RDL AV-NH1 Dante Network to Stereo Headphone Amplifier

Product Overview

The RDL AV-NH1 is a Dante network headphone amplifier designed for live sound engineers, AV technicians, broadcast operators, and system integrators who need direct headphone monitoring from a Dante audio network. It receives two channels of Dante network audio at up to 24-bit/96 kHz and converts them to a stereo analog headphone output, eliminating the need for a dedicated analog monitoring path. As a PoE-powered Dante headphone interface, the AV-NH1 simplifies deployment in fixed installations, staging environments, and educational facilities where network audio monitoring is required. Its dual-output design and front-panel level control make it a practical solution for Dante AV-over-IP headphone monitoring at any point in a distributed audio system.

Product Description

The RDL AV-NH1 accepts two channels of Dante network audio via a Neutrik etherCON RJ45 connector and outputs them simultaneously through both a 1/4-inch TRS and a 3.5mm TRS stereo headphone jack, sharing a single front-panel level control. This makes it straightforward to connect standard studio or consumer headphones without adapters. Dante input is supported at up to 24-bit/96 kHz resolution, preserving the full fidelity of professional network audio sources. The unit requires no special software for configuration—Dante Controller handles network routing, and the AV-NH1 appears as a standard Dante receiver on the network. Power is supplied via PoE from a compliant network switch, or via an external 24 VDC supply (sold separately). The dual-power failover architecture means the unit runs on external DC when available and automatically switches to PoE if external power is lost, providing continuity in fixed installations. LED indicators on the front panel show Dante sync status and Ethernet link speed at a glance. The all-metal enclosure is suitable for free-standing use on a work surface, surface mounting, or rack mounting using the included brackets. For mic stand deployment at front-of-house or monitor positions, the optional RDL SF-MSM1 adapter enables mic stand mounting. Engineered and manufactured in the USA, the AV-NH1 is built to the quality standards expected in professional commercial AV and broadcast environments.

Key Features

• Dante Network Audio Input — Receives 2 channels of Dante audio at up to 24-bit/96 kHz via Neutrik etherCON RJ45, integrating directly into any Dante AV-over-IP system.
• Dual Headphone Outputs — Simultaneous 1/4" TRS and 3.5mm TRS outputs accommodate professional studio headphones and consumer headphones without adapters.
• Front-Panel Level Control — Single adjustable level control for both outputs gives the operator immediate access without menu navigation.
• PoE Powered — Draws power directly from a PoE-capable network switch, eliminating the need for a separate power supply in most installations.
• Dual-Power Failover — Operates on 24 VDC external supply when connected; automatically switches to PoE if external power is lost, maintaining uninterrupted operation.
• No Configuration Software Required — Appears as a standard Dante receiver in Dante Controller; no proprietary software needed for setup or operation.
• LED Status Indicators — Front-panel LEDs indicate Dante sync status and Ethernet link speed for fast field diagnostics.
• Flexible Mounting Options — Includes mounting brackets for surface or rack installation; compatible with optional RDL SF-MSM1 for mic stand mounting.
• All-Metal Enclosure — Durable construction suitable for touring, fixed installation, and studio environments.
• USA Engineered and Manufactured — Designed and built in the United States to professional AV quality standards.

Typical Applications

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

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does the AV-NH1 require any proprietary software beyond Dante Controller?
A: No. The AV-NH1 appears as a standard Dante receiver in Dante Controller, which is the only software needed for network audio routing. No additional configuration software or drivers are required.

Q: Is the AV-NH1 compatible with all Dante-enabled devices and DSPs?
A: Yes. The AV-NH1 is a fully licensed Dante device and is compatible with any Dante-enabled product, including DSPs, digital mixers, and audio interfaces from Audinate-certified manufacturers such as Yamaha, QSC, Biamp, Shure, and others.

Q: What PoE standard is required to power the AV-NH1?
A: The AV-NH1 is powered via PoE from a compliant network switch. Refer to the RDL product datasheet for the specific PoE class requirement to ensure your switch or injector supplies adequate power.

Q: Can I connect both 1/4" and 3.5mm headphones at the same time?
A: Yes. Both headphone outputs are active simultaneously and share a single level control. You can connect two pairs of headphones at the same time.

Q: What happens if the external 24 VDC power supply fails during operation?
A: The AV-NH1 automatically switches to PoE power without interruption when the external DC supply is lost, provided the unit is connected to a PoE-capable switch. PoE power is maintained and reserved from the switch even while the unit is running on external power.

Q: Can the AV-NH1 be rack mounted?
A: Yes. Mounting brackets are included for fixed surface or rack installation. It can also be used free-standing on any flat work surface, or mounted on a mic stand using the optional RDL SF-MSM1 adapter.

Q: Where is the RDL AV-NH1 manufactured?
A: The AV-NH1 is engineered and manufactured in the United States by Radio Design Labs (RDL).

Q: What is the maximum audio resolution supported over Dante?
A: The AV-NH1 supports Dante network audio at up to 24-bit/96 kHz, consistent with professional studio and broadcast standards.