NTP Technology is introducing the new Penta 721 IP-compatible audio router and distribution interface to U.S. professional audio and broadcast markets at the upcoming 133rd Audio Engineering Society Convention in San Francisco, booth 1237.
“The Penta 721 is a versatile and flexible core for distribution of digital audio via AES/EBU and MADI as well as routing via Dante IP Gigabit Ethernet and optical fibre networks,” states Mikael Vest, sales director at NTP. “The interface versatility and compactness of the Penta 721 make it the audio equivalent of a Swiss Army knife, as will be appreciated by sound engineers needing to integrate audio equipment across various locations at a production venue.
“A full-bandwidth uncompressed network can be established quickly and easily, connecting an entire remote site or studio premises over a single Cat 5 Ethernet cable.”
Eight AES/EBU input/output channels are provided, plus up to three MADI input/outputs, two IP Audio Ethernet inputs/outputs, and an interface allowing control from Avid Pro Tools. A mini-module slot accommodates ST optical MADI connection or dual SFP MADI optical in/out.
The IP Audio protocol is based on the Audinate Dante digital audio network technology and will interoperate with Dante-compliant third-party products.
IP Audio routing allows low-latency tightly-synchronized transport of uncompressed signals over Gigabit IP Ethernet Layer 3 networks using-off-the-shelf switches and routers.
A total of 512 channels can be routed on a 1 Gigabit network; more if the network capacity is higher.
The Penta 721 is TCP/IP controlled via one or two Ethernet ports. IP Audio routing of large systems is manipulated via NTP Technology’s RCCore router control system which allows easy setting of connections on Gigabit IP Ethernet.
Dedicated control software compatible with Microsoft Windows can be used for controlling and setting up the Penta 721 on a unit-to-unit basis when less advanced operation is required. The Penta 721 can also be controlled via Audinate Dante IP Audio routing controller software.
Available now at $3,490 (U.S.), the Penta 721 occupies a one rack unit chassis and can be fitted with a single or main-and-redundant dual power supply.
