Lynx Studio LT-MADI - Manual (Page 13)

Page 10
7 External Connections
MADI (Multichannel Audio Digital Interface), also known as AES10, is an AES approved
digital audio standard. Originally conceived for use with Digital Consoles, MADI has since
expanded into other audio contexts where high channel count audio transfers are required, such
as broadcast, installations, live sound, video post-production, etc. MADI is distinct from other
common digital audio standards by the number of channels supported per cable connection.
Where other popular standards (AES/EBU, ADAT Lightpipe, TDIF) carry up to 8 channels per
connection, MADI is capable of carrying up to 64-channels per connection.
MADI is a point-to-point interface, with separate cable connections carrying input and output
signals. There are some variations in how MADI is implemented that are important to consider
when configuring your system. These options, as they apply to the LT-MADI card, are explored
below.
7.1 MADI 56/64 Channel Modes
Originally, the MADI standard defined a maximum of 56-channels per connection at 100 Mbit/s.
In 2001, the specification was expanded to support 64-channel operation at 125 Mbit/s. 64-
channel operation was conceived for cases where an exact sampling frequency was to be
provided, as is typical with modern digital equipment.
MADI operates as a stream of 64 channels, with connected devices occupying a particular
number of channels in that stream. For instance, when operating in 64-channel mode up to four
16-channel devices can be plugged into this stream, as long as their device IDs are unique.
The LT-MADI card supports 56 and 64-channel operation. Consult the operation manual for the
hardware that you will be connecting to the LT-MADI to determine if it supports 64 or 56
channel operation.
Incoming MADI streams are analyzed for 56 or 64 channel operation and the LT-MADI receiver
is automatically adjusted. For output streams, the card needs to be configured for 56-channel or
64-channel mode by setting the jumper on J1. See illustration below: