Dolby CAT 1796 – 8-Channel AES3 D:A Converter
Dolby CAT 1796 – 8-Channel AES3 D:A Converter is backordered and will ship as soon as it is back in stock.
Dolby CAT 1796 – 8-Channel AES3 D:A Converter
What is the Dolby CAT 1796?
The Dolby CAT 1796 is a low-cost, 8-channel digital-to-analog converter designed for cinemas. It takes AES3 digital audio and converts a 5.1 program to analog for the amplifier rack, with routing for Hearing Impaired (HI) and Visually Impaired Narration (VI-N) channels. It is a compact rack unit, 19 inches wide and 1.75 inches high.
How does the Dolby CAT 1796 work?
Digital audio arrives on a 4xAES DB25-female connector that follows the DMA8Plus/CP750/CP850 pinout, or on RJ45 inputs for channels 1-8 and 15/16. The RJ45 and DB25 AES inputs are wired in parallel, so one connector is used and the other is left unconnected. Eight channels are accepted, with channels 7/8 or 15/16 selectable for HI/VI-N.
HI and VI-N can leave the unit digitally, on pair 4 of a single RJ45 that matches the pinout of Sony transmitters, Odyssey HI/VI-N RJ breakout boards and others, or as balanced analog on a 5-position, 3.81 mm Phoenix plug. Jumpers select the AES channels used for HI/VI and whether that output is digital or analog.
Internal jumpers set the unit for 5.1 plus HI/VI-N (the default) or Dolby Surround 7.1. In a 7.1 installation, HI/VI-N must be routed outside this device. The CAT 1796 complements Dolby processors such as the Dolby CP950 and CP950A where analog amplifiers remain in service.
What are the key features of the Dolby CAT 1796?
- 8-channel AES3 to analog conversion — converts a cinema 5.1 program plus accessibility channels.
- HI/VI-N routing — selectable AES channels 7/8 or 15/16 feed Hearing Impaired and Visually Impaired Narration outputs.
- Digital or analog accessibility output — RJ45 pair 4 digital output or balanced analog on a Phoenix plug.
- Familiar pinout — the DB25 input uses the DMA8Plus/CP750/CP850 pinout.
- 5.1 or 7.1 modes — internal jumpers select 5.1 plus HI/VI-N or Dolby Surround 7.1.
- Low power draw — 13.5 W maximum consumption and 4 BTU/hr heat output.
Where is the Dolby CAT 1796 typically used?
- Cinema auditorium projection booth
- Screening room
- Auditorium
- Multi-purpose room
Technical Specifications
| Model | CAT 1796 8-Channel D:A Converter (AES3) |
| Digital inputs | 4xAES DB25-female (DMA8Plus/CP750/CP850 pinout); RJ45 channels 1-8; RJ45 channels 15/16 |
| HI/VI-N digital output | Single RJ45, HI/VI-N on pair 4 |
| HI/VI-N analog outputs | 5-position, 3.81 mm Phoenix plug (balanced) |
| HI/VI routing | Jumper-selectable AES channels 7/8 or 15/16; digital or analog output |
| Modes | 5.1 plus HI/VI-N (default) or Dolby Surround 7.1 |
| Power input | 100-240 VAC, 0.48 A, 50-60 Hz |
| Maximum power consumption | 13.5 W (4 BTU/hr) |
| Operating temperature | 0° C to 40° C (32° F to 104° F) |
| Operating humidity | 20% to 80% noncondensing |
| Dimensions (unit) | 19" W x 5" D x 1.75" H (482 x 127 x 44.5 mm) |
| Weight (unit) | 2.05 lb (0.93 kg) |
| Weight (shipping) | 3.1 lb (1.4 kg) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the CAT 1796 support Dolby Atmos?
No. It is an 8-channel converter for 5.1 plus HI/VI-N or Dolby Surround 7.1. Dolby Atmos systems that need analog outputs use the Dolby DAC3202 or a Dolby Multichannel Amplifier such as the DMA16302.
Which processors does it connect to?
Its DB25 AES input follows the DMA8Plus/CP750/CP850 pinout, so it accepts AES3 from Dolby cinema processors that use that connector format. Creation Networks confirms cabling for your processor during design.
Can HI/VI-N be used in 7.1 mode?
Not through the CAT 1796. Dolby notes that in Dolby Surround 7.1 installations HI/VI-N must be routed outside this device.
How is it installed?
The unit is 19 inches wide and 1.75 inches high for equipment-rack installation, runs from 100-240 VAC and draws 13.5 W maximum.
What warranty and support are available?
The CAT 1796 carries Dolby's manufacturer warranty, confirmed with your quote. Creation Networks designs, installs and supports Dolby cinema systems; see the Dolby Professional collection and request a quote.
At Creation Networks, we do everything we can to create an excellent customer experience. This includes fast shipping and easy returns.
- Most in-stock orders placed Monday-Friday ship within 24-48 hours. General restrictions apply; please see our full shipping policy here.
- We offer a 30-day return policy from the delivery date on many products. Product restrictions apply. Restocking fees for the return of open-box items. Please see our full return policy here for more information.
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