The SSL MADI Opti-Coax is a convenient, real-time in-line converter that can convert 64 MADI channels between optical and coaxial formats
MADI audio transmission format comes in two flavors: optical and coaxial. However, not all interfaces are equipped with both connector types. That’s where the SSL MADI Opti-Coax comes in. It’s a clever format converter box that can convert up to 64 bi-directional audio channels (64 x 64) between the MADI optical and MADI coaxial formats – and it does it in real time with zero latency. Its front panel is equipped with one set of MADI SC type optical input and output connectors and one set of MADI BNC coaxial input and output connectors.
SSL MADI Opti-Coax format converter Just the Facts:
- MADI optical-to-coax converter
- MADI coax-to-optical converter
- Zero-latency, real-time operation (no latency)
- Extends your MADI channel transmission from 50m coax (164′) to 2km optical (1.2 mi.)
- SC optical and BNC connectors
SSL MADI Opti-Coax – Under the Hood
Optical to coax and back again
MADI, (Multichannel Audio Digital Interface) otherwise known as AES10, is the established professional standard for transmitting multi-channel audio. Developed by SSL, AMS Neve, Sony, and Mitsubishi, MADI can carry up to 64 channels of audio in a single cable connection. MADI supports serial digital transmission of 28/56 or 32/64 channels over coaxial or fiber-optic lines at sampling rates of up to 192kHz with a bit depth of up to 24 bits per channel. Depending on how your console, outboard, or converters are equipped in terms of MADI I/O, or if you need more reach, the SSL MADI Opti-Coax enables you to convert optical format to coaxial format and vice versa – quickly and easily.
Real-time, zero-latency conversion
The MADI Opti-Coax converts in real time with no latency and no audio degradation. In addition to simple format conversion MADI Opti-Coax can be used to extend cable distance coverage from 50m (164 ft.) in MADI coax format to 2km (1.2 miles) in the MADI optical format. MADI Opti-Coax is housed within a rugged all-metal case and is extremely simple to use.
Cable/connection formats
MADI (Multi-channel Audio Digital Interface) MADI is available in two different cable/connection formats. For optical connection, the MADI Opt-Coax uses fiber-optical cable with SC type connectors (IEC 874-19). The SC connector is compact and ensures a reproducible and constant connection quality. An automatic interlock prevents accidental interruption of the connection. If you’re not comfortable with acronyms alone, SC stands for subscriber connector, square connector, or standard connector. It comes in a single connector or duplex connector (SC-DC) format (like king Aragorn in LOTR, it has many names). With push-pull coupling has an automatic interlock that prevents accidental interruption. The MADI Opti-Coax uses standard BNC (Bayonet Neill-Concelman) connectors with 75-ohm cable.