Line-Level Bi-Directional Network Interface-4 Balanced Line Inputs, Dante Input-4 Balanced Line Outputs, Dante Output

The RDL RU-LB4 is a four-input, four-output bidirectional interface for moving standard line-level audio onto and off a Dante network. Its four analog inputs feed four Dante output channels, while four Dante input channels are converted to balanced analog line outputs. High-resolution 24-bit analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog conversion, front-panel input gain controls, channel metering, and network-status indicators place conversion and monitoring in one compact unit.

Ideal Use Cases

The RU-LB4 suits installations that need to bridge four analog sources into Dante while simultaneously returning four network channels to analog equipment. Its inputs accommodate unbalanced -10 dBV sources as well as balanced +4 dBu sources, allowing the interface to connect differing standard line-level devices with a 100 Mbps Dante network. It is also well matched to applications where analog gain adjustment and immediate channel-level indication are required directly at the interface.

Why Choose This Model

Each of the four inputs has a front-panel gain adjustment and dual-LED VU meter. Four separate signal LEDs indicate audio on the received Dante channels, while Sys and Sync indicators display network status. Ethernet Link and Speed indicators at the RJ45 connection provide additional information about the network connection. This arrangement supplies dedicated indications for incoming analog levels, received network audio, network synchronization, Ethernet link, and transmission speed. The same chassis interfaces four Dante inputs and four Dante outputs.

Installation and Integration

The four analog inputs and four analog outputs use detachable terminal blocks. Outputs are balanced and deliver a nominal +4 dBu level, with an output impedance of 150 Ω balanced or 75 Ω unbalanced. Network connectivity is provided through an RJ45 connector operating at 100 Mbps with the Dante protocol. Two power connections are available: a power jack and a detachable terminal block. The RU-LB4 requires 24 Vdc at 140 mA plus connected loads. RDL identifies the PS-24AS power supply for USA use and the PS-24AX for international use. The enclosure measures 5.8 inches wide, 1.7 inches high, and 5.2 inches deep. It is equipped for rack or surface mounting and is specified for operation from 0° C to 40° C.

Performance Highlights

Audio conversion operates at 24-bit depth with support for 44.1 kHz and 48 kHz sample rates; 48 kHz is the default. The operating alignment is 18 dBFS equals +4 dBu. Frequency response is specified from 20 Hz to 20 kHz within ±0.5 dB, and THD+N is less than 0.05%. Headroom above +4 dBu exceeds 18 dB, while input impedance is greater than 20 kΩ. Noise below +4 dBu is specified at less than -80 dB with the output active and less than -95 dB with outputs muted. CMRR exceeds 60 dB from 50 Hz to 120 Hz, and crosstalk is specified at less than 85 dB from 20 Hz to 20 kHz. RDL analog filtering is incorporated to support the stated audio performance.

What Makes It Different

The RU-LB4 combines bidirectional four-channel Dante conversion with physical controls and indicators for the analog and network sides of the signal path. Its 17 indicators comprise one Power In indicator, four output signal LEDs, eight LEDs forming the four input dual-LED VU meters, two Network Sys and Sync indicators, and two Ethernet Link and Speed indicators. Input compatibility with both unbalanced -10 dBV and balanced +4 dBu signals further broadens its line-level integration options.

Final Assessment

The RDL RU-LB4 provides a defined 4×4 connection point between analog line-level equipment and Dante audio networks. Its combination of 24-bit conversion, selectable 44.1 or 48 kHz operation, more than 18 dB of headroom, detachable terminal-block audio connections, front-panel input adjustment, channel metering, and rack or surface mounting addresses both signal conversion and day-to-day status monitoring in a single enclosure.