RDL AV-LN4 Line Level Audio to Network Interface-Dante

Product Overview

The RDL AV-LN4 is a 4-channel Dante line level audio interface that converts balanced XLR analog inputs directly into four Dante network audio channels for distribution across any AV-over-IP infrastructure. It is designed for AV integrators, system designers, and broadcast engineers who need to bring professional line-level sources—such as mixing consoles, playback systems, or program audio feeds—onto a Dante network without a dedicated DSP or mixing platform. As a PoE-powered XLR to Dante encoder, the AV-LN4 deploys at any point in a facility where analog audio sources must enter the Dante network with minimal infrastructure. Per-channel dual-LED VU meters provide real-time level monitoring at the unit, making it a practical choice for both fixed installation and portable production environments.

Product Description

The RDL AV-LN4 accepts four balanced XLR line-level analog inputs and transmits them as four independent Dante network audio channels over a standard Ethernet connection, making it an efficient analog-to-Dante encoder for professional AV systems. Each of the four input channels has its own dual-LED VU meter mounted on the front panel, giving operators an immediate indication of signal presence and approximate level without requiring a network-connected monitoring device. The unit requires no special software for configuration beyond Dante Controller, which is used for standard Dante network routing and device management. Power is supplied via PoE from any compliant network switch, or via an external 24 VDC supply sold separately. The dual-power failover architecture operates on external DC when present and automatically switches to PoE if external power is lost—PoE power is reserved from the switch at all times, ensuring continuity in critical installations. Front-panel slide switches are recessed and protected by the chassis design to prevent accidental adjustment during transport or operation. A green LED on the front panel confirms both valid power and active Dante synchronization, simplifying field verification during system commissioning. The all-metal enclosure is suitable for stage, studio, or flat surface use, and the included mounting brackets allow for fixed installation in racks or on wall panels. As with all RDL products in this line, the AV-LN4 is engineered and manufactured in the USA, meeting the professional-grade, low-noise performance standards required in commercial AV, broadcast, and government installations.

Key Features

• 4-Channel Balanced XLR Inputs — Accepts four independent balanced line-level analog signals via standard XLR connectors for direct integration with mixing consoles, amplifiers, and program audio sources.
• Dante Network Audio Output — Encodes all four channels as Dante network audio, enabling distribution to any Dante-enabled device on the same network without additional conversion hardware.
• Per-Channel Dual-LED VU Meters — Individual dual-LED level indicators for each of the four inputs provide real-time signal presence and level monitoring directly at the unit.
• PoE Powered — Draws power from a PoE-capable network switch, reducing cabling requirements and simplifying installation in distributed AV systems.
• Dual-Power Failover — Runs on 24 VDC external supply when connected; automatically switches to PoE on external power loss, with PoE reserved from the switch at all times.
• No Configuration Software Required — Operates as a standard Dante transmitter visible in Dante Controller; no proprietary drivers or software needed.
• Protected Front-Panel Switches — Slide switches are recessed within the chassis to prevent accidental changes during handling or transit.
• Power and Sync LED — Single green LED confirms both valid power supply and active Dante synchronization, supporting quick commissioning checks.
• Flexible Mounting — All-metal enclosure with included mounting brackets supports stage, studio, rack, or flat-surface deployment.
• USA Engineered and Manufactured — Built in the United States to professional-grade, low-noise quality standards for commercial AV and broadcast applications.

Typical Applications

• Broadcast studio
• Auditorium
• House of worship
• Conference room
• Boardroom
• Government space
• Commercial meeting space
• Multi-purpose room
• Training room
• All-hands room

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does the AV-LN4 require any software beyond Dante Controller for setup?
A: No. The AV-LN4 appears as a standard Dante transmitter in Dante Controller. No proprietary software, drivers, or web interface configuration is required for normal operation.

Q: Is the AV-LN4 compatible with third-party Dante DSPs and digital mixers?
A: Yes. As a fully licensed Dante device, the AV-LN4 is compatible with any Dante-enabled DSP or mixer, including products from Biamp, QSC, Yamaha, Shure, Crown, and other Audinate-certified manufacturers.

Q: What PoE class is required to power the AV-LN4?
A: The AV-LN4 is powered via PoE from a compliant network switch or injector. Consult the RDL product datasheet for the specific PoE class to confirm compatibility with your network infrastructure.

Q: Can the AV-LN4 be used as an analog input node in a larger Dante AV-over-IP system?
A: Yes. That is its primary application. The AV-LN4 is designed to bridge four balanced XLR line-level sources onto a Dante network, functioning as a remote analog input node that any Dante-enabled device on the same network can receive from.

Q: What does the green LED indicate?
A: The green LED confirms two conditions simultaneously: that the unit has valid power (PoE or external DC) and that Dante synchronization is active. If either condition is not met, the LED will not be lit.

Q: What happens if the external 24 VDC power supply is disconnected?
A: The unit automatically switches to PoE without interruption. PoE power is continuously reserved from the network switch even while the unit is running on the external supply, ensuring immediate failover with no audio dropout.

Q: Can the AV-LN4 accept mic-level signals, or is it line-level only?
A: The AV-LN4 is designed for balanced line-level XLR inputs. Microphone-level signals should be amplified to line level with an appropriate mic preamp before connecting to the AV-LN4.

Q: Where is the RDL AV-LN4 manufactured?
A: The AV-LN4 is engineered and manufactured in the United States by Radio Design Labs (RDL).