Midas DL8 PoE-Powered 8x8 Stage Box with Midas PRO Preamps

Product Overview

The Midas DL8 PoE stage box is an 8-input, 8-output digital stage box powered entirely via Power over Ethernet, eliminating the need for a separate power supply at the stage. Designed as the smallest unit in the Midas DL series, the DL8 delivers 8 MIDAS PRO microphone preamplifiers and connects to a front-of-house console over a single shielded CAT5 cable using AES50 SuperMAC connectivity. It is fully compatible with the Midas M32 and M32R consoles and can be daisy-chained with additional DL-series stage boxes to expand channel count. Whether deployed as a standalone stage I/O solution or as supplemental inputs for a larger system, the DL8 offers professional-grade signal quality in a compact 2U chassis.

Product Description

The Midas DL8 is a PoE powered stage box AES50 solution built around the same MIDAS PRO preamp topology found in the flagship M32 console. Each of the 8 mic inputs accepts an XLR connection and delivers the low-noise, high-headroom gain structure that Midas preamps are known for — with switchable +48V phantom power available per channel. Because the unit draws its operating power directly from a PoE switch or injector over the same CAT5 run used for audio, there is no IEC power cable to manage at the stage, and no power brick to lose on a tour.

AES50 SuperMAC provides the digital audio backbone, carrying up to 48 channels of 24-bit audio in each direction over a shielded CAT5 cable at distances up to 100 meters. The DL8 includes two AES50 ports, allowing it to be cascaded with other Midas DL-series units — up to three DL8s can be chained to deliver 24 inputs and 24 outputs to the console. The 8 analog outputs are electronically balanced line-level connections suitable for driving monitor amplifiers or other outboard equipment directly from the stage.

An integrated ULTRANET distribution hub allows direct connection of Behringer P16-M personal monitor mixers or compatible Turbosound speaker systems, adding a personal monitoring dimension without additional cabling infrastructure. As a compact stage box M32 compatible unit occupying only 2 rack spaces, the DL8 fits neatly into a small stage rack alongside a power conditioner and patch bay. It is a practical choice for installers and touring engineers who want to extend M32 or M32R I/O to a remote stage position without the bulk or cost of a full DL16 or DL32. Note: a PoE switch or PoE injector rated to deliver sufficient wattage is required; the DL8 does not include a power supply.

Key Features

• 8 MIDAS PRO Microphone Preamplifiers — Award-winning preamp design from the M32 PRO Series, with switchable +48V phantom power and gain range of 10–60 dB (mic).
• PoE Power — No Separate Supply Required — The unit draws operating power directly from a standard PoE switch or injector via the AES50 CAT5 run, simplifying stage wiring and reducing cable count.
• Dual AES50 SuperMAC Ports — Two AES50 ports enable cascading of up to three DL8 units for expanded I/O, or connection to a Midas M32/M32R console with a single CAT5 cable.
• 8 Electronically Balanced Analog Outputs — Low-impedance line-level outputs suitable for driving monitor amps, IEM transmitters, or outboard gear directly from the stage box.
• Integrated ULTRANET Hub — Two powered ULTRANET outputs connect Behringer P16-M personal monitor mixers or compatible Turbosound systems without additional infrastructure.
• M32 and M32R Console Compatible — Designed to integrate natively with the Midas M32 and M32R digital consoles for remote preamp gain control from FOH.
• Compact 2U Chassis — At 2 rack units, the DL8 is the smallest stage box in the Midas DL series, suited for tight stage racks and fly-date rigs.
• Road-Ready Construction — Built to withstand the demands of live touring and installation environments.

Typical Applications

• House of Worship — Provides a remote stage I/O point for small to mid-size sanctuaries running an M32 or M32R at FOH, keeping mic cables short on stage.
• Small Live Venues — Adds 8 additional preamp inputs and analog outputs at the stage without requiring a full-size stage box.
• Auditoriums and Theaters — Used as supplemental I/O alongside a primary DL16 or DL32, expanding system input count for larger productions.
• Corporate AV and Multi-Purpose Rooms — Installed permanently at a stage pocket or lectern position for consistent, low-maintenance mic input access.
• Rehearsal Rooms — Allows a compact AES50 rig to be set up and struck quickly in shared rehearsal facilities.

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions