Focusrite RedNet MP8R User Guide

Model: FFFA001146-06

About this User Guide

This User Guide applies exclusively to the RedNet MP8R Mic Preamplifier. It provides essential information for installing and connecting the RedNet MP8R into your audio system. For a comprehensive understanding of the RedNet system concept and its capabilities, a separate RedNet System User Guide is available on the Focusrite website. It is recommended that all users, regardless of their experience with digital audio networking, review the System User Guide. For further assistance or information not covered in either guide, please visit www.focusrite.com/rednet, which hosts a collection of frequently asked technical support questions.

Box Contents

RedNet MP8R unit
2 x IEC AC mains cables
2 x IEC mains cable retaining clips (See instructions on page 9)
Safety information cut sheet
RedNet Getting Started Guide
Product registration card, providing links to: RedNet Control, RedNet PCIe drivers (included with RedNet Control download), Audinate Dante Controller (installed with RedNet Control), Dante Virtual Soundcard (DVS) Token and download instructions.

Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the Focusrite RedNet MP8R. The RedNet MP8R is an 8-channel remote-controlled microphone preamplifier and A/D converter designed for the Dante audio-over-IP network. It is specifically engineered for road, live-sound, and broadcast environments, featuring network and power redundancy, rugged construction with latching connectors, and extensive remote control and monitoring capabilities. Each channel includes a gain-compensated split output for flexible signal routing.

The unit offers eight remote-controlled Focusrite mic preamps with precision A/D conversion up to 192kHz/24-bit with minimal latency. Dual Ethernet connectors (primary and secondary) on the rear panel ensure network reliability through seamless switchover to a standby network if the primary fails. These ports can also be used for daisy-chaining additional units in Switched mode.

Redundant power supplies (PSU A and B) with separate input sockets on the rear panel allow one supply to be connected to an uninterruptible power source. The status of each PSU can be monitored remotely via the network or from the front panel. Audio input is handled via locking XLR3F connectors on the rear panel. A rotary gain control with an OLED level display indicates gain settings and system information. Each channel is equipped with a Select button and a 6-segment level meter. Individual buttons on the front panel allow selection of input impedance, engagement of a 20dB Pad, activation of 48V phantom power, high-pass filter, and polarity inversion.

Channels can be remotely controlled via the RedNet Control software package, Pro Tools, MIDI, or OCA (Open Control Architecture) with future firmware updates. The RedNet MP8R front panel features LEDs to confirm network status, sample rate, clock sources, and each mic amp's input and gain settings.

Gain Compensated Split Outputs

The RedNet MP8R provides two outputs per mic channel: one direct output and a second, automatically gain-compensated output designed to deliver a constant signal level. This feature allows one engineer (e.g., FOH) to control the analogue mic gain without affecting the signal level received by a second engineer over the network.

Gain Compensation Block Diagram Description: This diagram illustrates the signal flow for gain compensation. Audio input from the mic preamp passes through an A-D converter. The digital signal is then split into two paths. The first path is sent directly to the Dante transmitter. The second path goes through a Digital Signal Processor (DSP) amplifier that automatically adjusts the gain to maintain a constant level, compensating for any changes made to the analogue gain. This compensated signal is also sent to the Dante transmitter. The unit appears as 16 channels on the Dante network: channels 1-8 are direct outputs, and channels 9-16 are gain-compensated outputs. Individual channels can have gain compensation enabled, and a global offset can be applied to channels 9-16 for headroom allowance.

Headroom Allowance

If an analogue mic level is reduced by 3dB during a performance, the DSP gain for the corresponding 'split' channel will increase by 3dB to maintain its overall signal level. However, this action moves the DSP section 3dB closer to its clipping point. To minimize the likelihood of the DSP reaching its clipping point, an offset can be applied to provide reserve headroom. The default headroom offset setting is -6dB, but users can select 0dB or -3dB via the Tools menu in RedNet Control. This setting applies to all channels 9-16. The global range of gain compensation is currently limited to tracking ±12dB from the point at which it was enabled.

Installation Guide

RedNet MP8R Connections and Features

Front Panel

1. AC Power Switch: [Power ON/OFF] switch.

2. Power Indicators:

PSU A: Illuminates when an AC input is applied and all DC outputs are present.
PSU B: Illuminates when an AC input is applied and all DC outputs are present.

When both supplies are functioning and have AC inputs, PSU A is the default supply.

3. RedNet Network Status Indicators:

PRIMARY: Illuminates when the device is connected to an active Ethernet network. Also indicates network activity in switched mode.
SECONDARY: Illuminates when the device is connected to an active Ethernet network. Not used in Switched mode.
LOCKED: Illuminates when a valid sync signal is received from the network, or when the RedNet MP8R unit is Network Master.

4. RedNet Sample Rate Indicators: Five orange indicators: 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz, x2 (multiple of 44.1 or 48), x4 (multiple of 44.1 or 48), and sample rate PULL UP/DOWN. These indicators illuminate individually or in combination to show the sample rate. For example, a 96kHz Pull Up/Down setting will illuminate the 48kHz, x2, and Pull Up/Down indicators.

5. Channel Select Switches and Signal Level LEDs: A Select switch and six signal-level LEDs for each of the eight channels. Pressing a switch selects the channel for control, and the OLED display shows its current gain setting. Signal level LEDs illuminate at: -30dB, -18dB, -12dB (green); -6dB, -3dB (orange); and 0dB/onset of clipping (red). The Select switches can also activate front panel control lockout (see page 11).

6. OLED Display: Shows the selected channel's network name, gain value, and indicates if Control Lockout or Gain Compensation is active. It also displays local and network configuration settings in INFO mode.

7. Local Control Buttons:

INFO: Press to show device and network information on the OLED display (button flashes orange when Info mode is engaged). Cycles through: Unit IP addresses (primary/secondary), Unit MAC addresses (primary/secondary), Firmware Version, Device name.
+48V: Switches phantom power on for the selected channel.
2.4 k: Selects low input impedance for the selected channel.
[High-Pass Filter]: Switches on the high-pass filter for the selected channel.
-20 dB: Switches the input pad in for the selected channel.
[Polarity Invert]: Inverts the polarity of the signal on the selected channel.

8. Encoder: The detented encoder controls the gain for the selected mic channel.

Note: When renaming a device, use `--` to separate lines on the OLED display, e.g., `mp8r--b-vox-1`.

Rear Panel

1. IEC Mains Inlet A: Standard IEC receptacle for AC mains connection (100-240V AC). Requires plug retaining clips for initial use (see page 9). Features 'Universal' PSUs.

2. IEC Mains Inlet B: Input connector for backup mains power. PSU B remains on standby and takes over if PSU A fails or loses mains input. Recommended for connection to an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS).

3. Primary Network Port: Latching etherCON connector for the Dante network. Connects to a local Ethernet switch using Cat 5e or Cat 6 cable. Adjacent LEDs indicate valid network connection and activity.

4. Secondary Network Port: Secondary Dante network connection for redundant Ethernet links (Redundant mode) or as an additional port on an integrated network switch (Switched mode).

5. Microphone Inputs: Eight latching XLR3F connectors for mic/line input.

Power Connection

The RedNet MP8R is supplied with two IEC power cord retaining clips to prevent accidental disconnection. These clips must be attached to the power input sockets on the rear panel during initial installation. The process involves squeezing the clip's legs, aligning its pins with the IEC fixing posts, and releasing. Ensure the correct orientation of the clips as shown in the diagrams for effective operation.

Diagram Description: Diagrams show how to attach IEC power cord retaining clips. The clips have legs that need to be squeezed together to insert them into the IEC power socket's fixing posts. The diagrams emphasize correct orientation for the clips to function properly and prevent accidental disconnection of the power cord.

Physical Characteristics

Dimensions: 44.5mm (H) x 482.6mm (W) x 394mm (D) (1U rack height). Requires at least 440mm of rack depth for cables.

Weight: 5.75 kg.

For fixed installations, front-panel mounting screws provide adequate support. For mobile situations (e.g., flight-cased for touring), side support rails or shelves are recommended.

Cooling is provided by a low-noise, side-to-side fan, which can be turned off via RedNet Control for silent recording areas. The ambient operating temperature is 50 degrees Celsius. Avoid mounting the unit directly above heat-generating equipment (e.g., power amplifiers) and ensure side vents are not obstructed in rack installations.

Power Requirements

The RedNet MP8R is mains-powered and features 'Universal' power supplies operating on any AC mains voltage from 100V to 240V. AC connections are made via standard 3-pin IEC connectors on the rear panel. When both PSU A and PSU B are connected, PSU A is the default and draws more current. If using an uninterruptible power supply (UPS), it is recommended to connect it to input B.

Mating IEC cables are supplied. The AC power consumption is 30VA. There are no user-replaceable fuses or components; all servicing issues should be referred to the Customer Support Team.

RedNet MP8R Operation

First Use and Firmware Updates

Your RedNet MP8R may require a firmware update upon initial installation. Firmware updates are handled automatically by the RedNet Control application. It is crucial that the firmware update procedure is not interrupted by power loss to the unit or computer, or by network disconnection.

Focusrite releases firmware updates within new versions of RedNet Control. It is recommended to keep all RedNet units updated with the latest firmware.

Digital Clocking

Each MP8R automatically locks to a valid Network Master via its Dante connection. If no Network Master is present, the unit can be designated as the Network Master.

Pull Up and Pull Down Operation

The RedNet MP8R can operate at specified pull up or pull down percentages, selectable within the Dante Controller application.

Front Panel Control Lockout

To prevent accidental adjustments that could affect audio levels, the MP8R front panel can be locked. When locked, the gain encoder and channel function switches are inactive for all eight channels. Channel settings can still be viewed on the OLED display, and the INFO button remains operational.

To activate lockout: Press channel Select buttons 1, 3, 5 & 7 simultaneously.
To de-activate lockout: Press channel Select buttons 2, 4, 6 & 8 simultaneously.

The [Lock Icon] illuminates on the OLED display when lockout is active. Lockout can also be controlled via the Tools menu in RedNet Control.

Gain Compensated Outputs

To enable gain compensation for the corresponding 'split' output of any channel, press and hold the channel Select button until the [Gain Compensation Icon] illuminates on the OLED display. To disable, press and hold Select again until the [Lock Icon] is no longer visible.

Gain compensation can also be activated and de-activated for each channel via the device graphic in RedNet Control.

Other RedNet System Components

The RedNet hardware range includes various I/O interfaces and PCIe/PCIeR digital audio interface cards. All I/O units function as 'Break-Out' boxes to/from the network and are housed in mains-powered, 19" rackmount enclosures (unless otherwise stated). Key software components include RedNet Control, Dante Controller, and Dante Virtual Soundcard.

Using RedNet Control

RedNet Control software displays the status of RedNet units in the system via graphical representations. The RedNet MP8R device view shows signal level, gain, and input function settings for each channel. Use the 'Live' and 'Setup' buttons to change views.

Status indicators within RedNet Control include:

PSUs A & B: Illuminate if PSU has power input and all DC outputs are present.
Networks: Illuminate if a valid connection is present.
Locked: Unit is successfully locked to the network (changes to a red cross if not locked).
Network Master: Illuminated, indicating the unit is the network master.

Device View Controls:

Pad: Switches in the -20dB input pad for the selected channel.
2.4k: Selects low input impedance for the selected channel.
+48V: Switches the phantom power on for the selected channel.
[Polarity Invert]: Reverses the phase of the selected channel.
[High-Pass Filter]: Switches in the high-pass filter for the selected channel.
Gain Compensation: Turns on gain compensation. While engaged, on-board DSP counteracts analogue gain changes for the second set of network outputs (Channels 9-16).

ID (Identification)

Clicking the [ID Icon] will identify the physical device by flashing its front panel LEDs.

Tools Menu

Clicking the [Tools Icon] provides access to system settings:

Preferred Master: On/Off state.
MIDI Channel Select: Set the MIDI channel (1-16) to which the unit responds. Default is 'Off'. 16 channels are available, allowing up to 16 independent control paths. Two devices should not share the same MIDI channel. MIDI channel selection is saved with the computer, not the device. Refer to the MIDI Control User Guide for more information.
Yamaha ID: Set the Yamaha ID (Y000-Y00F) to which the unit responds. Refer to Yamaha CL/QL Series Console manuals for details.
Gain Compensation Headroom: Offset value for network channels 9-16. Options: 0dB, -3dB, -6dB.
Front Panel Lockout: On or Off. Disables front panel audio controls. Does not persist over a power cycle.
Fan: On or Off. For use in silent recording areas.

Appendix

Connector Pinouts

Ethernet Connector

Connector type: RJ-45 receptacle. Applies to: Ethernet (Dante).

Pin	Cat 6 Core
1	White + Orange
2	Orange
3	White + Green
4	Blue
5	White + Blue
6	Green
7	White + Brown
8	Brown

XLR Connectors

Connector type: XLR-3 receptacle. Applies to: Audio Input.

Pin	Signal
1	Screen
2	Hot (+ve)
3	Cold (-ve)

Performance and Specifications

Microphone Inputs

Gain Range: 10dB to 65dB in 1dB steps.
Type: Electronically Balanced, Zin = 2.4k/10k (Switchable); Inputs default to 2.4k when unpowered.
Maximum Input Level: 29dBu ±0.5; min gain with pad for 0dBFS, Rs = 150 Ω.
Minimum Input Level: -46dBu ±0.5; max gain without pad for 0dBFS, Rs = 150 Ω.
Frequency Response: 20Hz – 40kHz ±0.1dB.
THD + N: -98dB (0.0012%) @ -1dBFS, Rs = 150 Ω.
EIN: -129 dBu 'A'-Weighted (typical), Rs = 150 Ω.
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 118 dB 'A'-Weighted (typical), Rs = 150 Ω.
Phantom Power: +48V, independently switchable per channel.
Pad: -20dB, independently switchable per channel.
High-Pass Filter: -6dB @ 65Hz ±3Hz, 12dB/Octave, independently switchable per channel.

Crosstalk

Input to Input: <-100dB (20Hz-20KHz; minimum input gain).

Digital Performance

Supported Sample Rates: 44.1 / 48 / 88.2 / 96 / 176.4 / 192 kHz (-4% / -0.1% / +0.1% / +4.167%) at 24 bit.
Clock Sources: Internal or from Dante Network Master.

Rear Panel Connectivity

Inputs: 8 x female XLR-3.
PSU & Network: 2 x IEC male inputs with retaining clips; 2 x etherCON NE8FBH-S (compatible with standard RJ45 connectors; does not intermate with Cat 6 cable connector NE8MC6-MO and NKE65* cable).

Indicators

Primary PSU (A): Green LED. Illuminates when AC input is applied and all DC outputs are present.
Secondary PSU (B): Green LED. Illuminates when AC input is applied and all DC outputs are present.
Primary Network: Green LED. Indicates network connection on primary port (redundant mode) or either port (switched mode).
Secondary Network: Green LED. Indicates network connection on secondary port (redundant mode). Not used in switched mode.
Network Locked: Green LED. Shows valid network lock when unit is network slave, or lock to internal clock when unit is network master.
Sample Rate Pull Up/Down: Orange LEDs for 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz, x2, x4. Orange LED indicates unit is set to operate on a Dante pull up/down domain.
Channel Signal level: 6 level indicator LEDs per channel (3 green: -30dB, -18dB, -12dB; 2 orange: -6dB, -3dB; 1 red: 0dB/onset of clipping).

Front Panel Controls

Channel Select Buttons: 8 buttons.
Channel Function Controls: Info, Phantom Power (+48V), Pad (-20dB), Impedance (2.4k), HPF, Phase, Gain Encoder.
Channel Display: Colour OLED. Displays Channel Name, Gain, Lock status, Channel Number, Gain Compensation status.

Network Modes

Redundant: Allows unit to connect to two independent networks.
Switched: Connects both ports to an integrated network switch, allowing device daisy-chaining.

Dimensions

Height: 44.5mm / 1.75" (1RU).
Width: 482.6mm / 19".
Depth: 394mm / 15.51".

Weight

Weight: 5.75kg.

Power

PSU: 2 x Internal, 100-240V, 50/60Hz. Consumption 30VA.

Focusrite RedNet Warranty and Service

All Focusrite products are built to high standards and are expected to provide reliable performance. This warranty covers Manufacturing Defects for 12 months from the original purchase date, ensuring repair or replacement free of charge. A Manufacturing Defect is defined as a performance defect as described and published by Focusrite, and does not include damage from post-purchase handling, storage, transportation, or misuse.

Warranty obligations are fulfilled by the distributor responsible for the country of purchase. For warranty issues or out-of-warranty repairs, please visit www.focusrite.com/distributors. A copy of the original invoice or store receipt is required. Purchasing a product outside your country of residence may limit warranty coverage to out-of-warranty chargeable repairs.

This limited warranty applies only to products purchased from an Authorised Focusrite Reseller. It is in addition to your statutory rights.

Registering Your Product

For access to Dante Virtual Soundcard, please register your product at: www.focusrite.com/register

Customer Support and Unit Servicing

Contact the RedNet Customer Support team:

Email: focusriteprosupport@focusrite.com
Phone (UK): +44 (0)1494 836 384
Phone (USA): +1 (310) 450 8494

Troubleshooting

For troubleshooting assistance, please visit the Support Answerbase at: www.focusrite.com/answerbase

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