Format A to Network Interface-1 Format A, 1 Balanced Line Aux Inputs-Dante Output-with PoE

The RDL RU-FNP converts three RDL Format-A audio sources and one auxiliary line source into four Dante network channels. Format-A pairs A, B, and C supply the first three channels, while the balanced or unbalanced auxiliary input feeds the fourth. With 24-bit conversion, PoE support, front-panel monitoring, and flexible mounting, the RU-FNP provides a focused bridge between Format-A installations and Dante audio networks.

Ideal Use Cases

The RU-FNP is suited to systems that need to bring existing or newly installed RDL Format-A sources onto a Dante network. It supports a wide array of RDL Format-A active and passive senders and can power remote Format-A senders through its Format-A input jack. The separate auxiliary input is useful when a fourth line-level source must join the same Dante network connection. Rack-mounting and surface-mounting compatibility allow the interface to be deployed in equipment racks or at other suitable installation points.

Why Choose This Model

This model combines three Format-A channels and one auxiliary channel in a single four-channel Dante interface. Format-A connectivity uses an RJ45 connection through CATx cable for straightforward integration, while the auxiliary input uses a balanced detachable terminal block. The RU-FNP supports PoE and may operate normally or in a hot-standby arrangement from PoE. It can also run from 24 Vdc at 100 mA plus connected loads. These power options make the unit adaptable to different system designs without changing its core audio functionality.

Installation and Integration

Connect the RDL Format-A feed to the Format-A RJ45 input to access signal pairs A, B, and C. A balanced auxiliary source connects through the detachable terminal block; the product description also specifies support for an unbalanced auxiliary line source. The network connection is an RJ45 port with link and speed indicators and operates at 100 Mbps using the Dante digital audio Ethernet protocol. Power can be supplied by Class 0 IEEE 802.3af PoE or through the unit’s power jack or detachable terminal-block power connection. Recommended supplies are the PS-24AS for the USA and PS-24AX for international use. The enclosure measures 5.8 inches wide, 1.7 inches high, and 5.2 inches deep and is equipped for rack or surface mounting.

Performance Highlights

The RU-FNP supports 44.1 kHz and 48 kHz sample rates, with 48 kHz as the default, and performs analog-to-digital conversion at 24-bit depth. Its stated frequency response is 20 Hz to 20 kHz within ±0.5 dB, with THD+N below 0.1 percent. Noise below +4 dBu is specified at less than -75 dB, while headroom above +4 dBu exceeds 18 dB. Common-mode rejection is greater than 90 dB from 50 Hz to 120 Hz on any input pair, and crosstalk is specified below 80 dB from 20 Hz to 20 kHz. The audio operating reference is 18 dBFS at +4 dBu. RDL analog filtering further supports the unit’s stated audio performance.

What Makes It Different

Dedicated front-panel feedback makes the four input paths easier to observe. Three signal LEDs show audio activity on the Format-A pairs, while the auxiliary input has front-panel gain adjustment and a dual-LED VU meter. Network system and synchronization indicators provide Dante status information, and the Ethernet connector adds link and speed indicators. In total, the unit provides 11 indicators covering power input, power output, Format-A audio activity, auxiliary level, network system and synchronization status, and Ethernet link and speed. This combination of Format-A sender power, auxiliary gain control, local metering, and network status indication distinguishes the RU-FNP within a compact interface.

Final Assessment

The RDL RU-FNP is a purpose-built option for converting three Format-A signal pairs and one auxiliary line input into four Dante channels. Its 24-bit conversion, two supported sample rates, PoE capability, remote-sender power, front-panel monitoring, and rack or surface mounting address the principal requirements of Format-A-to-Dante integration while keeping connections and operating status accessible.