GLENSOUND PARADISO COMMENTARY UNIT For three users, DANTE/AES67, fibre network, ePaper screens

SOLO - Single-user, 1x mic in, 1x EXT in

This desktop, single position commentary unit has been designed by Glensound to be very user friendly. It features a configurable microphone button that can be set to mic on/off, cough, momentary on, or momentary off. The inbuilt compressor/limiter has been specifically designed by Glensound to suit commentary application.

The top panel of the Solo has a rotary controller for headphone volume level, and the aforementioned configurable mic button. The rear facing panel of Glensound Solo has all I/O connectivity including dual 6.35mm balanced jack headphone outputs, 3-pin XLR microphone input with switchable +48V phantom power and associated rotary gain controller; extension (EXT) input with sidetone level controller, and master output by way of transformer coupled, 3-pin XLR.

Power is by way of 5V USB type B connection. Power on is identified by the illumination of a single LED positioned on the top panel.

Microphone input gain: -66dBu to -42dBu, without phantom; -51dBu to -26dBu, with phantom. Equivalent noise level: 121dBu, 22-22kHz, RMS. Internal bandpass filter: 12dBu per octave, -3dBu at 40Hz/20Hz. Sidetone control: +10dBu to off. Volume control: Off to +10dBu. Dimensions (HxWxD): 69 x 144 x 137mm.

SOLO LOOP - Single-user, 1x mic in, 1x TB in, 1x PGM in

Glensound Solo Loop has the same properties as Glensound Solo, however in addition it has talkback via a transformer balanced output. There is also a CMBus (Current Mixing System) that enables audio circuits to be used in conjunction with one another, connected via Cat5 cable to reduce interference in electrically noisy environments.

Microphone input gain: -66dBu to -42dBu, without phantom; -51dBu to -26dBu, with phantom. Equivalent noise level: 121dBu, 22-22kHz, RMS. Internal bandpass filter: 12dBu per octave, -3dBu at 40Hz/20Hz. Sidetone control: +10dBu to off. Volume control: Off to +10dBu. Dimensions (HxWxD): 82 x 172 x 171mm.

SOLO 2 - Single-user, 1x mic in, 2x EXT in

Solo 2 is a desktop, single position commentary unit designed for a single user that requires a talkback channel. All audio I/O has been mounted on the rear facing panel so that cabling is not in the commentator’s work are.

The top panel of the Solo has two rotary controllers for I/P 1 and I/P 2, a red LED to signify microphone on, and a lazy talkback button to send the microphone output to a separate talkback output.

The rear facing panel of the unit houses all I/O connectivity including dual 6.35mm balanced jack headphone outputs, a 3-pin XLR microphone input with switchable +48V phantom power, switchable (on/off) compression, and associated rotary gain controller. I/P 1 and I/P 2 inputs are by way of 3-pin XLR, and Program output and Lazy/Talkback outputs are by way of independent 3-pin XLR connector. 100-240V AC power is via IEC.

Microphone input gain: 42dB to 66dB, without phantom; 26dB to 50dB, with phantom. Equivalent noise level: 122dBu, 22-22kHz, RMS, 300ohms. Dimensions (HxWxD): 82 x 171 x 170mm. Weight: 880g

SPARK - Single-user, headphone mixing

Glensound Spark is a ‘sub-compact’, single-user commentary unit that uses Audinate’s Broadway Dante chipset for network control. It has been designed with a small footprint of 80 x 125mm, and is therefore suited to applications where desk space is at a premium.

Spark has eight Dante input and eight Dante output channels, however it only requires four of each to operates therefore retaining four inputs and outputs for further network use. Cue input 1 via Dante in 1 is sent to the headphones via a top panel rotary controller. Cue inputs 2, 3, and 4 can be sent to the headphones via GlenController only. The main programme output is via a top panel switch and sent on Dante output 1. Talkback 1, 2, and 3 are output via Dante outputs 5, 6, and 7 respectively. These can be accessed via the GlenController app only. Dante outputs 3 and 4 are in parallel to what I sent to user’s headphones. Dante output 8 is a 1kHz tone for line up assistance.

All connections or positioned on the rear facing panel of the module, with a single microphone input by way of 3-pin XLR. This microphone input allows for +48V phantom power and has an associated rotary gain controller. A switch allows the user to move between line, mic, and mic + phantom. A 6.35mm balanced jack socket allows for connection to 32-1000ohm headphones. An inbuilt compressor/limiter is employed to control audio input levels and ‘prevent any clipping’. Dante connection is by way of single Neutrik XLR RJ45 connector.

Mic preamp: -70dBu to -7dBu; -18dBFS lineup. Frequency response: 22Hz – 22kHz, +/- 0/01dBu. Phantom power: 48V. Maximum headphone output: +18dB into 600 Ohms. Dimensions: 80 × 80 x 125mm (H x W x D). Weight: 400g

SPARK 1 - Single-user, headphone mixing, 1x talkback channel

Glensound Spark 1 has the same attributes as Glensound Spark, however in addition it has a single talkback circuit.

SPARK 2 - Single-user, headphone mixing, 2x talkback channels

The same as Spark but with two talkback channels.

SPARK 3 - Single-user, headphone mixing, 3x talkback channels

The same as Spark but with three talkback channels.

GS-CU001B/1 MKII - 3 users, with electronic balancing

Glensound GS-CU001B is a commentary unit for three users, and features three mic/line inputs – each with independently switched +48V phantom power. GS-CU001B/1 MKII has electronically balanced audio inputs and outputs, however GS-CU001B/3 MKII is available to order and has transformer balanced I/O.

The top panel of the commentary unit has controls for source channels A and C, COMM level control for channels A and C, on switch for microphone, and talkback (TB) switching for channels A and C. Panel indicators display the status of each independent talkback circuits. When talkback is active the channel feeds no signal to either direct or mixed outputs. Glensound note “In many cases, the three talkback circuits will have a corresponding return talkback signal fed back to three of the SOURCE inputs. The talkback circuits are
therefore labelled 3, 4 and 5 in order to provide a loose association with source inputs 3, 4 and 5 under these circumstances. However, the talkback send outputs are entirely independent of the source inputs and may be used in any configuration required.” Headphone routing switches and labelling areas are also positioned on the upper facing panel.

The front facing panel houses 6.35mm jack headphone outputs for bother users and guest. It also houses three channel inputs by way of 3-pin XLR – each with independent phantom power switching and trim control.

The rear facing panel houses all audio I/O connectivity including source inputs via five balanced mono 3-pin XLR inputs; 9-18V DC power input by way of four-pin male XLR; Talkback send outputs via three balanced mono, 3-pin XLR connections; and three direct outputs. Three switches allow the setting of switch mode, bandpass filter, and direct output level selection.

Microphone input gain: -20dB to +10dB. Mic line up: 60dB, dynamic; 35dB, with phantom. Equivalent noise level: 122dBu, 22-22kHz, RMS. Maximum input level: -20dB, dynamic; +5dB, with phantom. Output impedance: 50ohms. Headphone impedance: 200-2000ohms. Maximum headphone input: +26dBu. Power: 100-240V AC, 47-63Hz. Power consumption: less than 7watts. Dimensions (WxDxH): 279 x 266 x 105mm. Weight: 2.12kg.

GS-CU001B/3 MKII - 3 users, with transformer balancing

This has the same functionality as GS-CU001B/1 MKII, however it has transformer balanced inputs along with Llundhall transformers on the individual microphone outputs. Weight: 2.9kg.

CU001 Dante - 3 users, electronically balanced analogue, and Dante/AES67

In addition to the functionality of GS-CU001B, Glensound CU001 Dante features analogue and Dante/AES67 I/O connectivity, +48V phantom power, increased input gain range of -20 to +10dB, and GPOs on microphone and talkback buttons. When monitoring, the Dante inputs are mixed with the analogue inputs therefore Glensound suggest only one of the analogue or Dante inputs should be used simultaneously.

Dimensions (WxDxH): 277 x 266 x 105mm.

VITA - Single user, beltpack

Vita is a compact belt pack, single user commentary box designed to connect to a DANTE/AES67 audio network, providing a single user with headphone and microphone interface and single talkback circuit. The two audio inputs and two audio outputs of the Vita are DANTE/AES67 network audio circuits. Remote control of mic on/off, gain level functions, and configuration is via a Windows 10 application.

The front panel of the Vita features two source level controls. These two potentiometers adjust the headphone volume of the two input circuits being received from the DANTE network. There are two input routing controls that control the routing from the headphone source to either the left only, right only or both sides of the commentator’s headphone. One yellow talkback button and 1 red program button route the commentator’s mic to the output of the Vita - either channel 1 or 2 of the DANTE network. The momentary/latching/intelligent operation of these talkback buttons can be set using Glensound’s Vita Controller software. The feedback pot and talkback switch are also used to adjust the audio level of the commentator’s microphone in their own headphones. This feedback adjustment has no effect on the outgoing audio level and is only used for confidence monitoring (sidetone). On the right side of the panel there are four green LED PPM indicating the output level of the main programme circuit. The -12 to +6 scale shows the output level in dB, with each LED covering a 6dB range.

The left side panel of the Vita shows four green LED PPM indicating the output level of the main program circuit. This is to assist the user when the Vita is being used clipped to a belt. A single blue LED indicates the Vita is receiving power.

The rear panel of the Vita has one EtherCON RJ45 socket that allows the audio connection to the DANTE network. The Vita has two audio inputs and two audio outputs on the connection. If the device the Vita is connected to provides PoE, it will also power the vita on this connection. An LED indicates the network connection status. There is a mini USB and recessed update/reset buttons that allow connection to a PC for future firmware upgrades.

On right side panel of the Vita there is a 6.35mm jack socket for a headphone connection, with recommended impedance range of 32-1000 ohms. Stereo or mono headphones can be used, or single earpieces. The headphone amplifier design maintains the same output level, regardless of the impedance of the earpiece or headphones used. A small input gain control pot that adjust the gain of the input amplifier. One 3-pin Neutrik XLR is offered for connecting the mic or line input to the vita. A three position selector switch that selects the gain of the input amp, depending on the type of input connected. With the input gain control in the centre position the following gains are applied for a 0dB output level: mic 58dB, mic + phantom +40dB, line 0dB.

Mic input gain range: -18dBu to +12dBu; 58dBu, Dynamic mic input; 42dBu, Mic with Phantom power; 0dBu (Gain range +/-15dB), Line. Equivalent input noise: 124dBu (22-22KHz RMS gain @ max); Input terminated with 300 Ohms. Frequency response: > +/-0.25dB 50Hz to 22kHz (-2dB @ 25Hz), Mic; > -0.1dB 22Hz to 22kHz, Line. Phantom power: 48V. Maximum input before clipping: -2dBu, Dynamic Mic; +12dBu, Mic with 48V Phantom; +18dBu, Line. THD + Noise (Ref +8dBu): 0.016%, 100Hz; 0.012%, 1kHz; 0.011%, 10kHz. Headphone impedance: 32 – 1000 Ohms, auto output level to match impedance. Maximum headphone output: +15.8dB into 600 Ohms. Headphone frequency response: >0-.1dB 22Hz to 22kHz. Headphone noise: -74dB @ line up (residual noise. DANTE network audio frequency: 48-96kHz. Resolution: 24 bit. Power: 9 to 15V @ < 80Ma, external, 2.5mm jack, inner positive; PoE on CAT5 connection. Dimensions: 43 × 153 × 103mm (H x W x D). Weight: 420 Grams

Included accessories: 2 metre RJ45 cable, fitted Belt clip.
Optional accessories: Switch mode power supply terminated with IEC plug.

VITA MINI - Single-user, compact beltpack

Like Vita, Vita Mini is a beltpack for single user use. Vita Mini has been designed to be more compact whilst still housing powerful features including two four-wire circuits – one typically used as on ‘on-air’ channel and the other as a talkback channel; mic/line input, headphone monitoring, and Dante network interfacing. Vita Mini utilises the Audinate Ultimo chipset, making it AES67 compliant.

All connections or positioned on the rear facing panel of the module, with a single microphone input by way of 3-pin XLR. This microphone input allows for +48V phantom power and has an associated rotary gain controller. A switch allows the user to move between line, mic, and mic + phantom. A 6.35mm balanced jack socket allows for connection to 32-1000ohm headphones. An inbuilt compressor/limiter is employed to control audio input levels and ‘prevent any clipping’. Dante connectivity allows the user two audio inputs and two audio outputs, along with PoE. The connection is by way of single Neutrik XLR RJ45 connector, also positioned on the rear facing panel.

The front facing panel of the unit has rotary controls for FB and cue, each with ‘left ear’, ‘right ear’ and ‘both ear’ switching. Illuminated program and talkback buttons are positioned under the volume controls, and power and program level indicators are positioned to the left.

One side of the Vita Mini has a centre positive 12V DC input and a USB port for firmware updates. The back of the unit has a beltclip.

Mic input gain range: -18dBu to +12dBu; 58dBu, Dynamic mic input; 42dBu, Mic with Phantom power; 0dBu (Gain range +/-15dB), Line. Equivalent input noise: 124dBu (22-22KHz RMS gain @ max); Input terminated with 300 Ohms. Frequency response: > +/-0.25dB 50Hz to 22kHz (-2dB @ 25Hz), Mic; > -0.1dB 22Hz to 22kHz, Line. Phantom power: 48V. Maximum input before clipping: -2dBu, Dynamic Mic; +12dBu, Mic with 48V Phantom; +18dBu, Line. THD + Noise (Ref +8dBu): 0.016%, 100Hz; 0.012%, 1kHz; 0.011%, 10kHz. Headphone impedance: 32 – 1000 Ohms, auto output level to match impedance. Maximum headphone output: +15.8dB into 600 Ohms. Headphone frequency response: >0-.1dB 22Hz to 22kHz. Headphone noise: -74dB @ line up (residual noise. DANTE network audio frequency: 48-96kHz. Resolution: 24 bit. Power: 9 to 15V @ < 80Ma, external, 2.5mm jack, inner positive; PoE on CAT5 connection. Dimensions: 41 × 83 × 140mm (H x W x D). Weight: 310g

Included accessories: 2 metre RJ45 cable, fitted Belt clip.
Optional accessories: Switch mode power supply terminated with IEC plug.

VITA MINI X - Single-user, beltpack

Glensound Vita Mini X is a single-user unit that uses a Dante Broadway design that allows ‘for greater functionality and network bandwidth when compared to Ultimo based devices’. Two 4-wire circuits are typically used as main programme on air, with a separate talkback circuit whilst push buttons can be used for each circuit to configure different modes including latching on/off, momentary push to talk (PTT), ‘intelligent mode’ with short or long tap/hold, cough, and talkback.

Eight audio input channels, and eight audio output channels can be configured to the local network. Dante output 1 is the switched programme circuit output, Dante output 2 is a permanently active mic. Dante output 3 is the switched talkback circuit output, whilst Dante output 4 is a mix of Dante inputs 1-3. Dante output 5 is a mix of Dante inputs 4-6, Dante output 6 is a mix of Dante inputs 1-6, Dante output 7 is a 750Hz tone, and Dante output 8 is a 1kHz tone.

All connections or positioned on the rear facing panel of the module, with a single headset input by way of 5-pin XLR. This microphone input allows for +48V phantom power and has an associated rotary gain controller. A switch allows the user to move between line, mic, and mic + phantom. VITA Mini X is also available with 3-pin female XLR mic input (Mini X/3F), or 4-pin male headset connection for mono headphones (Mini X/4M). Please contact the Sales team for more information. A 6.35mm balanced jack socket allows for connection to 32-1000ohm headphones. An inbuilt compressor/limiter is employed to control audio input levels and ‘prevent any clipping’. Dante connectivity is by way of single Neutrik XLR RJ45 connector, which also positioned on the rear facing panel.

The front facing panel of the unit has rotary controls for FB and cue, each with ‘left ear’, ‘right ear’ and ‘both ear’ switching. Illuminated program and talkback buttons are positioned under the volume controls, and power and program level indicators are positioned to the right.

One side of the Vita Mini has a centre positive 12V DC input, and the other side has a USB port for firmware updates. The back of the unit has a beltclip.

Mic input gain range: 7dB to 70dB; 58dBu. Equivalent input noise: -126dBu (20-22KHz RMS gain @ 150ohms). Frequency response: 43Hz to 20kHz. Phantom power: 48V. Headphone impedance: 32 – 1000 Ohms, auto output level to match impedance. Maximum headphone output: +18dB into 600 Ohms. Resolution: 24 bit. Power: 9 to 15V @ < 80Ma, external, 2.5mm jack, inner positive; PoE on CAT5 connection. Dimensions: 80 × 80 × 125mm (H x W x D). Weight: 400g

Included accessories: 2 metre RJ45 cable, fitted Belt clip.
Optional accessories: Switch mode power supply terminated with IEC plug.

VITA PLUS - Single-user, 2x 4-wire, desktop

Vita Plus has much of the functionality and specification of the Vita Mini, however it is a desktop format commentary unit. This single-user commentary unit also has two 4-wire circuits and Dante network connectivity.

The upper-front facing panel of the unit has rotary controls for FB and cue, each with ‘left ear’, ‘right ear’ and ‘both ear’ rotary switching. An Illuminated talkback button is positioned to the lower right side and a ‘mic on’ button to the left. To the left of the ‘mic on’ button there is a 4-stage LED input signal meter. 6.35mm and 3.5mm balanced jack sockets allow for connection of headphones with impedances from 32 to 1000ohms.

The rear facing panel of Vita Plus houses all other I/O connectivity including secondary headphone outputs and IEC AC mains input. A single microphone input is by way of 3-pin XLR. This microphone input allows for +48V phantom power and has an associated rotary gain controller and a switch that allows the user to move between line, mic, and mic + phantom. An inbuilt compressor/limiter is employed to control audio input levels and ‘prevent any clipping’. Dante connectivity allows the user two audio inputs and two audio outputs, along with PoE. The connection is by way of single Neutrik XLR RJ45 connector, and a USB connection is provided for firmware updates.

Vita Plus can be powered via external AC mains or PoE.

Mic input gain range: -18dBu to +12dBu; 58dBu, Dynamic mic input; 42dBu, Mic with Phantom power; 0dBu (Gain range +/-15dB), Line. Equivalent input noise: 124dBu (22-22KHz RMS gain @ max); Input terminated with 300 Ohms. Frequency response: > +/-0.25dB 50Hz to 22kHz (-2dB @ 25Hz), Mic; > -0.1dB 22Hz to 22kHz, Line. Phantom power: 48V. Maximum input before clipping: -2dBu, Dynamic Mic; +12dBu, Mic with 48V Phantom; +18dBu, Line. THD + Noise (Ref +8dBu): 0.016%, 100Hz; 0.012%, 1kHz; 0.011%, 10kHz. Headphone impedance: 32 – 1000 Ohms, auto output level to match impedance. Maximum headphone output: +15.8dB into 600 Ohms. Headphone frequency response: >0-.1dB 22Hz to 22kHz. Headphone noise: -74dB @ line up (residual noise. DANTE network audio frequency: 48kHz. Resolution: 24 bit. Power: 100-240V AC; PoE on CAT5 connection. Dimensions: 41 x 214 x 172mm (H x W x D). Weight: 920g

VITA BB PLUS - Single-user, 2x 4-wire, desktop

Vita BB Plus is a commentary/announcers unit that has the same feature set and specification as Vita Plus. The difference between the two units is the physical format whereby Vita BB Plus thinner (width ways), and has larger switches, or big buttons (BB).

Mic input gain range: -18dBu to +12dBu; 58dBu, Dynamic mic input; 42dBu, Mic with Phantom power; 0dBu (Gain range +/-15dB), Line. Equivalent input noise: 124dBu (22-22KHz RMS gain @ max); Input terminated with 300 Ohms. Frequency response: > +/-0.25dB 50Hz to 22kHz (-2dB @ 25Hz), Mic; > -0.1dB 22Hz to 22kHz, Line. Phantom power: 48V. Maximum input before clipping: -2dBu, Dynamic Mic; +12dBu, Mic with 48V Phantom; +18dBu, Line. THD + Noise (Ref +8dBu): 0.016%, 100Hz; 0.012%, 1kHz; 0.011%, 10kHz. Headphone impedance: 32 – 1000 Ohms, auto output level to match impedance. Maximum headphone output: +15.8dB into 600 Ohms. Headphone frequency response: >0-.1dB 22Hz to 22kHz. Headphone noise: -74dB @ line up (residual noise. DANTE network audio frequency: 48kHz. Resolution: 24 bit. Power: 100-240V AC; PoE on CAT5 connection. Dimensions: 41 x 114 x 172mm (H x W x D). Weight: 720g

EXPRESS IP MINI - 2 user

Express IP MINI is a two-user commentary box providing all the basic functionality required for two commentators or announcers. It is used for sport commentary, reporter interfacing at news events or for studio based audio translation. It allows four audio inputs into the user’s headphones for monitoring and two talkback circuits. ‘High quality’ microphone amplifiers are used, along with Glensound’s referee compressor/limiter system to help prevent overloading the input circuit. The main audio input/output interfacing is provided via the Dante system allowing uncompressed, low delay audio across networks. The Express IP MINI is also AES67 compliant.

The top panel of the Express IP MINI has an LED PPM meter running across the top indicating the level of outgoing audio in dBU (whereby 0dBU = -18dBFs). The BBC 1-7 scale is also provided. Two red square ‘mic on’ buttons route the microphone to the programme audio output. The ‘mic on’ is a latching button by default but can be set to be always on, or a momentary mute when held down.

There are two sets of six headphone mixer knobs for each commentator. Each headphone mixer includes mic audio level of the other commentator, side tone that adjusts the level of the commentators own voice, and PGM that adjusts the headphone level of the audio signal sent as Dante input 1. Other functions include Cue that adjust the level of the audio signal send via Dante input 2, TB1 that adjust the headphone level of the audio signal sent via Dante input 3, and TB2 that adjusts the headphone level of the audio signal sent via Dante input 4.

There are two sets of talkback buttons. Pressing either talkback 1 or talkback 2 mutes the microphone on the programme output and routes the audio to the corresponding talkback output. The operation of this button is configurable into four modes; momentary, latching, intelligent and off.

The front Panel of the Express IP MINI has two 6.35mm jack sockets that allows 35 – 1000ohms impedance headphones using A/B gauge plug. Two female 3 pin XLR sockets allow microphones to be connected to the Express IP MINI. Towards the bottom of the panel there is a phantom power switch, this switch turns on or off the +48v phantom power input for us with condenser microphones. There is an input gain control pot, turning the input gain control clockwise increases the gain of the microphone amplifier and turning it counter clockwise reduces the gain. The control provides +10 to -20dB range from line up.

Express IP MINI has four outputs including two microphone outputs and two talkback circuits. This is the maximum number of channels sent to the Dante network. To provide a mixed output of both microphones, the B mic output can be changed to provide a mixed output of both mics using a mix output selector switch on the rear panel. A link status LED that flashes to indicate that the Express ip MINI is connected to a network and communicating correctly. There is one RJ45 Ethernet connector that allows the unit to be connected to a Dante audio network. The Express ip MINI may be powered by PoE if the network switch supplies it. This connection operates at 100Mbps speed.

Mic line up gain: 60dB, dynamic; 35dB, phantom power. Mic gain range: +10/ -20dB. Input Impedance: 1k2. Phantom power: 48 Volts, at 6mA. Equivalent input noise: 125dBu, Dynamic mic 22-22kHz RMS terminated with 300 Ohms. Maximum input level: -13dB, dynamic; +12dB, phantom. Digital Line Up: +dBu = -18dBFs. THD + Noise: less than 0.011%, at 10kHz ref +8dBu. Headphone volume pot range: +10dB to Off, +10dB to -30dB factory fit option. Headphone impedance: 35 to 1000 Ohms. Maximum headphone output: +15dBu into 600 Ohms. Headphone frequency response: 50Hz to 24kHz, less than or equal to 2dB. Network interface: Neutrik Ethercon, RJ45 compatible. Chipset: This device uses Audinate's Ultimo chipset. Power (PoE): Standard 48v. Power consumption: less than 4Watts. PoE: Via RJ45 connection from a PoE switch or Mid Span source. Dimensions (WxDxH): 157 × 183 × 74mm. Weight: 0.74 Kg

EXPRESS IP MKII – 2 user

Express IP MKII is a two user commentary box providing all the basic functionality required for two commentators or announcers, where quick and easy set and operation is important. It is widely used for sport commentary, reporter interfacing at news events or for studio based audio translation. Express ip MkII features two additional audio paths for the commentators allowing them both to be able to hear each other’s mic locally without external mixing - a feature that is not available on the previous Express IP MKI model.

The user can assign up to four audio inputs to their headphone mix for monitoring and two talkback circuits. Microphone amplifiers are used in conjunction with Glensound’s referee compressor/limiter system to help prevent overloading the input circuit. The main audio input/output interfacing is provided via the Dante system allowing uncompressed, low delay audio across networks.

There are two sets of six headphone mixer knobs for each commentator. Each headphone mixer includes mic audio level of the other commentator, side tone that adjusts the level of the commentators own voice, and PGM that adjusts the headphone level of the audio signal sent as Dante input 1. Other functions include cue that adjust the level of the audio signal send via Dante input 2, TB1 that adjust the headphone level of the audio signal sent via Dante input 3, and TB2 that adjusts the headphone level of the audio signal sent via Dante input 4.

There are two sets of talkback buttons. Pressing either talkback 1 or talkback 2 mutes the microphone on the programme output and routes the audio to the corresponding talkback output. The operation of this button is configurable into four modes; momentary, latching, intelligent and off.

The front Panel of the Express IP MKII has two 6.35mm jack sockets that allows 35 – 1000ohms impedance headphones using A/B gauge plug. Two female 3 pin XLR sockets allow microphones to be connected to the Express IP MINI. Towards the bottom of the main panel there is a phantom power switch, this switch turns on or off the +48v phantom power input for us with condenser microphones.

An input status that indicates whether the unit is being powered by mains, PoE or both. The Express IP MII will accept both forms of power to allow for power redundancy. There is one RJ45 Ethernet connector that allows the unit to be connected to a Dante audio network. The Express IP MKII may be powered by PoE if the network supplies it. This connection operates at 100Mbps speed. There is one IEC mains plug that accepts external AC voltage of 100-240 VAC +/- 10%. There is a non-accessible internal fuse for this input.

Microphone gain: 54dB, dynamic; 44dB, phantom power, 37dB via internal link. Input impedance: 1k2. Noise at channel outputs: greater than or equal to -70dB, 22Hz – 22kHz A weighted, 300 Ohm termination. Noise at mix output: greater than or equal to -67dB, 22Hz – 22kHz A weighted, 300 Ohm termination. Phantom Power: 48 Volts, at 9.7mA. Compressor/limiter type: Complex multi-point curve. Input level to output Level: -54 : 0, -44 : +5, -34 : +8.5, -24 : +10, -19 : +12.5. Headroom: 35dB. Network interface: Neutrik Ethercon. Type: RJ45 compatible. Chipset: This device uses Audinate's Ultimo chipset. Frequency response: 53Hz to 10.5kHz, flat; 40Hz to 15.2kHz, less than or equal to -1dB; 30Hz to 22kHz, less than or equal to -3dB. Distortion: -44dB. Headphone line input impedance: greater than 47kOhms. Frequency response from Inputs: 50 Hz to 24kHz, greater than or equal to +/-2dB. Gain/loss range: Off to + 10dB. Headphone impedance: 35 to 1000 Ohms. Mains power input: 85 - 264 VAC. Power consumption: 3 Watts. PoE: Via RJ45 connection from a PoE switch. Dimensions (WxDxH): 220 × 250 × 98mm. Weight: 1.46 Kg.

Inferno - Single user

Glensound Inferno provides the facilities required by a single commentator, connecting to a DANTE network. The system is scalable by adding extra Inferno units to the network. The unit contains a single microphone or line input to feed out to the network and a headphone amplifier with seven inputs fed from the network. Remote control of input gain and switching functions is by a web browser interface. DANTE-capable 'break-out boxes' are available which can connect directly to the Inferno or via an Ethernet network.

Designed for live, on-air broadcast applications it has multiple redundancy capabilities, with four possible sources of power; the inbuilt AC power supply, two POE connections and one external DC input. There are fully redundant network connections for both copper and fibre circuits.

DANTE is a software and hardware solution, offering high-performance audio distribution over standard IP networks, supporting hundreds of simultaneous channels of uncompressed audio with low latency and accurate synchronization. For further information, DANTE networking basics. In a DANTE network, the DANTE Controller web interface controls audio routing. Any DANTE input can be routed to any other output on the network, or to multiple network output points.

The Inferno can be used in conjunction with other manufacturer's equipment when connected to a DANTE audio network. but can also be used outside of a dedicated DANTE network when connected to Glensound's DARK Series 'break out boxes'. This connection can be direct or across a structured network. The DARK88 thus 'allows all of the audio inputs and outputs to be located in a separate location to the Inferno'. When connected to a DANTE network, 'sources and destinations can be configured from any part of the network using the free DANTE controller software. Details are available at www.audinate.com'.

The four network connections of the Inferno can be configured as a switch. In this configuration, if the primary and secondary redundant SFP/fibre slots have been used as the network link, the RJ45 connections can be used to loop out to further local Inferno units or other DANTE devices, which will all be shown separately on the network within the DANTE Controller configuration utility.

On the vertical front panel there are two sockets for the headphones; both are 3-pole jack sockets, one is a 3.5mm type, the other 6.35mm. There is also a 3-pin, female, XLR connector for the microphone/line input, which has a compressor-limiter system, applying 'a variable rate compressor to the input peaks so that no clipping occurs, without affecting the rest of the audio signal'.

On the rear panel, push-buttons are used together with LED indicators to set the input mode. One button toggles the the coarse input gain between microphone and line settings. Two LEDs show which is selected. A second button turns the 48V microphone phantom power on and off. It cannot be turned on if the gain is set to line. A second block of two buttons, up and down, and three LED indicators set the fine gain. The actual gain is not shown, but each button-press changes the gain by about 0.33 dB. The 'Lineup' LED indicates when the gain is in the factory pre-set line-up condition.

The next block of LEDs indicate the status of the power inputs, with one LED each for AC mains, external DC and primary and secondary power over ethernet from the copper Ethernet ports. There are connectors on the lower part of the panel, an IEC inlet for AC, a coaxial type for the DC input and two Ethercon types to take RJ45 Ethernet connectors. Two SFP slots are provided for optional primary and secondary fibre interfaces using accessory SFP modules. Each of the latter four have an LED to indicate that there is a network activity on the connection. A mini-B USB connector is provided for updating firmware in conjunction with 'Reset' and 'Update' buttons.

The sloping part of the upper surface is divided up into ten blocks with seven of them are associated with the seven inputs for cue or talkback. Each block is similar, having an area for marking the nature of the source, a rotary control which sets the level of that signal in the headphones, a 'left-centre-right' (L-C-R) push-button and a talkback button. The L-C-R button routes the associated headphone source to either the left only, right only or both (centre) of the commentator’s headphones. A separate block in the centre of the panel has a stylised picture of a headset, with an LED in each earpiece. The first press of an L-C-R button causes the LEDs to illuminate and show the routing for the source concerned. Subsequent presses cycle through the available routings. The talkback button routes the commentator’s microphone to the corresponding output of the Inferno - channels 1 to 7 of the DANTE network. The operating mode of the buttons - momentary, latching, intelligent lever key for example - can be set using the web page interface.

An 'L'-shaped block contains a vertical column of LEDs in the centre of the panel, forming an 'accurate 15 LED PPM indicating the level of the main, on-air, output. The 1-7 scale is a traditional BBC PPM scale used extensively throughout Europe and the -12 to +12 scale shows the output level in dBs'. Each LED covers a 2dB range. To the lower right a rotary control sets the level of 'sidetone' (the output of the commentator's microphone) heard in the headphones, routed by an L-C-R button as described previously. Between the PPM and the 'sidetone' control there is the 'ON AIR' button, which routes the commentator's microphone to the channel carrying commentary over the DANTE network. The operating mode of the button may be set using the web page interface. The remaining block contains a single LED which illuminates to show the unit is on.

The Inferno contains a web server, 'allowing remote functionality to an engineer from any PC connected to the network via any web browser' by means of the 'Inferno Controller'. Remote control of the microphone/line input gain is available, as is remote configuration of each (talk) push button on the unit 'to be on/off latching, momentary (push to talk), always on, and off when pushed (cough), or in an intelligent mode where a short press latches or a longer press is just momentary'. The push buttons on the rear panel can also be locked. Network settings can be configured, headphone routing set and locked. The headphone levels can be prevented from being turned fully off and sidetone control can be set on or off. A further page offers 'channel effect configuration'. This controls the interaction between all the push buttons on the top panel. 'For example, pressing a talk button would typically supress the microphone 'on-air' output, which would then return when the talkback is released. This button interaction is all configurable'. There is also 'a PPM meter available across the network on Inferno Controller showing the same -12 to +12dB PPM scale as the top panel'.

Inputs: -19dBu / +5dBu / +18 dBu maximum, for microphone / microphone with phantom / line. Impedance: 2400 ohms / 100k ohms, microphone / line. Gain range: -30 to +15dBu, -35 to +15dBu, -15 to +15dBu. for dynamic microphone / microphone with phantom / line. Response: -2dbu at 25Hz, flat 50Hz-22kHz, +/- 0.25dBu, microphone; 'flat' to 22kHz, line. Dynamic range: 126dB, microphone. Distortion: 0.012% THD, 1kHz, +8dBu. Noise: -69dBu, 22Hz - 22kHz, A weighted, 300ohm termination, microphone input. Headphone impedance: 16-600 ohms. Headphone dynamic range: 94.6dB. Headphone response: 'Flat 22Hz to 22kHz'. Power: 12V, 357mA. Dimensions: 211 x 138 x76(l x w x h)mm. Weight: 1.26kg.

Included accessories: Power cable with UK 13A connector.
Optional accessories: DANTE/SFPS, DANTE/SFPM, DANTE/SFP1, and DANTE/SFP2. INFERNO Carrying Case.

MinFerno - Single user

MinFerno is a newer and smaller version of Glensound’s popular Inferno network audio commentary box. It is designed for a single commentator or announcer to use, and like the Inferno, it provides a commentary microphone amplifier and compressor limiter circuit. MinFerno is ‘easy to use’ for those commentators who would rather be talking about the sport or subject they’re commentating on. It has been built to be rugged and robust, and therefore it makes it a reliable piece of broadcast equipment for the busy engineer.

Four versions are available within the MinFerno range, with each model having either no, or a number of talkback channels:

The SFP fibre slots are standard networking ports that accept standard SFP modules, giving the user the option of using the fibre and connector style they wish to use. The primary and secondary network circuits allow for ‘glitch free redundancy’ across both the Fibre and Copper network interfaces. Two CAT6 connections by way of Neutrik Ethercon are provided to allow copper connections to local network switches to carry the Dante/AES67 audio. Two connections are fitted to allow redundant circuits to be used if required, with both of these connectors accepting a PoE power source for providing the power to the MinFerno.

One pair of push buttons selects the input type of the front panel, 3-pin XLR to be either microphone, line or microphone with 48V phantom power. Three LEDs indicate which input mode is selected. Two push buttons are used to alter the gain of the input whilst LEDs indicate if the gain setting is above or below Glensound’s pre-configured ‘lineup’ levels. The front panel PPM provides an accurate indication of the input level. The gain can also be altered remotely by a web browser pointing at the MinFerno's web page.

The upper facing panel houses up to five rotary headphone volume controls, with four of these being connected to four incoming audio circuits from the Dante/AES67 network. These are normally used for such sources as mixed programme or cue, talkback to director, talkback to producer, or talkback to engineer. A fifth front panel rotary headphone volume control is ‘sidetone’.

Each of the five headphone volume controls has an associated left ear/right ear/both routing switch located next to the volume knob. This single push button switch routes the associated source to just the left, the right, or both channels of the stereo headphone amplifier. Two LEDs on the front panel indicate MinFerno’s current headphone routing arrangement to enable the commentator to know how they are routing a circuit the first time a routing switch is pressed. The next time the routing switch is pressed then the next routing option is selected.

Depending on model, there are up to four large, illuminated buttons; one for programme and up to three for talkback. These switches route the outgoing microphone circuit onto up to four different Dante/AES67 network audio circuits. The momentary or latching operation of these switches, and the interaction of these switches (i.e. pressing a talkback switch mutes the main mic) can be fully configured via the web page. The audio input level is indicated on the 15 segment PPM meter.

Glensound MinFerno can be powered from any of three different sources including PoE on the Primary CAT5 network link, PoE on the Secondary CAT5 network link, or External 12V DC. Four rear panel LEDs show the availability of the 3 power sources.

Mic input gain range: -30dB to +15dB. Dynamic mic line up: 58dB. Mic + phantom power line up: 35dB. Line input line up: 0dBu. Impedance: 2k4, mic; 100k, line. Equivalent input noise: 127dBu. Maximum input before clip: +10dBu, dynamic mic; +18dBu, mic with +48V phantom; +18dBu, line. Frequency response: 50Hz to 22kHz, mic; 22Hz to 22kHz, line. Headphone impedance: 16 to 1000ohms. Maximum headphone output: +16.8dB, at 600Ohms. Dante/AES67 sample frequency: 48kHz. Resolution: 24bit. Dimensions (WxDxH): 144 x 178 x 76mm. Weight: 1.01kg.

Included accessories: 2 metre mains plug to IEC, 2m RJ45 Network Cable.
Optional accessories: Polypropylene Carrying Case, SFP Fibre Modules, External DC Power Supply.