Table of Contents
Revision History
Issue 1, November 2022: Initial release.
Introduction
The Model 216A Announcer's Console serves as an audio control center for announcers, commentators, and production personnel. This tabletop unit supports applications utilizing Dante® audio-over-Ethernet media networking technology. It is suitable for on-air television sports broadcasting, stadium announcements, corporate AV, and as a 4-channel IFB (interrupted foldback or talent cueing) main station for remote production (REMI) applications. The unit integrates on-air, talkback, and cue audio signal routing into a single package. Four pushbutton switches control the main and talkback audio output channels, offering ease of use, configuration flexibility, and sonic excellence.
The Model 216A is compatible with broadcast and audio systems using Dante technology. An Ethernet connection with Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) is sufficient for integration into a networked audio system. Connecting a microphone and headphones completes the setup, ensuring superior audio quality for on-air, talkback, and headphone cue feeds. The STcontroller software application allows for easy selection of desired operating parameters, presenting a user-friendly interface.
User Controls and Status Indicators
The interface features four pushbutton switches, five LED indicators, and three rotary controls. One pushbutton controls the Dante main transmitter (output) channel, intended for on-air or announcement use. Two LEDs indicate the on/off status of this channel. Three additional pushbuttons control the Dante talkback transmitter (output) channels, used for communication with production personnel. Each talkback button has an associated status LED. The pushbuttons use gold-plated contacts for reliability and feature white LED backlighting. Three rotary controls adjust the level and content of the headphone output channels.
Microphone Input
The microphone signal connects via a standard 3-pin female XLR connector. The unit includes a high-performance microphone preamplifier offering low-noise, low-distortion, and high-headroom amplification over a 19 to 64 dB range, adjustable in 3-dB steps. The input supports balanced dynamic or condenser microphones and provides P48 phantom power compliant with the worldwide P48 standard. A dual-color LED indicator aids in setting the microphone preamplifier gain.
Output Channels and their Operation
The Model 216A provides a main transmitter (output) channel and three talkback transmitter (output) channels via its Dante interface. The main output is for on-air or stadium announcements, while the talkback outputs provide talent-originated cue signals to production personnel. The unit's flexibility lies in its configurable operation of main and talkback functions. The main pushbutton switch offers five operating modes:
- Push to Mute: Creates a momentary "cough" function, muting the audio signal when pressed.
- Push to Talk: Provides a momentary active function for the main transmitter channel.
- Latching (Alternate Action): Enables or disables the audio signal with each press.
- Push to Talk/Tap to Latch: A hybrid mode supporting both momentary and latching operations.
- Push to Mute/Tap to Latch: A second hybrid mode supporting push-to-mute and latching operations.
The three talkback pushbutton switches can be configured with three modes: Push to Talk, Latching, and Push to Talk/Tap to Latch. These modes are typically used for on-air or production-support applications.
Overall System Operation Modes
The Model 216A offers five overall operating modes:
- On-Air: The main output channel mutes when any talkback function is active, preventing audio intended for production from reaching the on-air path.
- Production: The main output does not mute during talkback activity, allowing it to function as an additional talkback channel. All four pushbuttons can be used independently. This mode is not for on-air use.
- Production with Dim: Similar to Production mode, but the headphone output level dims by 18 dB when main or talkback functions are active. Not suitable when headphones are connected directly to amplifiers.
- Production with Tone: Similar to Production mode, but includes an 18 kHz sine wave tone on the talkback channels, supporting the TOX IFB function for REMI applications.
- Production with Dim and Tone: Combines the features of Production with Dim and Production with Tone, dimming the headphone output and adding the 18 kHz tone.
REMI IFB Creation
The Production with Tone and Production with Dim and Tone modes support the tone-operated (TOX) interrupt (IFB) function of the Studio Technologies Model 5422A Dante Intercom Audio Engine. These modes mix an 18 kHz sine-wave signal into the talkback channels to enable the TOX IFB function, facilitating professional-quality IFB signals for REMI production scenarios.
Headphone Output
The Model 216A features a 2-channel (stereo) headphone output. Configuration options include audio sources, rotary control functions, sidetone activation, minimum output level, and overall gain range. Five headphone output audio source and routing modes are available, impacting how the three rotary controls manage Dante receiver (input) channels and sidetone audio.
The first two modes are for standard on-air applications, using Dante receiver channels 1 and 2 for talent cue or IFB audio (program-with-interrupt and program-only). Modes three, four, and five allow utilization of all four Dante audio sources for more complex situations.
Three rotary controls (labeled A, B, and C) adjust the mix of selected audio inputs and the overall headphone output level. Their function depends on the selected headphone mode. Rotary control A typically adjusts the left headphone output level, control B the right, and control C the sidetone level. Specific modes offer balance control or routing of different channel pairs to left/right outputs.
The sidetone function allows microphone preamplifier audio to be sent to the headphone output for user confirmation. It can be configured to be active based on the main and/or talkback button status, or disabled entirely. The headphone output can be set to maintain a minimum level (-40 dB) or to fully mute when controls are at their minimum position. The gain range can be set to Low or High.
The headphone output circuits are voltage drivers, designed to provide high output levels with low distortion and noise, compatible with most headphones and headsets.
Dante Audio-over-Ethernet
The Model 216A utilizes Dante audio-over-Ethernet technology for audio transmission. It supports bit depths up to 24 and sample rates of 44.1 and 48 kHz. Audio transmitter (output) and receiver (input) channels are routed using the Dante Controller software application. This allows flexible integration into various audio systems, enabling routing of main and talkback channels to Dante receiver inputs on consoles or intercom systems. The unit can receive up to four headphone cue sources from other Dante-enabled devices.
Ethernet Data, PoE, and DC Power Source
The unit connects to a network via a 100 Mb/s twisted-pair Ethernet interface using a Neutrik® etherCON RJ45 connector. Power can be supplied via Power-over-Ethernet (PoE), classifying the Model 216A as a Class 2 device. An external 12 volts DC source can also be used. Both power sources can be connected simultaneously for redundancy, with PoE taking precedence. Four LEDs on the back panel indicate network connection, PoE status, and Dante interface status.
Getting Started
This section outlines initial setup and connections. The Model 216A requires microphone, headphone, and Ethernet connections. A 12 volts DC input is also available. Pushbutton labels may be customized, and configuration is performed using the STcontroller software. Dante audio routing is managed via the Dante Controller software application.
System Components
The shipping carton includes the Model 216A Announcer's Console and instructions for accessing this user guide. As the unit can be powered by PoE, no external power supply is included. If the local area network does not provide PoE, an external 12 volts DC power supply (Studio Technologies' PS-DC-02 is available as an option) is required.
Microphone Input
The Model 216A supports balanced dynamic and condenser microphones, including headset or handheld models. Its P48 phantom power source is compatible with most phantom-powered microphones. The microphone input uses a 3-pin female XLR connector. Proper wiring for balanced microphones is pin 2 (signal high), pin 3 (signal low), and pin 1 (shield). Unbalanced microphones can also be used with specific wiring. Popular headset models like the Sennheiser HMD 26-II and HMD 27 are recommended. Note that HME-series headsets are not compatible due to different power requirements.
Headphone Output
A 3-conductor 1¼-inch phone jack provides the stereo headphone output. Stereo headphones or dual-ear headsets can be connected directly. Monaural headsets or single earbuds can also be used, though care must be taken with wiring, especially when using a 3-conductor plug to avoid shorting the right channel when using a 2-conductor plug. Mode 4 in the Headphone Output – Audio Sources and Routing settings should be selected in such cases.
Ethernet Connection
A 100BASE-TX Ethernet connection is required for Dante audio-over-Ethernet functionality. 10BASE-T is insufficient, and while 1000BASE-T (GigE) is supported, it must be able to fall back to 100BASE-TX. A PoE-enabled Ethernet connection is recommended for combined data and power. If PoE is unavailable, an external 12 volts DC power source can be used.
Dante Configuration
Proper audio routing requires configuring several Dante-related parameters, stored in the unit's non-volatile memory. Configuration is typically performed using the free Dante Controller software application, available for Windows and macOS. The Model 216A uses Audinate's Ultimo integrated circuit for Dante connectivity and supports AES67 and Dante Domain Manager (DDM).
Audio Routing
Dante transmitter (output) channels must be subscribed to desired Dante receiver (input) channels on associated equipment. This is managed through Dante Controller, where a "subscription" routes transmitter flows to receiver flows. The unit provides four Dante transmitter channels (Main, Talkback 1, Talkback 2, Talkback 3) and four Dante receiver channels (Headphone Ch1-Ch4). Channel names can be customized.
Device Configuration
The Model 216A supports sample rates of 44.1 and 48 kHz. Digital audio is in PCM format, with encoding options including PCM 16, 24, and 32 (PCM 24 is the default). Clocking and device latency parameters can be adjusted if necessary.
Network Configuration – Address
By default, the unit obtains its IP address via DHCP or link-local protocols. A static IP configuration can be set using Dante Controller, though this requires manual marking of the unit's IP address. If an IP address is lost, the Address Resolution Protocol (ARP) command can help identify it.
AES67 Configuration – AES67 Mode
AES67 operation can be enabled or disabled via Dante Controller. By default, AES67 mode is disabled.
Model 216A Clocking Source
The Model 216A typically receives its timing reference from another device on the Dante network, rather than acting as the Leader clock.
Model 216A Configuration
Configuration is performed using the STcontroller software application, available for download from studio-tech.com. No physical switch settings are required. Configuration changes are applied immediately, indicated by a distinctive flash pattern of the front panel LEDs. STcontroller must be installed on a personal computer connected to the same local area network (LAN) as the Model 216A unit to be configured.
Installing STcontroller
Download STcontroller from the Studio Technologies website. Ensure the configuring PC is on the same LAN and subnet as the Model 216A. The application will automatically detect Studio Technologies devices. The "Identify" command can be used to locate a specific unit, causing its front panel LEDs to flash.
Menu Page
The STcontroller menu provides access to various settings:
- Microphone Input: P48 Phantom Power (On/Off), Gain (19 dB to 64 dB in 3-dB steps). The goal for gain is to reach the Dante reference level of -20 dBFS.
- Headphone Output: Audio Sources and Routing (5 modes), Sidetone configuration, Gain Range (High/Low), Minimum Level (-40 dB or Full Mute).
- Button Operation: Main button (5 modes: Push to Mute, Push to Talk, Latching, Push to Talk/Tap to Latch, Push to Mute/Tap to Latch), Talkback buttons (3 modes each: Push to Talk, Latching, Push to Talk/Tap to Latch).
- System: Operating Mode (On-Air, Production, Production with Dim, Production with Tone, Production with Dim and Tone), Button Backlight Intensity (High/Low), Relay Output 1 & 2 (configurable).
Operation
After making necessary connections (microphone, headphones, Ethernet, power), revising pushbutton labels, configuring settings via STcontroller, and routing Dante channels using Dante Controller, normal operation of the Model 216A can commence.
Initial Operation
Upon power connection, the unit performs a brief LED test sequence. The LINK/ACT, SYS, and SYNC LEDs indicate Ethernet and Dante interface status. The SYS LED turns green when the Dante interface is ready, and the SYNC LED indicates synchronization with the Dante network. The unit then enters normal operation, presenting the user with its controls.
Ethernet, PoE, and Dante Status LEDs
Four LEDs on the back panel provide status information: LINK/ACT (Ethernet connection), PoE (power source), SYS (Dante interface ready), and SYNC (Dante network synchronization). The SYNC LED can be solid green (synchronized), red (not synchronized), or slowly flashing green (acting as Leader clock).
How to Identify a Specific Model 216A
The Dante Controller software's "Identify" command can be used to locate a specific unit. When activated, the unit's button backlight LEDs will flash, and the SYS and SYNC LEDs will slowly flash green.
Signal Present/Peak LED
A dual-color LED near the microphone input monitors preamplifier output levels: green for -40 dBFS or greater, orange for -14 dBFS or greater, and red for -4 dBFS or greater. Constant red indicates potential digital clipping, requiring gain reduction. Occasional orange is normal for peaks.
P48 Phantom Power LED
A red LED adjacent to the microphone input lights when P48 phantom power is active.
Pushbutton Switches and Status LEDs
Four pushbuttons control audio signals. Five LEDs indicate status. Pushbutton backlighting (white LEDs) aids visibility in low light but does not indicate status.
Main Button and LED Indicators
The leftmost button (labeled COUGH) has two associated LEDs. A green LED indicates the microphone audio signal is connected to the Dante main transmitter channel (on-air/mic-active). In On-Air mode, a red LED indicates the main channel audio is muted. In production modes, the red LED is inactive, and the green LED indicates microphone audio presence.
Main Button Modes
The main button can operate in five modes: Push to Mute, Push to Talk, Latching, Push to Talk/Tap to Latch, and Push to Mute/Tap to Latch, each offering distinct control behavior.
Main Output vis-à-vis Talkback Activity
In On-Air mode, talkback activity always mutes the main output channel. In production modes, talkback activity does not affect the main output.
Talkback Buttons and LED Indicators
The three TALKBACK buttons control their respective Dante talkback transmitter channels. A green LED above each indicates microphone audio is connected to that channel. In On-Air mode, talkback activity mutes the main output. In production modes, talkback buttons do not affect the main output.
Talkback Button Modes
Each talkback button can be configured in three modes: Push to Talk, Latching, and Push to Talk/Tap to Latch.
Technical Notes
IP Address Assignment
The Model 216A obtains an IP address via DHCP or link-local protocol by default. Static IP configuration is possible through Dante Controller. If an IP address is lost, the ARP command can help identify it.
Optimizing Network Performance
For optimal Dante audio-over-Ethernet performance, a network supporting VoIP QoS is recommended. Details can be found on the Audinate website.
Travel Case
The Pelican Model 1450 case is recommended for portable applications, capable of holding the unit and a power supply.
Additional Connectors Locations
Two spare connector locations (labeled A and B) on the back panel allow for customization with optional XLR connectors or other modules. These locations are compatible with Neutrik DL-series connectors.
3-Position Headers
Internal 3-position headers provide access for interconnection with the unit's printed-circuit-board-mounted connectors. An interface cable kit (part number 31087) is available from Studio Technologies.
Contact Closure Input Connections
Two 3-position headers provide access for external switches or contact closures to control microphone audio signal status. These inputs are "active low.".
Relay Contacts
Two normally open (form-A) solid-state relay contacts are provided for specialized applications, configurable via STcontroller. They can be used for functions like keying wireless transmitters or activating "on-air" lights. Access requires disassembly of the unit.
Pushbutton Backlighting
White LEDs provide backlighting for the pushbutton switches to improve visibility in low-light conditions. This backlighting is not a tally function.
Application Firmware Update Procedure
Application firmware can be updated using a USB flash drive. The file, named M216AvXrXX.stm, must be placed in the root directory of a FAT32 formatted drive. The update process involves powering off the unit, inserting the drive, powering on, and allowing the firmware to load. The LED below the USB receptacle flashes green during the process.
Ultimo Firmware Update
Dante firmware residing in the Ultimo integrated circuit can be updated via the unit's Ethernet port using the Dante Updater application, available from Audinate. The latest firmware file may also be found on the Studio Technologies website.
Restoring Factory Defaults
Configuration settings can be reset to factory defaults via the STcontroller application by selecting the "Factory Defaults" feature under the "Device" tab.
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Power Sources | Power-over-Ethernet (PoE): class 2 (low power, ≤6.49 watts) per IEEE 802.3af DC Input: 10 to 18 volts DC, 290 mA maximum at 12 volts DC (optional PS-DC-02) |
| Network Audio Technology | Type: Dante audio-over-Ethernet AES67-2018 Support: yes, on/off selectable Dante Domain Manager (DDM) Support: yes Bit Depth: up to 24 Sample Rates: 44.1 or 48 kHz Pull Up/Down Support: none |
| Dante Transmitter (Output) Channels | 4 (Main, Talkback 1, Talkback 2, Talkback 3) |
| Dante Receiver (Input) Channels | 4 |
| Dante Audio Flows | 4; 2 transmitter, 2 receiver |
| Analog to Dante Equivalent | Analog input signal at -36 dBu with 40 dB mic preamplifier gain results in -20 dBFS Dante transmitter output. |
| Network Interface | Type: 100BASE-TX, Fast Ethernet per IEEE® 802.3u (10BASE-T and 1000BASE-T (GigE) not supported) Data Rate: 100 Mb/s (10 Mb/s and 1000 Mb/s Ethernet not supported) |
| Microphone Input | Compatibility: dynamic or phantom-powered microphones Type: balanced, capacitive coupled Impedance: 3.7 k ohms, nominal CMRR: >76 dB, 20 Hz to 20 kHz, 40 dB mic preamplifier gain Gain Range: 19 to 64 dB, adjustable in 3-dB steps Frequency Response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz, +0/−1 dB, mic input to Dante output Distortion (THD+N): 0.004%, measured at 1 kHz, -36 dBu mic input, 40 dB mic preamplifier gain Dynamic Range: >109 dB, 40 dB mic preamplifier gain, A-weighted EIN: -123 dBu, 22 kHz bandwidth, 64 dB mic preamplifier gain, 150 ohms source resistance Phantom Power: P48 per IEC 61938 P48 standard, on/off selectable, 45 volts DC nominal |
| Headphone Output | Type: 2-channel Compatibility: stereo (dual-channel) or monaural (single-channel) headphones, headsets, or earpieces (50 ohms or greater nominal impedance) Maximum Output Voltage: 3.0 Vrms, 1 kHz, 150 ohm load Frequency Response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz, ±1 dB Distortion (THD+N): <0.025%, measured at 1 kHz, 0 dBu output Dynamic Range: >109 dB, A-weighted |
| Tone | Use: supports TOX IFB function (e.g., with Model 5422A) Type: sine wave Frequency: 18 kHz ± 0.1 Hz Level: -20 dBFS Distortion: <0.01% THD+N |
| Remote Control Inputs | 4; mimic main and talkback button functions; active low, 1 mA max, 3.3V pull-up resistors. |
| Relay Contacts | 2; configurable (follow main/talkback status); form A (normally open), solid-state; Rating: 100 mA, 60 V AC/DC max; Contact Resistance: 16 ohms max. |
| Connectors | Microphone Input: 3-pin female XLR Headphone Output: 1¼-inch 3-conductor jack Ethernet: Neutrik NE8FBH etherCON RJ45 receptacle DC Input: 4-pin male XLR (pin 1 negative, pin 4 positive) USB: type A receptacle (firmware updates only) |
| Spare Connector Locations | 2; for optional modules or Neutrik NC*D-L-1 connectors. |
| Configuration | Requires Studio Technologies' STcontroller software application. |
| Software Updating | USB flash drive for application firmware; Dante Updater for Dante interface firmware. |
| Environmental | Operating Temperature: 0 to 50 °C (32 to 122 °F) Storage Temperature: -30 to 70 °C (-22 to 158 °F) Humidity: 25 to 85%, non-condensing |
| Dimensions (Overall) | 5.6 inches wide (14.2 cm) 3.3 inches high (8.4 cm) 8.5 inches deep (21.6 cm) |
| Deployment | Intended for tabletop applications. |
| Weight | 2.7 pounds (1.2 kg) |
Specifications and information are subject to change without notice.
Appendix A: STcontroller Default Configuration Values
- Microphone Input – P48 Phantom: Off (box not checked)
- Microphone Input – Gain: 19 dB
- Headphone Output – Audio Sources and Routing: Mode 1
- Headphone Output – Sidetone: Main and Talkback Buttons
- Headphone Output – Gain Range: Low
- Headphone Output – Minimum Level: –40 dB
- Button Operation – Main: Push to Mute
- Button Operation – Talkback 1: Push to Talk
- Button Operation – Talkback 2: Push to Talk
- Button Operation – Talkback 3: Push to Talk
- System – Operating Mode: On Air
- System – Button Backlight Intensity: Low
- System – Relay Output 1: Off
- System – Relay Output 2: Off
Appendix B: 3-Pin Header Connector Details
The following list provides details on the 3-pin header connectors located on the Model 216A's printed circuit board.
P2: Microphone Input
- Pin 1: Common
- Pin 2: High (+)
- Pin 3: Low (-)
P5: Headphone Output
- Pin 1: Common
- Pin 2: Left Channel (Tip)
- Pin 3: Right Channel (Ring)
P6: DC Output
- Pin 1: Common
- Pin 2: 10-18 volts DC Out
- Pin 3: Not Used
P7: Relay Contact 1
- Pin 1: Common
- Pin 2: Normally Open
- Pin 3: Normally Open
- Note: Pin 2 connects (closes or shorts) to Pin 3 when the configured function or functions active.
P8: Relay Contact 2
- Pin 1: Common
- Pin 2: Normally Open
- Pin 3: Normally Open
- Note: Pin 2 connects (closes or shorts) to Pin 3 when the configured function or functions active.
P10: Contact Closure Inputs – Main and Talkback 1
- Pin 1: Common
- Pin 2: Main Pushbutton Switch
- Pin 3: Talkback 1 Pushbutton Switch
P11: Contact Closure Inputs – Talkback 2 and Talkback 3
- Pin 1: Common
- Pin 2: Talkback 2 Pushbutton Switch
- Pin 3: Talkback 3 Pushbutton Switch
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