Nixer RS32 AoIP Changeover Switch

The Nixer RS32 is for use with Dante™ or Ravenna audio networks, and comprises 32 two-channel AoIP switches, each of which can be configured either as 1-in/2-out or 2-in/1-out. The choice of Dante™ or Ravenna compatibility is made at time of order. Both versions are AES67 compliant: the Ravenna version is SMPTE ST-2110 compliant, as is the Dante™ version when Dante Domain Manager is in use.

The RS32 is easily installed as part of the audio network, and allows the engineer to rapidly switch any number of channels (up to 32) between two input sources, or to route any number of channels (up to 32) to an alternative destination.

The RS32 provides simple and near-instantaneous changeover, and has been designed with the needs of fixed installations such as theatres and broadcast studios in mind. Unlike software-based AoIP routing systems, the RS32 is a dedicated hardware-based unit, and requires no external computer or software to operate.

The architecture of the RS32 uses two sets of 32 two-way switches, effectively wired “back-to-back”. This allows each switch pair to i) route an audio channel from either of two input channels to the active output; ii) route an input channel to either of two outputs. The switches can be controlled independently, or ganged in any number up to the maximum of 32 (to achieve a complete switchover of AoIP source or destination). Multiple gangs can be defined; each gang may switch between inputs, outputs or both.

Channel selection is made from the high-definition 6.6” colour touchscreen display (1440 x 240 pixels). The screen displays 16 output channels at a time; left-right swiping allows source selection for each output, while up-down swiping reveals further outputs. A memory function allows storage and recall of patch settings.

Two rear panel gigabit Ethernet ports allow connection to the AoIP network, either in a redundant (primary/secondary) or switched arrangement. The primary port is PoE-enabled (Power over Ethernet) to allow the unit to be powered from a suitable network switch. A DC input is also provided on a 2.5 mm jack for connection to an external 24 V DC PSU for fail-safe operation. Audio sample rates of 44.1, 48, 88.2 and 96 kHz at 16-, 24- and 32-bit depths are supported. (The higher sample rates halve the channel count.)

The RS32 may be remotely controlled using OSC protocol via a dedicated rear panel port. A second port allows the connection of optional hardware remotes. It is very compact, being a 1U rack-mounting unit needing only 120 mm of depth, allowing easy mounting in desks or other furniture; the rack ears are removable.