The ADI2 encoder is a tragedy... Several of my friends who use RME have encountered this problem. I just helped one of them get a long-life encoder (from the original 15,000 cycles life to 100,000 cycles and better Rotation and pressing feel)-only need to increase the cost of one dollarFair enough decision. Clearly RME should specify a better quality rotary encoder, or better still, build their own.
That's what the better Japanese companies did back in the day. Optical encoders (no contact issues to worry about) with bespoke slit wheel, twin photo-interuptors and their own dedicated IC.