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HHB Launches the GXA8 A-D & GXD8 D-A Converters at AES First Available Converters to Deliver Stand-Alone Eight-Channel, 24-bit/192k and DSD Conversion (Click for a close-up) September 22, 2000 HHB Communications announces the launch of two affordable new eight-channel converters from digital audio specialists Genex Research, the GXA8 A-D and GXD8 D-A Converters, at the 109th AES Convention, held from September 22-25 at the Los Angeles Convention Center, Booth 1411. Drawing on technology from the groundbreaking Genex GX8500 multi-format recorder, the GXA8 and GXD8 are designed for the most discriminating audio professionals that demand exceptional converter performance in a convenient and cost-effective package. The GXA8 and GXD8 are the first commercially available devices to support eight-channel, 24-bit/192kHz and DSD conversion. The GXA8 A-D Converter translates eight channels of balanced analog audio into 24-bit digital audio, with all channels sampled at rates up to 192kHz. Outputs are available in a variety of digital audio formats with AES3 fitted as standard, supporting four channels of 24-bit/192kHz in dual-wire mode or eight channels of 24-bit/96kHz in single-wire mode. An optional AES expansion card provides eight channels of 24-bit/192kHz in dual-wire mode, with cards also available to support eight channels of SDIF2, ADAT and TDIF output. In another first for an eight-channel converter the GXA8 can, as an option, operate in Direct Stream Digital (DSD) mode, converting eight channels of analog audio into the 2.8224MHz digital bit stream, which forms the basis of the Sony Super Audio CD format. The GXA8 can also be used as a clock master, or can lock to external word clock, with a precision Phase-Locked Loop (PLL) mode to attenuate jitter. Advertisement The GXD8 D-A Converter also operates in PCM formats up to 24-bit/192kHz and, with an optional card, in DSD mode. Digital audio can be input in a variety of formats with AES3 available as standard. Optional cards are available for AES expansion, SDIF2, ADAT, TDIF and, in the near future, IEEE1394. In a unique feature, the high-stability crystal oscillator clock used for the conversion process is buffered and brought out to the rear panel allowing the digital source device to lock to the GXD8’s DACs, eliminating externally induced jitter from the conversion process. In the case of both the GXA8 and GXD8, audio excellence lies at the heart of the design philosophy. DSP-free circuitry eliminates potential distortion from asynchronous address and data buses, while the analog stages exhibit ultra-low noise and distortion figures, with performance in this area further enhanced by the lower operating temperatures afforded by the well-ventilated 2U chassis. Commenting on the launch of the new GXA8 and GXD8, Genex Managing Director Kevin Brown says, "Genex has built a rich heritage in high-resolution digital audio and it really shines through with these new converters. The GXA8 and GXD8 sound wonderful, they deliver 24-bit/192kHz and DSD capability for the first time in an eight-channel device, and they’re very affordably priced." HHB Sales Engineer Don Hannah agrees saying, "The Genex GXA8 and GXD8 are a first in the professional audio industry by providing the highest-quality converter technology for high-resolution PCM and Direct Stream Digital applications at a break-through price. With eight-channel, 24-bit/192kHz and DSD performance, the sound of these new converters is outstanding." For more information, visit their web site at www.hhbusa.com.

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