The PSX-100 includes built-in interfaces for ADAT, TDIF, S/PDIF coax and optical plus multiple AES/EBU. Other features include Apogee's UV22 word-length reduction system, and Soft Limit for maximum A/D level without overs. An auxiliary AES output allows a full- resolution output to be supplied, even when UV22 is in use on the main outputs. The wide range of standard interfaces provided, including multiple AES I/O ports, allows the unit to be used for signal distribution and format conversion as well as for A/D and D/A applications.

The inclusion of 88.2 and 96kHz sample rates makes the PSX-100 ideal for such applications as mastering high-resolution CDs utilizing 88.2kHz sampling, or for DVD-Audio masters sampled at 96kHz with 24-bit resolution. Meanwhile, the inclusion of UV22 to reduce the word length from 24 to 20 or 16 bits makes the unit equally suitable for traditional 16-bit CD mastering or for DVD-Video soundtracks requiring 20-bit signals sampled at 48 kHz.

Built-in Apogee Bit-Splitting (ABS) modes allow the two-channel 24-bit signal from the PSX-100 to be recorded and replayed using pairs of tracks of a 16-bit 44.1/48kHz sampling recorder, via ADAT, TDIF or AES/EBU. With Apogee's new ABS-96 mode, you can even record stereo at 96kHz sampling on your existing 16-bit 8-track! An optional video sync card allows the PSX to lock to NTSC/PAL color and monochrome video.

The PSX-100 matches Apogee's popular 8-channel AD-8000 in appearance, with a distinctive purple front panel inlaid into a solid aluminum extrusion, and large silver buttons allowing instant access to the unit's extensive feature set. The two light-bar meters can be set to read either the A/D or D/A when the two units are passing different signals, and other functions are indicated by an array of LEDs. As a result, there is no need for a power-on indicator. A multi-voltage linear power supply is incorporated, including a true toroidal transformer with comprehensive regulation and smoothing circuitry to minimize voltage spikes, transients and noise that can adversely affect converter performance. A generous exposed heat-sink keeps temperatures well under control.

Virtually the entire rear panel of the PSX-100 is occupied by interface connectors including two 2-channel AES inputs and outputs. Both connectors are used for 96kHz operation; at 44.1/48 kHz, they operate independently. A ten-way DIP switch allows the setting of system-wide defaults which are intended to be set once and then left alone. Capabilities include pro and consumer analog I/O levels; pin 2/3 hot; setting the OVER LEDs to two seconds or infinite hold; and how overs are defined (1-4 successive full-scale digital values). Bit-split signals may optionally be received on the AES/EBU inputs (for Sony PCM-800 users and others who wish to use bit-splitting on an AES/EBU device). Word clock output has two modes: it can follow the sample rate, or it can be set to generate 44.1/48 kHz even when the sample rate is set to 88.2/96kHz.

A central design feature of the PSX-100 is the inclusion of completely independent A/D and D/A sections. Three distinct operating modes allow them to be used separately and in combination in several ways (see the block diagram opposite). The A/D and D/A sections of the PSX-100 may be clocked separately and can be configured to work together in different ways.

The digital inputs and the A/D output are fed into a routing section which sends signals to the D/A and Aux output and/or to the main digital outputs, according to which of the three basic operating modes is selected.

The default is Confidence Monitor mode, in which the A/D and D/A are independently clocked (and can even run at different sample rates). The output of the A/D is available at all the digital outputs, and the D/A can receive its signal from any of the available digital inputs. The bargraph metering can be switched between A/D and D/A. In this mode, there are two separate signal paths through the unit, while the other modes utilize a single path.

Digital Copy mode takes the selected digital input and provides it to all the PSX-100's outputs, digital and analog. Both clocks in this mode are synchronized to the digital input. This mode is ideal for format conversion, and simply copying digital media without having to re-patch your system.

In Analog Monitor mode, the A/D is fed to all the system outputs and to the D/A, which therefore monitors signals passing through the A/D. The main clock is used as the reference (locked to crystal or an external source), while the auxiliary clock is slaved to it.

To summarize, the PSX-100 is Apogee's first high sample-rate converter, offering 24-bit resolution A/D and D/A conversion at 88.2 and 96 kHz in addition to conventional sample rates. This makes the system ideal for stereo DVD and DVD-Audio mastering and as a front-end to high-resolution, high sample-rate editing systems, digital audio workstations and master recorders. Exclusive self-balancing analog I/O; two patented Apogee Low-Jitter Clocks; and exceptional attention to detail in both the analog and digital aspects of the PSX-100 combine to make it capable of the finest audio performance available today. Once again, Apogee represents the heart of digital audio -- and the heart of your system.