up to
in + out
The most affordable, high-quality
MADI converter. Period.
The PULSE16MX is the high-quality solution to connect a wide range of Analog, MADI and ADAT equipment to a mixer or a computer interface – with up to 192 kHz.
The high-density converter provides 16 x 16 balanced analoge TRS-I/Os and can handle pro studio levels up to +20dBu – adjustable in 1 dB steps. Optional +24 dBU I/Os and/or CV outputs are available.
The PULSE16 is using the recent high-performance low-latency converter generation from Cirrus Logic. Combined with a temperature-compensated high-precision clock and an active jitter reduction hardware design, the 226-channel MX delivers an exceptional detailed sound.
On the digital side, the multi-format device provides an optical MADI I/O with 64 I/Os. 2 x 4 ADAT ports can convert all 16 analog I/Os – even with up to 96 kHz.
The Pulse16MX incorporates a Word Clock I/O and a MIDI I/O for embedding signals and remote control of the unit. Many popular features from the flagship A32 have been added as well: Preset Management, Panel Lock and the sophisticated routing matrix.
All in all the fan-less, small footprint device is a huge problem solver for studio and live sound applications.
An exceptional choice for recording, broadcast and live sound.
Wherever high-end, multi-format conversion is required.
Optical MADI I/O
The PULSE16 MX provides a MADI SFP module with optical LC connector. The MADI I/O supports daisy-chain delay compensation and carries MIDI-over-MADI. The default Multimode module can be exchanged with a Singlemode module (order here).
Dual TFT Display
Two high-resolution TFT displays provide detailed level information for all 2 x 16 analog signals – allowing the overview of the signal flow in and out of the unit. The innovative on-board contextual help, much loved by Ferrofish users, allows it to use the high-tech device, without reaching for the manual.
Internal Routing Matrix
The PULSE16 MX provides a sophisticated internal matrix for the free routing and splitting of all 112 Ins to all 112 Outs in blocks of 8 channels. The headphone output on the front allows it to monitor every mono or stereo I/O directly on the unit.
+24dBu I/O Option
This optional version raises the maximum input and output level of the 16 analog inputs and outputs from +20dBu to +24dBu, which then complies with the SMPTE standard.
CV Out Option
The CV version allows the output of DC voltage at the analog outputs of the Pulse16. This allows control voltages (CV) to be generated via a CV plugin in a DAW, allowing to control modular systems.
PULSE16 MX
INPUTS & OUTPUTS
ANALOG I/O
ADAT I/O
MADI I/O
PHONES OUT
2 x 16 BALANCED TRS
-8 to +20 dBU (Gain in 1 dB steps).
Optional +24 dBU and/or CV
MADI SFP PORT
SFP MADI module with optical LC connector (Multimode).
2 x 4 TOSLINK
Each port transfers eight channels at a sample rate of 48 kHz (= 32 In + 32 Out).
WORD CLOCK I/O
BNC with 75 Ohm
internal termination.
On/Off via display.
MIDI I/O
For Remote Control and
MIDI-over-MADI
(with installed MADI module).
PHONES STEREO TRS (FRONT)
Monitoring of every PULSE stereo/mono I/O via an additional stereo DAC.
Analog I/O
The PULSE16 MX provides a unique flexible level setup for all analog inputs and outputs.
Every I/O can be set to a different sensitivity in a mixer like screen, directly on the display. The level setup ranges from -8 dBu up to +20 dBu in single steps of 1dB. When the fader is set to 20, the output of a digital signal with 0dBFS will be +20dBu on the analog input or output. -8 dBu on the lower end is close to the level of analog consumer gear (-10dBV = -7.78dBu).
ADAT I/O
The PULSE16 MX features 2 x 4 ADAT I/O ports (white doors: outputs, black doors: inputs). Each port can transfer eight channels at a sample rate of 48 kHz (= 32 In + 32 Out channels).
With the reduction to four channels per port at 96 kHz (SMUX/2), it is still possible, to convert all 16 I/O to ADAT. With 192kHz (SMUX/4) it is still possible, to transfer 8 input and 8 output channels in total, using all four interface pairs. Additionally it is possible, to route 32 channels of ADAT from/to MADI at 48 kHz.
Thanks to the optical connection, ADAT-linked equipment avoids ground-loops and will not transfer harmful electrical spikes from one device to the next.
Single Port up to
Word Clock I/O
The PULSE16 MX can generate its own high precision clock. It can send this clock or receive a master clock via the BNC I/O using a coaxial cable with 75 Ohm.
Wether the PULSE16 MX runs in Master or Slave mode or termination on/off can be set via the display.
MIDI I/O
The integrated 5pin standard MIDI I/O ports can be used for controlling the unit over a MIDI cable from a host computer.
With installed MADI option, it is possible, to embedd or de-embedd MIDI signals into the MADI stream (MIDI-over-MADI ).
A very useful feature, to remotely control MIDI Equipment in the studio rack or on stage from the FOH. The kind of MIDI routing can be adjusted via the display.
Device Lock
The front panel control – except the headphone screen – can be locked with a PIN number. To lock the PULSE16 MX , simply enter the PIN in the display.
Every PULSE16 MX has a fixed number (printed on the downside of the unit).
What People Are Saying
I love the A16, it offers great separation, particularly on the lower frequencies, and great uncoloured sound. It´s a very impressive box for the money and sonically leaves me with no reason to envy other much more expensive multichannel AD/DA in the market, not to mention the fact that its clock is as solid as a rock …!
Santi Arribas, The Mixing Factory, UK
Anyone needing to convert a large number of audio channels – for example, when hooking up lots of outboard or an analog console to a computer recording system – should certainly consider the Ferrofish carefully, as it offers remarkable flexibility, and comes in a compact box at a pretty astonishing price.
Hugh Robjohns, Sound On Sound
Convincing to the last detail.
Quality of Sound.
High Quality AD & DA
The PULSE16MX uses the most recent low-latency AD & DA generation from Cirrus Logic. The high performance converters capture and restore audio signals with all details, a highly neutral frequency response and low distortion. All analog inputs and output are using balanced TRS jacks, and can be set independently to levels between -8dBu and +20dBu.
High Resolution Sound
The PULSE16MX converts all 16 analog I/O with sample rates of up to 192 kHz from/to MADI and ADAT (8 Channels at 192 kHz – SMUX/4).
The pristine sound quality is perfectly suited for high-quality recording and playback of critical material with high dynamics, like classical music or jazz.
High Precision Clock
The PULSE16MX is driven by a high-accurate, internal low jitter clock. The sophisticated design combines an advanced jitter reduction circuit with a stable, temperature compensated oscillator. All digital data from the MADI, ADAT and BNC ports are automatically processed, resulting in the an ultra-low output jitter on all digital channels of 50 to 100 ps.
PULSE16 MX
MADI Format
Digital Multicore
MADI is the industry standard for multi-channel audio at modern concert tours around the globe, classical music recordings, theatres and music studios. Setups with several hundred channels in a complex setup, including recording interfaces, mixing consoles and converters to all existing audio formats, are easy to realize.
Ferrofish consequently supports MADI and offers industry-leading products, like the PULSE16 MX and the high-density converters of the A-Series with seamless integration to other formats.
MADI – Made by Ferrofish provides a set of advanced MADI features – integrated into the PULSE16 MX:
up to
MADI DELAY
DUAL PORT
MIDI
SFP with optical MADI I/O
The optional Ferrofish SFP-COAX module provides two coaxial BNC I/O.
The necessary unlock code needs to be purchased separately from Synthax USA. See above.
MADI
Multichannel Audio Digital Interface
A keystone not only in the Era of Global Live Tours.
FOH mixing, Stage Equipment, Virtual Soundchecks rely on it.
The AES10 standard - or it’s common designation MADI - is today’s unchallenged Pro Audio Industry standard for the digital point-to-point transmission of multiple audio channels.
The MADI format is no mystery. It is based on the common digital AES/EBU standard (AES3). Up to 32 AES/EBU signals (= 64 channels) are transmitted within one cable, using the multiplex method. Like all digital audio standards (SPDIF, ADAT, TDIF), MADI is uni-directional, providing a ‘point-to-point’ connection between source and destination.
Originally documented in 1991 and updated in 2003 MADI is still the most important industry standard for studio, live and broadcast applications. It is supported by all pro audio manufacturers. Countless devices are available. It will not completely replaced by network solutions, as both are complementary technologies and for a time being the necessary extension to each other. Experienced users will chose the tools and solutions, which will fit to their task.
Thanks to it´s straight concept, MADI is a convenient audio technology. It provides a simple method of transmitting a high number of audio channels sample-accurate with lowest latency over long distances. The balance between operating distances, installation costs and overall maintenance is exemplary.
MADI setups with a complex network-like routing structure, including mixing consoles and converters to all existing audio formats can be realized. Routers for several hundred or even thousands of channels are available. Computer interfaces from our partner RME provide internal channel routing capabilities and can work as router and patchbay.
MADI signals are usually transmitted by two cable types: Coaxial Copper Cables with BNC connector over max. 100 m or Optical Fiber Cables with SC connector over max. 2000 m (Multimode format). MADI Singlemode setups allow distances of up to 40 km (Ferrofish singlemode devices/SFP modules are available at request).
Transmission over direct connections of two devices via CAT5/6 cables ("Twisted Pair") is standardized, but still lacks real-life support from important manufacturers.
ADVANTAGES OF MADI
High Flexibility & Low Costs
Compared to analog multi-core cables, MADI has significant advantages: It provides the same basic functionality with improved flexibility. Much smaller and lighter cables result in cost savings, lower maintenance and easier error management.
Sound Quality
MADI is a sample accurate, lossless digital audio format and provides 24 Bit and up to 192 kHz. An extension to 384 kHz samplerate is supported by some manufacturers and will probably get standardized.
Multi Channel Cascading
A key advantage of MADI is the possibility to easily cascade external devices. Analog converters, Mic preamps and converters to/from AES/EBU or Analog can be combined in a single MADI connection. The rack-devices on the stage itself can be connected in series with short MADI cables.
Lowest Latency
With a transmission latency of max. 60 μs at 48 kHz MADI provides unmatched realtime capabilities for all timing-critical applications (e.g. live FOH mixing).
Long Transmission Distances
Distances of 100 m (coaxial) or 400-2000 m (optical) are perfect for production facilities with several recording suites, classical orchestra recordings or broadcast audio setups of large outdoor sports and other live events. Even in small music studios, where the distances from the main DAW to the recording room or the equipment room can easily reach more than 15 m, MADI exceeds the limits of AES/EBU and ADAT cabling.
Open Standard
The MADI standard is supported by nearly all pro audio manufacturers, e. g.: AMS/Neve, DIGICO/Soundtracks, DirectOut, Euphonix, Merging, Lawo, Fairlight, Marian, Otari, Publison, RME, Roland, Soundscape, Sony, Stagetec, Studer, SSL, YAMAHA and others.
MADI is still the most important industry standard for studio, live and broadcast applications. It is supported by all pro audio manufacturers. Countless devices are available. It will not be completely replaced by network solutions. Both are complementary technologies and for a time being a useful extension to each other. Experienced users will chose the tools and solutions, which will fit to their task.
Switch to MADI Singlemode at any time.
The SFP port is equipped with an optical MADI Multimode module. Ferrofish offers a Singlemode module for long range transmissions, which can be easily exchanged.
PULSE16 MX
FEATURES
1 / 3
Routing Matrix
The internal matrix allows the free routing and splitting of all 112 Inputs to all 112 Outputs in blocks of 8 channels.
This matrix is shown as a grid inside the ROUTING menu. The inputs are shown in the columns, while the rows represent the outputs. A solid square between these lines indicates a connection.
The matrix is saved within the device presets and can be recalled at any time.
PULSE16 MX
FEATURES
2 / 3
Direct Headphone Monitoring
The headphone output on the front allows it to monitor every mono or stereo I/O directly from the unit – no additional device or DAW interface is necessary.
The headphones signal can be easily selected via a dedicated source control on the TFT display.
PULSE16 MX
FEATURES
3 / 3
Fully. Guided. Control.
Two high-resolution TFT displays provide complete control of all features:
- Detailed level information for all 2 x 16 signals at a glance
- Analog Gains
- Routing matrix
- Headphone control, including source selection.
- Settings (e. g. Clock, Termination, TFT Brightness, Device Lock)
- Preset control (Save, Load)
The innovative on-board contextual help, much loved by Ferrofish users, allows it to use this high-tech device, without reaching for the manual.
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