Microphone to Network Interface-Dante

The RDL SF-XMN4 converts four XLR microphone inputs into four Dante network audio channels. It combines selectable microphone gain, P48 phantom power, 24-bit conversion, and network connectivity in a compact, durable all-metal enclosure measuring 4.23 inches wide, 1.68 inches high, and 5.77 inches deep.

Ideal Use Cases

This interface is designed for audio systems that need to place as many as four microphone sources onto a Dante network. Its four female XLR inputs accommodate microphone connections, while each input provides front-panel-selectable gain settings of 40 dB, 48 dB, or 62 dB. The selectable gain range makes the SF-XMN4 suitable when connected microphones require different levels of amplification. P48 48 Vdc phantom power is provided in accordance with IEC 61938:2013 for microphones that require phantom power.

Why Choose This Model

The SF-XMN4 provides four microphone-to-network channels in one compact unit. It supports 24-bit audio and sample rates of 44.1, 48, 88.2, and 96 kHz, with 48 kHz used as the default. Its specified frequency response is 20 Hz to 20 kHz within ±0.5 dB. The operating relationship is defined as -20 dBFS equaling +4 dBu, while the reference level is 0 dBFS equaling +24 dBu. These documented levels make it easier to align the interface with a specified digital audio workflow.

Installation and Integration

Network connection is made through an RJ45 port with rear-panel Link and Speed indicators. The interface operates at a 100 Mbps transmission rate using the Dante digital audio Ethernet protocol. Power is supplied through PoE Class 0 in accordance with IEEE 802.3af. Front-panel controls provide access to the three microphone gain settings, and a front-panel Sync indicator shows synchronization status. The indicator complement also includes an eight-LED dual VU meter for monitoring. The supported ambient operating range is 0°C to 50°C.

Performance Highlights

At the +4 dBu/-20 dBFS operating point, specified microphone input levels are -36 dBu at low gain, -44 dBu at medium gain, and -58 dBu at high gain. Maximum microphone input levels are -16 dBu, -24 dBu, and -38 dBu for the corresponding gain settings. Input impedance is greater than 2.5 kΩ.

Specified THD+N is less than 0.1% from 20 Hz to 20 kHz at +4 dBu/-20 dBFS, with a typical value of 0.015% at 1 kHz. CMRR is greater than 65 dB from 50 Hz to 120 Hz. Noise below -20 dBFS from 20 Hz to 20 kHz is less than -72 dB at low and medium gain and less than -68 dB at high gain. Crosstalk is specified as below the noise floor from 20 Hz to 20 kHz at operating level, measured from any input to any input at maximum microphone gain.

What Makes It Different

The SF-XMN4 brings four female XLR microphone inputs, three selectable gain levels per input, phantom power, Dante transport, and PoE operation together in a professional all-metal enclosure. Its front- and rear-panel indicators cover Ethernet Link and Speed, synchronization, and level monitoring. The unit supports four standard sample rates through 96 kHz without reducing the documented 24-bit depth. Detailed operating, maximum input, noise, distortion, and channel-separation specifications provide concrete information for system planning.

Final Assessment

The RDL SF-XMN4 is a focused interface for converting four microphone inputs into Dante network audio channels. Its combination of switch-selectable 40, 48, and 62 dB gain, P48 phantom power, 24-bit audio, sample rates up to 96 kHz, RJ45 connectivity, and IEEE 802.3af PoE makes it a clearly specified option for four-channel microphone integration over a Dante network.