DANTE Decoder - Audio/video converter AudioControl - Free user manual and instructions

Product Type	Dante Audio Decoder / Audio/Video Converter
Brand	AudioControl
Model	DANTE Decoder
Primary Function	Converts Dante digital audio streams to analog line-level outputs
Audio Channels	Up to 8 channels (typical Dante decoder)
Sample Rate Support	44.1 kHz, 48 kHz, 96 kHz
Bit Depth	Up to 24-bit
Network Interface	Ethernet (RJ45) for Dante connectivity
Analog Output Connectors	Balanced XLR or TRS (typical)
Dimensions (approx. rack mount)	19" rack mount, 1U height, depth ~8 inches
Weight	Approximately 5 lbs (2.27 kg)
Power Supply	Internal AC adapter, 100-240V AC, 50/60 Hz
Power Consumption	Less than 20W typical
Operating Temperature	0°C to 40°C (32°F to 104°F)
LED Indicators	Power, Dante sync, signal presence
Firmware Upgrade	Via USB or Ethernet (if supported)
Care & Cleaning	Wipe with dry cloth; avoid liquids; disconnect power before cleaning
Safety Certifications	CE, FCC, RoHS
Spare Parts & Repairability	No user-serviceable parts; contact authorized service center
Mounting	Rack-mountable with included brackets (typical)

Frequently Asked Questions - DANTE Decoder AudioControl

What is the AudioControl DANTE Decoder used for?

The DANTE Decoder converts Dante digital audio streams from a network into analog line-level outputs for connection to amplifiers, mixers, or other audio equipment.

How many audio channels does the DANTE Decoder support?

It typically supports up to 8 channels of Dante audio, depending on the specific model variant.

What type of network cable is required?

Standard Cat5e or Cat6 Ethernet cable with RJ45 connectors is required for Dante network connectivity.

Can I power the device via PoE?

Most Dante decoders do not support PoE and require the included AC power adapter. Check the manual for exact specifications.

How do I configure the Dante decoder?

Use Dante Controller software on a computer connected to the same network to route audio streams and configure device settings.

What sample rates are supported?

Common sample rates include 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz, and 96 kHz with up to 24-bit depth.

Does the device require any drivers?

No drivers are needed for the decoder itself; it works with standard Dante protocol supported by most operating systems.

How do I perform a factory reset?

Usually, press and hold the reset button (often recessed) for 10 seconds while power is applied. Refer to manual for exact procedure.

What do the LED indicators mean?

Power LED indicates unit is on; Dante Sync LED shows network synchronization; Signal LED lights when audio is present on an output.

Is the device rack-mountable?

Yes, it is designed for 19-inch rack mounting and typically occupies 1 rack unit (1U).

USER MANUAL DANTE Decoder AudioControl

1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Reading the instructions should take less time than a Peter Jackson Trilogy.
4. Do not use this apparatus near water.
5. Clean only with a dry cloth.
6. Do not block any ventilation openings.
7. The devices and their accessories should never be exposed to open flames or excessive heat.
8. Only use attachments and accessories specified by the manufacturer.
9. To reduce the risk of electrical shock or damage to the devices and their operators, never handle or touch the devices and power cord with damp or wet hands.
10. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.

CAUTION: Changes or modifications to this device not expressly approved by AudioControl Inc. could void the user's authority to operate the equipment under FCC rules.

Recycling notice: If the time comes and this apparatus has fulfilled its destiny, do not throw it out into the trash. It has to be carefully recycled for the good of mankind, by a facility specially equipped for the safe recycling of electronic apparatii. Please contact your local or state recycling leaders for assistance in locating a suitable nearby recycling facility. Or, contact us and we might be able to repair it for you.

Important Safety Instructions....2

Table of Contents ....3

Introduction......4

Features 4

Key Benefits....4

Product Overview 5

Box Contents....5

Technical Specifications....5

Front and Rear Panels 6

Installation....7

Connecting the Devices....7

Dante Port Wiring 8

Audio Loop Out 8

Device Configuration....9

Basic Navigation and Dante Flow Subscription....9

Changing Device Name and Encoding Configuration....10

Network Configuration 11

AES67 Audio Stream Configuration....11

Service....12

Support....12

Warranty 13

Installation Notes......15

Dante Boogie....16

Thank you....17

The AudioControl ACP-DANTE-D-POE is a compact, 2-channel, Dante™ network decoder that employs Dante's Ultimo chipset, providing 100% lossless analog conversion from digitally encoded content with sampling rates from 44.1kHz up to 96kHz, in 16-, 24-, or 32-bit word lengths. When powered up and connected to a Dante™ network, the ACP-DANTE-D-POE is automatically discovered on the network and ready to retrieve digital audio from Dante™ devices, including the ACP-DANTE-E-PEO encoder, using the Dante™ Controller software.

The diagram below shows the basic application of the ACP-DANTE-D-POE decoder and the managed network switch.

graph TD
    A["Streaming Media Player"] --> B["Dante Encoder"]
    B --> C["MXnet"]
    C --> D["Network Switch"]
    D --> E["DATE Audio Data"]
    E --> F["PoE"]
    F --> G["Rack Room"]
    G --> H["Zone 1"]
    H --> I["Amplifier"]
    I --> J["USB Power Adapter"]
    J --> K["Wall Outlet (if not using PoE)"]
    style A fill:#f9f,stroke:#333
    style B fill:#ccf,stroke:#333
    style C fill:#cfc,stroke:#333
    style D fill:#fcc,stroke:#333
    style E fill:#cff,stroke:#333
    style F fill:#ffc,stroke:#333
    style G fill:#fcc,stroke:#333
    style H fill:#ffc,stroke:#333
    style I fill:#fcc,stroke:#333
    style J fill:#cff,stroke:#333
    style K fill:#fcc,stroke:#333

Features

• Complete Dante system compatibility
• Plug and play support
  • Sample rates up to 96kHz
  • 16-, 24-, and 32-bit audio support
• Dante™ port LEDs indicate link status and activity
• Unit ships with power supply and USB Type A to Type C cable

Key Benefits

• Accepts any Dante-platform audio signal up to 96kHz in 16-, 24, and 32-bit word lengths
• Low profile, compact design for placement options
  • Auto device-discovery on a Dante network
  • Activity LEDs provide power and mute status

Box Contents:

• (1x) ACP-DANTE-D-POE (Unit)
• (1x) 5V 1A USB Power Adapter
• (1x) European Adapter (not shown)
• (1x) USB-A to USB-C Cable
• (2x) Mounting Brackets
• (4x) Mounting Screws

Product photo of a black plastic electrical plug, its cable, and two black plastic clip components (no text or symbols visible)

Technical Specifications

AUDIO
Frequency Response 20-20kHz
Analog Output Voltage Balanced or Unbalanced 1VRMS(2.828VP-P) at 0 dBFS
Format LPCM
Supported Sample Rates 44.1kHz, 48kHz,	88.2kHz, 96kHz
Supported Bit Depths 16, 24, 32
Latency Configurable 1, 2, 5ms
AUDIO CONNECTIONS
Analog Output 1x Stereo RCA
Dante Network Audio 1x RJ-45
POWER
USB Type-C Power Adapter Input: 100-240VAC, 50/60Hz, 0.5AOutput: 5VDC, 1A
PoE via RJ45 Power over Ethernet
ENVIRONMENTAL
Operating Temperature 23°F (-5°C) to 125°F (51°C)
Storage Temperature -4°F (-20°C) to 140°F (60°C)
Humidity Range 5% to 90% RH (no condensation)
DIMENSIONS
Mounting	Furniture Mount Support
Height x Width x Depth (Single Unit)	Millimeters: 75 x 90 x 25Inches: 2.95 x 3.55 x 1
Height x Width x Depth (Packaged Unit)	Millimeters: 193 x 136 x 41Inches: 7.6 x 5.35 x 1.62
Weight (Single Unit)	0.36 lbs (0.164 kg)
Weight (Packaged Unit)	0.7 lbs (0.32 kg)
Product Warranty	5 Years
*Specifications are subject to change without notice. Mass and dimensions are approximate.

1	MUTE	Red LED status indicator lightIlluminates solid red when DanteTM audio stream is muted
2	POWER	Blue LED status indicator lightIlluminates solid blue when power is present on the ACP-DANTE-D-POE
3	DANTE	8-pin RJ-45 female connector portDecoded DanteTM digital audio output portConnects to the network switch with CAT5e (or better) cableIf connecting to PoE switch device receives power
4	AUDIO OUT	Stereo RCA analog audio outputsBalanced line-level analog audio output
5	DC/5V	USB Type C female connector portConnects to DC 5V 1A power supply with USB-A to USB-C cableNot used when utilizing PoE

Once the ACP-DANTE-D-POE is powered on and connected to the network switch, it will automatically be discovered on the network using the Dante Controller software.

graph TD
    subgraph_Rack_Room[" Rack Room "]
        A["Streaming Media Player"] --> B["Dante Encoder"]
        B --> C["Network Switch"]
        C --> D["MXnet"]
    end

    subgraph_Zone_1[" Zone 1 "]
        E["Amplifier"] --> F["USB C"]
        F --> G["DC/5W"]
        G --> H["USB Power Adapter"]
        H --> I["Wall Outlet (if not using PoE)"]
        I --> J["5-Pin Tormine Block Balanced Audio Out"]
        J --> K["POWER"]
        K --> L["AUDIO OUT"]
        L --> M["Dante"]
        M --> N["RMS"]
        N --> O["DANTE"]
        O --> P["DANTE Audio Data PoE"]
        P --> Q["RoE"]
    end

    style Rack_Room fill:#f9f,stroke:#333
    style Zone_1 fill:#ccf,stroke:#333
    style Rack_Room fill:#fff,stroke:#333
    style Zone_1 fill:#fff,stroke:#333

Connecting the Devices

1. Connect the provided USB-A to USB-C cable between the 5V 1A power supply and the ACP-DANTE-D-POE decoder's DC/5V port. Then plug the power supply into a suitable power outlet. Additionally you can use PoE to power this device via network switch. Both the POWER and MUTE LEDs on the front panel will illuminate solid for 6 seconds, after which the MUTE LED will shut off and the POWER LED will stay on, indicating the ACP-DANTE-D-POE is powered on.

NOTE:

The ACP-DANTE-D-POE does support PoE, but also can be powered locally using the provided 5V 1A power supply and USB-A to USB-C cable.

1. Connect the audio output device to the AUDIO OUT port on the ACP-DANTE-D-POE and ensure the audio output device is powered on.
2. Connect a CAT5e (or better) cable between a computer running the Dante Controller software and the network switch.
3. Connect a CAT5e (or better) cable between the DANTE port on the ACP-DANTE-D-POE and the network switch. ACP-DANTE-D-POE will be automatically discovered and routed using the Dante Controller software.

NOTE: The computer running Dante™ Controller and the ACP-DANTE-D-POE must both have a physical connection to the Dante™ network in order for the ACP-DANTE-D-POE to be discovered by Dante™ Controller.

The DANTE audio output port on the encoder utilizes the standard RJ-45 connection. For maximum performance, the recommended cabling is CAT5e (or better) based on TIA/EIA T568A or T568B standards for the wiring of the twisted pair cables.

The DANTE audio output port features two status indicator LEDs to show active connections while troubleshooting.

Right LED (Amber) - Link Status

Indicates there is data present between the ACP-DANTE-D-POE and the receiving end (typically a network switch). Steady blinking amber indicates normal operations.

Left LED (Green) - Link/Activity

Indicates there is an active link between the ACP-DANTE-D-POE and the receiving end. Solid green indicates the ACP-DANTE-D-POE and the receiving end device have been identified and are communicating with one another.

If either LED is not illuminating, check the following:

• Ensure the ACP-DANTE-D-POE is powered on from the DC/5V port.
• Verify cable length is within the maximum distance of 100 meters (328 feet).
• Connect the ACP-DANTE-D-POE directly to the network switch, bypassing all patch panels and punch-down blocks.
• Re-terminate connector ends. Use standard RJ-45 connectors and avoid using push-through or "EZ" typeends as these have exposed copper wiring at the tips that can cause signal interference.
• Contact AudioControl Technical Support if these suggestions do not work.

Configuring the ACP-DANTE-D-POE requires installing Audinate's Dante Controller software on a computer connected to the Dante network. Dante Controller is a powerful tool used to configure network settings, signal latency, audio encoding parameters, Dante flow subscriptions, and AES67 audio support. The latest version of Dante Controller can be found here along with additional supplementary instructions that can be obtained via the online help support tool located under the Help tab in the Dante Controller.

Basic Navigation and Dante Flow Subscription

Dante Controller will open to the routing tab by default where discovered Dante devices are organized according to transmitter or receiver status. Signal routing from Dante encoders (transmitters) to Dante decoders (receivers) can be achieved by clicking the box located at the intersection of the desired transmit and receive channels. Successful subscription is denoted by a green check mark icon.

TIP
Hovering the mouse over the subscription indicator symbol will provide further details about the subscription and can be useful in troubleshooting
• Discovered Dante encoders

1 TRANSMITTERS

2 RECEIVERS
• Discovered Dante decoders

3

+/-

• Select the (+) to expand or (-) to collapse view
• Displays the name assigned to the Dante device
• Device name is customizable in Device View
• Double-click to open Device View
• Displays the name of the Dante audio channel
• Channel name customizable in Device View
• Double click associated Device Name to open Device View
• 8-pin RJ-45 female connector port
• Click the box to create a unicast subscription between the overlapping ☑ Subscription in process ☑ Subscription successful ☑ Subscription error ☑ Subscription warning ☑ Device part way through setting up a subscription

4 DEVICE NAME

5 CHANNEL NAME

6 SUBSCRIPTION WINDOW

To configure the ACP-DANTE-E-POE audio stream, open the Device View by double clicking the Device Name for the ACP-DANTE-E-POE and navigate to the Device Config Tab.

1 DEVICE NAME		• Device Name for the ACP-DANTE-D-POE • Device Name can be changed by typinga new name and clicking apply
2 SAMPLE RATE		• Set ACP-DANTE-D-POE PCM sample rate • 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96 kHz sample rates supported
3 ENCODING		• Set the bit depth of the sampled audioinput signal • 16, 24, 32 bit sampling supported
4 CLOCKING		• Enable/Disable unicast delay requests
5 DEVICE LATENCY		• Set latency for subscribed Dante flows • 1, 2, 5 millisecond latencies supported
6 REBOOT DEVICE		• Reboot the ACP-DANTE-D-POE
7 CLEAR CONFIG		• Factory Reset Settings

DHCP for the ACP-DANTE-D-POE is enabled by default and will automatically be assigned an IP address when connected to the Dante network. Additionally, a static IP address can be assigned by opening the Device View for the ACP-DANTE-D-POE and navigating to the Network Config tab.

1	AUTOMATIC IP ASSIGNMENT	Check this button to enable DHCP for automatic IP address assignment
2	MANUAL IP ASSIGNMENT	Check this button to enable manual(static) IP addressing
3	IP ADDRESS	Enter the desired IP address
4	SUBNET MASK	Enter the desired subnet mask
5	DNS SERVER	Enter the domain name server
6	DEFAULT GATEWAY	Enter the default gateway
7	REBOOT DEVICE	Reboot the ACP-DANTE-D-POE
8	CLEAR CONFIG	Factory reset the ACP-DANTE-D-POE
	WARNING:	Manually setting the ACP-DANTE-D-POE IP address to a different subnet from the Dante Controller computer will result in loss of communication between Dante Controller and the ACP-DANTE-D-POE.

AES67 Audio Stream Configuration

The ACP-DANTE-D-POE supports multicast reception of AES67 encoded audio to compatible non-Dante devices. AES67 multicast reception can be configured by opening the Device View by double-clicking the ACP-DANTE-D-POE Device Name and navigating to the AES67 Config tab.

1	AES67 MODE	Enable/Disable AES67 multicast flows for compatible non-Dante devices
2	RTP MULTICAST ADDRESS PREFIX	Displays current RTP multicast prefixType in a new RTP multicast prefix and click Set to apply
3	REBOOT	Reboot the ACP-DANTE-D-POE
4	CLEAR CONFIG	Factory Reset the ACP-DANTE-D-POE

What to do if you need service

If the unit needs service, then please contact AudioControl, either by e-mail or phone. We will verify if there is anything wrong in the system that you can correct yourself, or if it needs to be sent back to our factory.

Please include the following items when returning the unit:

1. A copy of your proof of purchase. No originals please. We cannot guarantee returning them to you.
2. A brief explanation of the trouble you are having with the unit. (You'd be surprised how many people forget this.) If you can supply a really detailed description of the problem, this would be so much better, and our service technicians may add you to their Christmas Card list. Please include any notes about the system and other components you are using. Is it an intermittent problem that only occurs on the first full moon of Spring?
3. A return street address. (No PO Boxes, please).
4. A daytime phone number in case our technicians have a question about the problem you are having, or if they are just feeling lonely.
5. Package the unit in the original packaging if you still have it. Use great care and plenty of good packing materials to protect the unit and prevent it from moving about inside the box. Do not use loose materials like packing peanuts or real peanuts.

You are responsible for the freight charges to us, but we'll pay the return freight back as long as the unit is under warranty. We match whatever shipping method you use to send it to us, so if you return the unit overnight freight, we send it back overnight. We recommend United Parcel Service (UPS) for most shipments.

Please do not return the unit to AudioControl if you have not received an RMA number from our masterful customer support team.

Phone [phone]

[e-mail]

support.audiocontrolpro.com

www.audiocontrolpro.com/contact-us

In just the same way as being covered in honey and thrown into a dark pit full of hungry woodchucks, people are scared of warranties. Lots of fine print. Months of waiting around. Well, fear no more. This warranty is designed to make you rave about AudioControl. It's a warranty that looks out for you and your client, plus helps you resist the temptation to have your friend Sparky, who's "good with electronics," try to repair your AudioControl product. So go ahead, grab a cup of tea, and carefully read through this warranty.

Our warranty has conditional conditions! "Conditional" doesn't mean anything ominous. The Federal Trade Commission tells all manufacturers to use the term to indicate that certain conditions have to be met before they'll honor the warranty. If you meet all of these conditions, AudioControl will, at its discretion, perform warranty service on any AudioControl products that exhibit defects in materials and/or workmanship during the warranty on your product for five (5) years from the date you bought it, and we will fix or replace it, at our option, during that time.

Here are the conditional conditions:

1. You need to hold on to your sales receipt! All warranty service requires original sales receipt documentation. The warranty only applies to the original purchaser from an authorized AudioControl dealer. Note: Products purchased from unauthorized dealers are not covered under warranty.
2. If an authorized AudioControl dealer installs your AudioControl product, the warranty is five years, otherwise the warranty is limited to one year.
3. Our warranty covers AudioControl products that have been installed according to the instructions in the installation manual.
4. You cannot let anybody who isn't: (A) the AudioControl factory; or (B) somebody authorized in writing by AudioControl service your AudioControl product. If anyone other than (A), or (B) messes with your AudioControl product, the warranty is void.
5. The warranty is void if the serial number is altered, defaced or removed, or if your product has been used improperly. Now that may sound like a big loophole, but here is what we mean by this: Unwarranted abuse is: (A) physical damage (don't use your product to level your dining room table); (B) improper connections (120 volts into the RCA jacks can fry the poor thing); (C) sadistic things! This is the best product we know how to build, but for example if you mount it to the front bumper of your car, drop it over the Niagara Falls or use it for Clay Pigeon shooting practice, something will go wrong.

Assuming you conform to 1 through 5, and it really isn't all that hard to do, we will have you send your product to us for warranty service.

Legalese Section

This is the only warranty issued by AudioControl. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have rights that vary from state to state. Promises of how well your AudioControl product will work are not implied by this warranty. Other than what we've said we'll do in this warranty, we have no obligation, express or implied. We make no warranty of merchantability or fitness for any particular purpose. Also neither we nor anyone else who has been involved in the development or manufacture of the unit will have any liability of any incidental, consequential, special or punitive damages, including but not limited to any lost profits or damage to other parts of your system by hooking up to the unit (whether the claim is one for breach of warranty, negligence of other tort, or any other kind of claim). Some states do not allow limitations of consequential damages.

Hurrah, You are done!

graph TD
    A["1"] --> B["2"]
    B --> C["3"]
    C --> D["4"]
    D --> E["5656"]
    E --> F["FINISHFIN"]
    F --> G["SFINISHHF"]
    style A fill:#f9f,stroke:#333
    style G fill:#bbf,stroke:#333

START

Other common names for this dance:

• Dante Boogie Nights
• Dante 2 Electric Boogaloo
- Dante Inferno

Thank you for choosing AudioControl! Please contact us with any questions, we are happily at your service!

AudioControl®

an AVPro company

22410 70th Avenue West \~ Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043

support: 425-775-8461

[e-mail]