Studio Technologies Model 48D Dante Bridge

Model 48D Dante Bridge

The Model 48D Dante Bridge provides a simple yet high-performance means of interconnecting, or "bridging," Dante audio signals associated with two independent local-area-networks. The unit allows up to four audio channels to pass in each direction. Internal circuitry provides timing and bit-depth correction to ensure that audio signal integrity is maintained.

Dante audio-over-Ethernet has found wide acceptance as a network "backbone" due to its ease of use, excellent audio performance, strong interoperability, and wide adoption by a large number of equipment manufacturers. However, interconnecting audio signals on independent local-area-networks that support Dante can present a challenge. The Model 48D makes that a simple task to implement. Interconnecting a Model 48D with two Ethernet connections, along with a minimal amount of configuration, is all that's required to make the unit part of a sophisticated, networked audio system.

The Model 48D can be powered by Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) or an external source of 12 volts DC. Standard connectors are used for the Ethernet and DC power interconnections. The Model 48D's enclosure has a "1/2-rack" 1U form factor and weighs less than two pounds, making it well suited for use in portable applications. Alternately, using one of the optional rack-mounting kits one or two Model 48D units can be mounted in a single space (1U) of a standard 19-inch rack enclosure. The unit is built to professional standards and is intended for demanding 24-hour operation.

The Dante Controller software application can be used to configure all Dante network and audio parameters. Front-panel LED indicators, an LCD display, and five push-button switches are provided to view and revise selected operating parameters. The Model 48D is compatible with the Dante Domain Manager (DDM) software application and is complaint with AES67 digital audio signals.

Dante Audio-over-Ethernet

Audio data is sent to and received from the Model 48D using the Dante audio-over-Ethernet media networking technology. Two separate network interfaces allow completely independent configurations. Audio signals with a sample rate of 44.1, 48, 88.2, and 96 kHz and a bit depth of up to 24 are supported. Up to four audio channels in each direction can pass (be "bridged") between the Model 48D's two network interfaces. (Four channels at 48 kHz sample rate and two channels at a sample rate of 96 kHz.)

Sample rate converter (SRC) integrated circuits ensure that audio that enters on one network interface exits the corresponding network interface with correctly-aligned digital audio information. Each interface has four Dante input (receiver) and output (transmitter) channels. They are associated on a one-to-one basis with the channels both interfaces. For example, input 1 on Network A is associated with output 1 on Network B. Routing (subscribing) of the Dante input and output channels to other devices can be performed using the Dante Controller software applications.

Features:

• Two independent Dante network connections
• "Bridges" up to four audio channels in each direction
• High-performance sample rate conversion
• Excellent audio quality
• DDM and AES67 support
• PoE and 12 Vdc powering
• Standard connectors, simple setup
• Table-top, portable, or optional rack-mount installation