Description
The RU-MLB4 is a 4×4 bi-directional Dante audio network interface that converts mic or line sources to network channels and converts Dante streams to balanced line outputs. It is designed for commercial and industrial AV installations where reliable networked audio distribution is required. The compact all-metal enclosure supports rack, surface, or shelf mounting for flexible deployment.
The unit accepts four mic or line inputs that are switch-selectable per channel and provides automatic microphone gain selection of 60 dB for dynamic mics and 40 dB for condenser mics. Each mic input provides P48 phantom power when set to the mic position. Four Dante receive channels are converted to four balanced +4 dBu outputs with more than 18 dB headroom for professional line-level equipment.
Audio conversion uses high-resolution 24-bit A/D and D/A converters and supports 44.1 kHz and 48 kHz sample rates, with 48 kHz default. Nominal network level is -18 dBFS = +4 dBu and THD+N is specified below 0.1% on inputs and below 0.05% on outputs. Crosstalk and noise floor specifications ensure separation and clarity across the audio band for demanding installations.
Connectivity is provided via an RJ45 Ethernet port supporting Dante over 100 Mbps, balanced detachable terminal blocks for mic/line inputs and outputs, and separate unbalanced line input terminals for -10 dBV sources. Front-panel variable-intensity LEDs indicate input and received network signal presence, and network sync/link LEDs report network status. Power is supplied by an external 24 Vdc source or, on the RU-MLB4P variant, by PoE Class 0 per IEEE 802.3af.
The RU-MLB4 is suited to conference rooms, houses of worship, broadcast racks, and distributed audio systems where compact networked converters simplify wiring and channel distribution. Installers can mix line-level equipment and microphones on the same device while sending and receiving Dante channels to remote processors, mixers, or recording systems. Its automatic mic gain eliminates on-site gain trims when changing microphone types.
Installation is straightforward with rear-panel MIC/LINE selectors, detachable terminal blocks for clean wiring, and standard rack or surface mounting options. The durable all-metal chassis is built for continuous duty in commercial environments and engineered in the USA for long-term reliability. LEDs and simple selectors speed commissioning and troubleshooting on site.