Format-A Multiple Location Audio Sender (Compatible with Guest Room Audio System)

The RDL D-TPS8A is a multiple-location audio sender designed for RDL TP Format-A systems and compatibility with guest room audio applications. It accepts an unbalanced stereo source through a front-panel mini jack and routes the left channel to Format-A pair B and the right channel to pair C. Precision active balanced circuitry converts the source for distribution through the RJ45 output, while signal and power pass-through supports expandable twisted-pair installations.

Ideal Use Cases

This model is suited to installations that need to introduce stereo audio at one or more locations within a Format-A distribution system. Its front-panel mini-jack input provides a direct connection for an unbalanced -10 dBV stereo source. The rear-panel RJ45 input can receive connections from additional TPS8A senders, making the unit appropriate when audio sources must be added at multiple points. Compatibility with guest room audio systems further positions it for distributed hospitality applications using the supported Format-A infrastructure.

Why Choose This Model

The D-TPS8A combines stereo source input, defined Format-A pair assignment, remote powering, and daisy-chain capability in one compact module. The left input feeds pair B, and the right input feeds pair C, providing predictable channel routing during system design and troubleshooting. Signal and power pairs pass through the RJ45 jacks, so the module can operate as part of a larger interconnected system. It can also be daisy-chained with single-pair senders when an installation requires additional sources on available pairs.

The active balanced circuitry is engineered for studio-quality performance. A 12 dB gain stage supports conversion from the unbalanced input to the RDL TP Format-A output. The specified input is 10 kOhm unbalanced stereo, with a +10 dBV maximum input level.

Installation and Integration

Source connection is available from the front-panel mini jack, while the rear-panel RJ45 provides the Format-A input for connecting additional TPS8A senders. Output and power connections are also made through RJ45 interfaces. Remote powering is carried through twisted-pair cable, reducing the need for a separate power connection directly at the module.

The unit requires 24 Vdc at 30 mA. The recommended supplies listed for the system are the PS-24AS for the USA and the PS-24AX for international use. The enclosure measures 1.33 inches deep, 1.72 inches wide, and 4.11 inches high. Its specified ambient operating range is 0 degrees C to 55 degrees C, allowing installation planning around the documented environmental limits.

Performance Highlights

The D-TPS8A has a frequency response of 20 Hz to 50 kHz within plus or minus 0.5 dB. THD+N is specified at less than 0.1% from 20 Hz to 50 kHz. Headroom above +4 dBu is greater than 20 dB, while noise below +4 dBu is specified at less than -85 dB. With up to 10 TPS8A modules connected, the stated noise performance is less than -75 dB.

Crosstalk is specified at less than 85 dB at 1 kHz and less than 75 dB across 20 Hz to 20 kHz. Together with its precision active balanced design, these figures provide concrete performance criteria for evaluating the sender within a complete Format-A audio path.

What Makes It Different

Its combination of a local stereo mini-jack input and a rear RJ45 input distinguishes the D-TPS8A as more than a single-source endpoint. Additional TPS8A senders can connect through the rear interface, and both signal and power pairs continue through the RJ45 jacks. The defined use of Format-A pairs B and C also leaves its channel placement clear: pair B carries the left input, while pair C carries the right input. Daisy-chain compatibility with single-pair senders provides another integration option without changing that assignment.

Final Assessment

The RDL D-TPS8A is a focused solution for adding unbalanced stereo audio to a remotely powered Format-A system. Its 20 Hz to 50 kHz response, 12 dB gain, RJ45 signal and power pass-through, and support for multiple connected senders address both audio performance and system expansion. For installations built around RDL TP Format-A pairs B and C, it offers clearly documented routing, compact dimensions, and flexible source placement.