Digital Audio Format Converter (24/192)

Ideal Use Cases

The RDL FP-DFC2 is designed for digital audio systems in which the source and receiving equipment use different interface formats. It accepts 75-ohm S/PDIF through phono or BNC, S/PDIF through optical, or AES-3ID through BNC, then supplies a balanced AES/EBU signal on XLR. This makes it a focused solution when an existing coaxial or optical source must feed equipment with an AES/EBU input. Cabinet, shelf, and rack mounting options allow the converter to be positioned near source equipment, destination equipment, or within a centralized installation. Its stated 32 kHz to 192 kHz sample-rate range and 16- to 24-bit resolution accommodate the full operating range specified for this model.

Why Choose This Model

The FP-DFC2 combines format conversion with automatic operating features that simplify integration. Automatic sample-rate detection allows the unit to recognize supported rates without requiring a manual rate selection. Exclusive Sure-Lok™ auto-recovery is included to support automatic recovery during operation. A dedicated LOCK LED shows when the converter is locked to a valid signal, while a separate POWER indicator provides immediate confirmation of power status. The output is balanced AES/EBU on XLR and transformer isolated, providing the specified electrical isolation at the output. These features make the operating state easy to verify directly from the unit.

Installation and Integration

Connect the source through one of the supported input formats: 75-ohm S/PDIF using phono or BNC, optical S/PDIF, or AES-3ID using BNC. The converted signal is delivered through the balanced, transformer-isolated AES/EBU XLR output. The FP-DFC2 supports IEC958, S/PDIF, EIAJ CP340/1201, and AES3-1992 Amendment 3-1999 standards. It measures 1.34 inches high by 3.25 inches wide by 4.81 inches long, equivalent to 3.40 by 8.26 by 12.22 centimeters. The enclosure can be installed in a cabinet, placed on a shelf, or incorporated into a rack-mounted arrangement. Power requirements are 24 Vdc at 30 mA with a ground-referenced supply. The recommended PS-24AS power supply for the USA or PS-24AX for international use is not included. The specified ambient operating range is 0° C to 55° C.

Performance Highlights

The FP-DFC2 performs conversion from S/PDIF to AES/EBU and from AES-3ID to AES/EBU. It operates across sample rates from 32 kHz through 192 kHz and resolutions from 16 through 24 bits, with full operation specified up to 24-bit/192 kHz. Automatic sample-rate detection manages recognition of incoming supported rates, while the LOCK indicator identifies a valid signal lock. The balanced XLR output is transformer isolated, matching the specified AES/EBU output configuration. Coaxial and optical input support provides connection flexibility without changing the unit or adding a separate optical-to-coaxial stage before the stated format conversion.

What Makes It Different

This model brings several input connection types into one directional AES/EBU conversion device. S/PDIF sources can connect by phono, BNC, or optical interface, while an AES-3ID source can connect by BNC. Every supported input path feeds the balanced AES/EBU XLR output. The combination of exclusive Sure-Lok™ auto-recovery, automatic sample-rate detection, transformer output isolation, and separate LOCK and POWER indicators addresses conversion, recovery, isolation, and status monitoring within the same compact enclosure. Support for cabinet, shelf, or rack mounting further distinguishes the FP-DFC2 as a flexible installation component rather than a converter limited to one placement method.

Final Assessment

The RDL FP-DFC2 is a precise choice when the requirement is to convert S/PDIF or AES-3ID into balanced AES/EBU while supporting rates from 32 to 192 kHz and resolutions from 16 to 24 bits. Its automatic rate detection, Sure-Lok™ auto-recovery, valid-signal LOCK indication, and transformer-isolated XLR output provide a clearly defined feature set for this conversion task. Installers should account for the required 24 Vdc ground-referenced power source because the recommended power supply is sold separately. For systems matching its supported inputs and AES/EBU output, the FP-DFC2 provides the specified conversion in a compact, mountable format.