Williams AV IR M1 D – IR+ Control Center Modulator with Dante

Product Overview

The Williams AV IR M1 D IR+ Control Center is a Dante-enabled infrared modulator and Wi-Fi audio server for large-area assistive listening systems and secure in-room audio transmission. Housed in a single rack unit, the modulator includes a two-channel Dante input plus analog XLR/TRS inputs, and drives up to four IR E4 infrared emitters over CAT5e cabling. AV integrators use the IR M1 D as the head end of ADA-compliant infrared assistive listening systems in auditoriums, courtrooms, and houses of worship. The unit ships with the TFP 065 power supply and WLC 004 line cord.

Product Description

The IR M1 D gives system designers a dual-path audio distribution platform. As an infrared modulator, it generates FM wideband carriers on selectable frequencies (2.3/2.8 or 3.3/3.8 MHz) for transmission through connected emitters — the right choice where audio must stay inside the room, since infrared cannot penetrate walls. As a Wi-Fi audio server, it streams the same program audio over a multicast-enabled network to the free Williams AV WaveCAST app on listeners' iOS and Android smartphones, extending coverage to users who prefer their own devices.

Audio enters the unit through the two-channel Dante network input or two combination XLR/1/4-inch TRS jacks accepting balanced or unbalanced line-level or microphone signals with selectable phantom power. DSP-based processing provides selectable compression and high-pass/low-pass filtering, and a 400 Hz internal test tone plus dual front-panel headphone jacks simplify commissioning. Four RJ-45 emitter ports each deliver 48 VDC power, RS-485 communication, and baseband signal over a single CAT5e run, supporting distributed emitter placement across wings, balconies, or obstructed areas — each connected IR E4 covers up to 18,000 square feet. Note that firmware updates currently cannot be performed from Mac computers. Pair the modulator with the Williams AV IR E4 IR+ Emitter, or scale to 16 emitters using the IR A4 IR+ Emitter Array.

Key Features

• Built-In Dante Input — A two-channel Dante receiver lets the modulator take program audio directly from the networked audio system without analog interconnects.
• Dual Transmission Paths — One chassis delivers audio over infrared for secure, ADA-compliant listening and over Wi-Fi to the WaveCAST smartphone app.
• Four Emitter Ports — RJ-45 outputs power and feed up to four IR E4 emitters over single CAT5e runs, each covering up to 18,000 square feet.
• Distributed Array Architecture — Emitters can be stacked for high-output arrays or distributed throughout the venue to cover balconies, wings, and obscured seating.
• DSP Audio Processing — Selectable compression ratios (1:1, 1.5:1, 2:1) with high-pass and low-pass filter control optimize speech intelligibility per room.
• Web-Based Remote Configuration — An embedded web interface handles setup, monitoring, and the adjustable auto carrier shut-off from any browser on the network.
• Commissioning Tools Onboard — A 400 Hz test tone, dual IR test LED, and two front-panel headphone jacks support receiver testing and channel verification.
• Rack-Mount 1RU Design — The 19-inch chassis installs in a standard equipment rack or can be located remotely near the emitter field.

Typical Applications

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

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the IR M1 D include emitters?

No. The IR M1 D is the modulator/control center only, supplied with its power supply and line cord. IR E4 emitters are purchased separately, and the unit supports up to four directly — or up to 16 with IR A4 emitter arrays. Packaged systems (IR ME1 D, IR ME2 D) bundle the modulator with emitters and ADA signage.

How does Dante integration work?

The unit appears on the network as a two-channel Dante receiver. Route audio to it from any Dante-enabled DSP or console using Dante Controller; the analog XLR/TRS inputs remain available as alternative sources.

Why choose infrared over RF or Wi-Fi assistive listening?

Infrared signals cannot pass through walls, so adjacent rooms can run independent systems without interference and confidential audio stays inside the room — a common requirement in courtrooms and government facilities. The IR M1 D also offers Wi-Fi streaming for venues that want both options.

What cabling do the emitters require?

Each emitter connects over a single CAT5e cable to one of the four RJ-45 ports, which carries 48 VDC power, RS-485 communication, and the baseband IR signal. No power outlet is required at the emitter location.

Can I configure the unit remotely?

Yes. The embedded web interface manages input selection, DSP settings, carrier frequency, and the auto carrier shut-off timer from any browser on the network. Note that firmware updates currently cannot be completed from Mac computers.

What warranty applies?

The modulator carries a 2-year Williams AV warranty; included accessories are covered for 90 days.