REDNET A16R MkII User Guide
Analogue I/O MKII
Focusrite
v1.0
About this User Guide
This User Guide applies to the RedNet A16R MkII analogue interface. It provides information about installing and using the unit and how it can be connected into your system. Should this User Guide not provide the information you need, then please consult: https://pro.focusrite.com/technical-support, which contains a comprehensive collection of common technical support queries.
Dante™ and Audinate™ are registered trademarks of Audinate Pty Ltd.
Box Contents
- RedNet A16R MkII unit
- 2 x IEC AC mains cables
- Safety information cut sheet
- Focusrite Pro Important Information Guide, which provides 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
Safety Warning
⚠️ Warning – Shock Hazard
RedNet A16R MkII incorporates dual mains power supplies. Always ensure that both power supply cables are disconnected from the rear panel before opening unit (eg., for servicing)
INTRODUCTION
Thank you for purchasing the Focusrite RedNet A16R MkII.
RedNet A16R MkII is a 1U 19in rack-mount interface featuring 16 channels of A-D & D-A plus one AES3 channel-pair, for the Dante audio-over-IP network. The operating level is switchable between 18 dBu and 24 dBu, and Mute/Dim and Level controls are provided on each input and output channel. Specifically tailored for the road, live-sound and broadcast environments, each unit features network and power redundancy, rugged construction with latching connectors, remote control and remote monitoring.
Dual Ethernet connectors (primary and secondary) on the rear-panel allow maximum network reliability with seamless switchover to a secondary network in the unlikely event of a network failure. These ports may alternatively be used to daisy-chain additional units when operating 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 source. Each PSU's status can be monitored remotely over the network or from the front panel.
RedNet A16R MkII has a Sample Rate Convertor (SRC) on the AES3 input pair allowing instant operation with any AES3 source irrespective of the sample rate or clocking of the Dante network.
Audio interface is provided by four standard 8-channel (AES59) Combined Analogue I/O DB25 connections. In addition, channels 17-18* act as the AES3 channels.
*When operating at quad sample rates the inputs to channels 17-18 will not be available. The user can then select either: 1-16 analogue or 1-14 analogue and 15-16 AES3.
Word Clock I/O on BNC connectors allows synchronisation of the Dante network to house clock, or the syncing of external equipment to the Dante network. DARS reference can also be accepted via the XLR-3 input connector.
The RedNet A16R MkII front panel contains a set of LEDs to confirm PSU status, network status, sample rate, clock sources and signal presence on both input and output.
INSTALLATION GUIDE
RedNet A16R MkII Connections and Features
Front Panel
The front panel features several indicators and controls:
- 1 AC Power Switch: The main power switch for the unit.
- 2 Power Indicators: Two LEDs (PSU A, PSU B) illuminate when an AC input is applied and DC outputs are present. PSU A is the default supply when both are functioning.
- 3 RedNet Network Status Indicators:
- PRIMARY: Illuminates when connected to an active Ethernet network. Also indicates network activity in Switched mode.
- SECONDARY: Illuminates when connected to an active Ethernet network. Not used in Switched mode.
- LOCKED: Illuminates when a valid sync signal is received or the unit is the Network Master. Flashes if external clock is selected but not connected.
- 4 RedNet Sample Rate Indicators: Five orange LEDs indicate sample rates (44.1 kHz, 48 kHz, x2, x4) and Pull Up/Down status.
- 5 Signal Level Indicators: Tri-colour LEDs for INPUTS and OUTPUTS. Green indicates signal present (at -42 dBFS), Orange indicates -6 dBFS, and Red indicates 0 dBFS. A table details LED 15/16 behavior at quad sample rates for Analogue and AES3 modes.
- 6 AES3 Signal Presence Indicators: Green LEDs indicate AES3 IN and OUT signals, illuminating at -126 dBFS. These are off if Analogue mode is selected at quad sample rates.
- 7 Clock Source: Three orange indicators for Internal, Word Clock (BNC input), and DARS (XLR-3 input). The 'Locked' indicator flashes if the source is invalid and the unit reverts to internal clock. No indicators are lit when operating as a Dante Slave.
Rear Panel
The rear panel provides all physical connections:
- 1 IEC Mains Inlet A: Standard IEC receptacle for AC mains connection (100-240 V).
- 2 IEC Mains Inlet B: Input connector for backup mains power source. It takes over if PSU A fails. Recommended for use with an uninterruptible power supply (UPS).
- 3 Primary Network Port: RJ45 etherCON connector for the Dante network, supporting Cat 5e or Cat 6 cables. Adjacent LEDs indicate network connection and activity.
- 4 Secondary Network Port: A second Dante network connection for redundancy (Redundant mode) or daisy-chaining (Switched mode).
- 5 Word Clock Out: Provides an output of the chosen system clock reference.
- 6 Word Clock In: Allows synchronization of the Dante network to house word clock.
- 7 AES3 Out: Permanent AES3 output for audio channel pair 17-18. Duplicates channels 15-16 at quad sample rate.
- 8 AES3 In: AES3 source for channels 17-18. Can also function as a clock source (AES3 or DARS). Software selectable.
- 9 DB25 Analogue Connectors: Four DB25 female connectors providing 16 channels of analogue I/O, wired to the AES59 analogue standard (also known as the Tascam standard).
Physical Characteristics and Power Requirements
Physical Characteristics
The RedNet A16R MkII has the following dimensions: 308 mm / 12.13" (depth), 465.0 mm / 18.3" (width), 31.8 mm / 1.25" (height). It requires 1U of vertical rack space, with an additional 75mm of rack depth recommended for cables. The unit weighs 4.75 kg. Front-panel rack mountings are provided for fixed installations, while side support rails or shelves are recommended for mobile use. Cooling is managed by low-speed, low-noise fans providing side-to-side airflow. The maximum operating environmental temperature is 45°C / 113°F. Ventilation occurs via slots on both sides; ensure these are not obstructed and avoid mounting the unit directly above heat-generating equipment.
Power Requirements
The RedNet A16R MkII is mains-powered and features universal power supplies (100-240 V AC) connected via standard 3-pin IEC connectors. When both PSU A and PSU B are connected, PSU A serves as the default supply. Connecting a backup mains supply from an uninterruptible source to inlet B is recommended. Mating IEC cables are supplied with the unit. The AC power consumption is 41 W. There are no user-replaceable fuses or components; refer all servicing issues to the Customer Support Team.
REDNET A16R MKII OPERATION
First Use and Firmware Updates
Upon initial installation and power-up, the RedNet A16R MkII may require a firmware update, handled automatically by the RedNet Control application. Firmware updates are released with new versions of RedNet Control; it is recommended to keep all RedNet units updated. It is crucial not to interrupt the firmware update procedure by switching off power or disconnecting the unit or computer from the network.
Digital Clocking
Each RedNet A16R MkII 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 by the user. Refer to the 'Clock Source' section on page 6 for more details.
Pull Up and Pull Down Operation
The RedNet A16R MkII supports operation at specified pull up or pull down percentages, configurable via the Dante Controller application.
Sample Rate Converters
The Sample Rate Converter (SRC) must be engaged if the AES3 source is not synchronized to the current system clock. Engaging the SRC will increase the device's overall latency.
Level Controls
All analogue and digital I/O channels can be individually attenuated by up to 78 dB in 1 dB steps using the RedNet Control graphical interface. Each channel also features Mute and Dim functions; the Dim function attenuates a channel by 20 dB.
Operating Level
The analogue I/O operating level can be set globally to either 18 dBu or 24 dBu at 0 DBFS via the RedNet Control 'Tools' menu (see page 13).
OTHER REDNET SYSTEM COMPONENTS
The RedNet hardware range includes various I/O interfaces and PCIe/PCIeR digital audio interface cards. These units are typically mains-powered, 19" rackmount devices. Complementary software includes RedNet Control, Dante Controller, and Dante Virtual Soundcard.
REDNET CONTROL 2
RedNet Control 2 is Focusrite's customizable software application for controlling and configuring RedNet and Red range interfaces. It presents an interface for each hardware unit, displaying control levels, function settings, signal meters, and critical status indicators for power supplies, clock status, and network connections. The operator's manual for RedNet Control 2 is available at www.focusrite.com/downloads. Refer to the 'Device Control' section for detailed operation and setup.
The single-tab GUI for the RedNet A16R MkII unit displays Level control sliders, level meters, and Mute/Dim buttons for each of the 18 inputs and outputs. Status icons for PSUs and the network are shown on the left.
Status Icons
Status icons provide visual feedback:
- PSUs A & B: Illuminates if PSU has power input and all DC outputs are present.
- Networks: Illuminates if a valid connection is present.
- Locked: Indicates the unit is successfully locked to the network. Changes to a red cross if not locked.
- External Clock: Green indicates locked to external source; Yellow indicates locking; Red indicates attempting to identify network; Off indicates no network.
- Network Master: Illuminates if the unit is the network master.
ID (Identification)
Clicking the ID icon ? will identify the device being controlled by flashing its front panel LEDs.
Tools Menu
Clicking the Tools icon ⚙️ opens the System Settings window, displaying the unit's hardware and firmware details, along with current device settings.
Line Level Setup
Sets the analogue line output level at 0 dBFS to either +18 dBu or +24 dBu (factory default).
Inputs 15 & 16 from XLR (Quad Rates)
This option, when selected, replaces analogue channels 15 and 16 with the AES3 channel pair. This is only functional when the unit is operating at a quad sample rate.
Preferred Master
An On/Off state setting for the unit's preference as a network master.
Clock Source
Only one clock source can be selected at a time:
- Internal (RedNet is network master but running from internal clock) - Factory default setting
- External - Word Clock
- External - XLR-3 Input (DARS or Audio)
Note: Selecting any clock source makes the RedNet A16R MkII a preferred master.
Word Clock Input Termination
A tick option to enable/disable termination of the word clock input BNC with 75Ω.
Word Clock Output
One option can be selected: Network, or Network (Base Rate).
AES3 Input Sample Rate Converter
An On/Off state applicable to channels 17 & 18.
AES70
An On/Off state setting.
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 |
DB25 (AES59) Connector
Connector type: DB25 receptacle. Applies to: Analogue I/O.
| Pin | Signal |
|---|---|
| 1 | Channel 8 + |
| 14 | Channel 8 - |
| 2 | Ground |
| 15 | Channel 7 + |
| 3 | Channel 7 - |
| 16 | Ground |
| 4 | Channel 6 + |
| 17 | Channel 6 - |
| 5 | Ground |
| 18 | Channel 5 + |
| 6 | Channel 5 - |
| 19 | Ground |
| 7 | Channel 4 + |
| 20 | Channel 4 - |
| 8 | Ground |
| 21 | Channel 3 + |
| 9 | Channel 3 - |
| 22 | Ground |
| 10 | Channel 2 + |
| 23 | Channel 2 - |
| 11 | Ground |
| 24 | Channel 1 + |
| 12 | Channel 1 - |
| 25 | Ground |
| 13 | n/c |
Screw binding-posts use the standard UNC 4/40 thread.
XLR Connectors
Connector type: XLR-3 receptacle. Applies to: AES3, DARS Inputs.
Connector type: XLR-3 plug. Applies to: AES3 Outputs.
| Pin | Signal |
|---|---|
| 1 | Screen |
| 2 | Hot (+ve) |
| 3 | Cold (-ve) |
PERFORMANCE AND SPECIFICATIONS
Line Inputs
All measurements taken at +24 dBu reference level, Rs = 50 Ω.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| 0 dBFS Reference Level | +18 or +24 dBu (switchable) |
| Level trim range | Mute, then -78 dB to 0 dB in 1 dB steps (per channel) |
| Frequency Response | 20 Hz – 20 kHz ± 0.1 dB |
| THD + N | <-105 dB (0.00056%) unweighted, 20 Hz – 20 kHz; -1 dBFS input |
| EIN | -95 dBu 'A'-Weighted (typical) |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | 119 dB 'A'-Weighted (typical) |
| Convertor Dynamic Range | 120 dB 'A'-Weighted (typical), 10 Hz – 20 kHz |
Line Outputs
All measurements taken at +24 dBu reference level, RL = 100 kΩ.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| 0 dBFS Reference Level | +24 or +18 dBu switchable |
| Level trim range | Mute, then -78 dB to 0 dB in 1 dB steps (per channel) |
| Frequency Response | 20 Hz – 20 kHz ± 0.1 dB |
| THD + N | <-100 dB (0.001%) unweighted, 20 Hz – 20 kHz, +23 dBu input |
| Noise in Presence of Signal | -94 dBu 'A'-Weighted (typical) |
| Dynamic Range | 118 dB 'A'-Weighted (typical) |
| Convertor Dynamic Range | 120 dB 'A'-Weighted (typical), 10 Hz – 20 kHz |
Crosstalk
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Input to Output or Input | <-100 dB unweighted, 20 Hz – 20 kHz; +23 dBu input |
| Output or Input to Output | <-100 dB unweighted, 20 Hz – 20 kHz; -1 dBFS input |
Input Sample Rate Converters
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Sample Rate Range | 32 to 216 kHz |
| Gain Error | -0.3 dB |
| Dynamic Range | > 138 dB |
| THD+N | <-130 dB (0.00003%) |
| Latency | 11 to 45 samples (network and input sample rate dependent) |
Digital Performance
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| 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, Word Clock, DARS or from Dante Network Master |
| External Word Clock Range | Nominal sample rate ±7.5% |
Rear Panel Connectivity
| Connection Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Analogue Audio | Channel Count: 16 channels input and output. Input and Output: 4 x DB25 female connectors (AES59 / Tascam Analogue). |
| AES3 | Channel Count: 2 channels input and output. Alternate Input (optional DARS): 1 x XLR-3 female [Switchable with analogue input channels 15 and 16 at quad rates]. Alternate Output: 1 x XLR-3 male [Duplicate of analogue output channels 15 and 16 at quad rates]. |
| Word Clock | Input: 1 x BNC 75 Ω port (switchable termination). Output: 1 x BNC 75 Ω port. |
| PSU & Network | PSU: 2 x IEC Inputs with retaining clips. Network: 2 x etherCON NE8FBH, also compatible with standard RJ45 connectors (Accommodates rugged etherCON NE8MC* – Does not mate with Cat 6 cable connector NE8MC6-MO and NKE65* cable). |
Front Panel Indicators
| Indicator | Description |
|---|---|
| Primary PSU (A) | Green LED. Illuminates when an AC input is applied and all DC outputs are present. |
| Secondary PSU (B) | Green LED. Illuminates when an AC input is applied and all DC outputs are present. |
| Primary Network | Green LED. Indicates a network connection on the primary port in redundant mode. In Switched mode, a valid connection at either port illuminates this LED. |
| Secondary Network | Green LED. Indicates a network connection on the secondary port in redundant mode. Not used in switched mode. |
| Network Locked | Green LED. Shows valid network lock when unit is a network slave. When network master, shows unit is locked to the indicated clock source. |
| Sample Rate | Orange LED for each: 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz, x2, x4. |
| Pull Up/Down | Orange LED. Indicates unit is set to operate on a Dante pull up/down domain. |
| Channel Signal Level | 16 Input and 16 Output tri-state signal level LEDs: green (>-42dB), orange (>-6dB), red (0 dB). |
| AES3 | Green LEDs: input & output signal present indicators. Illuminate at >-127 dBFS. |
| Clock Source | Orange LED for each: Internal, Word Clock, DARS. |
Network Modes
| Mode | Description |
|---|---|
| Redundant | Allows unit to connect to two independent networks. |
| Switched | Connects both ports to an integrated network switch, allowing daisy-chaining of devices. |
Dimensions
| Dimension | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Height | 43.5 mm / 1.71" (1RU) |
| Width | 482 mm / 18.98" |
| Depth | 352 mm / 12.80" |
Weight
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Weight | 5.0 kg / 11.1 lbs |
Power
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| PSUs | 2 x Internal, 100-240 V, 50/60 Hz, consumption 30 W |
| Environmental | Maximum ambient operating temperature 50°C. Cooling by two-stage fan assistance. |
Focusrite Pro Warranty and Service
Focusrite products are built to high standards for reliable performance. For warranty issues, contact Focusrite support first to avoid unnecessary returns. Manufacturing defects identified within 12 months of purchase will be repaired or replaced free of charge. A manufacturing defect is defined by product performance as described by Focusrite and does not include damage from transportation, handling, or misuse. Warranty obligations are fulfilled by the distributor in your country. For warranty issues or out-of-warranty repairs, visit www.focusrite.com/distributors. Proof of purchase is required. Purchasing outside your country of residence may limit warranty claims. This warranty is in addition to 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 Focusrite Pro Customer Support team:
- Email: proaudiosupport@focusrite.com
- Phone (UK): +44 (0)1494 836384
- Phone (USA): +1 (310) 450-8494
Troubleshooting
For troubleshooting, visit the Focusrite Support Help Centre at: https://pro.focusrite.com/help-centre
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