Sound Pure's Take
From Ferrofish
The Center of Your Audio Universe
The Ferrofish PULSE16 AE is a versatile and compact AD/DA converter designed for seamless integration into studio or live setups. With 16 high-quality balanced analog inputs and outputs, it ensures precise and clean signal conversion. The PULSE16 AE offers full visual control via its vibrant front-panel displays, simplifying real-time monitoring and configuration.
Built to accommodate professional workflows, its robust clocking options and compatibility with standard studio connections make it an essential tool for engineers seeking reliable performance in a 19″ 1HU rack form factor.
Studio-Grade Audio
Intuitive Visual Monitoring
The high-resolution front panel display provides immediate visual feedback of all input and output signals, offering professional-grade metering and system status at a glance. Multi-colored level meters ensure precise level monitoring in any environment.
Premium Conversion Architecture
Experience pristine audio quality through carefully selected ESS converters and temperature-compensated clock design. The PULSE16 AE maintains Ferrofish's reputation for exceptional sound quality, delivering crystal-clear conversion up to 192kHz with professional +20dBu headroom.
Professional Remote Control
Take command of your audio routing and settings through the comprehensive RemoteFish software for Mac and PC. The USB-C connection provides instant access to all parameters, while MIDI I/O enables integration into larger systems and ensures easy firmware updates for continued improvement.
Flexible Integration Hub
Beyond simple conversion, the PULSE16 AE serves as a versatile routing solution with its comprehensive ADAT connectivity and word clock synchronization options. The unit seamlessly bridges analog and digital domains, making it an ideal centerpiece for both studio and live applications.
Advanced Headphone Monitoring
The dedicated headphone output, powered by a separate ESS DAC, delivers exceptional monitoring capabilities with precise 1dB-step volume control. Four-stage amplification ensures compatibility with any headphone impedance, making it perfect for critical listening and tracking sessions.
Future-Proof Expandability
Thanks to its modular design, the PULSE16 AE is ready for tomorrow's challenges with DSP expansion capability. The optional DSP stick slot allows for future processing power upgrades, protecting your investment while offering a path to enhanced functionality.
Analog I/O
16 balanced TRS inputs (¼-inch / 6.3 mm)
16 balanced TRS outputs (¼-inch / 6.3 mm)
Headphone Output (¼-inch / 6.3 mm)
ADAT Connectivity
4 ADAT input ports
4 ADAT output ports
- Supports SMUX for higher sample rates
- 32 channels at 48 kHz, 16 channels at 96 kHz, 8 channels at 192 kHz
Clocking
Word Clock input and output (BNC connectors)
Internal high-stability clock or external sync via ADAT or Word Clock
Routing
Per-channel routing
Signal Monitoring
High-resolution front-panel displays for input and output level monitoring
Multi-colored LED meters for clear visual feedback
Controls & User Interface
Front-panel control knob and buttons for quick navigation and setup
Connectivity
USB-C and TRS-MIDI Type A for remote control via Ferrofish RemoteFish software, remote control via MIDI CC and for firmware updates
Remote control via MIDI controller commands (MIDI CC)
MIDI port for firmware updates and future features
Headphone Output
6.3mm jack output
Amplification power adjustable in four stages
Digital volume control with 1 dB resolution
Dedicated monitoring path via a separate ESS DAC
DSP Processing
Expandable via optional DSP stick
Digital-to-Analog Conversion
- DAC
- ESS ES9017
32-bit / 192 kHz
- DNR
- 120 dB
- THD+N
- –110 dB
- Output impedance
- 110 Ω
Analog-to-Digital Conversion
- ADC
- ESS ES9840Q
32-bit / 192 kHz
- DNR
- 116 dB
- THD+N
- –108 dB
- Input impedance
- 6 kΩ
Headphone Output
¼-inch / 6.3 mm jack output
Amplification adjustable in four stages
Digital volume control with 1 dB resolution
- Supported impedance range
- 15 – 600 Ω
Dedicated monitoring path via separate DAC ES9023
Internal Word Clock
125 MHz high-precision oscillator
- Initial accuracy
- ±1.5 ppm
- Temperature drift
- ±2.5 ppm
- Aging
- ±1 ppm
PLL (Phase-Locked Loop)
Digitally controlled PLL with active jitter reduction
Power Supply
- Voltage
- 12 V DC / 3 A
- Power consumption
- 12 VA (nominal), <1 VA (standby)
- Connector
- 2.54 mm barrel jack with locking screw
Center-positive connector
Included in the package
Fuse
Internal polyfuse, self-resetting
Operating Conditions
- Temperature range
- +5 °C to +45 °C
- Humidity
- <75 %, non-condensing
Form Factor
Rack-mountable 19“/1HU
- Dimensions
- 50 × 4.4 x 19 cm
Weight 2 kg
Free 3-Year Warranty
Sound Pure stands behind our products. Free three-year warranty on this item. Coverage exclusions live in Terms & Conditions, Section 27.
Level of support and expertise that simply isn't available at big-box megastores. Read the warranty →
Returns
Not eligible for Try Before You Buy or the 48-hour approval period. Standard return policy applies — see Terms & Conditions, Section 18 for details.
You may also like
Browse A/D and D/A →
Recommended accessories
Sound Pure Studios · Durham, NC
Come hear it in our control rooms.
Sound Pure is a working studio in Durham, NC — a 1,000 sq ft live room and two pro control rooms. Book a session to audition gear in a world-class acoustic space before you buy.