Network Mixing Processor- 4X4

Ideal Use Cases

The RDL RU-NMP44 is designed for networked audio systems that need to route four Dante or AES67 sources into multiple zone-specific mixes. Six virtual 4×1 mixers allow the same source set to be combined at different levels for separate destinations. This architecture fits installations that require independent zone control, centralized source distribution, or a priority source that can automatically reduce other program levels. Four mixers return audio to the network, while two provide balanced analog outputs for systems that need both network and conventional audio connections.

Why Choose This Model

The RU-NMP44 combines routing, mixing, output-level control, priority ducking, and preset recall in one compact processor. Each input mix level and each mixed output level can be adjusted from 0 to -64 dB in 1 dB steps, with -64 dB serving as OFF. Mixers 1 through 4 each provide a Dante or AES67 output channel. Mixers 5 and 6 deliver balanced analog audio at a nominal +4 dBu, giving the processor six independently configured mixes without requiring every destination to use the same connection format.

Installation and Integration

Network audio connects through an RJ45 port equipped with Link and Speed indicators. The interface operates at 100 Mbps and supports both Dante and AES67 sources. The two analog outputs use a detachable terminal block, as do the preset-control connections. Power and Sync indicators provide immediate operating-status information.

The processor requires 24 Vdc at 150 mA. A power supply is not included; the specified recommendations are the PS-24AS for the USA and PS-24AX for international use. Its enclosure measures 1.64 inches high, 5.74 inches wide, and 3.96 inches deep. The supported ambient operating range is 0°C to 40°C.

Preset activation can be programmed at power-up or triggered through a momentary contact, an open collector supporting a 24 V pullup, or as many as three RDL D*-RC4M remote controls. These options allow preset selection to be incorporated into local controls or a wider system-control design.

Performance Highlights

The RU-NMP44 processes 24-bit digital audio at 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz, with 48 kHz as the default sample rate. Its specified frequency response is 20 Hz to 20 kHz within ±0.25 dB. THD+N is specified at less than 0.01%, headroom above +4 dBu is greater than 18 dB, and crosstalk is below the noise floor from 20 Hz to 20 kHz at -20 dBFS. The balanced analog outputs are rated at +4 dBu nominal at -20 dBFS with a 150-ohm output impedance.

Any one of the four Dante or AES67 inputs can serve as the priority input. Programmable 36 dB-per-octave high-pass filtering is available at 100, 125, 200, or 250 Hz. The priority detector threshold defaults to 25 dB and is adjustable from -15 to -40 dB relative to -20 dBFS. Ducking attenuation can be set from 10 to 64 dB in 1 dB steps. Recovery delay is adjustable from 0.5 to 10 seconds in 0.5-second steps, while recovery ramp is adjustable from 1 to 10 seconds.

What Makes It Different

The defining feature of the RU-NMP44 is its ability to turn four network sources into six separately controlled mixes. Four outputs remain on the Dante or AES67 network, while two are converted to balanced analog audio. This provides a direct bridge between networked distribution and analog destinations.

Four presets store all settings for every mixer together with network input and output routing. One preset can be selected automatically at power-up, and external activation options provide straightforward recall without requiring settings to be rebuilt. Combined with per-input attenuation, mixed-output attenuation, programmable priority filtering, and adjustable ducking recovery, these presets support repeatable operating configurations for different routing or zone requirements.

Final Assessment

The RDL RU-NMP44 is a focused solution for distributing four Dante or AES67 inputs across six controllable mixes. Its combination of four network outputs, two balanced analog outputs, detailed priority ducking, four full-configuration presets, and multiple remote activation methods gives integrators a compact way to manage network audio routing and individual zone levels. The published 24-bit audio performance, flexible attenuation controls, and detachable terminal connections complete a clearly specified platform for mixed network and analog audio systems.