MuxLab 500551 - 2-Channel Analog to Dante Audio Encoder with PoE
Optimize and modernize your professional audio infrastructure with the MuxLab 500551 , a high-performance analog audio encoder designed to integrate legacy equipment into Dante networks. This compact and robust device acts as a vital bridge between your existing analog audio sources—such as mixers, microphones, signal processors, or media players—and the flexibility of Audio over IP (AoIP) networks. By converting two-channel analog signals into a seamless Dante digital stream, the MuxLab 500551 eliminates the limitations of point-to-point analog cabling, enabling virtually unlimited signal distribution over a standard Ethernet network.
This unit stands out for its superior conversion quality, supporting sampling rates up to 96 kHz with a bit depth of 24 bits , ensuring crystal-clear audio fidelity suitable for critical broadcasting, recording studio, and live sound applications. Its intelligent design incorporates balanced Euroblock (Phoenix) connectors for a secure and professional connection, minimizing noise and interference. Furthermore, it offers complete power flexibility: it can operate using a standard 12V DC power supply or simplify installation using PoE (Power over Ethernet) , eliminating the need for nearby outlets and reducing cable clutter in racks and confined spaces.
Designed for demanding integrators and technicians, this encoder offers selectable input gain settings (+18dBu, 0dBu, -10dBV), allowing precise adjustment to professional or consumer signal levels without distortion or loss of dynamic range. Its black metal chassis not only provides durability and protection against electromagnetic interference, but its compact form factor allows for discreet installation behind displays, under conference tables, or in rack trays.
Main features
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High Fidelity Conversion: Transforms 2 channels of balanced or unbalanced analog audio into a digital signal compatible with Dante networks.
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High Resolution Support: Capable of operating at sampling rates of 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz and 96 kHz at 24 bits for studio sound quality.
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Flexible Power Supply: Compatible with PoE (IEEE 802.3af Class 0) for power via network cable, or via external 12V DC power supply.
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Versatile Gain Adjustment: 3-level input gain setting (+18dBu, 0dBu, -10dBV) to accommodate various audio sources.
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Professional Connectivity: Inputs via detachable Euroblock terminal blocks and RJ45 Gigabit port for network connection.
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AES67 Compatibility: Supports AES67 RTP audio transport, expanding interoperability with other audio over IP systems.
Benefits of the system
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Simple Integration: Allows legacy analog equipment to communicate with modern consoles, DSPs, and Dante-enabled speakers without the need for complex hardware.
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Reduction of Cabling Costs: Replace expensive and heavy analog audio cables with economical and easy-to-manage CAT5e/6 structured cabling.
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Interference-Free Signal: By digitizing the audio close to the source, the risk of ground hum and signal degradation over long distances is eliminated.
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Centralized Management: Fully compatible with Dante Controller software, allowing easy and reconfigurable signal routing from a computer.
Use cases
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Conference Rooms: Connection of analog table microphones or videoconferencing codec outputs to a centralized DSP processor in the server room.
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Education and Auditoriums: Sending audio from an analog podium or lectern to the main PA system via the campus network.
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Hospitality and Retail: Distribution of background music from a local player in reception to multiple audio zones in the building.
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Places of Worship: Integration of electronic instruments or auxiliary mixers into the main audio network of the sanctuary.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Does the device require special drivers?
No, the MuxLab 500551 is automatically detected by the Dante Controller software, facilitating its configuration and immediate routing.
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Can it work in reverse (Dante to Analog)?
No, this model (500551) is specifically an encoder. For the inverse function, the complementary MuxLab decoder model is required.
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Is a PoE switch necessary for it to work?
It is not strictly necessary; although PoE is the most convenient option, the device can also be powered by a 12V DC source (sold separately if not included in the specific kit).
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What type of network cable should I use?
It is recommended to use CAT5e, CAT6 or higher cable to ensure Gigabit network performance and proper PoE transmission.
Project description
This 2-channel analog-to-Dante audio encoder is designed for transmitting balanced or unbalanced line-level audio signals over standard IP networks. The device features Euroblock input connectors and a Gigabit RJ45 port for network connectivity. It supports selectable sampling rates of 44.1, 48, and 96 kHz with a bit depth of 24 bits. Input gain settings are +18 dBu, 0 dBu, and -10 dBV. The unit is AES67 compliant and meets the IEEE 802.3af Class 0 PoE standard, allowing power to be supplied via a network switch or a 12V DC auxiliary input. It measures 120 x 47 x 26 mm and has a metal chassis.
