AJA FS1-X Frame Synchronizer & Converter with MADI Audio
Best professional solution for complex broadcast and live production workflows.
The AJA FS1-X Frame Synchronizer & Converter with MADI Audio is a versatile 1RU solution designed for complex video and audio workflows. It excels at converting between analog and digital signals, including high-channel MADI audio transport. Featuring an optional motion adaptive Frame Rate Converter (FRC), it ensures high-quality international conversions. With comprehensive connectivity including 3G-SDI, HDMI, MADI, AES, and analog audio, plus an internal audio matrix for flexible routing, it's ideal for demanding broadcast and production environments. Redundant power supplies guarantee mission-critical reliability.
$4399.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
6
/ 235
#6 in Video Editing Hardware & Production Equipment
Price vs Category Average
+172%
Above average
Form Factor
1
/ RU Chassis, Rackmountable
Who it's for
- Engineers looking to minimize rack space and equipment complexity
- Broadcast professionals managing high-density multi-channel audio workflows
- Live production teams requiring mission-critical hardware reliability
Who should skip it
- Independent creators or small studios with limited equipment budgets
- Generalists lacking deep experience with complex broadcast routing standards
- Field producers needing lightweight, highly portable conversion gear
Performance breakdown
Signal Versatility
Handles complex analog and digital conversions with professional-grade precision.
Audio Routing Capacity
Massive 224x224 matrix provides unparalleled flexibility for high-channel count workflows.
Reliability Standards
Dual redundant power supplies ensure mission-critical uptime during live broadcasts.
Conversion Quality
Motion adaptive processing delivers clean, artifact-free frame rate conversions.
Connectivity Depth
Extensive I/O options bridge legacy analog gear with modern digital infrastructure.
Remote Management
Network-ready interface allows for efficient control and monitoring from anywhere.
Key Specs
Form Factor
1RU Chassis, Rackmountable
Power
Dual, redundant 100-240 VAC 50/60 Hz supplies
Dimensions
17.5 x 16 x 1.75" (44.5 x 40.6 x 4.4 cm)
Weight
7.9 lb (3.6 kg)
Max Frame Rate Support
1080p @ 50/60
Audio Channels
Up to 64 MADI channels
Video Interface Support
3G-SDI, HDMI, Component, Composite, Reference
Control Interface
GPI in/out, 10/100/1000 Ethernet
Features
- Handles comprehensive analog and digital signal conversion.
- Includes motion adaptive Frame Rate Converter (FRC) option.
- Supports 64-channel MADI audio transport over coax/fiber.
- Features dual, redundant power supplies for reliability.
- Offers extensive video I/O including 3G-SDI and HDMI.
- Internal 224x224 audio matrix for flexible routing.
- Network ready for remote control and SNMP monitoring.
- Supports sidebar keying for 4:3 to 16:9 conversion.
What customers say
Professionals value the AJA FS1-X for its rock solid reliability and exceptional video processing quality. It is considered a mission critical workhorse, performing frame synchronization and conversion flawlessly. A key highlight is the integrated MADI audio support, offering crucial high density audio routing capabilities essential for complex workflows. Users appreciate that this versatile unit consolidates multiple functions into a single rack space. While the initial cost is high, its dependability and comprehensive feature set justify the investment. Some operators note a slight learning curve with the initial setup menus, but overall, the FS1-X is celebrated for maintaining superior signal integrity in demanding broadcast environments.
Know before you buy
Yes, the FS1-X supports 64-channel MADI audio transport over both coax and fiber, making it highly capable for complex audio workflows. It also features an internal 224x224 audio matrix that allows for flexible routing across its various inputs and outputs.
Absolutely. With its optional motion adaptive Frame Rate Converter, the FS1-X ensures high-quality conversions between different frame rates, which is essential for international production environments.
The unit is equipped with extensive I/O options, including 3G-SDI, HDMI, component, and composite video. This versatility allows it to bridge the gap between legacy analog equipment and modern digital workflows.
The unit is built with dual, redundant power supplies. This design provides a critical fail-safe, ensuring that your signal remains stable even if one power source experiences an issue.
Yes, the device is network-ready with a 10/100/1000 Ethernet port. This allows for remote control and SNMP monitoring, so you can manage settings and check status from a separate workstation.
Yes, it supports sidebar keying, which allows you to effectively manage 4:3 to 16:9 aspect ratio conversions, ensuring your content is formatted correctly for your target display.
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