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Lynx Studio Technology Debuts New Version Of Hilo Reference AD/DA Converter System

Lynx Studio Technologies is introducing a new Hilo Reference AD/DA Converter System at the NAMM 2012 Show in Anaheim, booth 6527

This latest Hilo model has a black anodized face, to complement the silver face model introduced earlier. Hilo includes a two-channel AD converter, DA converter, and a headphone amplifier, all controlled and monitored via LCD touch screen.

In addition to these core features, Hilo also acts as a monitor control system, location audio device (via optional battery operation), and a valuable device for mastering facilities.

“The NAMM Show is a great chance to show Hilo to our customers and let them hear its pristine audio quality and interact with the innovative touch screen user interface,” states Bob Bauman, chief engineer and cofounder of Lynx. “Since our soft introduction in May, we have added several hardware and software features and completely redesigned the user interface. The response was extremely positive to this new approach.”

Hilo significantly changes the performance and possibilities of two-channel converters. Unlike most models available, Hilo offers analog to digital as well as digital to analog conversion. Its headphone amplifier has its own D/A converter, which allows it to have pristine quality as well as the ability to output a different mix from the other outputs.

A second analog “Monitor” output is available, also with a unique mix as an option.

“With all of the options available on Hilo, the touch screen is an invaluable tool. For visual reference, the initial release will feature a retro VU style meter as well as a modern bar style meters. Any input or output pair can be chosen for any meter,” explains David Hoatson, chief software engineer and co-founder. “We have also included five sets of user-selectable parameter menus into the interface to fully customize the Hilo experience. And since the operation of Hilo is entirely software-driven, we will offer new features, screens, upgrades and enhancements. These will be available by a simple download from our website.”

Hilo’s analog I/O section includes two balanced inputs and four balanced outputs. Digital connectivity includes AES/EBU, S/PDIF (via coax or optical), 8 ADAT, and 16 channels using the included LT-USB. Any mix of inputs can be sent to any output, made possible by the internal 32 channel mixer.

“In my experience, there are very few products that redefine a genre, and Hilo is one of them,” adds Phil Moon, VP sales and marketing. “The combination of features, control and monitoring via LCD touchscreen, and stellar audio quality is the first in a new generation of two channel AD/DA converters.”

Hilo has a suggested retail price of $2,495 and will be available in early 2012.

Lynx Studio Technologies

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