RedNet A8R

Description

RedNet A8R provides eight channels of analog input and output with high-quality 24-bit, 192 kHz A/D and D/A digital conversion, offering a dynamic range of up to 119 dB, along with two channels of AES/EBU digital I/O to and from the Dante network. Housed in a robust, fully metallic 1U chassis, uniform with other products in the RedNet range, the RedNet A8R is well-suited for fixed installation in audio and engineering communication systems.

The RedNet A8R features remotely selectable conversion at standard frequencies of 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, and 192 kHz with 24-bit resolution and pull-up/down capability. Balanced analog inputs and outputs are available via DB25 connectors wired to AES59 specifications, ensuring internal signal balancing at all times. Inputs can be remotely configured for signal levels of +18 or +24 dBFS.

Additionally, two channels of AES/EBU I/O with input sample rate conversion are provided via XLR connectors. The unit's clock source can be internal or external, using Word Clock or DARS (via the XLR input). RedNet A8R also outputs Word Clock, with Word Clock input and output available on BNC connectors.

Sampling rates and operating levels are remotely selectable via RedNet Control software. The front panel features comprehensive LED indicators, including power and network status, sample rate, and tricolor signal level indicators (red-amber-green) per channel. Green "signal present" indicators are provided for AES/EBU I/O, along with three clock source indicators: internal, Word Clock, and DARS.

RedNet A8R includes power and network redundancy, featuring two independent universal power supplies (100 - 240 V) with locking IEC connectors, as well as dual network interfaces on locking etherCON connectors, which can be remotely configured for redundant or switched (daisy-chain) mode.

The unit features a soft-start function on power-up and automatic muting when changing sample rates, preventing audible pops and clicks.

RedNet A8R is CE marked, UL/C-UL approved, and adheres to AES48-2005 grounding and EMC practices. The platform complies with EU Directive 2002/95/EC and RoHS Directive.

Key Features:

• Eight channels of high-quality line-level analog I/O.
• Focusrite precision 24-bit conversion up to 192 kHz.
• 119 dB dynamic range, flat from 20 Hz to 20 kHz, ±0.15 dB.
• Internally balanced throughout.
• Remote-controlled Dante audio-over-IP connectivity.
• Dual power supplies and network connections with full redundancy, including locking connectors for maximum reliability.
• Word Clock and DARS I/O for added flexibility, plus two additional AES/EBU I/O channels.
• AES59-compliant analog I/O on DB25 connectors.
• Comprehensive front panel indicators.
• Software-based routing and control – no hardware patching required.

Detailed Specifications:

Line Inputs

• 0 dBFS Reference Levels: +18 or 24 dBu (switchable)
• Frequency Response: 20 Hz - 20 kHz ± 0.1 dB
• THD+N: Below -100 dB (0.001) unweighted, 20 Hz - 20 kHz; input -1 dBFS
• EIN: -96 dBu A-weighted (typical)
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 120 dB A-weighted (typical)
• Converter Dynamic Range: 120 dB A-weighted (typical), 10 Hz - 20 kHz

Line Outputs

• 0 dBFS Reference Levels: +18 or 24 dBu (switchable)
• Frequency Response: 20 Hz - 20 kHz ± 0.1 dB
• THD+N: Below -100 dB (0.001) unweighted, 20 Hz - 20 kHz; 23 dBu input
• Signal Presence Noise: -94 dBu A-weighted (typical)
• Dynamic Range: 118 dB A-weighted (typical)

Digital Input Sample Rate Converters

• Sample Rate: 32 kHz to 216 kHz
• Gain Error: -0.3 dB
• Input Dynamic Range: Greater than 138 dB
• THD+N Inputs: Below -130 dB (0.00003)
• Latency: 11 to 45 samples (dependent on network and sample rate)

Digital Performance

• Supported Sample Rates: 44.1 / 48 / 88.2 / 96 / 176.4 / 192 kHz (-4 / -0.1 / 0.1 / 4.167) at 24-bit
• Clock Sources: Internal or Dante Network Master
• External Word Clock Range: Nominal sample rate ±7.5

Rear Panel Connectivity

• Line Inputs: 2 x DB25 connectors
• Line Outputs: 2 x DB25 connectors
• Number of Channels: 2 x 2 AES/EBU channels
• Input (Optional DARS): 1 x female XLR (switchable with analog input channels 15 and 16 at quad speed)
• Output: 1 x male XLR (duplicate of analog output channels 15 and 16 at quad speed)
• Word Clock Input: 1 x BNC 75Ω (switchable termination)
• Word Clock Output: 1 x BNC 75Ω

Power Supply

• 2 x IEC inputs with retention clips

Network

• 2 x EtherCON NE8FBH (also compatible with standard RJ45 connectors)
  

Network Modes

• Redundant Mode – Allows the unit to connect to two independent networks.
  
  
• Switched Mode – Connects both ports to the integrated network switch, enabling device daisy-chaining.