The Lynx Hilo 2 is a precision-engineered, all-in-one mastering console and AD/DA converter designed for professionals who demand the purest audio fidelity. It delivers pristine, independently-coupled two-channel analogue inputs and six-channel analogue outputs, with the ability to expand digitally up to 16×16 channels.
Central to its performance is the upgraded conversion technology, achieving exceptionally low distortion and noise with THD+N measured at –117 dB for AD conversion and –120 dB for DA conversion (at 1 kHz, –1 dBFS, 20 kHz filter, +22 dBu trim). The dynamic range is equally impressive, reaching 122 dB on AD, 127 dB on DA, and 121 dB on the analogue outputs, all measured A-weighted with a −60 dBFS signal reference.
The Lynx Hilo 2’s SynchroLock 2 clocking system offers fast and accurate locking to external word clocks, maintaining absolute sample rate accuracy within 7 ppm and ensuring ultra-low jitter. Digital routing, metering and monitoring controls are handled through an in-plane-switching capacitive touchscreen, which provides bright, uniform display with wide viewing angles and responsive touch. Real-time metering offers a rich suite of tools including dual horizontal, VU-style, all-I/O and spectrum analysis.
Full-range routing and monitoring setups can be saved and recalled quickly through the touchscreen, while extended control is available via free Hilo Remote apps for iPad and desktop. The Lynx Hilo 2 is designed for lasting relevance, featuring a future-proof LSlot expansion system that allows user-swappable interface cards, including USB, Thunderbolt and Dante, without requiring firmware updates. The unit ships with either USB 2.0 or Thunderbolt 3 and remains upgradeable as new standards emerge.
Analogue line I/O filtering can be customised through selectable linear and minimum-phase filters, and the device offers an upgrade path supporting sample rates above 192 kHz and full DSD input/output. Trim settings are flexible, allowing full-scale outputs from +0 dBV up to +24 dBu, and the analogue outputs themselves can be jumper-selected between +10 dBu and +24 dBu max. Input impedance is rated at 200 kΩ balanced and 100 kΩ unbalanced, while output impedance is 100 Ω balanced and 50 Ω unbalanced.
Portability is also considered in the design: while mains power remains the default, the Lynx Hilo 2 can be powered via 9–18 V DC battery packs, making it ideal for mobile setups and field recording.
In summary, the Lynx Hilo 2 fuses state-of-the-art conversion and clocking performance with intuitive, touch-driven control, flexible connectivity and expandability, comprehensive metering and multiple power options—all housed in a sleek half-rack unit capable of high-end studio, mastering, post-production, field and audiophile applications.
Features
- Pristine, independently coupled 2 in, 6 out, AD/DA conversion with digital expansion up to 16×16.Unique touchscreen interface.
- Forever upgradable through our free firmware updates.
- Future-proof LSlot design with swappable USB, Thunderbolt and DANTE cards.Real-time meters and analysis tools, hyper-flexible routing and monitor control.
- Powered by mains or 9-18v DC battery packs for location recording.Lynx’s class-leading transparent audio quality.
- Hilo 2: Upgraded conversion technology provides even more transparent performance.
- Hilo 2: SynchroLock 2 sample clock provides faster locking and better tracking of external clocks with 7ppm absolute accuracy.
- Hilo 2: In-plane switching LCD with capacitive touch provides significant increase in brightness, uniform off-axis viewing, and improved touch responsiveness.
- Hilo 2: Upgrade path to higher sample rates above 192kHz and DSD on input and output.
- Hilo 2: Selectable linear and minimum phase filters on line I/O.
