8-Channel 24-Bit A/D/A Connectivity at a Breakthrough Price
The Alesis AI3 interface offers an affordable solution for conversion between analog and digital audio using the ADAT Optical protocol. With 8 analog inputs and outputs, 24-bit digital converters, and ADAT Optical digital interface, the AI3 is perfect for studios that want to form a digital interconnect between recorders, mixers, and other compatible tools.
ADAT Digital Interface from the Creators of ADAT
The AI3 provides eight analog inputs and outputs on balanced 1/4 in. TRS connectors. These jacks feed 24-bit, 128 times oversampling A/D/A converters, offering a 96dB dynamic range. The digital signal can be routed through the ADAT Optical digital interface into any device that's compatible with the ADAT Optical format. The AI3 also works in reverse, translating ADAT Optical digital audio signals back to analog with 24-bit precision.
Front Panel Meters and Compact Design
The AI3's front panel shows signal presence and signal peaks on discrete LEDs for all eight channels. A switch allows for selection between balanced +4dBu and unbalanced -10dBV operation. Another front panel switch allows you to route the ADAT Optical signal through the AI3 so you can use it in a multi-ADAT system without repatching. The simple rear panel hosts the 8 input and 8 output jacks, as well as the ADAT Optical interface. With its streamlined design, the AI3 fits into a single standard 19" equipment rack, saving valuable space in your studio.
ADAT Optical -- the World's Digital Standard
The AI3 will convert any analog signal to the ADAT Optical digital standard. ADAT Optical is the most widely-used digital interfacing protocol, since it carries eight channels of digital audio at up to 24-bits of resolution using a compact, inexpensive fiberoptic cable.
In addition to several Alesis products, nearly every digital mixer offers ADAT Optical as a standard or optional interface, so the AI3 may be used to add analog inputs and outputs to consoles from manufacturers such as Yamaha, Ramsa, Spirit, Mackie, and others.
Technical Info
Analog Input to Optical Output
Signal To Noise (A-wtg.): 100dB balanced, 100dB unbalanced
Dynamic Range (-60dBfs, 1kHz): 96dB balanced, 96dB unbalanced
THD+Noise (-0.5dBfs, 1kHz): 0.0025% balanced, 0.0023% unbalanced
Frequency Response: 20Hz - 20kHz, +0.05dB, -0.10dB balanced, +0.05dB, -0.15dB unbalanced
Optical Input to Analog Output
Signal To Noise (A-wtg.): 98dB balanced, 98dB unbalanced
Dynamic Range (-60dBfs, 1kHz): 95dB balanced, 95dB unbalanced
THD+Noise (-0.5dBfs, 1kHz): 0.0030% balanced, 0.0030% unbalanced
Frequency Response: 20Hz - 20kHz, ±0.1dB balanced, ±0.1dB unbalanced
Front Panel Controls/Indicators: Optical source selector, Operating level selector, signal presence LEDs (8), Peak LEDs (8), Power switch
Rear Panel Jacks: Power receptacle, ADAT Optical input and output, 1/4 in. TRS inputs (8), 1/4 in. TRS outputs (8)
Power: 100-240 VAC, 50-60 Hz Internal Transformer
Dimensions (W x H x D): 19 in. x 1.75 in. x 6 in. (483mm x 45mm x 153mm), 1U IEC Rack mountable
Weight: 4.5 lbs. (2kg) 
