RDL RU-SM16D – 4-Channel LED Audio Level Meter is backordered and will ship as soon as it is back in stock.
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What is the RDL RU-SM16D?
The RDL RU-SM16D is a four-channel audio level meter with a 16-LED display string on each channel. Each input can be calibrated for consumer or professional line level, 8 Ohm speaker lines or 25 V, 70 V and 100 V constant-voltage lines. Meters can run as four mono meters or two stereo pairs, with peak or average response selectable per channel. It adds precise visual level monitoring to equipment racks in commercial sound and paging systems.
How does it work?

The RU-SM16D has four separate inputs on detachable terminal blocks, each with an input impedance above 40 kΩ balanced or unbalanced. A rear-panel switch selects fixed or variable calibration for 25 V, 70 V, 100 V and +4 dBu sources. In the variable position, front-panel multi-turn trimmers set the calibrated meter level for each channel. Rear-panel switches set each meter for peak or average display, and the upper three LEDs (+10, +14, +18) always operate in peak-hold mode. In mono systems, one source can feed two meters with one set to peak and the other to average. In stereo systems, each channel, left and right, can display both peak and average values. Bright LEDs provide good visibility, and each input has a label area to identify the source being metered. Power is 24 Vdc at 450 mA, ground-referenced; RDL recommends the PS-24AX supply. Rack-mount it with the RU-HRA1 or RC-1UR, and see the RDL RU-SM16A for a two-channel meter.
What are the key features?
- Four metering channels — Monitors four mono sources or two stereo pairs on 16-LED displays.
- Line, speaker or constant-voltage input — Calibrates for +4 dBu line, 4 or 8 Ohm speaker lines and 25, 70 or 100 V lines.
- Fixed or variable calibration — Switch-selectable fixed calibration or front-panel multi-turn trimmer adjustment.
- Peak or average per channel — Each meter is individually switchable between peak and average response.
- Peak-hold indicators — The +10, +14 and +18 LEDs hold peaks for clear overload warning.
- Labeled inputs — A label area on each channel identifies the source being metered.
Where is it typically used?
- Auditorium
- House of worship
- Broadcast studio
- Government space
- Multi-purpose room
Technical Specifications
| Model | RU-SM16D |
| Inputs (4) | Line level or amplified speaker level, detachable terminal blocks |
| Input impedance | > 40 kΩ balanced or unbalanced |
| 0 dB calibration | Fixed or variable (switch-selectable) |
| Fixed input level | +4 dBu; 25 V; 70 V; 100 V (constant-voltage or 4/8 Ω amplifier output) |
| Variable input range | -24 dBu to +12 dBu; 2 V to 90 V (25 V); 4 V to 90 V (70 V); 5 V to 100 V (100 V) |
| Metering frequency response | 20 Hz to 20 kHz |
| Indicators | 16 LEDs per channel: SIG, -20 to +18 (+10, +14, +18 peak hold only) |
| Metering response | Peak or average per channel (switch-selectable) |
| Peak mode | Rise 50 µs (10–90%), 60 µs (0–100%); fall 65 ms (90–10%), 100 ms (100–0%) |
| Average mode | Rise 130 ms (10–90%), 300 ms (0–100%); fall 185 ms (90–10%), 300 ms (100–0%), VU characteristic |
| Power requirement | 24 Vdc @ 450 mA, ground-referenced |
| Operating environment | 0° C to 55° C |
| Shipping weight | 1.325 lb |
| Compliance | TAA compliant (per RDL) |
| Warranty | 7-year RDL warranty |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can it meter 70 V speaker lines?
Yes. Each input can be calibrated for 25 V, 70 V or 100 V constant-voltage lines, as well as 4 or 8 Ohm amplifier outputs.
Can it show peak and average at the same time?
Each meter is set to peak or average. In stereo or mono systems, feed a source to two meters and set one to each mode.
What do the top three LEDs do?
The +10, +14 and +18 LEDs operate as peak-hold indicators in both modes.
How is calibration set?
A rear-panel switch selects fixed calibration or variable calibration using front-panel multi-turn trimmers.
What power is required?
24 Vdc at 450 mA, ground-referenced. RDL recommends the PS-24AX.
What warranty applies?
This product is covered by a 7-year RDL warranty. For warranty claims, RMAs or support, contact Creation Networks at (888) 230-3661 or sales@creationnetworks.net.
Can Creation Networks help commission the system?
Yes. Creation Networks designs, programs and commissions commercial AV systems nationwide. Call (888) 230-3661 for help with system design, quoting or installation.
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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