Studio Technologies MODEL 5204 Dual Line Input to Dante Network Audio Interface

Info

Designed with great components and a well developed circuit design, the Model 5204 interface is built for long and reliable operations.

The Model 5204 Interface is a general-purpose audio device that supports applications utilizing the Dante Audio-over-Ethernet media networking technology. Two 2-channel ("stereo") analog line-level audio signals can be connected to the Model 5204 and then converted to two channels on an associated Dante connection.

Analog audio signals connect to line input A by way of a 3-conductor ("stereo") 3.5 mm jack. This allows the direct interfacing of signals from a variety of sources such as personal audio and multimedia players, smartphones, and personal computers. These signals typically have an average (nominal) signal level in the range of –20 to –10 dBu. Line input B supports connection of balanced analog audio signals using two XLR connectors. Average signal levels for these types of signals are typically in the range of 0 to +4 dBu. Each input has an associated dual-channel rotary level control to optimize its audio performance. Following the level "pots" the signals from inputs A and B are summed (combined or mixed together) to create one 2-channel signal. (The channel 1 signals of line inputs A and B are summed to create output channel 1; channel 2 signals of line inputs A and B are summed to create output channel 2.) The two channels are then output by way of the Dante interface. Multi-step LED meters provide confirmation of the level of the two output audio channels.

The audio quality of the Model 5204 is excellent, with low distortion and noise and high headroom. Careful circuit design and excellent components ensure long, reliable operation. A wide range of applications can be supported, including TV, radio, and streaming broadcast events, corporate and government AV installations, and Dante system testing.

For user convenience a dedicated charging port (DCP) is provided on a standard USB type A connector. This allows powering and charging of associated devices, such as personal audio players and tablets. The compact, lightweight design allows the Model 5204 to be used in portable or desktop situations or deployed as a permanent solution in fixed applications. Standard connectors ensure fast, reliable deployment. The unit requires only an Ethernet connection to supply both the data interface as well as Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) power. The Model 5204's audio, data, and dedicated charging port use power provided by the PoE connection.

Dante Audio-over-Ethernet technology
Two line-level inputs to Dante outputs
Audio channel level metering
Excellent audio quality
PoE powered
USB dedicated charging port with auto-mode selection
Standard connectors; compact, lightweight design

Network Audio Technology:

Type: Dante Audio-over-Ethernet
Bit Depth: up to 24
Sample Rates: 44.1, 48, 88.2, and 96 kHz
Number of Transmitter (Output) Channels: 2
Dante Audio Flows: 2 transmitter
Analog to Digital Equivalence: a +4 dBu input with 0 dB gain selected results in a Dante digital output level of -20 dBFS

Network Interface:

Type: twisted-pair Ethernet with Power-over-Ethernet (PoE)
Data Rate: 100 Mb/s (10 Mb/s Ethernet not supported)

Power: Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) per IEEE 802.3af class 3 (mid power, ≤12.95 watts)

General Audio Parameters:

Frequency Response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz, +/-0.5 dB, line input B to Dante
Distortion (THD+N): 0.01%, measured at 1 kHz, +4 dBu, line input B to Dante
Dynamic Range: >100 dB, A-weighted, line input B to Dante

Line Input A:

Type: 2-channel ("stereo") unbalanced, capacitor-coupled
Input Impedance: 10 k ohms
Nominal Level: adjustable using rotary level control, -3 dBu @ 100% rotation
Maximum Level: +10 dBu

Line Input B:

Type: 2-channel ("stereo") electronically balanced, capacitor-coupled
Input Impedance: 20 k ohms
Nominal Level: adjustable using rotary level control, +11 dBu @ 100% rotation
Maximum Level: +24 dBu

Meters: 2

Function: displays level of Dante output signals
Type: 7-segment LED, modified VU ballistics

Dedicated Charging Port:

Function: powering and charging of connected devices; no data interface
Output (Nominal): 5 volts DC, 1 amp (5 watts)
Compatibility: auto-detect supports divider mode, short mode, and 1.2 V/1.2 V charging modes

Connectors: