Microphone to Network Interface-Dante

The RDL AV-XMN4 is a four-input microphone-to-network interface that converts analog microphone signals into Dante network audio channels. Four female XLR inputs, 24-bit conversion, multiple sample-rate choices, selectable microphone gain, and P48 phantom power place the essential input functions in one compact enclosure. Its durable all-metal construction is suitable for both stage use and permanent installation.

Ideal Use Cases

This model fits systems that need to place up to four microphones onto a Dante network from a single local interface. On stage, it can serve as the network entry point for a group of nearby microphone sources. In an installed system, its compact 5.19-inch-wide enclosure supports placement where microphone connections and network access must meet. The specified ambient operating range of 0° C to 50° C provides a defined environmental range for system planning.

Why Choose This Model

Each XLR input offers 40 dB, 48 dB, or 62 dB of microphone gain, selected from the front panel. This provides three documented gain positions for matching connected microphone levels. P48, 48 VDC phantom power follows IEC 61938:2013. The interface supports sample rates of 44.1, 48, 88.2, and 96 kHz, with 48 kHz as the default, and operates at 24-bit depth. These options allow the unit to match several common Dante system sample rates and accommodate different microphone input levels.

Installation and Integration

Network connection is through an RJ45 Neutrik etherCON connector operating at 100 Mbps. Power can be supplied over Ethernet using PoE Class 0 under IEEE 802.3af, or from a ground-referenced 24 VDC, 500 mA source. The recommended external supplies, which are not included, are the PS-24AS for the USA and PS-24AX for international use. Rear-panel Ethernet link and speed indicators provide network connection feedback, while a front-panel sync indicator shows synchronization status. The enclosure measures 5.19 inches wide, 1.68 inches high, and 5.97 inches deep. Published specification conditions identify a 150-ohm source termination, gain and level tolerance of ±1 dB, and A-to-D values measured in the digital domain.

Performance Highlights

Published frequency response is 20 Hz to 20 kHz within ±0.5 dB. The operating relationship is specified at +4 dBu and -20 dBFS, with a reference level of 0 dBFS at +24 dBu. At the +4 dBu/-20 dBFS operating point, microphone input levels are -36 dBu at low gain, -44 dBu at medium gain, and -58 dBu at high gain. Maximum input levels are -16 dBu, -24 dBu, and -38 dBu for the respective gain settings. Input impedance is greater than 2.5 kΩ. THD+N is specified below 0.1% from 20 Hz to 20 kHz at the operating level, with a typical value of 0.015% at 1 kHz. Noise below -20 dBFS is less than -72 dB at low and medium gain and less than -68 dB at high gain. CMRR is greater than 65 dB from 50 Hz to 120 Hz, while input-to-input crosstalk is specified below the noise floor at operating level and maximum microphone gain.

What Makes It Different

The AV-XMN4 combines microphone-specific input facilities with network-ready construction. All four inputs use female XLR connectors and provide front-panel gain selection. Eight front-panel VU LEDs and a sync indicator place important operating feedback on the unit, while rear indicators cover Ethernet link and speed. Neutrik etherCON supplies the physical network connection, and the choice of PoE or 24 VDC provides two documented power methods. Its feature set remains focused on microphone input conversion, selectable gain, phantom power, level indication, and Dante transport.

Final Assessment

For Dante systems requiring four microphone inputs, the AV-XMN4 presents a compact and clearly specified solution. It supports 24-bit audio, sample rates through 96 kHz, three selectable microphone-gain settings, P48 phantom power, front- and rear-panel status indication, and either PoE or 24 VDC operation. Its published audio specifications and durable all-metal enclosure make it suitable for evaluation in stage and installed applications where these capabilities match the system design.