BSS BLU-BIB – 8-Channel Analog Break-In Box Input Expander

Product Overview

The BSS BLU-BIB is an 8-channel analog audio input expander for the Soundweb London BLU link digital audio bus, providing cost-effective analog mic/line input expansion without requiring an additional chassis slot. Designed for commercial-grade AV installations, the BLU-BIB connects via standard Category 5e cabling to any BLU link-enabled device, delivering 8 channels of analog input to the 256-channel digital audio bus with low latency and fault-tolerant operation. It is the standard solution for Soundweb London system designers who need to add analog inputs in distributed, multi-room, or large-venue applications.

Product Description

The BSS BLU-BIB “break-in box” adds 8 analog mic/line inputs to a Soundweb London system via the BLU link bus, using standard Cat 5e cabling with a maximum run of 100m between compatible devices. For longer runs, the BSS Audio MC-1 fiber optic media converter extends distances beyond 10km using single-mode fiber — a capability that makes the BLU-BIB practical for large-venue and campus deployments. Channel assignment is handled by six rear-panel DIP switches that select any consecutive 8-channel block within the 256-channel BLU link bus, allowing the card to be placed anywhere in the channel map. This DIP switch configuration is the only setup required; the BLU-BIB is not programmed through HiQnet Audio Architect. All 8 inputs use the same terminal block connectors as the rest of the Soundweb London family, maintaining consistency across a system. Front panel controls provide per-channel input gain adjustment and Phantom Power switching, with LED indicators showing signal present, clip, and Phantom Power status for each channel, plus overall power and gain status. The BLU-BIB operates in three user-selectable modes: Edit Mode for active adjustments, Normal Mode for locked operation, and Stealth Mode which disables LED illumination (except power) for inconspicuous installation in occupied spaces. The half-rack chassis supports desk mount, wall mount, or rack mount via the optional BSS Audio 1U Rack-Mount Kit, which fits two half-rack units side-by-side in a single rack space. Power is supplied via the included 12V DC adapter with terminal block connection.

Key Features

• 8 Analog Mic/Line Inputs — Terminal block connectors compatible with the full Soundweb London product family.
• 256-Channel BLU link Bus — Low latency, fault-tolerant digital audio bus using standard Cat 5e cabling up to 100m per segment.
• DIP Switch Channel Selection — Six rear-panel DIP switches assign any consecutive 8-channel block within the 256-channel bus — no software configuration required.
• Front Panel Gain and Phantom Power Control — Per-channel input gain and 48V Phantom Power adjustable directly from the front panel.
• Three Operating Modes — Edit, Normal, and Stealth modes allow flexible control access and LED management for different installation scenarios.
• Front Panel Lockout — Normal Mode prevents unauthorized changes to input gain or Phantom Power settings after commissioning.
• Stealth Mode — Disables LED illumination (except power) for discreet installation in board rooms, courtrooms, and occupied spaces.
• Per-Channel LED Indication — Signal present, clip, and Phantom Power status displayed for each of the 8 channels.
• Fiber Extension Compatible — BSS Audio MC-1 media converter extends BLU link distances to over 10km via single-mode fiber.
• Flexible Mounting — Half-rack chassis supports desk mount, wall mount, or rack mount with optional 1U Rack-Mount Kit.
• 12V DC Powered — Included power adapter with terminal block connection for clean, tool-free installation.

Typical Applications

• Boardroom
• Conference room
• Government space
• House of worship
• Auditorium
• Training room
• Multi-purpose room

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does the BLU-BIB require HiQnet Audio Architect for configuration?

A: No. The BLU-BIB is configured entirely by DIP switch on the rear panel. HiQnet Audio Architect is not required and the device does not appear as a configurable node in the software.

Q: How many BLU-BIB units can be connected to a single Soundweb London system?

A: Multiple BLU-BIB units can be connected to the BLU link bus. Each unit occupies an 8-channel block; the 256-channel bus supports up to 32 such blocks across all connected devices.

Q: Can the BLU-BIB be rack mounted?

A: Yes. The optional BSS Audio 1U Rack-Mount Kit accommodates two half-rack units (BLU-BIB and/or BLU-BOB1) in a single rack space, sold separately from Creation Networks.

Q: What is Stealth Mode and when should it be used?

A: Stealth Mode disables all front panel LED indicators except the power LED. It is used in installations where the device is visible in an occupied space — such as a courtroom, boardroom, or house of worship — and LED activity would be distracting.

Q: How far can the BLU link signal travel?

A: Using standard Cat 5e cabling, BLU link supports up to 100m between devices. With the BSS Audio MC-1 fiber optic media converter and single-mode fiber, the distance extends to over 10km.

Q: Is Phantom Power available on the BLU-BIB?

A: Yes. 48V Phantom Power is available per channel and is controlled from the front panel buttons, making the BLU-BIB compatible with professional condenser microphones.

Q: What warranty and support are available?

A: The BLU-BIB is covered by the HARMAN Professional Solutions warranty. For purchasing and pre-sales support, contact Creation Networks.