Line Output Assembly-RCA jacks, Terminal block-Stainless

Ideal Use Cases

The RDL D SERIES-A2, model DS-A2, is a passive audio output assembly for fixed systems that need one or two unbalanced consumer-level outputs from a balanced line-level source. It is suited to cabinet, wall, and single-gang installations where a nominal +4 dBu system feed must be available through RCA/phono jacks. The balanced input is monaural, so this model is intended for a monaural line source rather than a stereo input interface. The DS-A2 is specifically an audio output panel and is not intended for use as an audio input panel.

Why Choose This Model

The signal enters through a full-size barrier block and is made available through two phono jacks with gold contacts. With a 10 kΩ balanced bridging input, the DS-A2 may connect to the +4 dBu line-level output of an RDL product even when that output is simultaneously feeding other equipment. This arrangement is useful when an existing balanced line must remain in service while one or two consumer-level output connections are added.

The passive design has no power requirement. Both output jacks are transformer isolated from the balanced line input, and the input shield is separated from case ground to reduce the possibility of induced hum. The circuit also provides a high degree of audio isolation if a consumer-level source is accidentally fed into an output jack. Reverse-signal attenuation is sufficient for most installations according to the supplied product information. Active RDL modules are available when complete isolation is required.

Installation and Integration

The DS-A2 measures 4.13 inches high, 1.7 inches wide, and 2.15 inches deep, equivalent to 10.49 by 4.32 by 5.47 cm. It fits directly into back boxes available from RDL for cabinets and US or international walls, with the RDL WB-1U identified for this application. The assembly may also be mounted directly into cabinets or most standard US single-gang electrical boxes.

The listed mounting-box requirement is 1.80 inches wide by 1.75 inches deep, or 4.57 by 4.45 cm. Installation planning should account for the full-size barrier-block input, the monaural balanced connection, and the two front-facing unbalanced RCA/phono outputs. Because the assembly is passive, integration does not require a local operating-power connection. The input shield and case ground are separate connections within the grounding arrangement.

Performance Highlights

The nominal input level is +4 dBu, with a 10 kΩ balanced bridging input impedance. Frequency response is specified from 50 Hz to 20 kHz within ±1 dB. The two output connectors are phono jacks fitted with gold contacts, and both are transformer isolated from the balanced input.

Reverse-path attenuation is specified at < -50 dB when measured with a 150 Ω balanced source output, a +4 dBu reference, and a -10 dBV signal injected into an output jack. This specification describes the DS-A2 circuit’s response when a signal is accidentally introduced from the consumer-output side.

What Makes It Different

The DS-A2 combines three installation-focused characteristics in one assembly: a balanced bridging input, two transformer-isolated consumer-level outputs, and passive operation. Its grounding arrangement further separates the input shield from case ground to help reduce induced hum. Unlike an active interface, it requires no operating power; unlike a basic connector plate, it includes transformer isolation and specified reverse-path attenuation.

The stainless configuration pairs RCA jacks with a terminal-block input for permanent installed-audio connections. Although the assembly can attenuate reverse signals sufficiently for most installations, it is not presented as a substitute for an active RDL module when complete isolation is required.

Final Assessment

The RDL DS-A2 is a focused solution for routing a nominal +4 dBu balanced monaural source to one or two unbalanced consumer-level connections. Its 50 Hz to 20 kHz response, 10 kΩ bridging input, transformer-isolated gold-contact phono jacks, passive operation, and flexible wall or cabinet mounting make its intended role clear. It is best selected when these specific output, isolation, and installation requirements match the system design.