RME ADI-2 Pro FS R Black Edition Review, vs. ADI-2 DAC!

[@TechReflex]

Oh God, I just keep finding new things about this, even after months of getting it. At 7:16, I said that there are some limitations with EQ, because I thought you couldn't set subwoofer with a low pass filter below 200Hz, but the thing is that you can actually also set the first band to low pass filter, so if you want to only have

[@xxgamerxxchrischris2325]

Hiii man I am really really looking forward to seeing wether it is actually necessary to even have to buy a dac is it really truly necessary as much as I think it might be

[@xxgamerxxchrischris2325]

I really really could use some help getting some recommendations

[@mikaeljonsson99]

@@xxgamerxxchrischris2325 If you are used to phone or laptop on cheap headphones, you are going to have a religious experience with the ADI-2 PRO/DAC paired with some better phones. You dont need the $1500 Heddphone to do justice to these boxes. The Sennheiser HD650 @$300 is an excellent and very popular choice. If you are sceptic and doesnt need the AD recording part of the PRO version I would audition an ADI-2 DAC/Sennheiser HD650.

[@alexfoxpoker]

Very fast talk.

[@ankurbaghel1293]

Im looking for one used

[@flourishingfog]

Extremely thorough review, well done!

[@TechReflex]

Thank you! ☺️

[@gwapster13]

This is a great device without any audiophile BS, and your review is equally no-nonsense excellent! Thanks for this.

[@TechReflex]

Thank you. :)

[@Megamare1]

14:27 to check which DAC chip is being used look at your serial number. The ESS DAC will have a “C” located after your serial number whereas the AKM will not

[@Admajors]

You just sold me on getting this dac/amp over the non-pro model. You were very well-spoken and kept this very detailed, yet concise. Well done!

[@goodboid]

Wow. Didn't know I can use the Adi2Pro's headphone out on my sub. That's gold! Thanks a bunch. As it stands, I hate my sub right now, but with the ability to EQ it now, it should make it more tolerable. Love your deep dives! Thanks again.

[@TechReflex]

Thanks and welcome. :)

[@thomas95270]

Hello, I would like to connect my sub to the 3/4 headphone outputs, but I don't know which cable I should use? my sub has a balanced xlr input, what would be the best choice? thank you

[@TechReflex]

You mean that your sub as dual XLR inputs, right? Does it also have RCA or TRS inputs?

[@thomas95270]

No, my sub own a xlr input so it's balanced. Thanks!

[@TechReflex]

Which model is it?

[@ANSWERTHECALLOFJESUSCHRIST]

Such a helpful video. Contrary to some other reviewers, you say a lot of information with few words in an easy-to-understand way, and I appreciate that!

[@sekritskworl-sekrit_studios]

Agreed!

[@FirearmTutorials]

Thanks for sharing all those details around the features and use cases. Really helped me dial in my choice.

[@TechReflex]

:)

[@AQUPAS]

Perfect in depth overview, I am considering picking one up this holiday season. Thanks!

[@TechReflex]

Thanks and welcome. :)

[@srg-yo]

Excellent review and comparison!

[@letsgobrandon6545]

Can I use USB input and then Optical out to another DAC? Does EQ work w SPDIF out in this case?

[@metastaticmince2386]

extremely good video on a great device. You are like RME - no snake oil, professional, rich in information and i learned a lot. The best part indeed was the snackpause :-)

[@TechReflex]

Thank you. :)

[@mcpeko]

I keep learning more about this device every time I watch a new video. So much revolutionary stuff. Hoping for a more hands on 19" 3U version.

[@BradMaestas]

So much great info here. I have been considering the Pro FS ADAC for so long and now I think this has pushed me to invest. Thank you for your efforts!

[@TechReflex]

Thanks :)

[@04yellowjacket]

Great review. I have owned every version of the RME ADI-2 DAC and I now have the 'PRO FS R Black Edition'. It is quite simply the best piece of audio gear I have ever come across. Even at a full list price of $2000 USD, it is an amazing value, worth every penny. I bought mine open box for $1300 (all in) and I could not be happier. In an amazing device that is absolutely LOADED with incredible features, the one feature I cannot do without is the 'loudness'. When listening with my favorite headphones (Audeze LCD-XC 2021), the loudness feature takes them from a 9 to a 10, especially when listening at very low volume. Once you set up and use RME loudness, there is no turning back! The RME ADI-2 DAC (or PRO) will make any good sounding headphones sound great and make great sounding headphones blow your mind. Also with the amount of power the PRO puts out in 'balanced mode" it can power any headphone on the market except E-Stats, ribbons or maybe the Susvara. Any other headphone you can name- Abyss 1266 TC, Hifiman HE6 or DCA Stealth, you name it. This amazing device has power to spare. - Snake oil NOT included.

[@TechReflex]

Yep, totally agree. :)

[@levinste2750]

I have the RME ADI-2 DAC FS / headphones Dan Clark E3 Would you recommend to upgrade to PRO FS R Black Edition ?? I do not use speakers / monitors Thank you

[@04yellowjacket]

@@levinste2750 I don't think you NEED to upgrade. I have the Audeze LCD-5 which have the same sensitivity as your E3 and the ADI-2 DAC FS runs them fine. I do run them balanced from the PRO and it might sound a touch cleaner/wider (because in balanced there is less crosstalk), but we are talking MAYBE 1% difference here. If you look at the power charts for both RME units, you will see why the difference is small. At the lower impedances of our headphones (both the LCD-5 and your E3), the power difference between the RME ADI-2 DAC and the Pro in balanced, is only a few MW. The power difference is much bigger with higher impedance headphones.

[@ChandanSingh-tu4zk]

I have no words to appreciate your efforts in making these videos. Just one word, "wow".

[@TechReflex]

Thanks!

[@MerajTypeBeat]

It was all thanks to you that I was able to decide on which one to get. I was stuck on what the real differences were between the units, but ended up going for the Pro FS R. Appreciate this detailed video!

[@TechReflex]

Thanks, that's great to hear. :)

[@ethnicrao]

Hai boss..very nice detaing about product

[@darrylweller6143]

Hi I really enjoyed your review, I have the hedd phones, Should I invest in the balanced cable?

[@carlosortega8357]

That was an excellent presentation and crash course on sound engineering for us regular audiophiles. Thanks a lot and keep up the good work! (from Colombia, S. America)

[@TechReflex]

Thanks and welcome :)

[@Alex-ut5qw]

Great video! Might you please share your gorgeous wallpaper?

[@HardwareMana]

Great video bro! It's a powerhouse for sure. I have one doubt. It's a USB Device so why not provide GUI for accessing the advanced features. Won't it simplify the process to a great degree? Is it related to signal degradation? Thanks!

[@TechReflex]

Except for things like renaming EQ presets, you can actually do things faster with the physical controls and remote, once you get a hang of it, and a lot of people don't use a PC with these devices. They do have software like DIGICheck for this and TotalMix for their other products, and there are some elements in their MADIface drivers control panel that let you control some settings like sampling rate and ASIO channels. Besides, most of the time that I am operating this, I already have software running on my screen, so not needing to switch to another GUI is something that I value, I used to use Equalizer APO earlier, and not needing to use that is a big relief as it interrupts your flow. Lastly, most DACs don't even have a screen or a menu system, and even the ones that have it have a very basic implementation, so this is lightyears ahead. They could develop a GUI for this, but that's mostly going to be a waste of resources, especially as most people don't really change settings after settling on the ones optimal for them.

[@mikaeljonsson99]

Thnx for a great review! I can only concur to the ingeniuity of these two devices. RME has put all their studio digital knowledge, which goes back 25y, and put it into consumer DAC´s.

[@mrmrschandvlogs8927]

can i directly record vocal with an external preamp to pc without any audio interface??

[@goodboid]

You need to convert the analog signal into digital. The preamp just boosts the analog signal, doesn't convert to digital. So, no you can't.

[@mrmrschandvlogs8927]

@@goodboid it is ad da converter ??with usb output??

[@goodboid]

@@mrmrschandvlogs8927 Yes. But unlike the Adi2Pro, which is a AD/DA convertor only, most interfaces come with mic pre-amps. All interfaces have AD/DA convertors (via USB or Firewire) but not all AD/DA convertors have mic pre-amps.

[@mrmrschandvlogs8927]

@@goodboid so i asked if i connect a external mic preamp.. . With it... Can it record via it's usb port to pc??

[@mrmrschandvlogs8927]

@@goodboid i know it doesn't have mic preamp....

[@jimwiki]

Thank you for a review,. I’m from Russia and I understood every advantage of the device in 20 minutes. Saved a lot of time :)

[@TechReflex]

That's great to hear :) Thanks, and welcome.

[@billymisfits]

where did you get the balanced female xlr to dual 1/4 adapter? can't seem to find it even on amazon.

[@TechReflex]

It was custom made, as I mentioned in video (along with how you can also get one made)

[@billymisfits]

@@TechReflex thanks. will be sure to watch the entire video 👍

[@criptocolorlightstech5292]

I just wanna use the RME for video games, movies and music. Do I need a amp to match the RME dac and is it easy to plug and play for my use case

[@richm4402]

Thank you for this excellent review ! will the remote change input to analogue in ? I'd like to use the input for a HT bypass. Any chance it has a volume memory for inputs? thanks

[@angelowiechert8900]

Great video! Please, put some audio test!!

[@TechReflex]

I have put the ADC recorded files in description, you can compare them (original vs. Recorded) to see how good the DAC is at reproducing the signal. :)

[@jaykabel]

Can you please add a link to the dual 1/4" to 4-pin XLR adapter you use?

[@TechReflex]

Mine was custom made by my Indian retailer Ansata.net, but I think many other retailers must also be able to make one. There's a diagram in the manual on the wiring of the adapter. The ready-made one I showed in video screenshot is made by Dyson Audio, but I am not sure where you can buy that: www.zozcollection.com/product/new-dyson-audio-rme-adi-2-professional-silver-balanced-headphone-cable-adapter/

[@erfzjepacapej7648]

Can you use the trs outputs on the back to connext your hardware synth? Then use the analog inputs to complete the loop? Also assuming the front 2x trs can be used to record analog synths?

[@anupamkakkar]

So what I understand from your review is that I can use an external Amplifier with all the features of ADI-2? I believe there are some features dedicated to ADI-2 amp?

[@TechReflex]

Yeah you can use all features of ADI-2 DAC / Pro with an external amplifier, whether you connect it via XLR/RCA/TRS/Front HP Jack. All features available with ADI-2 Amp can also be used with an external amplifier.

[@r1ley420]

I think this is the best review of the Pro I have seen. Mine arrives today. Are you able to attach multiple devices to the breakout cable? I want to be able to play music from my server through the Pro to my receiver. I can avoid using USB and use the AES XLR. To connect the turntable would I use the breakout cable RCA’s or the analog inputs with an adapter? Thanks

[@victorong9212]

Would you recommend basic or pro if I mainly plan to use it for a Totl IEM? Also, is it suitable for the Unique Melody Mest MK2 or Sony IER Z1R iem?

[@TechReflex]

Basic would be better, because it's extremely low noise IEM out can be essential for very sensitive IEMs, especially on the higher end, and you only need the pro version for extremely demanding headphones.

[@fahryst]

So if I understood correctly, analog outputs each use one of the dac chips. Only if you use headphone outs in balanced mode it uses both of the chips. So if you use an external amp, it shouldn't be different from Adi-2 dac technically.

[@TechReflex]

Yeah, that's correct. However, if you really want to use both dac chips for some reason, you could connect the HP outs in balanced mode to the headphone Amp (as they can also work as line level outputs), though I don't think would make a big difference in sound.

[@lvlingsheng]

Hi, thanks for reviewing, I am wondering what's the adapter you showed in the video for HEDD headphone? The one from two 6.5mm to XLR. Thanks

[@TechReflex]

As I mentioned in review, that was a custom made adapter made by the retailer I bought it from, and the store you are buying from should also be able to get you in touch with someone who makes custom adapters like those. The wiring diagram is present in the manual, which will let anyone who makes custom cables easily make an adapter like that. There are also ready made adapters available, but they are difficult to find.

[@SS-cl5ph]

does this one has a ui interface on computer so I can change settings on screen instead of looking at the small screen

[@TechReflex]

No, you'll have to use the small screen.

[@luca_rr4660]

Great review! Thanks. Is it possible (on the non pro version) to set a low pass filter separately for both the RCA and XLR outputs? And can volume to the RCA output and XLR output be separately changed? Thinking to connect 2 stereo subwoofers to the RCA outputs and main speakers to the XLR outputs. Thank you.

[@TechReflex]

No, that cannot be done. Output will work on both RCA and XLR, but they can't be separately controlled. You could use the PH3/4 out as a separate output for subwoofers tho which can be controlled and EQed separately.

[@coolassloser]

Wow this was an excellent review of all the use cases. I have an existing RME DAC 2 FS. I am considering the Pro version because I want to run a power amp and also integrate subs. So in the beginning of your review, you mentioned that switching between headphone out to line out does not work the same as the regular ADI DAC?

[@TechReflex]

Thanks, and it works the same as ADI-2 DAC on ADI-2 Pro, it's just that the DAC chips for one of the HP outs and rear line outs are different units, so you have to use the PH3/4 of you don't enable dual phone out mode.

[@compoundaudio]

great video, ive been looking into these more and more, thanks for this excellent break down

[@TechReflex]

Thanks. :)

[@franciscojimenez7169]

CAN RME BLAC EDITION THIS BE USE AS PREAMP AND DAC WITH THE PEACHTREE GAN 1??

[@JTB--]

Is the RME Pro using the AKM DAC chips in 2024? Great video btw. I'm trying to decide between the two units and your video is beyond helpful. Leaning towards the Pro for the Balanced HP option

[@alexfont]

Congrats for the video 👍🏻

[@samk.871]

Is it capable of running speakers, shelf speakers or maybe bigger? Can you show me couple of mid to high end speakers that it can run, power wise? Thanks for the help

[@TechReflex]

This isn't a speaker amplifier, so it will only send audio signal to speakers. You can either use active speakers with it, or use a speaker amplifier.

[@samk.871]

@@TechReflex thanks for the info. One more question please, to add this DAC between music source and speakers or headphones understanding that if I have floor speakers then I need amp, what is the benefit to the sound I will get?

[@TechReflex]

The sound signal that you get will be of highest quality, then it depends on the quality of speaker and headphones. If you have high end speakers and headphones, then this device will provide the needed quality to them.

[@samk.871]

@@TechReflex Also, for personal use at home (non professional use) should I get the basic or the pro black edition with money not being an issue? What is the differences between the pro and the regular one?

[@TechReflex]

Basic DAC version is good enough for most people who just want to listen to music using this. You only need this if you have special power demanding headphones like the HEDDphone, or you need to record audio signals. For just using with speakers the basic DAC version is as good as the pro version.

[@___joez]

can you give more guidance on how you made the balanced quarter inch to XLR adapter??

[@TechReflex]

The wiring instructions are in the manual, you just need to find someone who knows how to make audio cables, and they should be able to make it for you. I got it made by my retailer (Ansata computers), but you could also ask the retailer in your region, or anyone who makes custom audio cables, it should be easy. Ready made adapters are available from some brands, but I am not sure about their availablity in different regions.

[@___joez]

@@TechReflex ok thanks. Amazing video btw good work

[@jeanbibi8970]

Thank you for this analysis. I would still like to know what the sound is on a high-end hi-fi system. Is the product dynamic, the soundstage is well staged. Thank you

[@TechReflex]

Thanks, and yeah, this is pretty much amongst the best in all areas.

[@linn4538]

We are currently testing the RME against some more expensive DACs (amplifiers used are Benchmark AHB2 and Bryston 4B3). We wanted to see how well the RME would fare; how close it would get. Surprised us by outperforming a DAC (just a DAC) that cost twice as much. @@TechReflex

[@TechReflex]

@@linn4538 wow, that's an interesting find.

[@SpaceEncounter]

Great review! Which SW are you using for the recordings on the PC?

[@TechReflex]

Thanks! I used Adobe Audition for ADC Recordings. :)

[@beskimo2]

Hi thank you for your review on the Pro model. I was wondering where did you get the balanced cable adapter? That looks like it would be really nice to use with the HEDDphone. Thank you!

[@TechReflex]

As I mentioned, that was a custom made adapter made by the retailer I bought it from, and the store you are buying from should also be able to get you in touch with someone who makes custom adapters like those. The wiring diagram is present in the manual, which will let anyone who makes custom cables easily make an adapter like that. There are also ready made adapters available, but they are difficult to find.

[@beskimo2]

@@TechReflex Hi Thank you for the reply. I'm sorry I missed that part in the video. I did go to the manual on RME website and it was nice to see plenty of useful information.

[@dentboxhero1717]

Good job on simplifying the Pro's capability for the non pro audio users that are considering on purchasing. I also have both but FS was the more current purchase for me for desktop purposes.

[@TechReflex]

Thanks! A focus of this review was to simplify the complexities of this device, so great to hear that that was noticeable. :)

[@dentboxhero1717]

@@TechReflex Trust me, the other reviews from supposed to be expert audiophiles are sad to very infuriating as clearly they don't know anything about pro audio gear. Just because they are dumb founded on how to use and tap into the ADI-2 pro/fs features they pretty much make it as a huge con lol.

[@invincible2536]

How's shanling's UA 1 the most affordable dac

[@TechReflex]

It should be good, however I am not sure if it'll provide a dramatic difference over devices that you may already have. Many flagship phones at least come with pretty good dac+Amp these days.

[@invincible2536]

@@TechReflex Thank you bhai

[@EternallyNone]

Though I completely agree with you that hardware eq is better, 5 band just doesn't cut it for me. But again most other dacs dont even have eq

[@04yellowjacket]

With the latest firmware updates the unit can be configured to add the B/T 9bass and treble) to the saved EQ profiles, effectively making it 7 bands.

[@Seconds84]

What adapter would you buy to turn it into a balanced headphone amp?

[@TechReflex]

There's a readymade adapter by some brand (I showed in video), that could work, or you could contact anyone who makes custom cables and ask them to make an adapter with Neutrik or Amphenol connectors by sharing the wiring diagram provided in the manual.

[@subashgandhi4724]

Me wearing a Bluetooth headset and thinking of buying this DAC. 😅.... Everytime i just Love your content bro..! So much of content behind every video. Kudos..!!

[@TechReflex]

Thanks. :)

[@anatol1204]

Can you add 2 chanel external pre amp and use it like interface for a hi end stereo recording for example ?

[@TechReflex]

It can record analog signal from a preamp in very high quality, though the output level on it is line level, so it won't drive full sized speakers if they're not powered.

[@TechReflex]

No it can't be used as mic pre Amp, you'll have to add a preamp between this and mic.

[@anatol1204]

@@TechReflex so i can add the stereo mic pre in the inputs but i won t be able to listen very well throughout my speakers?and what about the headphone out ?

[@TechReflex]

If you add stereo pre, then you can record/listen to your mics via speaker out (I said it had line level output), you can plug it into an active speaker or a speaker Amp that is powering speakers.

[@anatol1204]

@@TechReflex thanks very much for the answers..i try to avoid to buy also new interface because i have the fireface400 and i m not totally satisfied by the pres the headphone amp and maybe the DA conversion.I thing this machine must be many steps up..

[@alamzz9724]

Hello, I’d like to ask if there is any difference in the sound of the XLR output between the adi2 and adi2 pro when connecting to active speakers.(They have different dac chips). Thank you!

[@TechReflex]

@@alamzz9724 People say that AKM DACs (ADI Pro) are smoother compared to the more analytical ESS DACs, but RME claims there's no audible differences. Other than that, there shouldn't be any significant differences. The line out doesnt use both chips on the ADI 2 Pro either.

[@alamzz9724]

@@TechReflex Thank you for your reply. From your listening perspective, do you think there is a difference in sound between the adi2 and the adi2 Pro? If so, which one sounds better?

[@TechReflex]

@@alamzz9724 Both my devices are AKM version, the new ADI 2 DAC has ESS DAC. There weren't any differences between my devices.

[@cvanstaden1980]

Thanks, great review. What cable connector did you use for the unbalanced to balanced connector for the Hedd headphones?

[@TechReflex]

It was a custom made cable, the diagram for it is in the manual, any custom cable manufacturer should be able to make it.

[@cvanstaden1980]

@@TechReflex are you simply connect the Adi-2 to your Mac/PC with USB? If so, does it work well?

[@filipkrstevski5449]

I think those outputs are all balanced but one are xlr and the other twp are trs outputs good review cheers

[@johnratcliffe6438]

Someone summarise please; does the Pro offer sufficent additional performance to justify the cost? I really don't like ESS.

[@TechReflex]

The Amp and dac performance is same unless you run balanced, and pro has lots of additional digital I/O features. Now they have different DAC chips, so it's a bit complicated, but the Pro is easily worth the extra cost, especially if you don't want to add a dedicated Amp to the setup.

[@johnratcliffe6438]

@@TechReflex Perfect, thank you!

[@atacamabeatsindierecording8406]

Hi, what about if i just want to mix and master. The DAC, not the pro, can be usefull. I would keep my m-Tracks eight for Recordings ?????

[@TechReflex]

Yeah, you can just use the DAC, though, I can bet that you will find a use for pro in future, especially with all the digital inputs and outputs it has.

[@TheOracleApollo]

Great review.. Many thanks One question if you'd be so good. Can i use the eq on the Adi-2 Pro to adjust for the harman curve for setting up planar headphones?

[@TechReflex]

@@TheOracleApollo Thanks, and yes, you can add Harman curve to headphones using it's PEQ, the settings are available here: github.com/jaakkopasanen/AutoEq

[@TheOracleApollo]

@@TechReflex So kind, thank you for the link. This is key for top end headphone mixes especially with an untreated flat eq response from this fab unit. No colouring makes this a stand out for pro work

[@tango_gru]

Do they have separate models for 220 Volt and 110 volt ? or both voltage standards are supported by the same device ???

[@TechReflex]

The power adaptor can be plugged into both 220 and 110 V, so it works with both levels of voltages.

[@tango_gru]

@@TechReflex thanks a lot .... this makes a lot of difference for me

[@giltayag2543]

Hi Thanks for this video. I am wondering if I can connect this dac/ amp to a powered or active speaker like the bang &olufsen beosound 2 or is it too much power for the speaker. Thanks

[@TechReflex]

Yeah, this is meant to be paired with active speakers only, it can't power passively powered speakers without a speaker Amp.

[@giltayag2543]

@@TechReflex thanks for your timely reply. More power to you!

[@denemehesap1260]

Thanks for very detailed review. I am just looking for a DAC to connect with my Balanced AMP to listen headphones, I don't need other features actually. But can I ask if DAC is better in Pro FS or they are same when you listen them as a DAC through same AMP?

[@TechReflex]

The DAC is the same. Though, the Pro FS has AKM chips, while the DAC FS has ESS chips, and some people say AKMs are better. I'd just go with the DAC FS in your situation.

[@chaskunovich427]

Hello! Love the video and content! 😊👍🏻. Quick question, do you know the exact cable you are using to connect into the dual headphone ports of the Pro FS? It’s the XLR Female to dual 1/4 inch cable. Where were you able to purchase that exact one, do you remember? It looks nice and high quality!

[@TechReflex]

It had to be custom made, as I mentioned in video, it has Neutrik connectors, which are high quality. The diagram for it is in the manual, any one making custom cables should be able to help you with it.

[@wforkel1]

Thanks for the great review. I wonder if the device offers 32 bit floating AD conversion when used for recording. I did not find any relevant information in the published specs.

[@TechReflex]

I don't think it supports that.

[@wforkel1]

@@TechReflex I’m afraid you’re right. Let’s hope that this will be delivered as an upgrade because the converters should be 32 bit float capable and this feature is meanwhile available even in low cost recorders eg from Zoom and Tascam. Would be great for digitizing vinyls.

[@BKZ55]

Thanks for the video. Can I connect studio monitors? I have a preamp. Would the recording chain be correct : microphone into the preamp into the rme into my laptop via USB? Thank you

[@TechReflex]

Yep, that is correct, and you can of course connect powered studio monitors.

[@BKZ55]

@@TechReflex thank you for the quick reply. 🤝

[@FaramarzMoeeni]

Would you please give me a link to buy the Dual 6.3m to XLR adapter here? Or even the brand name of that converter.

[@TechReflex]

It wasn't readymade, I had to get it custom made by a pro audio equipment shop. There's a diagram in the manual, you may use that to get it made by someone who makes custom audio cables.

[@FaramarzMoeeni]

@@TechReflex tnx

[@milkyway8353]

great video man, thank you

[@TechReflex]

:)

[@Gdude899]

I take it a guitar is recorded via an audio interface and goes through the pre-amp but doesn't pass through the AD conversion and goes through the line outs to be converted from A to D via the ADI-2 Pro FS?

[@TechReflex]

That can be done, but most user interfaces don't allow them to be used solely as a preamp, and bypass their AD stage. With guitar it shouldn't be an issue, but for voice recordings, the fact that AD stage has already been passed, and then the interface is sending a DA converted signal to RME makes it pointless to use that way.

[@Gdude899]

@@TechReflex I asked chat GPT and it said you can do the AD conversion through the RME by hitting the pre-amps through any audio interface to send line out into the RME for AD conversion besides more complex interfaces that route directly to AD conversion with this feature known as internal DSP or AD conversion. This is for all instruments including vocals, but Chat GBT can be wrong in some rare circumstances with details like this, so thanks for the input, did you get your information through more trusted sources like manuals?

[@StefanUrkel]

TechReflex I am curious have you tried HQplayer with rme 2 and tried upgraded power supply? Wonder if it makes significant improvement. Also have you tried REW or Dirac? Lastly, have you compared headphone amp to something like drop thx 789?

[@TechReflex]

I used REW to generate filters for room correction for my speakers, and I use them with adi-2 pro. Haven't tried HQPlayer. Upgrading power supply doesn't seem to make a difference, according to what I've read in RME forums.

[@StefanUrkel]

@@TechReflex did rew make a big difference?

[@TechReflex]

@@StefanUrkel Yeah, but REW was just used for measuring room with a measurement mic, then dialing in those settings in ADI-2 PRO, or you could use any software with parametric EQ.

[@SanjayVinayak]

Where did you get the dual balanced to XLR adapter for this?

[@TechReflex]

Got it custom made from Ansata

[@harishdesai269]

Great information bro 🙂 Can you please suggest me the best gaming headset between Rs 2000 to Rs 2500 ? Love your videos BTW 🤠

[@TechReflex]

Thanks, you can go for OneOdio A71, or EKSA E900 Pro if you want the most comfortable headset (but it doesn't sound as good as A71), I'll also be making video on the new Boat gaming headphones next. :)

[@harishdesai269]

@@TechReflex Thanks bro! But boat headset is not having 3.5 mm jack 🌚

[@jaycranmer2001]

Does this work with xlr microphones and if it does how much better is the microphones quality better than the rme baby face?

[@TechReflex]

Doesn't work with XLR mics directly. Need a preamp in between.

[@jordanpop11]

I’m mostly interested in the pro so my wife and I can listen simultaneously. Is the unit easy to change independent volume from the two headphone outputs? She usually listens at much lower levels than myself. GREAT review btw. Liked and subd

[@TechReflex]

Thanks, and yes, you can change volume independently easily, just pressing the volume button switches between which headphone out it controls, and you can also control it via menu.

[@happyforestgump1]

can you set up two different audio zones on roon since it has two dacs?

[@TechReflex]

It does show separately selectable DACs in USB mode, so probably yeah.

[@happyforestgump1]

@@TechReflex interesting, thank you.

[@manykzdj792]

Rme adi-2 pro better than antelope amari?

[@Jamie-666]

The Monoprice Monolith THX Amp/Dac is a dual AKM 4493 at a third of the price. No way as controllable, but still. Highly tempted by this, though.

[@TechReflex]

@@Jamie-666 DAC Chips is not the most determining factor when it comes to sound quality, but yeah, I am guessing that the USP for RME is it's excellent control. I've added a separate phantom power supply to this, and now I also use this to record audio for my videos.

[@Jamie-666]

@@TechReflex Thanks for the reply, appreciated!

[@2k9flash]

I have a Rme Adi-2 DAC FS which has unbalanced headphones output. Is there any way to make it balanced somehow by connecting any external device? If yes, can you recommend any make and model and how can I connect it ?

[@TechReflex]

You can connect a balanced headphone amp and connect it to the line out of the ADI 2 DAC, and you'll get balanced output. Aune S7 Pro and Topping A90 are such devices.

[@2k9flash]

@@TechReflex those 2 amps are a bit expensive but thank you for your answer.

[@rpennon6912]

Absolutely the best review on the RME ADI-2 FS R BLACK EDITION hands down. I'm so glad I ordered this device a few days ago, I now feel I've made the absolute best choice....CUDOS TechReflex on a wonderfully produced review and video😬😬😬😬😬😬

[@TechReflex]

Thanks :)

[@raztube90]

But in terms of audio quality and jitter speed both of these units are same right? I honestly just need a DAC I might just get the DAC version.

[@TechReflex]

ADI 2 DAC ans ADI 2 PRO are using different DAC chips now, so there might be minor differences.

[@raztube90]

@@TechReflex which one got an upgrade?

[@04yellowjacket]

@@raztube90 Not an 'upgrade' really. I have owned all versions of the RME ADI-2 (DAC V1, V2 with AKM or ESS also PRO AKM). From a DAC standpoint they all sound the same. There may be differences, but they will be very subtle, mostly coming down to filter selection. The latest 'upgrade' only applies to the DAC version. There is supply issues with the AKM 4493 (factory burned down) so they switched to ESS ES9028Q2M. The PRO will continue to be produced using the AKM 4493, which is what I have currently.

[@linn4538]

How does the SDLD filter (AKM 4493) sound compared to the ESS Brickwall filter? Thank you if you can provide an answer. @@04yellowjacket

[@rohanleander]

Dude can you make a video of the best beginning dac and amp offerings.

[@TechReflex]

Yeah, I had to get some thing top tier for comparison, so I could test the beginner stuff. Will try to cover once I find some nix option (current best option is ZenDAC but that's like 11-12K device, so I am not sure if it can be truly classified as a beginner device)

[@goodboid]

If you're looking for an entry level interface, that has great headphone outs, check out Julian Krause's channel where he compares the HP outs of all the beginner level interfaces. I think the video is called "Interface Headphone Amp Comparison"

[@sekritskworl-sekrit_studios]

What do you think of the new 2/4 version?

[@TechReflex]

Pretty good, but overkill IMO, the new 4.4mm balanced out is nice, but you can already do that with this with an adapter. And the other extra channels are not that necessary IMO, esp when you can already do 4 channel out with ADI-2 Pro.

[@bluesteelbass]

What sampling settings have you decided to use when listening to music or gaming? I found oversampling to 192 kHz, and having the filter set to Slow or SD Slow produces the best results to my ears and setup. Although this setting technically causes lag / delay because of oversampling, I have not had any issues playing games on a TV with input and processing lag around 12 milliseconds. Be carefult when using this oversampling setting. Make sure there is proper ventilation around the RME, or even have a small fan blowing through it. The processing power to oversample a 44.1 kHz track is not a small task. The learning curve is far larger for this compared to other DAC/ADC units. The payoff in sound quality is well worth it.

[@TechReflex]

I use NOS filters, works great with my Adam speakers and HEDDphone with AMT drivers, as they can sometimes be a bit bright, and it also sounds more natural.

[@RobertoMusu]

but can the two side outputs be used for 2 pairs of monitors?

[@TechReflex]

XLR and RCA can be used at the same time, but volume control will be tied between 2 pairs. PH3/4 and XLR outputs can be used as 4 channel outputs with individual volume and EQ controls between two pairs.

[@RobertoMusu]

@@TechReflex What does it mean that it will be tied between two couples?

[@TechReflex]

@@RobertoMusu means it will control volume of both pairs at same time, and EQ settings can also not be separated between two pairs.

[@RobertoMusu]

@@TechReflex So if I would like to use two pairs of different monitors what should I do? I’m very confused about this part here

[@TechReflex]

@@RobertoMusu you can use them, and adjust the volume using the volume control knob on the monitors. You can decrease or increase volume of all monitors at the same time using the ADI device.

[@sancessounds]

Aren't the headphone quality on both machines the exact same?

[@TechReflex]

Single HP out is the same, but when you use the adapter to use it in balanced mode, the power output on Pro model doubles.

[@ankurbaghel1293]

Wants to buy one used

[@wendohgermaine6448]

Well I have to say this was a super good review.

[@Seconds84]

Anyone know the power output in balanced headphone mode for 300 and 600 ohm headphones?

[@TechReflex]

Check out the graph on top at 7:40

[@Seconds84]

@@TechReflex thank you, hard to get exact numbers but I appreciate it

[@giovanni_cordova]

Hi Siddharth, first of all thanks for your amazing reviews - My main monitoring system is a pair of HEDDphone and a RME Babyface PRO FS and I'm pretty happy of how they sound together. Q1: Since I'm thinking of making a DAC upgrade I'm wondering if using the RME ADI-2 DAC would actually make a notable difference in sound. Q2: Do you really hear a big difference between the unbalanced 6.3 out of the ADI-2 DAC and the 2 balanced of the PRO? Thanks in advance. I mainly work on mixing and mastering and I always monitor at relatively low volumes. So all I'm looking for is the best detail and representation. Thank you in advance, Giovanni.

[@TechReflex]

1. The ADI-2 series does have better DACs than Babyface, Babyface was designed primarily as an interface, so even though it does have a nice DAC and amp, I think the ADI-2 series devices should sound significantly better. DAC differences may not be super dramatic though. 2. Coming to whether there's a difference between SE of ADI-2 DAC, and BAL Out of ADI-2 PRO, at least with the HEDDphone, I can tell you that there's a significant difference. It's not about the volume, but the overall 'body' of the sound, so even at lower volumes, the balanced out will sound better. There are Amps that can drive HEDDphone well in single ended mode well, but ADI-2 DACs HP Amp isn't amazing for HEDDphone. The HEDDphone just requires more power to sound right. I was also quite confused about this before getting adi 2 pro.

[@giovanni_cordova]

@@TechReflex Thanks a lot. That just resolved all my doubts :)

[@linn4538]

I got into RME via the Babyface Pro (not the FS version). Then I moved up to the ADI-2 DAC FS (4490 dac Chipset) and I truly believe there was a noticeable improvement in sound quality when I compared them.

[@jatinsingh2276]

hey from where you got a money printing machine? XD

[@AbhishekYadav-jg2cv]

ever heard robbery

[@jasoncarpenter2878]

Wow, great review.

[@edenhunter9904]

thorough - good job. 😀

[@veggienation4537]

Amazing review, thank you

[@TechReflex]

:)

[@kurt120032002]

a) so far we got 3 different reports. 1st that "they don't sound the same" 2nd "non-pro measures better" and 3rd. that "fs and pro sound exactly the same" at this point is anyone's guess if for the dac alone is any difference. b) this is a DS dac. The only NOS dacs are DSD DACs and R2R DACs. it is imposible to have a nos DS DAC just like it is impossible to have a PCM DAC play DSD natively or vice versa. Unless there are 2 DACs in that box, and I strongly doubt there are, this is not a native DSD dac.

[@KritarthKundan]

Bro when you are uploading your room tour ??

[@TechReflex]

As soon as I can finalize getting one final remaining upgrade, which should happen soon.

[@tomfoxmusic]

great vid!

[@TechReflex]

Thanks!

[@AshutoshSingh-wg5km]

Thumbnail game on point.

[@TechReflex]

Thanks, spent a lot of time on that. :)

[@sebastianhanzlik4644]

Very imformative! Asome video.

[@TechReflex]

Thank you!

[@k-tech7]

I had the RME ADI 2 DAC (sold it within 2 days of buying). It got lot of features like PEQ, loudness, tone controls etc. etc. It just doesn't plays music well. 0 dynamics, almost flat 2D soundstage with headphones. Kind of feels like it's just sending mic recordings straight without an ambience. If you want to really hear good music, try Chord DACs or may be a good implementation of delta sigma or R2R dac. That will show you what dynamics and soundstage really is.

[@victorong9212]

What suggestions do you have exactly? Perhaps give a list of your top 3

[@k-tech7]

@@victorong9212 1. Chord Hugo TT/TT2 2. Chord Hugo 2 3. Schiit Bifrost 2 (DAC only) 4. Denafrips Ares 2 (DAC only) 5. Singxer SDA 2 C Etc.

[@victorong9212]

@@k-tech7 are these recommendations suitable for headphones only? Or both headphones and IEM? I personally focus on IEM more. Which one would be your best 3 for IEM?

[@TechReflex]

Also tell this to Grover on Headphones dot com, in his recent review he also praised ADI-2 DAC (AKM chip version), and those guys have tried all the TOTL stuff on the market. I am aware of the advantages of R2R, though saying that something has 0 dynamics and flat Soundstage, while everyone else who has experience with all kinds of high end and TOTL gear says otherwise definitely tells that your opinion is either highly subjective and limited to your hearing, or just plain inaccurate.

[@k-tech7]

@@TechReflex Why would I trust someone else's hearing over mine? Is he audio god or something or got golden ears? 😂 I have heard this DAC personally and I know how it sounds compared to other DACs mentioned. And I'm talking about the sound of RME as an AIO. Not DAC + external amp which I haven't tried. Could be my preference. I plainly didn't find RME that exciting. It's highly overrated piece of gear. I'm not talking about features, RME gives plenty of tweaking and it's great in that sense. However it's not the best sounding combo. May be the amp part is holding it back.

[@6doublefive3two1]

I was a little disappointed TotalMix FX wasn't included. It would be much easier to make adjustments in TotalMix FX than the very small display.

[@nicoras8803]

What language are you speaking?