Pulse8 AE compact AD/DA converter

16 x 16 AD/DA <> ADAT Converter

BROWSE

Essential Connectivity, Exceptional Quality

The Ferrofish Pulse8 AE is a versatile and compact AD/DA converter designed for seamless integration into studio or live setups. With 8 high-quality balanced analog inputs and outputs, it ensures precise and clean signal conversion.

The Pulse8 AE offers full visual control via its vibrant front-panel display, simplifying real-time monitoring and configuration. Built to accommodate professional workflows, its robust clocking options and compatibility with standard studio connections make it an essential tool for engineers seeking reliable performance in a flexible, space-saving form factor.

Developed on the same premium conversion technology as its bigger sibling, this compact powerhouse delivers 8×8 balanced analog I/O alongside comprehensive ADAT connectivity up to 192kHz.

With its crystal-clear display and intuitive controls, the Pulse8 AE brings studio-grade conversion and routing capabilities to any professional workflow, from home studios to live setups. Every detail, from the high-stability clock to the premium ESS converters, ensures uncompromising audio quality in a versatile, space-efficient design.

Studio-Grade Audio, Streamlined Design

Intuitive Visual Monitoring

The high-resolution front panel display provides immediate visual feedback of all input and output signals, offering professional-grade metering and system status at a glance. Multi-colored level meters ensure precise level monitoring in any environment.

Premium Conversion Architecture

Experience pristine audio quality through carefully selected ESS converters and temperature-compensated clock design. The Pulse8 AE maintains Ferrofish's reputation for exceptional sound quality, delivering crystal-clear conversion up to 192kHz with professional +20dBu headroom.

Professional Remote Control

Take command of your audio routing and settings through the comprehensive RemoteFish software for Mac and PC. The USB-C connection provides instant access to all parameters, while MIDI I/O enables integration into larger systems and ensures easy firmware updates for continued improvement.

Flexible Integration Hub

Beyond simple conversion, the Pulse8 AE serves as a versatile routing solution with its comprehensive ADAT connectivity and word clock synchronization options. The unit seamlessly bridges analog and digital domains, making it an ideal centerpiece for both studio and live applications.

Advanced Headphone Monitoring

The dedicated headphone output, powered by a separate ESS DAC, delivers exceptional monitoring capabilities with precise 1dB-step volume control. Four-stage amplification ensures compatibility with any headphone impedance, making it perfect for critical listening and tracking sessions.

Future-Proof Expandability

Thanks to its modular design, the Pulse8 AE is ready for tomorrow's challenges with DSP expansion capability. The optional DSP stick slot allows for future processing power upgrades, protecting your investment while offering a path to enhanced functionality.

Pulse8 AE INPUTS & OUTPUTS

ANALOG I/O ¼-inch

ADAT I/O

HEADPHONE OUT

Pulse8 AE SPECIFICATIONS

Analog I/O:
– 8 balanced TRS inputs (¼-inch)
– 8 balanced TRS outputs (¼-inch)

ADAT Connectivity:
– 2 ADAT input ports
– 2 ADAT output ports
– Supports SMUX for higher sample rates:
up to 192kHz with 4×4 ADAT channels via SMUX/4,
up to 96kHz with 8×8 ADAT channels via SMUX/2,
or up to 48kHz with 16×16 ADAT channels.

Clocking:
– Word Clock input and output (BNC connectors)
– Internal clock with high stability or external sync via ADAT or Word Clock

Signal Monitoring:
– High-resolution front display for signal level monitoring (both input and output)
– Clear visual feedback with multi-colored level meters

Controls:
– Front-panel control knob and buttons for quick navigation and configuration

Connectivity:
– USB-C for remote configuration using Ferrofish RemoteFish software
– MIDI input/output for firmware updates or potential future features

Power:
– External 12V/1A power supply

Form Factor:
– Compact design, suitable for rack-mounted or desktop use

Headphone Output

– 6.3mm jack output
– Amplification power adjustable in four stages
– Digital volume control with 1 dB resolution
– Dedicated monitoring path via a separate ESS DAC

Power Supply

– Voltage: 12 V at a maximum of 1 A
– Connector: 2.54 mm barrel jack with locking screw

Converter info:
analog outputs: SNR 120dB (typ.)
THD+N -115dB (1kHz, 48kHz SR, a-weighted, typ.)

analog inputs: SNR 112dB (typ.)
THD+N -108dB (1kHz, 48kHz SR, a-weighted, typ.)

DSP
– Expandable via optional DSP stick

PLL (Phase-Locked Loop)
– Digitally controlled PLL with active jitter reduction

Internal Wordclock
– 125 MHz oscillator with high precision
– Initial accuracy: ±1.5 ppm
– Drift over the temperature range: ±2.5 ppm
– Aging: ±1 ppm

Fuse
– Polyfuse, internal, self-resetting

Power Adapter
– 12 V, 3 A (or 12 V, 1 A)
– Positive pin
– Included in the package

Power Consumption
– Nominal: 12 VA
– Standby: Below 1 VA

Operating Temperature Range
– +5 °C to +45 °C

Humidity
– Maximum: <75 %, non-condensing

Weight
– 1 kg

Dimensions
– Size: 13.5 cm (D) x 22 cm (W) x 4.4 cm (H) (1U)
(Dimensions exclude knobs and connectors)