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

The RDL D-TPS1A is an active single-pair sender that converts a balanced XLR microphone input to RDL TP Format-A for transport over twisted-pair cabling. Its 1.2 kΩ balanced input supplies 24 Vdc phantom power in accordance with IEC 61938:2013. Rear-panel switching selects 50 dB NORM or 63 dB HIGH gain, while another switch assigns the outgoing signal to RJ45 pair A, B, or C. Signal and power pair pass-through, remote powering, and a fused local power path support flexible Format-A system layouts.

Ideal Use Cases

The D-TPS1A fits installations that need to introduce a balanced microphone signal into an RDL TP Format-A system through a standard XLR connection. It is suited to layouts requiring selectable pair assignment, power delivered through twisted-pair cable, or daisy-chaining with single-pair and two-pair senders. Pair A, B, or C can be selected for the transmitted signal, allowing the module to be configured around the pair allocation of the connected system. Its compact dimensions also accommodate installations where panel space is limited.

Why Choose This Model

This model combines microphone gain, phantom power, Format-A conversion, signal routing, and power distribution in one active module. Rear-panel gain selection provides 50 dB in NORM mode or 63 dB in HIGH mode, accommodating different microphone signal requirements without an external gain stage. The blue power LED clearly indicates when the module is powered. Studio-quality precision active balanced circuitry supports dependable signal handling, while the RJ45 pass-through arrangement allows signal and power pairs to continue to connected modules.

Installation and Integration

Connect the balanced microphone to the XLR input, select the required NORM or HIGH gain setting, and assign the Format-A output to pair A, B, or C. The D-model uses RJ45 connections for Format-A input and output, with signal and power pair pass-through on the RJ45 jacks. Power can be received remotely through the twisted-pair cable or supplied locally through a detachable terminal block. When locally powered, the fused power feed supplies connected modules.

The power requirement is 24 Vdc at 65 mA plus connected loads. Recommended supplies, which are not included, are the PS-24AS for the USA and PS-24AX for international use. The module measures 1.6 inches wide by 4.11 inches high by 1.89 inches deep. The minimum mounting-box depth for the D-model is 2.4 inches. Its specified ambient operating range is 0°C to 50°C.

Performance Highlights

The balanced input has a 1.2 kΩ impedance and provides 24 Vdc phantom power. Frequency response is specified from 100 Hz to 30 kHz within ±1 dB, complemented by an integral low-cut filter rated at -10 dB at 30 Hz. THD+N is less than 0.1% from 80 Hz to 20 kHz. Noise below +4 dBu is less than -80 dB in NORM gain and less than -70 dB in HIGH gain, while headroom above +4 dBu exceeds 18 dB.

Common-mode rejection exceeds 60 dB in HIGH gain and 65 dB in NORM gain from 50 Hz to 150 Hz. Maximum input level is -40 dBu in HIGH gain and -28 dBu in NORM gain. Together, these published figures provide clear operating parameters for gain selection and integration with a balanced microphone source.

What Makes It Different

The D-TPS1A centers its flexibility on selectable Format-A pair routing and shared power distribution. The installer can place the microphone signal on pair A, B, or C while the RJ45 connections pass signal and power pairs through the module. Remote powering reduces the need for a local supply at the module, while the detachable terminal-block input provides a local-power option when required. Its fused local feed can power connected modules, and daisy-chain support allows it to operate alongside single-pair or two-pair senders.

Final Assessment

The RDL D-TPS1A provides a balanced XLR microphone interface with 24 Vdc phantom power, two selectable gain levels, and switch-selectable Format-A pair assignment. Its RJ45 pass-through connections, remote and local powering options, compact dimensions, and documented audio performance make it a focused solution for adding a microphone input to an RDL TP Format-A twisted-pair system.