> Can the Pro or DAC models be used as a stand alone DAC in a HIFI system without being plugged into a computer?
Yes of course. I am using the ADI-2 DAC in front of my HiFi.
Maybe it would be useful for you as well to connect a 4:1 TOSLINK switcher to the ADI-2 DAC / Pro.
Then you can connect up to 4 digital audio sources to the ADI-2 DAC/Pro like i.e.: PC, TV, BluRay player, CD Player.
The Oehlbach Optosel 4:1 has the best design and a good working remote.
Be aware of that this device does not support more than 96 kHz, although the vendor claims it on the product package and in the technical informations on webpage. But this is simply a lie and the company doesn't do anything to fix it or to fulfull a promised replacement. If you can live with it, fine, see also: https://www.tonstudio-forum.de/blog/ind … lerangabe/
Then you can either connect the ADI-2 Pro/DAC to a preamp or you can use the ADI-2 Pro/DAC as preamp in front of an amplifier / passive speakers combination or to simply connect active monitors.
You can also connect i.e a PC or Laptop to it via USB.
The difference between ADI-2 DAC FS and ADI-2 Pro FS. The ADI-2 DAC FS is more for HiFi, the ADI-2 Pro FS more for studio use. See the product pages and manual for the features and differences.
Basically you should be aware of that the ADI-2 DAC FS got a refresh, a new AKM DAC.
This brings: slightly higher SNR, new D/A filter mode of the new DAC chip and a new remote.
Since the last firmware upgrade all customers can use the new remote as well.
The ADI-2 DAC FS I would recommend to you for HiFi use, because of:
- the new DAC chip
- the new remote
- its outputs are more for HiFi use (XLR and also cinch plugs)
- one phones output for normal phones and one for IEM's which is esp noise free
But it has only one D/A converter and not A/D converter.
The ADI-2 Pro FS has no remote, but is more according to studio work:
- has additionally AES
- supports ADAT and optical / coaxial SPDIF
- it has 2 DA converter, so you can connect two phones for comparison purposes or to listen together with a friend
- as it has 2 D/A converter you can also use it for phones supporting balanced connection
- has an A/D converter
- has not only optical IN but also optical OUT
All in all the ADI-2 Pro FS is a very versatile unit, but for HiFi use you potentially do not need these extra features and can save some money by this and you get the new AKM chip.
BR Ramses - UFX III, 12Mic, XTC, ADI-2 Pro FS R BE, RayDAT, X10SRi-F, E5-1680v4, Win10Pro22H2, Cub13