Bidirectional Unbalanced Stereo Audio Network Interface-Dante

The RDL SF-BNC2 is a bidirectional Dante audio network interface designed for connecting unbalanced stereo audio through RCA or 3.5 mm mini-jack connectors. It supports two unbalanced inputs and outputs, 24-bit audio, selectable sample rates up to 96 kHz, and a 100 Mbps Ethernet connection. IEEE 802.3af PoE Class 0 supplies operating power through the network connection.

Ideal Use Cases

This model is suited to networked audio systems that need to exchange Dante audio with equipment using common unbalanced stereo connections. Its RCA and stereo 3.5 mm mini-jack options accommodate sources and destinations equipped with left and right RCA jacks or a stereo mini-jack. Bidirectional input and output capability makes the SF-BNC2 applicable when unbalanced audio must enter a Dante network, leave the network, or operate in both directions through one interface.

The compact 2.79-inch-wide enclosure also fits installations where available equipment space is limited. Network status and synchronization indicators provide visible operating information without requiring additional metering hardware.

Why Choose This Model

The SF-BNC2 combines unbalanced stereo connectivity, Dante networking, and PoE power in a single unit. Audio is supported at 24-bit depth with selectable sample rates of 44.1, 48, 88.2, and 96 kHz; 48 kHz is the default. This range allows the interface to work at several commonly used Dante sample rates without limiting operation to one fixed setting.

Its specified 20 Hz to 20 kHz frequency response, within ±0.5 dB, covers the stated audio bandwidth. A reference level of 0 dBFS equals +10 dBV, while the maximum input and output levels are both +10 dBV. The unit provides 20 dB of input headroom and 20 dB of output headroom above -10 dBV.

Installation and Integration

Network connection is made through an RJ45 port operating at 100 Mbps. Rear-panel Link and Speed indicators show Ethernet status, while a front-panel Sync indicator reports synchronization status. Power is supplied by PoE Class 0 under IEEE 802.3af, so the power requirement is handled through compatible network infrastructure.

For analog integration, the input section provides stereo mini-jack or left and right RCA connections. The output section provides the same connector choices. Input impedance is greater than 15 kΩ, and output impedance is 40 Ω. The specified nominal input and output level is 10 dBV, with a +10 dBV maximum level for each direction.

The enclosure measures 2.79 inches wide by 1.68 inches high by 5.77 inches deep, or 7.09 by 4.27 by 14.66 cm. Its specified ambient operating range is 0°C to 50°C.

Performance Highlights

• Dante digital audio over a 100 Mbps Ethernet connection
• 24-bit audio with 44.1, 48, 88.2, and 96 kHz sample-rate support
• 20 Hz to 20 kHz frequency response at ±0.5 dB
• Typical THD+N of 0.02% at 1 kHz
• Crosstalk below -85 dB from left to right or right to left across 20 Hz to 20 kHz
• Input noise below -80 dB relative to -20 dBFS across 20 Hz to 20 kHz
• Output noise below -75 dB relative to -10 dBV
• 20 dB headroom for the input section and 20 dB above -10 dBV for the output section

Published gain and level specifications carry a ±1 dB condition. The listed specification conditions also identify 150 Ω source termination and note that analog-to-digital values were measured in the digital domain.

What Makes It Different

The defining combination is bidirectional Dante networking with unbalanced stereo analog connections in both RCA and 3.5 mm formats. This gives the installer connector flexibility on both the input and output sides while retaining one network interface. The SF-BNC2 also brings its network connection and power requirement together through RJ45 Ethernet and IEEE 802.3af PoE.

Separate rear-panel Ethernet Link and Speed indicators, together with the front-panel Sync indicator, distinguish network connectivity from audio synchronization status. Selectable sample rates further allow the unit to match Dante systems operating at 44.1, 48, 88.2, or 96 kHz.

Final Assessment

The RDL SF-BNC2 provides a focused connection point between Dante audio and unbalanced stereo equipment. Its two-way RCA or mini-jack connectivity, 24-bit operation, four selectable sample rates, PoE power, and documented analog performance make its role clearly defined. For installations requiring unbalanced stereo input and output on a 100 Mbps Dante network, it consolidates the necessary analog connections, network interface, indicators, and power method in one compact enclosure.