Ferrofish Pulse 16MX Multimode + 24dBu I/O — a 16-channel AD/DA converter with a Multimode MADI module and analog I/O raised to +24dBu.
This Pulse16 MX configuration is the standard variant for typical studio and broadcast installations, where a Multimode optical module is sufficient across the distances found in most control rooms, tracking spaces, and technical hubs. The +24dBu option adds the level headroom needed when working with SMPTE-compliant broadcast equipment.
Compatibility With Most Existing MADI Gear
When expanding a MADI network, the priority is that the new converter works smoothly with equipment already in place, rather than forcing a rebuild of the optical infrastructure. The Multimode SFP module is the standard used by the vast majority of MADI devices on the market, so Pulse16 MX connects to existing consoles, interfaces, and converters without extra adapters or a change in fiber type. Full 64x64 channel bandwidth (or 16x16 at 192kHz) is available immediately on connection.
Signal Headroom Matched to Broadcast Requirements
Working with very hot analog sources — broadcast equipment operating to SMPTE levels, for instance — needs more headroom than a typical +20dBu ceiling provides. The +24dBu option raises the maximum signal level across all 32 TRS jacks, adjustable in 1dB steps, removing the need to pad the signal down before it reaches the converter. Paired with Cirrus Logic converters and a temperature-compensated clock, the unit holds full conversion precision even at the higher operating level.
KEY FEATURES
- 16 balanced analog inputs and 16 balanced analog outputs on TRS connectors
- Signal level up to +24dBu, adjustable in 1dB steps, SMPTE-compliant
- Optical MADI SFP module in Multimode configuration, compatible with most market equipment
- 64x64 MADI channels (or 16x16 at 192kHz)
- 4 x 4 ADAT ports delivering full 16x16 channels at 96kHz
- Cross-routing between ADAT and MADI within the internal matrix
- Latest-generation Cirrus Logic converters with low latency
- TCXO clock with temperature compensation and PLL jitter reduction
- 2 TFT displays for setup without needing the manual
- Remote control via MIDI and the free RemoteFish app (PC/Mac)
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
- Analog inputs/outputs: 16 x 16, balanced, TRS
- Signal level: up to +24dBu, adjustable in 1dB steps
- ADAT: 4 x 4 optical ports, 16x16 channels at 96kHz, 32x32 at 48kHz
- MADI: Multimode SFP module, 64x64 channels (32/44.1/48kHz), 32 channels (64/88.2/96kHz), 16 channels (128/176.4/192kHz)
- Word Clock: BNC, 75 Ohm termination, switchable on input
- MIDI: 2 x DIN5, MIDI-over-MADI (requires installed MADI MX option)
- Headphone output: configurable to any analog or digital input/output
- Displays: 2 x TFT
- Cooling: fanless
- Chassis format: 1U rack
