Nixer Pro Audio has announced the new RL256, the latest addition to its RL Series of rack-mount AoIP monitoring and mixing units for broadcast and live events applications that provides users with access to up to 256 AoIP channels from a single position.
In addition to connection for 256 AoIP channels, each of the unit’s four Ethernet ports, carrying 64 channels, can be tailored to offer 1-4 Dante ports or 1-4 Ravenna ports in any combination.
“We may have started out with a clear focus on the Dante IP Audio protocol, and we remain dedicated to that, of course, but overall we’re in AoIP,” says Nick Fletcher, CEO of Nixer Pro Audio. “Therefore, we have now added the option to put Ravenna ports in one or all slots of the RL256, as well as supporting AES67 and SMPTE 2110 regardless of whether you go for Dante, Ravenna or a mix of both protocols. I’m sure this flexible configuration design will allow broadcasters with mixed Dante and Ravenna environment to seamlessly integrate RL256 with their existing AoIP infrastructure.”
On the Dante side, RL256 supports Dante Controller, Dante Domain Manager, AES67 and SMPTE 2110. Ravenna models are compatible with AES67, SMPTE 2110 and NMOS. Further, regardless of AoIP format, every port comes with a secondary redundancy connection, as well as dual power supplies to help ensure reliable operation.
RL Series comes with built-in full-range loudspeakers, but it is also possible to monitor the channels via the headphones output as well as AES or balanced line signal on XLR connectors. Onn the input side, separate mic and AES inputs are located on the rear panel. Finally, units that are purchased with 1,2 or 3 ports populated can be upgraded to the full RL256 specification if future needs for even more AoIP channels arise.
