The PSX-100 takes Apogee's digital audio conversion expertise to a new level of quality and performance. It represents our first high-sample-rate converter, offering 24-bit resolution at 88.2 and 96kHz sampling rates in addition to 44.1 and 48 kHz.

Multiple Interfaces, UV22 & Soft Limit
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.

High Resolution, High Density on your MDM
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.

Instant Access
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.

Three Operating Modes
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.

High sample rates, high resolution, high quality
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.