Audio Receiver Hub with 8 AEX inputs and 4 Stereo Inputs with 12 Stereo Outputs

Ideal Use Cases

The AVPro Edge AC-AEX-RC-HUB is a 12×12 audio-only matrix switching and aggregation hub designed for distributed-audio systems with more listening areas than video destinations. It centralizes 12 stereo audio inputs and makes them available across 12 stereo output zones. Eight AEX inputs are intended to retrieve audio from sources positioned away from the core distribution equipment, while four local inputs accommodate sources through analog RCA or digital TOSLINK connections.

The hub can also expand the audio capabilities of an AVPro Edge video matrix, including an Axion series system, by adding audio distribution for as many as 12 additional zones. This makes audio from a primary video source available in locations where installing or viewing a display is impractical.

Why Choose This Model

The AC-AEX-RC-HUB combines remote-source aggregation, local source connectivity, matrix switching, and multi-zone output in a single full-width chassis dedicated solely to audio. Its eight AEX inputs use Power over Cable over Ethernet category cable, supporting source distances up to 100 meters with Unshielded Twisted Pair cable and up to 130 meters with Shielded Twisted Pair cable.

All 12 outputs provide both analog left/right stereo through RCA connectors and digital 2-channel PCM through TOSLINK. The signal is output simultaneously in both formats, allowing each destination to use the connection appropriate for its audio equipment. Output muting is available on every output.

Installation and Integration

The chassis measures 44.45 x 444.5 x 234.95 mm, or 1.75 x 17.5 x 9.25 inches, measured by height, width, and depth. The unit weighs 6.6 pounds, or 2.99 kilograms. Control interfaces include RS-232 and IP/LAN, providing two options for integration with a system control platform.

Remote AEX input operation uses the AVPro Edge AC-AEX-T digital/analog audio extender transmitter, which is not included with the AC-AEX-RC-HUB. Cable selection affects the maximum supported extension distance: Unshielded Twisted Pair supports runs up to 100 meters, while Shielded Twisted Pair extends the stated maximum to 130 meters. The hub requires DC 12V 2A power and has a maximum total power consumption of 3 watts.

Performance Highlights

Digital audio support is limited to 2-channel PCM stereo, with supported sample rates of 32, 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176, and 192 kHz. The system does not perform multichannel downmixing, so connected digital sources must provide compatible 2-channel PCM audio. Analog input level is specified at 1 Vrms and 2.3 Vp-p, while analog output level is 1 Vrms and 2.828 Vp-p.

Specified latency is 30 milliseconds. Each of the 12 stereo outputs simultaneously supplies TOSLINK and analog RCA signals, simplifying connections to destinations that accept different audio formats. The combination of local analog or optical connections and long-distance AEX inputs lets the hub aggregate multiple source locations without shifting its focus away from stereo audio distribution.

What Makes It Different

This model is an audio-only product rather than a video matrix with secondary audio features. Its configuration brings together 12 audio inputs, 12 stereo outputs, eight Power over Cable AEX inputs, four local stereo inputs, and dual-format output connectivity. The remote input capability distinguishes it from a matrix limited to sources located beside the central system components.

It can also serve as an audio-output expansion layer for an AVPro Edge video matrix. In designs where the number of audio areas exceeds the number of video destinations, the AC-AEX-RC-HUB provides a direct way to distribute available source audio to 12 additional zones.

Final Assessment

The AC-AEX-RC-HUB is suited to systems requiring centralized 12×12 stereo audio switching, long-distance source retrieval, and simultaneous analog and optical output. Its RS-232 and IP/LAN interfaces support control-system integration, while output muting is available across all destinations. System planning should account for the 2-channel PCM requirement, the absence of multichannel downmixing, and the separately supplied AC-AEX-T transmitter needed for AEX source extension.

This product can expose users to chemicals including lead, which is known to the State of California to cause cancer.