Bi-Directional Mic/Line Dante Interface 4 x 2 w/PoE-Software Configurable-4 XLR In, 2 Out on Rear-Panel Terminal Block-White

The RDL DD-RN40 is a compact, white, bi-directional Dante network interface that converts four standard XLR microphone or line-level sources into Dante channels while converting two Dante signals back to balanced line-level outputs. Its front panel provides four XLR inputs, while the two outputs use a detachable terminal block on the rear panel. Network software controls input gain, phantom power, and output attenuation, giving system designers precise adjustment without relying on front-panel analog controls.

Ideal Use Cases

This model is suited to networked audio systems that need to place four conventional microphone or line sources onto a Dante network and return two Dante channels to analog equipment. It is particularly useful when software-managed configuration, balanced outputs, compact dimensions, and Power over Ethernet are installation priorities. Support for both 44.1 kHz and 48 kHz sample rates allows the interface to accommodate common Dante system configurations.

Why Choose This Model

The DD-RN40 combines four analog inputs and two analog outputs in one network-connected module. Each input can be configured for microphone or line operation using software-selectable gain. Microphone gain settings are 35 dB, 42 dB, or 59 dB, while line gain can be set to unity or 12 dB. Software-selectable P48 phantom power supplies 48 Vdc for compatible microphones and follows IEC 61938:2013. On the output side, each channel includes a software-controlled attenuator adjustable in 1 dB steps.

High-resolution, 24-bit analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog conversion supports detailed signal transfer in both directions. The stated audio operating level is +4 dBu at -18 dBFS, with a reference level of +22 dBu at 0 dBFS.

Installation and Integration

The network connection uses an RJ45 port with link and speed indicators and operates at 100 Mbps using the Dante digital audio protocol. Power is supplied through PoE Class 0 in accordance with IEEE 802.3af, eliminating the need for a separately specified local power source. Ethernet link and speed indicators are located on the rear panel, while sync and power indicators are positioned on the front.

Configuration and adjustment are performed through network control software. A Q-SYS plug-in is also available for configuration within a Q-SYS environment. The enclosure measures 3.52 inches wide, 4.11 inches high, and 2.09 inches deep, supporting integration where installation space is limited.

Performance Highlights

The input frequency response extends from 20 Hz to 20 kHz within ±0.5 dB. Equivalent input noise is specified below -128 dBu at 59 dB gain and below -130 dBu A-weighted. Input THD+N is below 0.1% from 20 Hz to 20 kHz at the +4 dBu/-18 dBFS operating point, while common-mode rejection exceeds 65 dB from 50 Hz to 120 Hz. Crosstalk is specified below the noise floor at operating level, measured from any input to any other input at maximum microphone gain.

The two balanced outputs provide a nominal +4 dBu operating level and a maximum balanced level of +22 dBu. Output impedance is 150 ohms balanced, output THD is below 0.01% at 1 kHz, and available headroom above +4 dBu or -10 dBV is 20 dB. RDL analog filtering further supports the module's stated studio-quality, low-noise performance.

What Makes It Different

Unlike an input-only or output-only Dante endpoint, the DD-RN40 provides conversion in both directions. Four front-panel XLR connections make microphone and line-source access straightforward, while the detachable rear terminal block provides secure balanced output connections. Software selection of gain and phantom power lets each input be adapted independently, and 1 dB output attenuation steps provide controlled level matching for downstream analog devices.

The combination of Dante networking, 24-bit conversion, PoE operation, Q-SYS plug-in availability, and a compact enclosure gives this model a focused feature set for software-configurable audio distribution.

Final Assessment

The RDL DD-RN40 is a practical 4-input, 2-output interface for connecting analog microphones, line sources, and balanced line-level destinations to a Dante network. Its selectable gain, P48 phantom power, precise output attenuation, high-resolution conversion, and PoE support provide the essential controls needed for dependable network audio integration.