Converter

Converters are used for the high-quality conversion of audio signals.
They convert analog signals to digital and vice versa, ensuring precise and lossless audio quality.
Choose from a variety of models that are characterized by high sampling rates, low latency and excellent fidelity.
Whether for professional music productions, home studios or live use, here you will find the right AD and DA converters to meet your requirements.
Benefit from top brands and the latest technologies to take your audio recordings to the next level.

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What is a converter?

An AD/DA converter (analog-to-digital/digital-to-analog converter) is a device that converts analog audio signals into digital data and vice versa. This conversion is essential for processing, storing and playing back audio data. AD (analog-to-digital) converters convert analog signals into digital formats, while DA (digital-to-analog) converters convert digital audio data into analog signals, which are then processed or played back by analog effects . can be reproduced by loudspeakers. There are converters that work in both directions and devices that are only designed for one direction (AD or DA).

An AD/DA converter works through the process of sampling and quantization. In AD conversion, the analogue signal is sampled at regular intervals (sampling) and each sampling point is converted into a digital value (quantization). DA conversion is the reverse process.

AD/DA converters are crucial for the quality of audio recording and playback. They influence how precisely and cleanly a sound is recorded and reproduced. High-quality converters minimize distortion and noise and offer higher resolution and accuracy, which is particularly important in professional audio applications such as music production and film sound.

AD/DA converters differ in several important aspects:

  • Bit rate and sample rate: These technical specifications determine the accuracy and quality of the signal conversion. Higher bit rates (e.g. 24 bit) and sample rates (e.g. 96 kHz or 192 kHz) enable more precise and detailed audio capture.
  • Quality of the converter chips: The converter chips used in the devices influence the sound quality. High-quality chips offer better sound fidelity and lower distortion.
  • Number of channels: The number of channels that can be converted simultaneously varies depending on the model and determines the capacity of the converter to process several signals simultaneously.

There are different types of AD/DA converters, which vary depending on the application and quality:

  • Built-in converters: These are integrated into many audio devices such as computers and audio interfaces and provide basic audio quality.
  • External converters: These are specialized devices used in high-end audio productions
  • DAC (digital-to-analog converter)Converts digital audio signals into analog signals that can be played back by loudspeakers or headphones, for example.
  • ADC (analog-to-digital converter)Converts analog audio signals (e.g. from a microphone) into digital signals that can be processed by computers.

When buying an AD/DA converter, you should pay attention to the following specifications:

  • Bit depth: Determines the resolution of the digital signal. Higher bit depths (e.g. 24-bit) offer a finer gradation and therefore better audio quality.
  • Sampling rate: Specifies how often the analog signal is sampled per second. Higher sampling rates (e.g. 96 kHz or 192 kHz) capture more details of the audio signal.
  • Signal-to-noise ratio (SNR): Measures the ratio between the desired signal and the background noise. A higher SNR means less noise and clearer audio quality.
  • Total harmonic distortion (THD): A low THD value means less distortion and cleaner signal conversion.

The bit depth of an AD/DA converter determines the number of possible level steps used for the digital representation of an analog signal. A higher bit depth, such as 24-bit compared to 16-bit, enables a more precise representation of soft and loud sounds and reduces quantization noise, resulting in better overall audio quality.

The sampling rate determines how often the analog signal is sampled per second. A higher sampling rate captures more details and nuances of the audio signal. Sampling rates of 96 kHz or even 192 kHz are common for professional applications, while 44.1 kHz (audio, CD quality) or 48 kHz (video, DVD quality) are sufficient for most consumer applications.

The signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) is a measure of the clarity of the audio signal. A high SNR value means that the wanted signal is strong compared to the background noise. An AD/DA converter with a high SNR value therefore delivers clearer and more precise audio recordings and playback, which is particularly important in professional audio applications.

Jitter refers to inaccuracies in the timing of the digital signal. High jitter can affect sound quality by causing distortion and losses in signal conversion. High-quality converters minimize jitter and thus ensure more precise sound reproduction.

A converter is usually connected to a computer, audio interface or digital audio sources via USB, Thunderbolt, optical or coaxial cables.

The choice of the right AD/DA converter depends on several factors:

  • Application: Consider whether you need the converter for professional studio recordings, home recordings or live performances.
  • Number of channels: Take into account the number of channels you want to convert at the same time.
  • Quality of the converter chips: High-quality converters are better suited for professional applications.
  • Budget: AD/DA converters are available in different price ranges. Determine your budget and choose the best device that meets your requirements.
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