Alesis AI-3 Analog-to-ADAT Optical Converter Debuts at NAMM

January 28, 1999 -- Alesis introduces the AI-3 Analog to Optical Interface, a compact and low-cost solution for bidirectional conversion between analog and ADAT Optical digital audio format. The AI-3 converts analog signals to ADAT Optical, forming an 8-channel A/D and D/A interconnect between recorders and other equipment that implements the popular ADAT Optical interface. The Alesis AI-3 ($499 USD MSRP) is a single rack space unit with eight balanced 1/4" TRS inputs and outputs and 20-bit A/D and D/A converters with 128 times oversampling, providing 96dB dynamic range. AI-3 features front panel signal/clip input indicators, an operating level switch (+4 dB/-10dB), an internal power supply and a source switch to select whether the eight analog inputs or the ADAT Optical input will be sent to the ADAT Optical output.

ADAT Optical has gained worldwide acceptance as the standard multichannel digital interfacing protocol because 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, a variety of computer audio cards, effects processors, and electronic music instruments offers ADAT Optical as a standard or optional interface. This means that AI-3 may be used to add analog inputs and outputs to consoles from manufacturers like Yamaha, Panasonic, Spirit, Mackie and others. The Alesis AI-3 is compatible with computer audio cards that support ADAT Optical, including those from Sonorus, Frontier, Korg, Lexicon and SEK'D.

The AI-3's front panel indicates signal presence and signal peaks on discrete LEDs for each of its eight channels. The Operation switch allows selection of + 4dB or -10dB signal levels. Another front panel switch allows routing of ADAT Optical signals through the AI-3 for use in a multi-ADAT system without repatching. The simple rear panel hosts the eight servo-balanced input and output jacks, as well as input and an output for the ADAT Optical interface. The AI-3's compact design enables it to fit into a single-space of a standard 19" equipment rack, allowing it to become a remote analog 8-input, 8-output patch-point for connected digital equipment.

The Alesis AI-3 is expected to be available in the second quarter of 1999.

For more information, visit Alesis at www.alesis.com.