Focusrite RedNet MP8R 8-Channel Dante Network Mic Preamplifier and A/D Converter

Focusrite RedNet MP8R 8-Channel Dante Network Mic Preamplifier and A/D Converter

The RedNet MP8R is an 8-channel remote-controlled microphone preamplifier and A/D for the Dante audio-over-IP network. Developed from the RedNet 4 studio remote-controlled microphone preamp, and incorporating input from leading live sound practitioners during its development, the MP8R provides a wealth of features that make it particularly applicable to the live sound/recording and broadcast environments, where reliability is paramount. Dual Ethernet ports are provided, with several operating modes including daisy-chaining and redundancy confirmed by front-panel indicators. Two separate power supplies with fault detection capability are included, with separate power input sockets on the rear panel. Power failure is indicated both remotely and on the front panel. The MP8R features a rugged, roadworthy exterior and maximum internal build quality. In addition, the MP8R offers a compact 1U rack-mount form factor.

The MP8R preamps represent the latest iteration of Focusrite's award-winning mic pre designs, with a pedigree that stretches back to the original Focusrite products of the mid-1980s. Fully keeping pace with the latest developments in audio technology, today's Focusrite preamps offer lower noise and great dynamic range than ever before. The preamps in the MP8R offer an increased maximum input level of 28dBu, plus a 20dB pad, high-pass filter, polarity inversion and phantom power. Each preamp has a dual input impedance of 10k½ or 2.4k½, allowing flexibility when running multiple mic pres in parallel.

A particular feature of the MP8R targeted at the live sound field is its gain tracking ability. The unit appears as a 16-channel device on the network, the first eight channels being direct preamp feeds, while the remaining eight are automatically DSP level-compensated outputs sourced from the first eight. This architecture allows "splits" — such as monitor/FOH — to be set up in the digital domain, permitting one engineer to control the analogue mic gain while a second receives an output level that is constant irrespective of the analogue mic gain setting.

The preamps may be controlled in a variety of ways, including via the RedNet Control software package, Pro Tools and MIDI, and OCA (Open Control Architecture); in addition, the preamps can be operated from the MP8R front panel, where 6-segment level metering, numeric gain display and other indicators provide comprehensive monitoring of the unit's operation.

Following the mic pres are eight channels of Focusrite's legendary high-precision A/D converters, operating at up to 192kHz/24-bit with minimum latency and offering class-leading dynamic range and overall performance.

Like the totality of the RedNet range, the MP8R interoperates seamlessly and fully with any other Dante audio-over-IP network components and infrastructure. Patching and interconnection can be managed with the Dante control software, while RedNet Control offers comprehensive remote mic pre operation.

Features:

• 8-channel remote-controlled mic pre with A/D and Dante audio-over-IP networking
• Power and Ethernet redundancy
• Tailored for the Live Sound environment
• Flexible input capability
• Remote or local control of mic pre parameters
• Multiple remote control possibilities
• Best-in-class Focusrite A/D conversion
• Comprehensive indicators tell status at a glance
• Separate outputs with automatic gain compensation
• Superb road-worthy build quality

Specifications:

• Microphone inputs:
  • Gain Range: 10dB to 65dB in 1dB steps
  • Type: Electronically Balanced, Zin = 2.4kO/10kO (Switchable); Inputs default to 2.4kO unpowered
  • Max. Input Level: 29dBu ±0.5; min gain with pad for 0dBFS, Rs = 150O
  • Min. Input Level: -46dBu ±0.5; max gain without pad for 0dBFS, Rs = 150O
  • Frequency Response: 20Hz - 40kHz ±0.1dB
  • THD + N: -98dB (0.0012) @ -1dBFS, Rs = 150O
  • EIN: -129dBu A-Weighted (typical), Rs = 150O
  • Signal-To-Noise Ratio: 118dB A-Weighted (typical), Rs = 150O
  • Phantom Power: 48V, independently switchable per channel
  • Pad: -20dB, independently switchable per channel
  • HPF: -6dB @ 65 ± 3Hz, 12dB/Octave, independently switchable per channel
• Digital performance:
  • Supported Sample Rates: 44.1 / 48 / 88.2 / 96 / 176.4 / 192 kHz (-4 / -0.1 / 0.1 / 4.167) at 24 bit
  • Clock Sources: Internal or from Dante Network Master
• Rear panel connectivity:
  • Mic Inputs: 8 x Female XLR
  • PSU: 2 x IEC Inputs with retaining clips
  • Network: 2 x etherCON NE8FBH-S, also compatible with standard RJ45 connectors
• Network modes
  • Redundant: Allows unit to connect to two independent networks
  • Switched: Connects both ports to integrated network switch allowing daisy-chaining of devices