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With a device as powerful as the ADI-8 DD, it is for sure sometimes difficult to find out what's going on, or can be done with it. The device is capable of 34 different format conversions - which nobody can remember. And how are they set up? What can the user do at all?

The key to understanding the ADI-8 DD is the block diagram below. Reduced to the core functionality, it shows clearly and easily to be understood, which inputs and outputs work together where and when.

The three inputs AES, ADAT and TDIF are shown on the left side. Using one source switch each, both the left and the right part can access the inputs independently. The output of the left part is connected to TDIF, and basically also to the ADAT output. The output of the right part is connected to the AES output. This is the obvious design and functionality of the device, as can be learned from the front panel and the rear (connectors.) The two converter units of the ADI-8 DD operate independently from each other, no matter which of the three inputs they use, sending a signal to their hard-wired outputs.

But there are two special cases, in which the optical ADAT outputs work for the right part instead of the left part. Using the AES STATE key, the AES signal can also be routed to the optical output*. This functionality is activated by switch Opt.2 in the diagram. It is very useful when a device shall be connected which has only an optical SPDIF input (e.g. Mini-Disc.)

The second special function enables an 'ADAT to TDIF and vice versa' converter, i.e. ADAT/TDIF in both directions simultaneously. So far, the ADI-8 DD can be used bi-directional as AES to TDIF and AES to ADAT converter. But ADAT to TDIF, as well as TDIF to ADAT, are both a function of the left part, therefore require to change the input and are thus not available at the same time. As can be seen in the block diagram the ADAT output can also be fed from the right part, activated by switch Opt.1 in the diagram. The conversion TDIF to ADAT now takes place in the right part, and the ADI-8 DD can convert ADAT/TDIF in both directions at the same time.

*The AES output 1/2 is sent to the second ADAT output AUX.

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