Active Single-Pair Sender-Twisted Pair Format-A-XLR mic input w phantom-Black

The RDL DB-TPS1A is a black active single-pair sender designed to place balanced microphone audio onto an RDL TP Format-A twisted-pair system. Its XLR input presents a 1.2 kΩ balanced load and supplies 24 Vdc phantom power in accordance with IEC 61938: 2013. Studio-quality precision active balanced circuitry, selectable gain, flexible Format-A pair assignment, and multiple powering options make the module a focused solution for microphone signal transport and system expansion.

Ideal Use Cases

The DB-TPS1A is suited to installations that need to carry one balanced microphone signal through twisted-pair cabling while retaining flexibility over system pair allocation. A switch selects Format-A pair A, B, or C, allowing the sender to be incorporated into systems with established pair assignments. Signal and power pair pass-through on the RJ45 jacks also supports installations that require multiple compatible modules to share a cable path. The unit can be daisy-chained with single-pair or two-pair senders.

Why Choose This Model

This model combines a balanced XLR microphone input with integrated 24 Vdc phantom power and two rear-panel gain settings. Normal gain provides 50 dB, while High gain provides 63 dB. These settings allow the module to accommodate different microphone signal requirements without adding a separate microphone preamplifier to the specified signal path. The selectable A, B, or C output pair provides additional routing control, while the RJ45 pass-through arrangement helps maintain signal and power continuity for connected Format-A modules.

Installation and Integration

The microphone connects through XLR, and the processed output is delivered as RDL TP Format-A through RJ45 connectivity for D- and DS-series configurations. Power can arrive remotely through the twisted-pair cable or locally through a detachable terminal block. When local power is used, the fused power feed supplies connected modules. The stated requirement is 24 Vdc at 65 mA plus the requirements of connected loads. Recommended supplies are the PS-24AS for the USA and PS-24AX for international use. A blue LED indicates that the module is powered. Published minimum mounting-box depth is 2.4 inches for D- and DS-series models and 39 mm for the EM-series configuration. The module measures 1.6 inches wide, 4.11 inches high, and 1.89 inches deep.

Performance Highlights

The DB-TPS1A has a specified frequency response of 100 Hz to 30 kHz within ±1 dB. An integral low-cut filter is rated at -10 dB at 30 Hz. THD+N is less than 0.1% from 80 Hz to 20 kHz, while headroom above +4 dBu exceeds 18 dB. Noise below +4 dBu is specified at less than -80 dB in Normal gain and less than -70 dB in High gain. Common-mode rejection is greater than 65 dB in Normal gain and greater than 60 dB in High gain from 50 Hz to 150 Hz. Maximum balanced input level is -28 dBu in Normal gain and -40 dBu in High gain. The specified ambient operating range is 0° C to 50° C.

What Makes It Different

The defining advantage is the combination of selectable single-pair Format-A routing and pass-through connectivity. Rather than fixing the microphone signal to one twisted-pair position, the DB-TPS1A lets the installer select pair A, B, or C. Remote powering can reduce the need for a power connection at the module, while the fused local-power option can feed all connected modules when a local supply is preferred. Selectable 50 or 63 dB gain further adapts the active balanced input stage to the connected microphone.

Final Assessment

The RDL DB-TPS1A is a specialized active sender for balanced XLR microphone integration with an RDL TP Format-A system. It brings together 24 Vdc phantom power, rear-panel gain selection, selectable pair assignment, RJ45 signal and power pass-through, and remote or local powering. Its documented audio performance and daisy-chain capability make it a practical choice when a single microphone must be added to a compatible twisted-pair installation with controlled gain and pair routing.