Bi-Directional Mic/Line Dante Interface 4 x 2 w/PoE-Software Configurable-2 XLR In, 2 XLR Out, 2 In on Rear-Panel Terminal Block-Stainless Steel

The RDL DDS-RN42 is a bi-directional Dante network interface that connects four analog audio inputs and two analog audio outputs to a 100 Mbps Dante network. Its front panel provides two female XLR inputs and two male XLR outputs, while a detachable rear-panel terminal block adds two inputs. The module uses 24-bit analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog conversion at 44.1 or 48 kHz, with 48 kHz as the default. Configuration and adjustment are handled through network control software, and a Q-SYS plug-in is available for use in a Q-SYS environment. PoE Class 0 power and stainless-steel construction complete the hardware platform.

Ideal Use Cases

The DDS-RN42 fits Dante installations that require a combination of accessible front-panel connections and fixed rear-panel wiring. Two front XLR inputs accommodate standard microphone or line-level sources, while the detachable terminal block provides two additional input connections for installed audio wiring. The two XLR outputs convert Dante network signals back to balanced analog line level. This 4-input, 2-output arrangement supports systems that need to send local sources onto a Dante network while simultaneously receiving two network channels for analog equipment. Software operation also suits installations where input and output settings must be managed through a networked control environment.

Why Choose This Model

This model combines mic and line input support, Dante transport, analog outputs, and software configuration in one compact interface. Mic gain can be selected at 35, 42, or 59 dB, while line gain can be set to unity or 12 dB. P48 48 Vdc phantom power is software-selectable and follows IEC 61938:2013. Each output includes an independently controlled attenuator adjustable from 0 to 62 dB, plus OFF, in 1 dB steps. These controls allow the interface to accommodate different source levels and set each returned analog output without physical adjustment controls. RDL analog filtering complements the unit's 24-bit conversion and low-noise design.

Installation and Integration

The network connection uses an RJ45 port with Link and Speed indicators and operates at 100 Mbps using the Dante protocol. Power is supplied through PoE Class 0 in accordance with IEEE 802.3af. Front-panel Sync and Power indicators provide additional operating status. The two female XLR inputs and two male XLR outputs remain accessible from the front, while the two additional inputs connect through the detachable rear-panel terminal block. The enclosure measures 3.52 inches wide, 4.11 inches high, and 2.09 inches deep. Its specified ambient operating range is 0°C to 40°C, with 30°C listed as the recommended maximum. The available Q-SYS plug-in enables configuration within a Q-SYS environment.

Performance Highlights

The DDS-RN42 supports 44.1 and 48 kHz sample rates at 24-bit depth. Its audio alignment places +4 dBu at -18 dBFS and 0 dBFS at +22 dBu. Frequency response extends from 20 Hz to 20 kHz within ±0.5 dB. Equivalent input noise is specified below -128 dBu at 59 dB gain and below -130 dBu A-weighted. Input THD+N is below 0.1% from 20 Hz to 20 kHz at +4 dBu/-18 dBFS, while CMRR exceeds 65 dB from 50 to 120 Hz. Crosstalk is specified below the noise floor at operating level.

The balanced analog outputs operate nominally at +4 dBu, reach a maximum level of +22 dBu, and have a 150 Ω output impedance. Output THD is below 0.01% at 1 kHz, noise is below -80 dB relative to +4 dBu or -10 dBV, and available headroom is 20 dB above either operating reference. Each output level is software-adjustable in 1 dB increments.

What Makes It Different

The defining feature is its mixed connection layout: two front-panel mic or line XLR inputs, two rear-panel terminal-block inputs, and two front-panel balanced XLR outputs in a single Dante interface. It handles both analog-to-Dante and Dante-to-analog conversion rather than operating in only one direction. Software-selectable gain and phantom power reduce the need for local controls, while per-output attenuation provides independent level management. The combination of PoE operation, network configuration, Q-SYS plug-in availability, 24-bit conversion, RDL analog filtering, and stainless-steel construction distinguishes the DDS-RN42 within installations requiring four input channels and two analog returns.

Final Assessment

The RDL DDS-RN42 is a focused choice for a Dante system requiring four analog inputs, two balanced analog outputs, and software-controlled mic, line, phantom-power, and output-level settings. Its front XLR and rear terminal-block connections support both accessible and installed wiring, while PoE simplifies its power requirement. With 24-bit conversion, selectable 44.1 or 48 kHz operation, documented low-noise performance, and independent output attenuation, it provides a clearly defined interface for bidirectional analog and Dante signal integration.