Some Focusrite interfaces feature ADAT inputs and outputs. ADAT is a digital format carried using optical (sometimes referred to as “TOSLink”) cables.
The number of channels transferred between two devices over a single ADAT cable depends on the sample rate being used, please see the table below:
Sample Rate(s) | ADAT Channel Count |
44.1kHz and 48kHz | 8 Channels |
88kHz and 96kHz | 4 Channels |
176.4kHz and 192kHz* | 2 Channels |
*Some interfaces disable ADAT IO at quad-band sample rates. Double check your specific interfaces user guide.
An audio signal transmitted via ADAT can only travel in one direction down a single cable. If you want to send audio signals in two directions using ADAT, you will need two cables and both devices need ADAT In and Out ports.