Studio Technologies Enhances Party-line Intercoms With New Affordable Dante Solution

Studio Technologies launches the new Model 5421 Dante Intercom Engine, a high-performance yet cost-effective Dante Audio-over-IP (AoIP) party-line intercom solution for up to 16 users. It incorporates a sophisticated intercom-specific Auto Mix algorithm that optimizes party-line audio quality and significantly reduces ambient interference from open mics. The compact 1/2-rack enclosure is intended for use with Studio Technologies' 370-series of Dante-enabled intercom beltpacks.

Traditional analog party-line intercom systems, where users can both talk and listen simultaneously in designated production groups, typically require an extensive and dedicated cable infrastructure and often suffer from a high noise-floor and poor voice intelligibility. Studio Technologies has removed these issues by moving party-line comms to a simple Dante-based, AES67 and Dante Domain Manger-compatible, Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) solution that uses a standard Ethernet local-area-network (LAN).

The Model 5421 requires only a single RJ45 Ethernet connection for both data and power with minimal set-up via Studio Technologies' STController software. Its FPGA-based (field-programmable gate array) mix minus matrix creates a party-line system for up to 16 users. The audio engine can be divided into one of five group configurations, ranging from a single 16-user group to four groups of four users. The beltpack's bidirectional ( 4-wire ) Dante audio paths are easily configured by routing transmit (output) and receive (input) pairs to the Model 5421 using the Dante Controller software application.

The Model 5421 is compatible with all Dante-compatible intercom beltpacks, including the single-talk/dual listen Model 372A and Model 373A from Studio Technologies. These low-cost, compact beltpack units allow both professional and gaming headsets to be utilized. By supporting Dante, the Model 5421 can also be integrated into applications that utilize other audio devices including mixing consoles, user stations, and matrix intercom systems.

When the Auto Mix function is activated, the Model 5421 employs a digital-audio algorithm specifically designed for enhanced party-line audio performance. The process automatically adjusts the level of each user s contribution to a group mix based on an analysis of every input. The result is a perfectly balanced group mix combined with a reduction of low-level ambience from open but unused mic sources connected to the group. Party-line intelligibility is significantly improved, helping to ensure that vital live production communications and cues aren't missed.

The Model 5421 is ideal for small- and mid-tier performance and production scenarios where users value high-quality audio along with straight-forward set and forget' convenience, says Gordon Kapes, president of Studio Technologies. Dante's discovery mechanism and pre-configured routing means that beltpacks can be plugged into any port on an associated LAN and intercom operation will automatically begin. The resulting audio performance will far exceed traditional analog systems.

The Model 5421 hardware features a single GigE RJ45 Ethernet interface for connection to a PoE-port on a standard Ethernet switch. A USB type A connector is available for firmware updates and LED status indicators provide Ethernet network and Dante status monitoring. A rackmount installation kit is also available, allowing one or two Model 5421 units to mounted in one space (1U) of a standard 19-inch rack enclosure.

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