Rane NM84 Network Mic Preamp
The NM 84 Network Mic Preamplifier allows sending eight channels and receiving four channels of high quality audio over a single, low cost computer network cable. The NM 84 provides a cost effective solution for audio routing problems in venues such as Arenas, Convention Centers, Churches, Schools and Theme Parks. Unlike point-to-point distribution systems, the NM 84 features a highly flexible network protocol, allowing full control of audio destination and source. It is possible to build flexible audio networks on a large or small scale by using multiple NM 84s or by combining NM 84s with Rane NM 48 Network Preamplifiers.
The NM 84 provides eight studio grade microphone preamplifiers. Each input features selectable 48 volt phantom power, MIC and LINE modes, coarse gain select, high- and low-cut filters, gain trim, Limiter and 10 segment meter. Each input channel routes to a balanced, direct output.
The NM 84 Network Preamplifier features Peak Audio 100Base-T CobraNet technology. It allows deterministic (fixed propagation delay), 100Base-T transport of up to 64 channels of audio on a single computer network cable. (A switched network can transport up to 128 audio channels over a single network cable.) Each Bundle can contain up to eight 20-bit Cobranet Audio Channels. In addition, the NM 84 may receive four channels of 24-bit audio from the 100Base-T network. Network control is possible using the rear panel Memory Recall Port (MRP), SNMP or the ActiveX controls provided by Rane. All NM 84 parameters may be controlled from the front panel interface.
24-bit A/D converters provide the digital audio signal for 100Base-T transport. Audio may be transmitted in 20- or 24-bit mode. In 20-bit mode, all eight input channels are transmitted on a single Bundle (the term formerly known as Network Channel). In 24-bit mode, two Bundles are required. The user may determine how many Cobranet Audio Channels (formerly known as Sub-Channels) (maximum of 7) are transmitted on each of the two specified Bundles (the NM 84 can identify the addresses of 999 Bundles).
The NM 84 also provides four high-quality Monitor Output channels. Each may be assigned to monitor any one of the eight possible Cobranet Audio Channels of any 100Base-T Bundle or any one of the eight possible Local channels. Monitor Outs feature 24-bit D/A converters and balanced line-level cross-coupled outputs capable of +20 dBu signals.
The NM 84 can transmit and receive one channel of RS-232 data over the 100Base-T network. The user may set the baud rate as well as 232 Tx and 232 Rx channels.
The Memory Recall Port allows up to 16 pre-set Memories to be recalled with simple switch closures to ground. In addition to Local MRP, the NM 84 may be set to respond to Network MRP messages. It may also transmit Local MRP for monitoring by other NM 84s in the Network.
