Boredbrain Debuts Optx v2 ADAT Interface For Eurorack Synthesizers

At Knobcon 2024, Boredbrain introduced the Optx v2 – ADAT Optical Converter, a pro-quality ADAT lightpipe converter for Eurorack modular synthesizers.

The DC-coupled module can encode and decode 8 analog inputs/outputs with extremely low noise, and CV signals with near-zero offset. Additionally, on-board sample clock allows for one-way ADAT output and the ability to be used standalone to interconnect Eurorack systems.

So this can be used both a high-end audio interface and as a way to route multichannel audio between Eurorack cases without running a bunch of patch cables between systems.

Features:

  • Bi-directional ADAT lightpipe encoding/decoding of 8 analog inputs/outputs
  • Switchable input mode (in pairs) powered by high-performance Cirrus Logic converters
  • AUDIO input mode ensures the highest fidelity possible with ultra-low noise
  • Self-calibrating CV input mode provides exceptional accuracy and near-zero offset (DC-coupled)
  • Precision DC-coupled outputs support both audio and CV signals
  • Internal sample clock permits one-way operation without ADAT input and standalone interconnection of two Optx modules
  • Dual LEDs on each output indicate signal strength and polarity

Pricing and Availability:

The Boredbrain Optx v2 ADAT Interface is available now to pre-order, with shipping targeted for Oct 17, 2024.

10 thoughts on “Boredbrain Debuts Optx v2 ADAT Interface For Eurorack Synthesizers”

    1. While Expert Sleepers are undoubtedly the pioneers in this area, I wouldn’t recommend their modules to anyone because of those awful plastic LED sockets that they use. The cables are not held in place securely and fall out very easily

      2. Hmmm, never had a problem with my distings ex or fh2. The fact that the jacks light up in a meaningful way (cv +/- or audio) is something I wish more of my modules did.

      3. I have a total of five Expert Sleepers modules, and all the connectors work flawlessly, feeling perfectly secure with various cables. I really like the LED color indication, it’s both effective and elegant.

        One of the advantages of the Expert Sleepers ES-10 (or ES-3) is that you can expand it with more CV, Gate, Clock, and sample-accurate MIDI. It’s strange that Boredbrain omits Expert Sleepers “Silent Way” software from the list of compatible software. If you’re going to copy another brand’s product, showing some respect seems appropriate

    1. It isn’t really for that- it is for connecting ADAT devises like PUSH 3 so that you can send CV from the PUSH (sequence CV, LFOs, ADSRs etc) and record audio from your Eurorack into the PUSH for FX/Loops/Audio sequencing etc.

    2. I’m not sure you understand what it’s trying to solve. The ADAT standard has been around for years and most good quality interfaces already have ADAT in/out. This is just using that for the convenience of putting that IO in your rack fairly cheaply. All things being equal, MADI and other standards are more powerful, but less common and fairly expensive.

      I have an RME Fireface+ and two of these (but v1). The RME software, TotalMix, integrates everything so I have all the RME and OPTX channels available in my DAW seamlessly as if they’re one big interface. I can then record all the tracks as well as mix in the box in Ableton or Reaper via a cheap midi controller. And the sends are equally easy to use so I can add effects and send audio back to the modular case. And of course it can handle CV too.

      I don’t think I’ll upgrade to V2 as mine have been quiet and well behaved. But I really really love these things. So much more powerful than some of the modular mixers that are coming out — if you can accept having a computer and an interface in your workflow. For the DAWless or die folks, it’s not that compelling.

  3. So hypothetically could I hook this up to a MOTU 828mk3 Hybrid, and if so would I be able to send DC couples inputs from this interface through to the DC coupled outs on the 828?

    I’m starting to consider expanding with an ADAT converter and I do not remember them being so expensive in general

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