Focusrite RedNet A8R — a 1U, 8x8 analogue line-level interface for Dante networks with an additional AES3 pair on XLR, designed as a bridge between consoles, analogue outboard and an audio-over-IP system in critical-path installations.
Two DB25 connectors wired to the AES59 standard carry eight line-level channels, while an XLR pair adds two AES/EBU channels with sample rate conversion on the input, so external digital gear doesn't need to be synced to the Dante network to work immediately. 24-bit conversion up to 192 kHz with up to 119 dB of dynamic range stays transparent whether A8R is running in a studio, on a dub stage or in a broadcast installation.
An 8x8 analogue bridge with no compromise in signal quality
Input and output levels are configured remotely to +18 or +24 dBFS, and signals stay balanced throughout the internal signal path, so matching an analogue console or power amplifier needs no extra pads or trim pots. The AES3/DARS input on XLR lets A8R sync to a house reference signal or accept a digital source directly, with no separate format converter needed.
Power and network redundancy for critical installations
Two independent, universal 100-240V power supplies with locking IEC inlets, plus dual etherCON ports running in redundant or switched (daisy-chain) mode, remove the single point of failure in systems where a signal dropout isn't an option — broadcast installs and fixed live systems, for example. BNC Word Clock with switchable 75 Ohm termination lets A8R sync to an external clock or act as grand master for the whole Dante network.
KEY FEATURES
- 8x8 analogue line-level channels for Dante networks
- Additional 2 AES/EBU channels on XLR with input sample rate conversion
- 24-bit conversion up to 192 kHz, dynamic range up to 119 dB
- Remotely switchable +18 or +24 dBFS reference levels
- DARS/AES3 input on XLR as an alternate clock source
- Word Clock input and output on BNC with switchable termination
- Two independent universal 100-240V power supplies with locking IEC inlets
- Dual etherCON ports, redundant and switched (daisy-chain) modes
- Remote configuration through RedNet Control
- Includes the Brainworx bx_console Focusrite SC plug-in
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
- Analogue channels: 8 in/8 out on 2x DB25 AES59
- Additional I/O: 2-channel AES/EBU on XLR (input with DARS option)
- Sample rates: 44.1/48/88.2/96/176.4/192 kHz, 24-bit
- Dynamic range: up to 119 dB
- Reference levels: 0 dBFS = +18 or +24 dBu (switchable)
- Word Clock: BNC 75 Ohms, switchable termination
- Clock sources: internal or Dante Network Master
- Network: Dante, 2x etherCON, redundant/switched
- Power: 2x universal 100-240V supply, 24W draw
- Chassis: 1U, all-metal, roadworthy
