Optx v1
ADAT OPTICAL CONVERTER
- Encodes 8 analog inputs into ADAT Lightpipe
- Decodes ADAT Lightpipe into 8 analog outputs
- DC-coupled outputs support both CV and audio signals
- Selectable 44.1/48 kHz internal sample clock or external sync
- Dual LED indication of output signal strength and polarity
This product is a refurbished new old stock item. All sales are final.
Documents
Straightforward ADAT conversion
Optx is a compact and bi-directional ADAT lightpipe converter for eurorack synthesizers. The module provides 8 channels of input and output expansion to many pro audio interfaces, and may be used standalone to interconnect eurorack systems.
ADAT Encoding & Decoding
Some computer audio interfaces are equipped with one or more pairs of ADAT expansion ports allowing for additional input and output channels. Optx takes full advantage of these often unused ports, providing multi-channel connections directly to and from eurorack systems.
The module accepts any 8-channel ADAT encoded digital signal at the Rx TOSLINK jack (via lightpipe optical cable) and converts it into 8 discrete analog signals available at the OUT 1-8 jacks.
Conversely, Optx accepts 8 discrete analog signals at the IN 1-8 jacks and converts them into an 8-channel ADAT encoded digital signal available at the Tx jack.
DC-Coupled
The module’s analog outputs are DC-coupled, meaning signals can be AC (audio) or DC (control voltages). So when used in conjunction with software such as Bitwig Studio or Ableton CV Tools, Optx becomes an interface for outgoing control voltages like 1V/oct pitch and gate signals, or LFOs, ADSRs and other modulators. The amount of creative potential here cannot be overstated.
Sample Clock Synchronization
The module has three options for sample clock sync, selectable using the 3-way switch.
SAMPLE CLOCK
| 44.1 | Generates and syncs to internal clock of 44.1 kHz |
EXT (default) | Syncs to external clock from ADAT signal at Rx |
48 | Generates and syncs to internal clock of 48 kHz |
With the switch set to EXT, the blue EXT SYNC LED will illuminate when a valid sample clock is detected at Rx.
Signal LEDs
Optx also provides visual signal indication of the 8 decoded ADAT channels feeding the OUT 1-8 jacks. Each pair of WHITE LEDs indicates the polarity (-Ve left, +Ve right) and relative strength of the signal (± 10 V).
Audio-rate signals will generally light both LEDs continuously, whereas LFOs will alternate more apparently between the two. Gates, triggers and positive-going envelopes will generally light only the right LED (+Ve).
SPECIFICATIONS
- Width: 8 HP
- Depth: 1.5 in (38 mm)
- Weight: 3.7 oz (105 g)
- Resolution: 24 bit, 44.1/48 kHz
- Max I/O Level: ± 10 V (20 Vpp)
- Power: +12 V 78 mA, -12 V 78 mA
PATCH TIPS
CV/GATE/MOD & AUDIO RETURNS – Use CV capable software such as Bitwig Studio or Ableton CV tools to send pitch, gate, and modulation signals to Optx outputs. Patch them respectively into a 1V/oct oscillator, envelope gate input, and filter cutoff control. Then patch the audio signal(s) back to the Optx inputs to mix within the DAW software. Instrument tracks can then contain both the sequence data and audio returns for simple and powerful integration with your eurorack synth.
NOTE: 1V/oct signals will require calibration within the software.
DRUM TRIGGERS & AUDIO RETURNS – Using a drum rack in one of the aforementioned CV capable softwares, send up to 8 drum triggers to Optx outputs. Patch them into trigger inputs of drum modules, envelopes, etc. Now patch their respective audio signals back to Optx inputs to mix and process within the DAW.
NOTE: Some drum modules are responsive to varying trigger
voltage. If the trigger CV output level is modulated using velocity/etc
in the software, then Optx will dynamically produce trigger voltages
based on velocity!