The Unika NBB-04R and NBB-04T are compact and rugged 4-channel analogue break-in/break-out boxes for use in Dante AoIP networks. They may be powered by PoE (from a suitably-enabled Ethernet switch), which makes them ideal for rapid deployment as local network nodes in live sound and OB situations. They are mechanically constructed for use as “throw-down” boxes, and may be conveniently employed as “Dante DI boxes”. An AC adaptor (PSU) is supplied with each unit for installations where PoE is not available.
The units are fully compatible with all current Audinate software, including Dante Controller, Dante Domain Manager and Dante Virtual Soundcard. Dante Controller is the standard system configuration application: Mac and Windows versions are available as freeware from Audinate’s website. It supports automatic device discovery, free routing of Dante channels anywhere on the network, as well as allowing clock master selection, latency allocation, backup/restore of configurations and numerous other housekeeping functions.
The NBB-04R provides four balanced analogue inputs: the connectors are “Combo” type, which accept either standard XLR plugs, or ¼” TRS jack plugs. The inputs are suitable for both mic or line levels, and each has a switched gain control, with 12 dB increments from 0 to 60 dB. 48 V phantom power is available for all mic inputs, and is individually selectable for each, with LED indication. A Clip LED illuminates if any input level is too high. The four inputs appear on the network as Dante channels 1 to 4 respectively: Dante Controller permits the these channels to be freely routed to any other nodes on the network.
The NBB-04T has four balanced line outputs on XLR connectors, calibrated for +24 dBu = 0 dBFS. Each output has a switched rotary attenuator providing 6 dB, 12 dB or 20 dB of level reduction, thus making the unit compliant with the UK broadcast standard of +18 dBu = 0 dBFS.
Both units are fitted with two Ethernet ports – one at each end of the housing – for connection to the Dante network, or for daisy-chaining to further units. One port is enabled for PoE (Power over Ethernet), and the units will use this as their DC power source if the network connection is to an Ethernet switch supporting PoE. (Daisy-chained units must either be powered by a separate PoE-enabled Ethernet connection, or with the AC adaptor supplied.) Two front panel bicolour LEDs indicate sync clock and unit statuses.
The NBB-04R may be used as a simple stagebox, routing on-stage sources to a Dante-equipped FoH mixing console while an NBB-04T can provide the main and monitor returns from the console.
Cable runs of up to 100 m between connected Dante devices are possible using Cat 5e cable (screened Cat 5e is recommended for electrically noisy environments): longer cable runs may be achieved by the use of gigabit Ethernet switches with fibre interfaces, single-mode fibre allows units to be located several kilometres apart.
Standard bit depth is 24, but 16-bit operation may be configured from Dante Controller. Sample rates of 44.1, 48, and 96 kHz are supported; the sample rate is also selected in Dante Controller.
