @ 192 kHz

MIDI I/O

  • 2 x DIN5 connector for MIDI embedding/de-embedding
  • Conversion MIDI <> MIDI over MADI possible

Wordclock I/O

  • BNC: 1 x input, 1 x output
  • 75 Ohm Termination set by default (switchable via Dante)

Power Supply

14.4VA (1.2A at 12V)

  • Polyfuse internal, self-resetting
  • 1 x power supply included

Operation

  • Temperature range: 41°F up to 113°F (+5°C up to +45°C)
  • Humidity: <75%, non-condensing

Weight/Size

  • Weight: 0,9 kg
  • Dimensions: 22 x 9 x 4,5 mm (without rack ears)

Optional accessories

  • 19“ Rack mountain kit, metal (for mounting 1 x Verto in a 19” rack-space)
  • Multi-range Power Supply 12V (EU)
  • MADI Singlemode Module
  • MADI SC / LC Adapter

Pulse 16 / Pulse 16 MX

Specifications

MADI I/O (AES10)

optional via SFP

SFP port for MADI optical single-mode or multi-mode SFP module

  • 64 channels @32kHz, 44.1kHz, 48kHz
  • 32 channels @64kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz
  • 32 channels @128kHz, 176.4kHz, 192kHz

Support of MIDI over MADI.
Latency: 2 samples

Analog Inputs (AD)

2 x CS5368 (Cirrus Logic)

16 x TRS ¼” (6.3mm), female

  • Analog switches: +20dBu, +13dBu, +4dBu
  • Digital gain: +20dBu … -8dBu, 1dB steps

Latency

  • @48kHz: 7.8/fs, 0.16ms
  • @96kHz: 5.4/fs, 0.06ms
  • @192kHz: 6.6/fs, 0.03ms

OpAmps

RC4580

Level indicator

TFT screen, 28 levels

Analog Outputs (DA)

2 x CS4365 (Cirrus Logic)

16 x TRS ¼” (6.3mm), female

  • Digital gain: +20dBu … -8 dBu, 1dB steps

Latency

  • @48kHz: 12/fs, 0.25ms
  • @96kHz: 9/fs, 0.09ms
  • @192kHz: 5/fs, 0.03ms

OpAmps

RC4580

Headphones Out

  • 1 x ¼” (6.3mm) TRS jack, stereo.
  • Selectable mono or stereo source.
  • Digitally controlled volume level.

ADAT I/O

4+4 optical ports (8 channels each with 48 kHz)

  • 16 channels @32kHz, 44.1kHz, 48kHz
  • 16 channels @64kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz
  • 8 channels @128kHz, 176.4kHz, 192kHz (SMUX4 – only with installed MADI MX option)

Latency: 2 samples

MIDI I/O

  • 2 x DIN5 connector for remote control of the unit
  • Conversion MIDI <> MIDI over MADI possible (MADI MX option required.)

Wordclock I/O

  • BNC: 1 x input, 1 x output
  • 75 Ohm Termination switchable for input

Power Supply

12V, 3A

  • 1 x input jack with screw lock.
  • Power required: 12VA in operation, 0,1VA in standby mode
    (Efficiency Level VI)
  • Internal resettable polyfuse
  • 1 x power supply included

Additional Features

  • SMUX4 with 192 kHz operation (only with MADI option installed).
  • Delay-compensation for MADI chain (only with MADI option installed).
  • MIDI over MADI Preset Management (only with MADI option installed)

Internal Clock

  • TCXO (temp. compensated oscillator) with high accuracy.
  • Initial accuracy: +/-1.5ppm
  • Over temperature range: +/-2.5ppm
  • Aging: +/-1ppm

PLL

  • Digitally controlled PLL / Jitter reduction system
  • Output jitter: 50ps … 100ps typ.

LCD Displays

  • 2 x TFT Color Screens for the complete control of all analog I/O levels and all settings of the unit
  • One Key Control provides an easy control of all functions.
  • Multi language help pages guides available (No need to study the manual.)

Dimensions

  • 1HU
  • Depth: 19cm (7.5”) (including connectors)

Weight

2 kg (4.4lbs)

Temperature range

41°F up to 113°F (+5°C up to +45°C)

A32

Specifications

MADI I/O (AES10)

Optical (multimode) + Coaxial interface

  • 64 channels @32kHz, 44.1kHz, 48kHz
  • 32 channels @64kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz
  • 32 channels @128kHz, 176.4kHz, 192kHz*

* both interfaces work independent to achieve full 32+32 channels
Support of MIDI over MADI.
Latency: 3 samples
Redundancy: Automatic switching between optical <-> coax MADI when signal lost.

Analog Inputs (AD)

4 x CS5368 (Cirrus Logic)

4 x DSub25 / Tascam

  • Analog switches: +20dBu, +13dBu, +4dBu
  • Digital gain: +20dBu … -8 dBu, 1dB steps

Latency

  • @48kHz: 12/fs, 0.25ms,
  • @96kHz: 9/fs, 0.09ms,
  • @192kHz: 5/fs, 0.03ms

OpAmps

RC4580 + OPA1664

Level indicator

TFT screen, 28 levels

Analog Outputs (DA)

4 x CS4365 (Cirrus Logic)

4 x DSub25 / Tascam

  • Analog switches: +20dBu, +13dBu, +4dBu
  • Digital gain: +20dBu … -8dBu, 1dB steps

Latency

  • @48kHz: 7.8/fs, 0.16ms,
  • @96kHz: 5.4/fs, 0.06ms,
  • @192kHz: 6.6/fs, 0.03ms

OpAmps

RC4580 + OPA1664

Level indicator

TFT screen, 28 levels

Headphones Out

  • 1 x ¼” (6.3mm) TRS jack, stereo.
  • Provides an independent stereo channel.
  • Selectable mono/stereo source or one of 5 mixes of all inputs and outputs.
  • Digitally controlled volume level.

ADAT I/O

4+4 optical interfaces (8 channels each with 48 kHz)

  • 32 channels @32kHz, 44.1kHz, 48kHz
  • 16 channels @64kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz
  • n/a @128kHz, 176.4kHz, 192kHz

Latency: 3 samples

SPDIF I/O

ADAT 4 I/O can be reconfigured as S/PDIF I/O.
The input includes a sample rate converter (performance of SRC: -128dB)
The output follows the sample frequency of the A32.

MIDI I/O

  • 2 x DIN5 connector for remote control of the unit
  • Conversion MIDI <> MIDI over MADI possible

Wordclock I/O

  • BNC: 1 x input, 1 x output
  • 75 Ohm Termination switchable for input

Power Supply

12V, 3A

  • 2 x input jacks with screw lock for redundant power.
  • Voltage supervision, warning message on screen when PSU input fails
  • Internal resettable polyfuse
  • 1 x power supply included
USB Port

1 x USB 2.0 for Remote/Updates

Additional Features

  • 192 kHz operation (S/MUX up to 192kHz).
  • Individual delay-compensation of all analogue outputs.
  • DSP Plugin-ready
  • MIDI in/out plugs Headphone /submix output for easy control.
  • MIDI over MADI Preset Management
  • Extensive routing/mixing possibilities.
  • Redundancy (MADI I/O, Power Supplies).

Internal Clock

  • Temperature compensated oscillator, with high accuracy.
  • Initial accuracy: +/-1.5ppm
  • Over temperature range: +/-2.5ppm
  • Aging: +/-1ppm

PLL

  • Digitally controlled PLL / Jitter reduction system
  • Output jitter: 50ps … 100ps typ.

LCD Displays

  • 4 x TFT Screens for the complete control of all analog I/O levels and all settings of the unit
  • One Key Control provides an easy control of all functions.
  • Multi language help pages guides available (No need to study the manual.)

Audio Core Processor

  • Sharc DSP ADSP-21489 / 400MHz.
  • Routing and processing of of all 128+128 audio channels.
  • Mixing to headphone output.
  • Independent mixing to selectable analog output pair.
  • Calculation of DSP plugins.

Dimensions

  • 1HU
  • Depth: 27cm (10.6”) (including connectors)

Weight

4.1kg (9 lbs)

Ambient temperature

41°F up to 113°F (+5°C up to +45°C)

A32 Dante

Specifications

Dante I/O

64 x 64 channel Brooklyn II board,
2 x RJ-45 Ethernet connector (CAT5/6 cables).

MADI I/O (AES10)

Optical (multimode) + Coaxial interface

  • 64 channels @32kHz, 44.1kHz, 48kHz
  • 32 channels @64kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz
  • 32 channels @128kHz, 176.4kHz, 192kHz*

* both interfaces work independent to achieve full 32+32 channels
Support of MIDI over MADI.
Latency: 3 samples
Redundancy: Automatic switching between optical <-> coax MADI when signal lost.

Analog Inputs (AD)

4 x CS5368 (Cirrus Logic)

4 x DSub25 / Tascam

  • Analog switches: +20dBu, +13dBu, +4dBu
  • Digital gain: +20dBu … -8 dBu, 1dB steps

Latency

  • @48kHz: 12/fs, 0.25ms,
  • @96kHz: 9/fs, 0.09ms,
  • @192kHz: 5/fs, 0.03ms

OpAmps

RC4580 + OPA1664

Level indicator

TFT screen, 28 levels

Analog Outputs (DA)

4 x CS4365 (Cirrus Logic)

4 x DSub25 / Tascam

  • Analog switches: +20dBu, +13dBu, +4dBu
  • Digital gain: +20dBu … -8dBu, 1dB steps

Latency

  • @48kHz: 7.8/fs, 0.16ms,
  • @96kHz: 5.4/fs, 0.06ms,
  • @192kHz: 6.6/fs, 0.03ms

OpAmps

RC4580 + OPA1664

Level indicator

TFT screen, 28 levels

Headphones Out

  • 1 x ¼” (6.3mm) TRS jack, stereo.
  • Provides an independent stereo channel.
  • Selectable mono/stereo source or one of 5 mixes of all inputs and outputs.
  • Digitally controlled volume level.

ADAT I/O

4+4 optical interfaces (8 channels each with 48 kHz)

  • 32 channels @32kHz, 44.1kHz, 48kHz
  • 16 channels @64kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz
  • n/a @128kHz, 176.4kHz, 192kHz

Latency: 3 samples

SPDIF I/O

ADAT 4 I/O can be reconfigured as S/PDIF I/O.
The input includes a sample rate converter (performance of SRC: -128dB)
The output follows the sample frequency of the A32.

MIDI I/O

  • 2 x DIN5 connector for remote control of the unit
  • Conversion MIDI <> MIDI over MADI possible

Wordclock I/O

  • BNC: 1 x input, 1 x output
  • 75 Ohm Termination switchable for input

Power Supply

12V, 3A

  • 2 x input jacks with screw lock for redundant power.
  • Voltage supervision, warning message on screen when PSU input fails
  • Internal resettable polyfuse
  • 1 x power supply included
USB Port

1 x USB 2.0 for Remote/Updates

Additional Features

  • 192 kHz operation (S/MUX up to 192kHz).
  • Individual delay-compensation of all analogue outputs.
  • DSP Plugin-ready
  • MIDI in/out plugs Headphone /submix output for easy control.
  • MIDI over MADI Preset Management
  • Extensive routing/mixing possibilities.
  • Redundancy (MADI I/O, Dante I/O, Power Supplies).

Internal Clock

  • Temperature compensated oscillator, with high accuracy.
  • Initial accuracy: +/-1.5ppm
  • Over temperature range: +/-2.5ppm
  • Aging: +/-1ppm

PLL

  • Digitally controlled PLL / Jitter reduction system
  • Output jitter: 50ps … 100ps typ.

LCD Displays

  • 4 x TFT Screens for the complete control of all analog I/O levels and all settings of the unit
  • One Key Control provides an easy control of all functions.
  • Multi language help pages guides available (No need to study the manual.)

Audio Core Processor

  • Sharc DSP ADSP-21489 / 400MHz.
  • Routing and processing of of all 384 audio channels.
  • Mixing to headphone output.
  • Independent mixing to selectable analog output pair.
  • Calculation of DSP plugins.

Dimensions

  • 1HU
  • Depth: 27cm (10.6”) (including connectors)

Weight

4.1kg (9 lbs)

Ambient temperature

41°F up to 113°F (+5°C up to +45°C)

B4000+

Specifications

Analog I/O

2/2 Channels

Headphone Output

1

MIDI I/O

2 x Input

USB 2.0

1 (for MIDI to host PC/Mac)

Processor

ARM Cortex M3 and Sharc DSP

Expression Pedal

Input

Sustain Switch

Input

Power Supply

DC 12 V / 0,5 A

Weight

2,30 kg

Delivery

B4000+ Module, Power Supply, Manual

Hardware Features:

  • Nine drawbars
  • Six high resolution metal dials
  • TFT color display

Organ Emulation Features:

  • Three full polyphony manuals
  • Percussion (including harmonic, attack, decay)
  • Tonewheel emulation (including leakage and condition)
  • Mechanical emulation including keyclick and key contact delaysimulation

Sound Creation

  • Physical circuit modelling
  • Rotating speakers emulation
  • Tube amplifier emulation (with overdrive)
  • FX section: chorus/vibrato, reverb, compressor
  • External audio input routing through FX
  • Global tuning
  • Envelope attack and decay
  • MIDI keysplit and velocity
  • 128 presets