Topic: Babyface Pro Fs connect to digitale Digital Speaker In XLR (AES/EBU) ?

Hello,
I am happy Babyface Pro Fs user and want to upgrade my studio with a pair of Hedd Speakers. Those speakers have (beside analog inputs) a digital input XLR (AES/EBU). I know the Babyface Pro only has some optical outputs, but is there a save, solid solution (adapter, cable,…) to connect to those speakers via digital out?

Any advise very much appreciated.

Best,
Sebastian

2 (edited by ebmmbongo 2022-12-14 09:18:57)

Re: Babyface Pro Fs connect to digitale Digital Speaker In XLR (AES/EBU) ?

Hi
Yes there are cheap optocouplers available, I have one I got on amazon for $20 (https://www.amazon.se/Tendak-Toslink-ko … amp;sr=8-1) and it does the job. However, I much prefer connecting my Babyface to my Genelecs (8340) via analog connection... I don't think there is any rational explanation, but to me it somehow just sounds better.

Edit: And you will need either a RCA->XLR cable like this https://www.thomann.de/se/pro_snake_aes … male_3.htm
Or a transformer like this https://www.thomann.de/se/neutrik_naditbncmx.htm

Babyface Pro FS, MSI GS66, Studio One

3 (edited by ramses 2022-12-14 09:23:35)

Re: Babyface Pro Fs connect to digitale Digital Speaker In XLR (AES/EBU) ?

D/A conversion might differ, maybe the implementation of RME is better.

With analog connection you can also solve level mismatches better by
- choosing lower ref level on outputs
- choosing lower input sensitivity on the monitors, they might even have a volume poti
- using fix or variable attenuators  with no impact on sound https://forum.rme-audio.de/viewtopic.php?id=25399

BR Ramses - UFX III, 12Mic, XTC, ADI-2 Pro FS R BE, RayDAT, X10SRi-F, E5-1680v4, Win10Pro22H2, Cub13

Re: Babyface Pro Fs connect to digitale Digital Speaker In XLR (AES/EBU) ?

Great. Thanks for your replies! I am not sure if I go the "digital" route (since I do have a SPL Control One), but it is great to know that it can be done. Now I need to buy the speakers :-)