RDL RU-VCA6A – 6-Channel Digitally Controlled Audio Attenuator
RDL RU-VCA6A – 6-Channel Digitally Controlled Audio Attenuator is backordered and will ship as soon as it is back in stock.
Shipping Availability*
Shipping Availability*
Free Ground Shipping on Most Orders Over $250.00
Looking for the best price or expert advice? Give us a call at 1-888-230-3661 or use the Live Chat below. Buying 1 or 100, you may qualify for greater savings beyond the advertised price.
RDL RU-VCA6A – 6-Channel Digitally Controlled Audio Attenuator
What is the RDL RU-VCA6A?
The RDL RU-VCA6A is a six-channel, studio-quality digitally controlled attenuator for local or remote level control of balanced or unbalanced line-level audio. It handles 5.1 surround or six individual channels with precise tracking across all channels. Multiple remote locations and multi-module data bus control make it suited to theaters, boardrooms and commercial AV systems.
How does it work?
Audio levels are adjusted over a 96 dB range in 0.5 dB steps using noiseless zero-crossing digital attenuators for click-free, long-term service. Rear-panel inputs and outputs can each be wired balanced or unbalanced. A rear-panel switch sets the operating mode. In momentary mode, front-panel or remote pushbuttons ramp the level up or down, a short pulse moves one step and adjustable ramp rates are set on the front panel. A preset level can be stored and recalled with the front-panel GO TO PRESET button or by pressing remote UP and DOWN together. Other control options include rotary-encoder pulses, 0 to 10 Vdc or a 10 kΩ potentiometer. A switch selects whether the unit powers up to the preset or the last level used. A data bus and MASTER/SLAVE mode allow several modules to track together for larger systems. The module runs from 24 Vdc; RDL recommends its PS-24AS (USA) or PS-24AX (international) 24 Vdc supply. It mounts with RDL RACK-UP accessories such as the RU-HRA1 10.4-inch rack mount, RC-1UR 19-inch universal rack chassis, RU-SMA1 surface mounting plate and RU-BR1 under-surface bracket.
What are the key features?
- Six channels — Controls 5.1 surround or six independent line-level channels.
- 96 dB range in 0.5 dB steps — Noiseless zero-crossing attenuators deliver click-free adjustment.
- Multiple control methods — Pushbuttons, rotary-encoder pulses, 0 to 10 Vdc or a 10 kΩ potentiometer.
- Preset recall — Store and recall a preset level, with power-up to preset or last level.
- Master/slave expansion — A data bus links multiple modules for tracking control.
- Balanced or unbalanced I/O — Inputs and outputs can each be wired balanced or unbalanced.
Where is it typically used?
- Boardrooms and conference rooms
- Auditoriums and screening rooms
- Houses of worship
- Training rooms
- Commercial sound systems
Technical Specifications
| Inputs (6) | >10 kΩ Balanced bridging, or Unbalanced, line level |
| Frequency Response | 10 Hz to 50 kHz (± 0.5 dB) |
| THD+N | < 0.005% (20 Hz to 20 kHz) |
| Gain | Adjustable from unity to <–96 dB |
| Step Size | 0.5 dB |
| Headroom | > 18 dB (above +4 dBu) |
| Residual Noise | < -90 dB (referred to +4 dBu at unity gain) |
| CMRR | > 65 dB (50 to 150 Hz) |
| Crosstalk | <-95 dB (1 kHz, typ.); < -85 dB (20 Hz to 5 kHz); < -75 dB (5 kHz to 20 kHz) |
| Ramp Times | 0.5 second delay; then: 3 seconds to 10 seconds (UP and DOWN times individually adjustable on front panel) |
| Indicators (10) | Front-panel LEDs indicating relative audio level (8), MAX condition (green), MIN condition (red) |
| Audio Outputs (6) | 150 Ω balanced (may be connected unbalanced) |
| Ramp Output | 0 to 10 Vdc, (Ground-referenced) Note: Not intended to drive additional VCA 0-10V inputs |
| EQ Ramp Output | 0 to 10 Vdc, (Ground-referenced) Note: dc taper intended only to drive RDL Loudness EQ (ST-LEQ1) |
| Ambient Operating Environment | 32° F to 122° F (0° C to 50° C) |
| Power Requirement | 24 Vdc @ 200 mA, Ground-referenced |
| Case Dimensions | 5.75" (14.6 cm) W x 1.65" (4.18 cm) H x 3.54" (9.0 cm) D;3.9" (9.9 cm) D with connectors |
| Shipping Weight | 1.515 lbs. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the RU-VCA6A control 5.1 surround audio?
Yes. Its six channels track together for surround sound or can serve six individual analog channels.
What remote controls can I use?
Momentary pushbuttons, rotary encoders, 0 to 10 Vdc control or a 10 kΩ potentiometer, including various RDL remote controls.
Can multiple units track together?
Yes. The data bus and MASTER/SLAVE mode allow multiple modules to be adjusted together.
What power supply is required?
24 Vdc at 200 mA, ground-referenced. The supply is not included; RDL recommends the PS-24AS (USA) or PS-24AX (international).
What warranty does the RU-VCA6A carry?
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 design and commission the system?
Yes. Our team handles networked audio design, equipment selection, installation and commissioning for commercial projects nationwide. Call (888) 230-3661 to discuss your project.
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.
Nationwide Audiovisual Services, Design, Installation & Support
Creation Networks is a trusted nationwide partner for complete audiovisual solutions — delivering expert AV system sales, professional design, programming, installation, and ongoing support to organizations across the United States.
From Microsoft Teams Rooms and enterprise video conferencing to LED video walls, live streaming production, and hybrid collaboration systems, we provide end-to-end AV integration using premium, certified technology from industry leaders including Crestron, Q-SYS, Shure, Extron, and Absen.
Whether you operate a single location or manage facilities nationwide, Creation Networks ensures your AV systems are designed for reliability, scalability, security, and long-term performance — helping your organization communicate more effectively and operate at peak efficiency.
CREATION NETWORKS — A PARTNER YOU CAN TRUST SINCE 2006
