• Registered: 2025-09-06
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Topic: RME 12Mic preamp on ADI-2 Pro interface?

Hi RME users,

I'm considering upgrading my 2-channel basic set (Neve 1073 DPA over an RME ADI-2 Pro which I use primarily to record acoustic guitars, bass and voice) and was looking at the RME 12mic interface, which I would use to record more audio channels simultaneously as well as connecting some outboard units for mixing/mastering.

Has anyone got any experience with the 12mic unit? I wonder how the mic preamps perform in comparison to the Neve/SSL glorious preamps. Can anyone share their opinions?

Also, would I be able to connect the 2 units over a SPDIF/ADAT connection? Would I see the 12 Mic channels in my DAW?
Should I perhaps buy a brand new interface instead?

Any help would be much appreciated!

2 Reply by ramses (edited by ramses 2025-09-07 12:16:39)

  • ramses
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Re: RME 12Mic preamp on ADI-2 Pro interface?

About which outboard gear are you talking? Just a guitar, or do you elaborate on external devices like external compressors, mastering devices, etc., which need, besides AD conversion, also DA conversion (output channels)?

Could you kindly detail your setup? What is your budget for such a solution?

My general advice.

Use an RME recording interface with TotalMix FX as a basement.
You can integrate the RME reference converter into your setup for monitoring.

Theoretically the UFX III could be enough for a long time.
I do not mention the UFX II here, because it is only €300 lower in price.
For that little difference you better get the UFX III with MADI so that it is possible to expand the setup in the future.

I have a similar setup here:
UFX III
Two ADI-2 Pro FS R BE reference converter for recording corner and HiFi corner (connected via ADAT)
12Mic to get more Mic inputs (I needed at minimum 1 Instr and 4 Mic inputs, so the UFX III alone was not sufficient)
M-1620 Pro D to get more analog inputs and outputs as the UFX III was already full and I wanted to have line level inputs which support +24 dBu as some effects of my Lexicon PCM 81 create a very hot signal.

See my blog article about the latest setup here; also, a few pictures are provided:
https://www.tonstudio-forum.de/blog/ent … ter-en-de/

See my blog article about the integration of the RME reference converter into a setup:
https://www.tonstudio-forum.de/blog/Ent … our-Setup/

BR Ramses - HDSPe MADI FX, M-1620 Pro D, 12Mic, UFX III, ADI-2 Pro FS R BE, Nuendo 15, Win10 IoT Ent

3 Reply by antzuo (edited by antzuo 2025-09-07 12:22:46)

  • Registered: 2025-09-06
  • Posts: 15

Re: RME 12Mic preamp on ADI-2 Pro interface?

ramses wrote:

Just a moment, about which outboard gear are you talking about?

Just a guitar or do you talk about external devices like external compressor, mastering device, etc which need besides besides AD conversion also DA conversion (output channels)?

Could you kindly detail your setup?

My general advice .. tbc ... moment in work ...



Thanks for your reply.


My set up is very basic:
I have a 2 channel analog Neve 1073 DPA preamp which I connect straight into an ADI-2 Pro interface over XLR cables and from there via USB to my MacBook Pro computer.

Actually, I'm thinking external devices, such as compressor, stereo imager, mastering device and the likes.

Budget isn't large LOL... I mean, I'd need to save up to be able to purchase gear, but at the moment I should be able to gather the amount for a 12mic, which is priced roughly 2500 eur.

4 Reply by ramses (edited by ramses 2025-09-07 12:22:17)

  • ramses
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Re: RME 12Mic preamp on ADI-2 Pro interface?

antzuo wrote:
ramses wrote:

Just a moment, about which outboard gear are you talking about?

Just a guitar or do you talk about external devices like external compressor, mastering device, etc which need besides besides AD conversion also DA conversion (output channels)?

Could you kindly detail your setup?

My general advice .. tbc ... moment in work ...



Thanks for your reply.

Actually, I'm thinking external devices, such as compressor, stereo imager, mastering device and the likes.

Then the 12Mic alone is not a solution.
You should base everything on a RME recording interface with TotalMix FX.

The 12Mic is "only" (a phantastic) preamp with a lot (12) Mic inputs, where the first 4 can also be used as instrument input. You can of course use those inputs also as line input .. but .. you are missing analog outputs.
It has only a headphone output which can also be used as line output (but not balanced in stereo).
So .. for connecting such devices you need more analog I/O, but not only inputs, also outputs.

BTW .. Meanwhile I edited my reply, please see the update.

Important question here, how many analog I/O do you need and how is your budget for that?
Amount of
- Mic inputs
- Inst inputs
- Analog I/O (inputs and outputs) to connect external gear?
How future save it has to be, remember the long RME firmware and driver support.
But then it could be useful to base this all on a MADI solution, to be able to add more devices if needed.

BR Ramses - HDSPe MADI FX, M-1620 Pro D, 12Mic, UFX III, ADI-2 Pro FS R BE, Nuendo 15, Win10 IoT Ent
  • Registered: 2025-09-06
  • Posts: 15

Re: RME 12Mic preamp on ADI-2 Pro interface?

ramses wrote:

Theoretically the UFX III could be enough for a long time.
I do not mention the UFX II here, because it is only €300 lower in price.
For that little difference you better get the UFX III with MADI so that it is possible to expand the setup in the future.

I have a similar setup here:
UFX III
Two ADI-2 Pro FS R BE reference converter for recording corner and HiFi corner (connected via ADAT)
12Mic to get more Mic inputs (I needed at minimum 1 Instr and 4 Mic inputs, so the UFX III alone was not sufficient)
M-1620 Pro D to get more analog inputs and outputs as the UFX III was already full and I wanted to have line level inputs which support +24 dBu as some effects of my Lexicon PCM 81 create a very hot signal.

See my blog article about the latest setup here; also, a few pictures are provided:
https://www.tonstudio-forum.de/blog/ent … ter-en-de/

See my blog article about the integration of the RME reference converter into a setup:
https://www.tonstudio-forum.de/blog/Ent … our-Setup/


Indeed I was looking at the UFX III + 12mic. I was just hoping perhaps I could still use the ADI-2 pro as a general converter while I gather the sufficient amount to purchase an UFX III.

  • ramses
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Re: RME 12Mic preamp on ADI-2 Pro interface?

Sure its possible to integrate the ADI-2 Pro FS R BE and to still use it for your monitoring.
Thats the way I do.

BR Ramses - HDSPe MADI FX, M-1620 Pro D, 12Mic, UFX III, ADI-2 Pro FS R BE, Nuendo 15, Win10 IoT Ent
  • Registered: 2025-09-06
  • Posts: 15

Re: RME 12Mic preamp on ADI-2 Pro interface?

ramses wrote:
antzuo wrote:
ramses wrote:

Just a moment, about which outboard gear are you talking about?

Just a guitar or do you talk about external devices like external compressor, mastering device, etc which need besides besides AD conversion also DA conversion (output channels)?

Could you kindly detail your setup?

My general advice .. tbc ... moment in work ...



Thanks for your reply.

Actually, I'm thinking external devices, such as compressor, stereo imager, mastering device and the likes.

Then the 12Mic alone is not a solution.
You should base everything on a RME recording interface with TotalMix FX.

The 12Mic is "only" (a phantastic) preamp with a lot (12) Mic inputs, where the first 4 can also be used as instrument input. You can of course use those inputs also as line input .. but .. you are missing analog outputs.
It has only a headphone output which can also be used as line output (but not balanced in stereo).
So .. for connecting such devices you need more analog I/O, but not only inputs, also outputs.

BTW .. Meanwhile I edited my reply, please see the update.

Important question here, how many analog I/O do you need and how is your budget for that?
Amount of
- Mic inputs
- Inst inputs
- Analog I/O (inputs and outputs) to connect external gear?
How future save it has to be, remember the long RME firmware and driver support.
But then it could be useful to base this all on a MADI solution, to be able to add more devices if needed.


As regards the number of I/O, I'm not entirely sure. Let's say I'd like to expand my recording space from the single instrument to a small ensemble, say recording 6/ 8 microphones at once, and then be able to process the mix with perhaps 2 external units such as a compressor/limiter and a space designer. If I'm correct, this should total in 12 analog inputs (8 mic + 4 line) and 4 send outputs, is that right?

  • ramses
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Re: RME 12Mic preamp on ADI-2 Pro interface?

Here a deployment schema:

  +---USB-------optional ARC USB for remote controlling ARC USB
/
PC---USB2-------------------------------------------------------+ for remote control via USB using ADI-2 Remote SW
|                                                                                      | needs MADIface driver (already installed for UFX III)
| USB3                                                                             | Or to be able to listen to DSD
|                                                                                      |
Fireface UFX III---ADAT1 IN<-------------ADAT OUT---ADI-2 Pro FS R BE---1/2---active monitors
|       |     \      \---ADAT1 OUT------------->ADAT IN---/                  \      \---3/4---headphones
|       |      \                                                                                  \
|       |       +Analog IN<---Neve (Option #1)                                    +Analog IN<---Neve (Option #2)
|       |
|       + 12Mic---Mic or Inst IN<-------Neve 1073 DPA Preamp (Option 3 possible; would prefer option 1+2+4)
|       |
|       + M-1620 Pro D (optional device)---Analog IN<---Neve 1073 DPA Preamp (Option 4)
|       |
+-<--+
MADI(o)

The integration of the ADI-2 Pro FS R BE reference converter is possible.
I see 4 options for integrating the Neve., but would prefer option 1, 2 and 4.

BR Ramses - HDSPe MADI FX, M-1620 Pro D, 12Mic, UFX III, ADI-2 Pro FS R BE, Nuendo 15, Win10 IoT Ent

9 Reply by antzuo (edited by antzuo 2025-09-07 13:23:38)

  • Registered: 2025-09-06
  • Posts: 15

Re: RME 12Mic preamp on ADI-2 Pro interface?

ramses wrote:

Here a deployment schema:

  +---USB-------optional ARC USB for remote controlling ARC USB
/
PC---USB2-------------------------------------------------------+ for remote control via USB using ADI-2 Remote SW
|                                                                                      | needs MADIface driver (already installed for UFX III)
| USB3                                                                             | Or to be able to listen to DSD
|                                                                                      |
Fireface UFX III---ADAT1 IN<-------------ADAT OUT---ADI-2 Pro FS R BE---1/2---active monitors
|       |     \      \---ADAT1 OUT------------->ADAT IN---/                  \      \---3/4---headphones
|       |      \                                                                                  \
|       |       +Analog IN<---Neve (Option #1)                                    +Analog IN<---Neve (Option #2)
|       |
|       + 12Mic---Mic or Inst IN<-------Neve 1073 DPA Preamp (Option 3 possible; would prefer option 1+2+4)
|       |
|       + M-1620 Pro D (optional device)---Analog IN<---Neve 1073 DPA Preamp (Option 4)
|       |
+-<--+
MADI(o)

The integration of the ADI-2 Pro FS R BE reference converter is possible.
I see 4 options for integrating the Neve., but would prefer option 1, 2 and 4.


Man, you rock! I have no words to express my gratitude!

I'll break that into lines just to confirm I got it correctly. So that schema should translate:


Option 1:
Neve XLR line out's -> to UFX III line in's
UFX III ADAT out -> to ADI-2 Pro ADAT in (Toslink cable?)
ADI-2 Pro XLR analog outs -> to active monitors XLR in's
ADI-2 Pro Ph3/4 -> to headphones

Option 2:
Neve XLR line out's -> to ADI-2 Pro XLR in's
ADI-2 Pro ADAT out -> to UFX III ADAT in

Option 3:
Neve XLR line out's -> to 12Mic XLR or TS in's
12Mic - MADI out -> to UFX III MADI in

Option 4:
Neve XLR line out's to M-1620 Pro D line input (over a sub-25 to XLR multi-cable)
M-1620 Pro D -> MADI out -> to UFX III MADI in

I reckon Options 1 and 2 would be the cheaper ones at the moment. Option 2 would grant me a total of 6 mic channels (2 Neve plus 4 UFX III). Is that correct?

Options 3 and 4 would be the best choices for scalability/upgrade, particularly option 4 as it can accomodate a larger number of analog channels on AD conversion.


Now that really opens up a range of choices!

10 Reply by ramses (edited by ramses 2025-09-07 14:03:56)

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Re: RME 12Mic preamp on ADI-2 Pro interface?

antzuo wrote:

Man, you rock! I have no words to express my gratitude!

Thanks for the flowers :-)

antzuo wrote:

Now that really opens up a range of choices!

With the RME devices, you have really wonderful possibilities to combine devices to achieve the best stability, flexibility and to operate the setup nicely to get an excellent, efficient workflow. It's by far the best on the market and gives you the most value for the money. And investment protection by extremely long firmware and driver support.

Back to your remaining questions:

The best way to integrate the ADI-2 Pro FS R BE is
- via ADAT, best using SPDIF 2ch protocol (no breakout cable needed, cable length up to ~15m supported)
or
- via AES (supports longer cable runs, 100m or even more; needs 110 Ohm cable to be standard compliant, a short XLR cable should also do; needs the breakout cable at the ADI side, which is part of its delivery).

Both give you even galvanic isolation between the devices.

If you can make use of PCIe you can also consider an HDSPe MADI FX card.
This card also has FX.
Latest HW release also support for RoomEQ and Crossfeed.
This card offers you even three MADI busses.

Due to the high channel count it has a optimizing driver only allocating driver resources for chunks of 8 I/O ports if at least one port is in use. This is according to RME the most efficient way to transfer this many channels.

The UFX III has the mix of every port type that you might need in a setup and one MADI bus.

If you have even demand for more ports, then you need to look at either at
- HDSPe MADI FX (PCIe) or
- MADIface XT II
A small feature comparison I posted recently here:
https://forum.rme-audio.de/viewtopic.ph … 46#p241846

For large channel counts which needs more than one MADI bus you have I posted last recently a feature overview of
- HDSPe MADI FX vaI posted last recenty this overview, look here:
https://forum.rme-audio.de/viewtopic.ph … 46#p241846

For you, I would prefer Option 1+2.
The UFX III has the same AKM converter like the previous model ADI-2 Pro FS (AK4490).
The ADK4493 delivers only slightly better technical data, but the consensus of all people is, that it is not audible.

Option 4 only if you need more analog channels for outboard gear.

I would consider the ADI-2/4 Pro SE in cases where you can make use of the additional features or if you want to digitize vinyl. But there you will have to pay a lot to get a good player, cartridge, preamp if you use MC instead of MM.
The ADI-2/4 Pro SE offers a great customizable RIAA decoding.
So… If something like this is in the planning, consider this device.
Also useful:
- offers a 5th analog stage to keep SNR/dynamic up over an even wider volume range
- Support for the new plug standard for connecting balanced headphones.

BR Ramses - HDSPe MADI FX, M-1620 Pro D, 12Mic, UFX III, ADI-2 Pro FS R BE, Nuendo 15, Win10 IoT Ent
  • Registered: 2025-09-06
  • Posts: 15

Re: RME 12Mic preamp on ADI-2 Pro interface?

ramses wrote:
antzuo wrote:

Man, you rock! I have no words to express my gratitude!

Thanks for the flowers :-)

antzuo wrote:

Now that really opens up a range of choices!

With the RME devices, you have really wonderful possibilities to combine devices to achieve the best stability, flexibility and to operate the setup nicely to get an excellent, efficient workflow. It's by far the best on the market and gives you the most value for the money. And investment protection by extremely long firmware and driver support.

Back to your remaining questions:

The best way to integrate the ADI-2 Pro FS R BE is
- via ADAT, best using SPDIF 2ch protocol (no breakout cable needed, cable length up to ~15m supported)
or
- via AES (supports longer cable runs, 100m or even more; needs 110 Ohm cable to be standard compliant, a short XLR cable should also do; needs the breakout cable at the ADI side, which is part of its delivery).

Both give you even galvanic isolation between the devices.

If you can make use of PCIe you can also consider an HDSPe MADI FX card.
This card also has FX.
Latest HW release also support for RoomEQ and Crossfeed.
This card offers you even three MADI busses.

Due to the high channel count it has a optimizing driver only allocating driver resources for chunks of 8 I/O ports if at least one port is in use. This is according to RME the most efficient way to transfer this many channels.

The UFX III has the mix of every port type that you might need in a setup and one MADI bus.

If you have even demand for more ports, then you need to look at either at
- HDSPe MADI FX (PCIe) or
- MADIface XT II
A small feature comparison I posted recently here:
https://forum.rme-audio.de/viewtopic.ph … 46#p241846

For large channel counts which needs more than one MADI bus you have I posted last recently a feature overview of
- HDSPe MADI FX vaI posted last recenty this overview, look here:
https://forum.rme-audio.de/viewtopic.ph … 46#p241846

For you, I would prefer Option 1+2.
The UFX III has the same AKM converter like the previous model ADI-2 Pro FS (AK4490).
The ADK4493 delivers only slightly better technical data, but the consensus of all people is, that it is not audible.

Option 4 only if you need more analog channels for outboard gear.

I would consider the ADI-2/4 Pro SE in cases where you can make use of the additional features or if you want to digitize vinyl. But there you will have to pay a lot to get a good player, cartridge, preamp if you use MC instead of MM.
The ADI-2/4 Pro SE offers a great customizable RIAA decoding.
So… If something like this is in the planning, consider this device.
Also useful:
- offers a 5th analog stage to keep SNR/dynamic up over an even wider volume range
- Support for the new plug standard for connecting balanced headphones.


Thanks again. You're definitely an expert. I'm going to keep the above for constant and future reference as I'm sure I'm going to get confused about the different types of signals/protocols/cables and so on.

Right now, I'm heading for options 1/2 and getting myself a UFX III! Feeling thrilled! LOL

12 Reply by ramses (edited by ramses 2025-09-07 17:57:58)

  • ramses
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Re: RME 12Mic preamp on ADI-2 Pro interface?

That's an excellent choice, and later on top, maybe a reference converter, as it has some nice options:

- PEQ, which you can use for several things, also linearizing headphones
  But this you can also make with the 10 Band RoomEQ in TotalMix FX

- 4 dedicated analog stages supporting a wide range of reference levels

- Auto Ref Level, a feature where the optimum reflevel is automatically chosen based on the chosen volume
  and also considering PEQ, Bass/Treble and even dynamic loudness settings.
  This delivers you the best SNR/dynamic over a much wider range of volume setting.
  With the ADI-2/4 Pro SE even a wider range, as it has a 5th analog input and output stage.
  See my Excel Table here about the effect of auto ref level
  https://www.tonstudio-forum.de/attachme … v005-xlsx/

- Dynamic Loudness, very useful when listening to music at lower volumes.
  Over a fix range of 20 dB Bass and Treble is increased so that the sound volume doesn't thin out.
  The amount of Bass and Treble, that is dynamically increased can be changed between 0-10 in 0.5 dB steps (default 7)

- The possibility to pick between different AD and DA filters
   KaiS has found out, by numerous tests, that Slow is, for the AKM converters, an excellent setting at single speed.
   By this he could locate audio sources like shakers better in the sound stage.
   D/A filter can't be changed on recording interfaces like the UFX III

- The State Overview is excellent to troubleshoot a digital connection

- A sample rate converter to add devices like external CD-ROMs or DAT recorders, which  often have a fixed sample rate
  or can only be used as clock master, if they have no digital input or not having Word Clock as an option.

- Ramp up of volume when either plugging in headphones or when switching between active monitors and headphones.
  If it becomes too loud there is anouth time to switch back or to move headphones from the head.

- The bit test gives you the possibility to make an end to end test from Music Player or DAW to the DSP of the ADI
  whether the audio transport was lossless. It's a fixed bit pattern, where the ADI notifies you if even only 1 bit
   is different, which already happens if the player or the DAW stereo sum was not set to full 100% volume.

- It is also helpful, by remembering the last used volume
  If the volume in TM FX should change to 0 dB accidentally then it can become quickly much too loud.
  This can happen if you load a different Workspace or if you double click the HW output fader in TM FX.
  This is being prevented by having the ADI as last device in the chain with a good volume control.

BTW such level mismatches you should fix in front by getting a switchable attenuator.
See this posting from RME as an introcuction.
https://forum.rme-audio.de/viewtopic.php?id=25399

No fear, it's neutral to the sound. You can get good switchable attenuators to a good price, eg this one:
https://www.thomann.de/de/jts_ma_123.htm

BR Ramses - HDSPe MADI FX, M-1620 Pro D, 12Mic, UFX III, ADI-2 Pro FS R BE, Nuendo 15, Win10 IoT Ent
  • Registered: 2025-09-06
  • Posts: 15

Re: RME 12Mic preamp on ADI-2 Pro interface?

ramses wrote:

That's an excellent choice, and later on top, maybe a reference converter, as it has some nice options:

- PEQ, which you can use for several things, also linearizing headphones
  But this you can also make with the 10 Band RoomEQ in TotalMix FX

- 4 dedicated analog stages supporting a wide range of reference levels

- Auto Ref Level, a feature where the optimum reflevel is automatically chosen based on the chosen volume
  and also considering PEQ, Bass/Treble and even dynamic loudness settings.
  This delivers you the best SNR/dynamic over a much wider range of volume setting.
  With the ADI-2/4 Pro SE even a wider range, as it has a 5th analog input and output stage.
  See my Excel Table here about the effect of auto ref level
  https://www.tonstudio-forum.de/attachme … v005-xlsx/

- Dynamic Loudness, very useful when listening to music at lower volumes.
  Over a fix range of 20 dB Bass and Treble is increased so that the sound volume doesn't thin out.
  The amount of Bass and Treble, that is dynamically increased can be changed between 0-10 in 0.5 dB steps (default 7)

- The possibility to pick between different AD and DA filters
   KaiS has found out, by numerous tests, that Slow is, for the AKM converters, an excellent setting at single speed.
   By this he could locate audio sources like shakers better in the sound stage.
   D/A filter can't be changed on recording interfaces like the UFX III

- The State Overview is excellent to troubleshoot a digital connection

- A sample rate converter to add devices like external CD-ROMs or DAT recorders, which  often have a fixed sample rate
  or can only be used as clock master, if they have no digital input or not having Word Clock as an option.

- Ramp up of volume when either plugging in headphones or when switching between active monitors and headphones.
  If it becomes too loud there is anouth time to switch back or to move headphones from the head.

- The bit test gives you the possibility to make an end to end test from Music Player or DAW to the DSP of the ADI
  whether the audio transport was lossless. It's a fixed bit pattern, where the ADI notifies you if even only 1 bit
   is different, which already happens if the player or the DAW stereo sum was not set to full 100% volume.

- It is also helpful, by remembering the last used volume
  If the volume in TM FX should change to 0 dB accidentally then it can become quickly much too loud.
  This can happen if you load a different Workspace or if you double click the HW output fader in TM FX.
  This is being prevented by having the ADI as last device in the chain with a good volume control.

BTW such level mismatches you should fix in front by getting a switchable attenuator.
See this posting from RME as an introcuction.
https://forum.rme-audio.de/viewtopic.php?id=25399

No fear, it's neutral to the sound. You can get good switchable attenuators to a good price, eg this one:
https://www.thomann.de/de/jts_ma_123.htm


From your words I understand I’m total newby. I confess not everything you wrote makes sense to me at the moment, but once again thank you very much indeed for the time you took in replying at such a deep level of detail!


On a side note, speaking as if budget wasn’t an issue, how would you reckon the combination Micstasy+UFX III? The reason I “would” consider a Micstasy is that it has both XLR ins and outs which would make it easier to “dialogue” with analogue gear (I guess?); also I read it has very high end preamps.

14 Reply by hselters (edited by hselters 2025-09-08 23:49:08)

  • Registered: 2018-12-21
  • Posts: 434

Re: RME 12Mic preamp on ADI-2 Pro interface?

There are cables to go from Jack to XLR and vice versa.
I would first use the in- and outputs of the ufx before extending with other gear: Keeping things simple and only as complex as really necessary.

  • ramses
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Re: RME 12Mic preamp on ADI-2 Pro interface?

antzuo wrote:

On a side note, speaking as if budget wasn’t an issue, how would you reckon the combination Micstasy+UFX III?
The reason I “would” consider a Micstasy is that it has both XLR ins and outs which would make it easier
to “dialogue” with analogue gear (I guess?); also I read it has very high end preamps.

The Micstasy is a pure preamp and has only AD conversion (for connecting preamps).
The analog outputs are simply a mirror of the corresponding analog input.

You can't use it as an AD/DA converter to also send audio from the computer/TotalMix via MADI to the analog outputs.
The DA converter and the routing for this purpose/use case are missing.

Instead of using a Micstasy I would consider using more up-to-date designs.
It also offers the feature to have more remote control options.
The later Octamic XTC is not yet produced anymore, too.
Don't get me wrong, they're all very nice devices, but earlier designs and not produced anymore.

So if you need a preamp and want to use MADI, then look at the 12Mic, which has 12 Mic preamps, and the 1st four are also usable as instrument inputs. It also offers one additional phone output.

If you require an AD/DA converter, then check the M-1620 Pro with 16x AD/DA and two additional phone outputs.
That's the best buy from RME, as M-32 Pro IIs are only AD or DA, so you require two devices, and they are pricier.

BR Ramses - HDSPe MADI FX, M-1620 Pro D, 12Mic, UFX III, ADI-2 Pro FS R BE, Nuendo 15, Win10 IoT Ent
  • Registered: 2025-09-06
  • Posts: 15

Re: RME 12Mic preamp on ADI-2 Pro interface?

ramses wrote:
antzuo wrote:

On a side note, speaking as if budget wasn’t an issue, how would you reckon the combination Micstasy+UFX III?
The reason I “would” consider a Micstasy is that it has both XLR ins and outs which would make it easier
to “dialogue” with analogue gear (I guess?); also I read it has very high end preamps.

The Micstasy is a pure preamp and has only AD conversion (for connecting preamps).
The analog outputs are simply a mirror of the corresponding analog input.

You can't use it as an AD/DA converter to also send audio from the computer/TotalMix via MADI to the analog outputs.
The DA converter and the routing for this purpose/use case are missing.

Instead of using a Micstasy I would consider using more up-to-date designs.
It also offers the feature to have more remote control options.
The later Octamic XTC is not yet produced anymore, too.
Don't get me wrong, they're all very nice devices, but earlier designs and not produced anymore.

So if you need a preamp and want to use MADI, then look at the 12Mic, which has 12 Mic preamps, and the 1st four are also usable as instrument inputs. It also offers one additional phone output.

If you require an AD/DA converter, then check the M-1620 Pro with 16x AD/DA and two additional phone outputs.
That's the best buy from RME, as M-32 Pro IIs are only AD or DA, so you require two devices, and they are pricier.

That’s quite useful! Thanks a lot!

  • Registered: 2025-09-06
  • Posts: 15

Re: RME 12Mic preamp on ADI-2 Pro interface?

ramses wrote:

Here a deployment schema:

  +---USB-------optional ARC USB for remote controlling ARC USB
/
PC---USB2-------------------------------------------------------+ for remote control via USB using ADI-2 Remote SW
|                                                                                      | needs MADIface driver (already installed for UFX III)
| USB3                                                                             | Or to be able to listen to DSD
|                                                                                      |
Fireface UFX III---ADAT1 IN<-------------ADAT OUT---ADI-2 Pro FS R BE---1/2---active monitors
|       |     \      \---ADAT1 OUT------------->ADAT IN---/                  \      \---3/4---headphones
|       |      \                                                                                  \
|       |       +Analog IN<---Neve (Option #1)                                    +Analog IN<---Neve (Option #2)
|       |
|       + 12Mic---Mic or Inst IN<-------Neve 1073 DPA Preamp (Option 3 possible; would prefer option 1+2+4)
|       |
|       + M-1620 Pro D (optional device)---Analog IN<---Neve 1073 DPA Preamp (Option 4)
|       |
+-<--+
MADI(o)

The integration of the ADI-2 Pro FS R BE reference converter is possible.
I see 4 options for integrating the Neve., but would prefer option 1, 2 and 4.



Hey Ramses, hope you're doing fine!

Following your previous advice, I made up my mind and decided to purchase the Fireface UFX III (due for delivery soon).

Just out of curiosity, I asked AI to develop a connection flowchart for possible "best" integration of the ADI-2 Pro (1st series) and the Neve 1073 DPA. My intention is to keep it simple at the moment and avoid a patchbay while still being able to use the Neve either for mic recording and for lmastering through the ADI-2 pro.

Here's the flowchart. May I ask what would be your opinion about that?

Cheers,
A

=========================================
  HYBRID MASTERING CHAIN - NO PATCHBAY   
=========================================

  +--------+          +-----------+
  |  DAW   |<--USB--->|  UFX III  |
  +--------+          +-----+-----+
                            |
                       (AES/EBU #1)
  +--------+                v
  |MONITOR |        +---------------+
  +---+----+        | ADI-2 PRO     |
      ^             | (Ref Monitor) |
  (Main Out)        +-------+-------+
      +---------------------+
                            ^
                       (AES/EBU #2)
                            |
  +-------------------------+-----------+
  |      ANALOG CHAIN (SERIES)          |
  +-------------------------+-----------+
                            ^
  +-------------------------+-----------+
  | SSL FUSION (Final Touch)            |
  +-------------------------+-----------+

                            |
  +-------------------------+-----------+
  | SSL BUS+ (Glue Comp)                |
  +-------------------------+-----------+

                            |
  +-------------------------+-----------+
  | NEVE 1073 (Marinair In)             |
  | *Mode: LINE | Z: HIGH*              |
  +-------------------------+-----------+
                            ^
                      (TRS Out 3-4)
                            |
                      +-----+-----+
                      |  UFX III  |
                      +-----------+

=========================================
SETTINGS:
- ADI-2 Pro: +24 dBu Ref Level
- Path: Hardwired / Pure Signal
=========================================

18 Reply by ramses (edited by ramses 2026-05-03 16:04:48)

  • ramses
  • ramses
  • DAW Mastermind
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  • Registered: 2012-10-14
  • Posts: 15,578

Re: RME 12Mic preamp on ADI-2 Pro interface?

Hi,

hope you're doing fine.

Question: Is there a typo in your drawing?

The ADI-2 Pro has only one AES input, but according to your diagram (see AES/EBU #1 and #2) you would need two.

But you could do the following:
Use ADAT for the connection between UFX III and ADI-2 Pro instead (see "AES/EBU #1" in your drawing).

Thanks for providing such a nice diagram giving a good overview.

Other topic: regarding "SETTINGS: - ADI-2 Pro: +24 dBu Ref Level" in your diagram.

You have ref levels only with analog ports.
+24 dBu towards your active monitors will be too much and is not needed.
From UFX III and the analog chain of devices you have only digital connections (ADAT and AES), there you have no ref levels.

So I am not sure what you mean by "ADI-2 Pro: +24 dBu Ref Level" in your diagram.
Is it a certain requirement? If yes, whats the purpose of it?

No big deal, I only want to know what you mean by this.

BR Ramses - HDSPe MADI FX, M-1620 Pro D, 12Mic, UFX III, ADI-2 Pro FS R BE, Nuendo 15, Win10 IoT Ent
  • Registered: 2025-09-06
  • Posts: 15

Re: RME 12Mic preamp on ADI-2 Pro interface?

Thanks for the sharp eyes!

Here is the clarification regarding the setup:

You are right about the single XLR physical input on the back. My diagram refers to the bi-directional AES/EBU line (Input and Output). To clarify: I am using the dedicated XLR Input for the feed from the UFX, and the DB9-to-XLR breakout cable for the digital return from the ADI-2 Pro back to the UFX. I would prefer this 2-way AES connection over ADAT for mastering to ensure the most stable 2-channel high-res clocking (SteadyClock FS).

Ref Levels (+24 dBu): To clarify the "Ref Level" note: it refers exclusively to the Analog INPUTS of the ADI-2 Pro. Since the Neve 1073 (Marinair) and SSL units output very hot signals, setting the ADI-2 Pro inputs to +24 dBu provides the necessary headroom to drive the analog gear without clipping the A/D stage.

Monitor Outputs: The analog outputs to the monitors are handled separately, typically using Auto Ref Level or +4 dBu for optimal gain staging.

Here is an updated diagram (loop) with the correct physical connection flow:

============================================================
      STUDIO SETUP: NEVE MARINAIR + SSL MASTERING CHAIN
============================================================

      [ COMPUTER / DAW ]
              |
              v (USB)
   +-----------------------+           +-------------------+
   |   RME FIREFACE UFX III|--AES #1-->| ADI-2 PRO (XLR IN)|
   |    (Master Clock)     |           | (D/A Conversion)  |
   +-----------------------+           +---------+---------+
              ^                                  |
              |                                  v
              | (AES #2 via DB9)           (Analog Out 1/2)
              |                                  |
      +-------+-------+                          v

      | ADI-2 DIGITAL |                    [ MONITOR ]
      | OUTPUT (A/D)  |              (Auto Ref Level/+4dBu)
      +---------------+

              ^
              | (Digital Return)
      +-------+--------------------------------------------+
      |        ADI-2 PRO ANALOG INPUTS (Ref: +24 dBu)      |
      +-----------------------+----------------------------+
                              ^
                              | (Analog Signal)
      +-----------------------+----------------------------+
      |  SSL FUSION (Out) <--- SSL BUS+ <--- NEVE 1073     |
      +-----------------------+----------------------------+
                              ^
                              |
                        (TRS Out 3-4)
                              |
                      +-------+-------+

                      |  RME UFX III  |
                      +---------------+

============================================================
SETTINGS:
- 2-Way AES Line: XLR Input & DB9 Breakout Output
- ADI-2 Pro Input Ref: +24 dBu (Headroom for Neve/SSL)
- Path: Hardwired / Shortest Signal Path
============================================================

20 Reply by ramses (edited by ramses 2026-05-03 19:27:32)

  • ramses
  • ramses
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  • Registered: 2012-10-14
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Re: RME 12Mic preamp on ADI-2 Pro interface?

antzuo wrote:

You are right about the single XLR physical input on the back. My diagram refers to the bi-directional AES/EBU line (Input and Output). To clarify: I am using the dedicated XLR Input for the feed from the UFX, and the DB9-to-XLR breakout cable for the digital return from the ADI-2 Pro back to the UFX. I would prefer this 2-way AES connection over ADAT for mastering to ensure the most stable 2-channel high-res clocking (SteadyClock FS).

Still the ADI-2 Pro has only 1 AES input.

There is no difference in quality

A) whether you use ADAT or AES. Both are also galvanically isolated:
   AES: Transformer-balanced
   ADAT: by optical fiber

B) SteadyClock [FS] works equally well with any digital I/O port.

Therefore: there is no problem using either AES or ADAT in this setup.

antzuo wrote:

Ref Levels (+24 dBu): To clarify the "Ref Level" note: it refers exclusively to the Analog INPUTS of the ADI-2 Pro. Since the Neve 1073 (Marinair) and SSL units output very hot signals, setting the ADI-2 Pro inputs to +24 dBu provides the necessary headroom to drive the analog gear without clipping the A/D stage.

Your drawing was wrong. The connection from the analog chain to the ADI-2 Pro was not via an Analog connection,
it was labaled "AES/EBU #2" in the diagram. It looked as if the ADI-2 Pro needed 2x AES inputs.

Sorry, but your new drawing confuses me even more, because
- scrolling doesn't give a good overview
- you are drawing the ADI-2 three times, I think this is all the same device: ADI-2 Pro, ADI-2, ADI-2 Pro?

I would much prefer if the drawing could be simplified, the full analog chain is not needed.
Is this correctly understood?

PC
|
| USB3        +------AES IN<--------------AES OUT---+
|                /                                                          \
|               /                                                            \
RME UFX III [cm]---ADAT1 OUT--------->ADAT IN---ADI-2 Pro [cs]---AN1/2------Active Monitors
AN3/4 | | OUT                                                          /               \---AN3/4------Phones
          | |                                                                /
     AN | | IN                                                          /
     Analog Chain---AES OUT-------------->AES IN---/

cm = clock master, cs = clock slave


Here as picture

Just for the case, that your Browser doesn't display this well

[ click the link if the picture below is too small ]
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/4ko849xu … 1&dl=1

https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/4ko849xuff0v2a17m30il/2026-05-02-Drawing-UFX-III-and-ADI-2-Pro.jpg?rlkey=ob2u27j59rdugndhdntl6gd1a&amp;st=9b7x2bw1&amp;dl=1

BR Ramses - HDSPe MADI FX, M-1620 Pro D, 12Mic, UFX III, ADI-2 Pro FS R BE, Nuendo 15, Win10 IoT Ent