DD-RN42 - Audio Interface RDL - Free user manual and instructions

Product Type	Wall-Mounted Bi-Directional Mic/Line Dante Interface 4x2
Brand	RDL
Model	DD-RN42
Network Protocol	Dante
Audio Conversion	24-bit A/D and D/A
Sample Rates	44.1 kHz, 48 kHz (default)
Mic Inputs	2 x XLR (female) with software-selectable gain: 35 dB (LOW), 42 dB (MED), 59 dB (HIGH); phantom power 48V selectable
Line Inputs (Front)	2 x XLR (female) with gain: Unity (NORM), 12 dB (HIGH)
Line Inputs (Rear)	2 x balanced, detachable terminal block with gain: Unity (NORM), 12 dB (HIGH)
Line Outputs	2 x XLR (male), balanced, +4 dBu nominal, software attenuator 0 to 62 dB plus OFF
Frequency Response	20 Hz to 20 kHz (±0.5 dB)
Power Requirement	PoE Class 0 (IEEE 802.3af)
Dimensions (W x H x D)	3.52" x 4.11" x 2.09" (8.94 x 10.44 x 5.31 cm)
Shipping Weight	0.878 lbs (398 g)
Mounting	Fits US dual-gang electrical box or RDL WB-2 back box
Front Panel Finish	Dual powder-coated or stainless steel Decora
Indicators	Ethernet Link/Speed (rear), Sync/Power (front) green LEDs
Operating Temperature	0°C to 40°C; 30°C max recommended
Country of Origin	USA
Software Control	RDL CONSOLE or other Dante network control software
Audio Performance	THD+N < 0.1%, CMRR 65 dB, EIN < -128 dBu (59 dB gain)
Input Impedance	> 1.2 kΩ
Compliance	Declaration of conformity available from rdlnet.com
Maintenance	Clean with a dry cloth; avoid moisture and solvents
Safety	Use only PoE power; do not expose to liquids; install in ventilated area
Spare Parts / Reparability	No user-serviceable parts; contact RDL for service

Frequently Asked Questions - DD-RN42 RDL

How do I configure the input gain on the DD-RN42?

Use RDL CONSOLE or other Dante network control software to select gain settings. For mic inputs, choose between 35 dB (LOW), 42 dB (MED), or 59 dB (HIGH). For line inputs, select Unity (NORM) or 12 dB (HIGH).

Can I use the DD-RN42 with dynamic and condenser microphones?

Yes. The XLR inputs support both dynamic and condenser mics. Enable 48V phantom power (P48) via software when using condenser microphones.

What do the front panel LEDs indicate?

The two green LEDs on the front panel indicate Sync (synchronized to Dante network) and Power (valid PoE). Rear panel LEDs show Ethernet link and speed.

How is the DD-RN42 powered?

It is powered via PoE (Power over Ethernet) Class 0, complying with IEEE 802.3af. Connect to a PoE-enabled switch or injector.

What network latency does the DD-RN42 support?

Dante networks typically support low latency (e.g., 1 ms or less). The DD-RN42 operates at 100 Mbps and uses standard Dante protocol with sample rates up to 48 kHz.

Can I connect unbalanced audio sources to the rear-panel inputs?

Yes. The rear-panel balanced terminal block inputs can accept unbalanced signals. Connect the signal to the positive terminal and ground to the negative terminal.

What software is required to control the DD-RN42?

Use RDL CONSOLE or any Dante-compatible network control software to adjust gain, phantom power, output attenuation, and other settings.

How do I reset the DD-RN42 to factory defaults?

There is no user-accessible reset button. To reset, you may need to use the network control software to restore default settings or power cycle the unit. Contact RDL support for assistance.

Is the DD-RN42 compatible with standard Dante networks?

Yes. It fully supports Dante audio networking and can integrate with any Dante-compatible devices, including mixers, amplifiers, and other interfaces.

What are the mounting requirements for the DD-RN42?

It fits a standard US dual-gang electrical box or an RDL WB-2 back box for thinner walls. The front plate is Decora-style and available in multiple finishes.

USER MANUAL DD-RN42 RDL

Model DD SERIES-RN42 Wall-Mounted Bi-Directional Mic/Line Dante Interface 4x2

• Dante Network Interface for Four Audio Inputs and Two Audio Outputs
• Two Inputs and Outputs on XLR Jacks on Front Panels
- Two Inputs on Rear Panel Detachable Terminal Block
- Module is Configured and Adjusted Using Network Control Software
- Converts Two Standard Mic or Line Audio Sources to Dante Network Channels
• Each Input Gain is Selected by Software
• Mic Gain: 35 dB, 42 dB or 59 dB
• Line Gain: Unity or 12 dB
• 48 V Mic Phantom (P48) Selected by Software
• Converts Two Dante Network Audio Signals to Line Level
• Each Output Equipped with Software Controlled Attenuator in 1 dB Steps
• Studio Quality, Low-Noise Performance
- High Resolution 24 Bit Analog to Digital and Digital to Analog Conversion
• Legendary RDL Analog Filtering Enhances Superb Audio Performance

Exterior view of two identical electrical connectors labeled INPUT 1 and INPUT 2, with no visible text or symbols beyond component labels.

DD-RN42

Two identical black electrical output terminals labeled INPUT 1 and INPUT 2, each with a small indicator light (no additional text or symbols visible)

DDB-RN42 DDS-RN42

Four identical gray electrical input/output terminals with four circular ports, no visible text or symbols

APPLICATION: The DD-RN42 is a complete wall-mounted Dante audio network interface. It features two XLR mic or line inputs on the front panels, two balanced line inputs on a rear-panel detachable terminal block and two balanced line outputs on front-panel XLR jacks. The module is configured and adjusted using RDL CONSOLE or other network control software. The DD-RN42 fits a standard US dual-gang electrical box or an RDL WB-2 back box for installations in thinner European or equivalent walls. The DD-RN42 is PoE powered, and is available in multiple finishes with optional customized graphics.

Mic/Line to network section

The two XLR inputs are each converted to a separate Dante network transmit channel. Three gain settings are software-selectable for both the mic and line input ranges to match condenser or dynamic mic levels and standard line levels. P48 phantom voltage may be software enabled when an input is set for mic level.

Line to network section

The two rear-panel balanced or unbalanced inputs are each converted to a separate Dante network transmit channel. Control software sets the gain for an input level of either +4 dBu or -10 dBV. RDL Decora®-style jack plates matching the appearance of the DD-RN42 are optionally available for connection of various audio sources to the rear-panel inputs. An input plate may be located together with the DD-RN42 in a triple gang box or may be mounted remotely in a single box.

Network to line section

Two Dante audio channels are converted to balanced line level feeding front-panel XLR jacks. Each output provides +4 dBu balanced for a network digital audio level of -18 dBFS. Each output is equipped with a software controlled attenuator adjustable in 1 dB steps to a maximum attenuation of 62 dB then OFF. The outputs are connected through a detachable terminal block.

Valid PoE power and synchronization to the Dante network are indicated by green LEDs visible from the front of the unit.

The DD-RN42 is a professional grade product with RDL mic preamplifiers for studio quality fidelity and low noise performance, coupled through XLR jacks housed in a steel chassis with dual powder-coated or stainless steel Decora front plates.

The DD-RN42's superior performance specifications make it ideally suited to installations requiring network control and exceptional value in commercial networked audio systems. This full-featured product is engineered and manufactured in the U.S.A for continuous duty in demanding installations. Designed to outperform. Built to last.

Model DD SERIES-RN42

Wall-Mounted Bi-Directional

Mic/Line Dante Interface 4x2

Installation/Operation

Declaration of Conformity available from rdlnet.com. Sole EMC specifications provided on product package. Specifications are subject to change without notice.

This product is not specified to provide basic insulation from network cabling not installed wholly within the same building structure or terminated on equipment earthed to a different earthing network.

Model DD SERIES-RN42 Wall-Mounted Bi-Directional Mic/Line Dante Interface 4x2

This product is not specified to provide basic insulation from network cabling not installed wholly within the same building structure or terminated on equipment earthed to a different earthing network.

TYPICAL PERFORMANCE

Network Connector: RJ45 with Link and Speed indicators

Digital Audio Ethernet Protocol: Dante

Transmission Rate: 100 Mbps

Sample Rates Supported: 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz (default)

Bit Depth Supported: 24 bits

Audio Operating Level: -18 dBFS = +4 dBu

Reference Level: 0 dBFS = +22 dBu

Mic/Line Inputs to Network Interface

Inputs (2): XLR (female)

Gain: Mic: 35 dB (LOW), 42 dB (MED), 59 dB (HIGH);

Line: Unity (NORM), 12 dB (HIGH)

Input Level (for +4 dBu/-18 dBFS): Mic: -31 dBu (LOW), -38 dBu (MED), -55 dBu (HIGH);

Line: +4 dBu (LOW), -8 dBu (HIGH)

Input Level (maximum): Mic: -14 dBu (LOW), -21 dBu (MED), -38 dBu (HIGH);

Line: +23 dBu (LOW), +10 dBu (HIGH)

Input Impedance: > 1.2 kΩ

Phantom Power: P48, 48 Vdc, software-selectable

Standard for Phantom: IEC 61938: 2013

Selectors per input (2): Phantom, Gain, software-selectable

Frequency Response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz (± 0.5 dB)

Equivalent Input Noise: < -128 dBu (59 dB gain); < -130 dBu A-Weighted

Noise below -18 dBFS (20 to 20 kHz): Mic: < -88 dB (LOW), < -82 dB (MED),

<-68 dB (HIGH); Line: < -88 dB (NORM),

< -88 dB (HIGH)

THD+N:

< 0.1% (20 Hz to 20 kHz, +4 dBu/-18 dBFS)

CMRR:

65 dB (50 Hz to 120 Hz)

Crosstalk:

Below Noise Floor (20 Hz to 20 kHz at operating level,

any input to any input, max. mic gain)

Line Inputs to Network Interface

Inputs (2): Balanced, detachable terminal block

Gain: Unity (NORM), 12 dB (HIGH)

Input Level (for +4 dBu/-18 dBFS): +4 dBu (NORM), -8 dBu (HIGH)

Input Level (maximum): +23 dBu (NORM), +10 dBu (HI)

Input Impedance: > 1.2 kΩ

Selector per input:

Gain, software-selectable

Frequency Response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz (± 0.5 dB)

Noise below -18 dBFS (20 to 20 kHz):

< 0.1% (20 Hz to 20 kHz, +4 dBu/-18 dBFS)

THD+N:

65 dB (50 Hz to 120 Hz)

CMRR:

Network to Line Outputs

Outputs (2):

XLR (male)

Output Level (operating):

+4 dBu (nominal) balanced,

software adjustable in 1 dB steps

Output Level (maximum):

+22 dBu balanced

Output Attenuation:

0 to 62 dB plus OFF (each output)

Output Impedance:

150 Ω balanced

Frequency Response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz (± 0.5 dB)

THD+N:

< 0.1%

THD:

< 0.01% (1 kHz)

Noise:

< -80 dB (below +4 dBu or -10 dBV)

Crosstalk:

Below Noise Floor (20 Hz to 20 kHz at

operating level, output to output)

Headroom above +4 dBu or -10 dBV

20 dB

Indicators (4):

Ethernet Link and Speed (2, rear panel);

Sync and Power (2, front panel)

Ambient Operating Environment:

0°C to 40°C; 30°C maximum recommended

Power Requirement:

PoE Class 0, IEEE 802.3af

Specification Conditions:

Gain/Level: ± 1 dB; Source termination: 150 Ω;

A to D values measured in digital domain

Dimensions:

3.52" (8.94 cm) W; 4.11" (10.44 cm) H;

2.09" (5.31 cm) D

Cardboard Box

Package Type:

Package Dimensions: 3.625 x 4.625 x 2.125 in.

Shipping Weight:

0.878 lbs.

WEEE weight:

0.723 lbs.

Tariff code:

8543.70.9100

Equivalent Gain Settings for Dante Products

Digital signal levels in a Dante network are measured in dBFS (dB referenced to the maximum output or clipping level). The nominal standard reference levels used in professional audio products are: 0 dBFS = +22 dBu to +24 dBu. Some OEM industry products do not specify their reference and use a non-standard reference such as 0 dBFS = +2 dBu. The following table shows the most closely equivalent gain settings that equate to the gain settings of products using a 0 dBFS = +2 dBu reference:

Software Settings for MIC/LINE balanced inputs

Non-Standard Reference (OEM)		RDL DD-R Products
Gain Setting		Gain Setting	MIC/LINE Setting
-18 dB		Unity	Line
-3 dB		12 dB	Line
----	(condenser mics)	35 dB	Mic
25 dB		42 dB	Mic
40 dB		59 dB	Mic