As part of a multi-product unveiling at the 137th International AES Convention, Antelope Audio introduces the Pure2, a mastering-grade 24/192 kHz AD/DA 2-channel converter and master clock. Pure2 builds on Antelope Audio's mastering legacy of the very successful high-end converter Eclipse 384, which we reviewed in the February 2014 issue (http://sosm.ag/feb14eclipse).
According to Antelope Audio, the Pure2 enables users to realise unsurpassed digital clarity and analogue realism, while offering a flexible set of connectivity options and extremely efficient and ergonomic software remote control. Pure2 employs an all-new design that leverages best-in-class Burr-Brown converters and the same Acoustically Focused Clocking (AFC) technology present in Antelope's ultra high-end Trinity master clock.
The Pure2 comprises five distinct components:
- An A/D converter with optimized overloads handling
- A D/A converter with dual DAC architecture
- A high-end headphone amplifier with a dedicated D/A
- A relay-based analog volume control for supremely accurate monitoring
- A master clock with 4th generation of Antelope's AFC jitter management
In addition to its first-rate conversion and AFC technology, the unit also features Antelope Audio's analogue circuitry, which is driven by a proprietary, multi-stage linear power supply. When monitoring through speakers, Pure2's relay-based stepped attenuator ensures transparency and perfect L/R balance, even at low listening levels. Additionally, the company claim that the Pure2's dual-DAC technology — with separate DAC chips for left and right channels —guarantees superior stereo separation and imaging.
"As digital devices and software-based tools become more and more ubiquitous in recording and playback environments, advanced clocking and conversion technology is now a prerequisite towards getting great sound," commented Igor Levin, founder and CEO of Antelope Audio. "Pure2 puts world class mastering functionality within the reach of just about anyone, at a fraction of what it would have cost just three years ago."
The Pure2 includes a software control panel (compatible with both Mac and PC) enabling users to manage all facets of its operation from a computer. Meanwhile, the front panel of the unit also includes user-definable presets for added routing convenience and efficiency.
With several Word Clock outputs, Pure2 can function as the master clock for an entire studio and can also be locked to Antelope's 10M Atomic Clock for even greater clocking stability. Furthermore, the Pure2 can be connected via S/PDIF, TOSLINK, AES and USB, making it suitable for nearly any studio environment.
Pure2, is suitable for studio and live applications and is scheduled to ship in late Q4 of 2014, priced at $2995.
