Focusrite RedNet MP8R

RedNet MP8R is an 8-channel remote-controlled microphone preamplifier and A/D for the Dante audio-over-IP network. Developed from the RedNet 4 studio remote-controlled microphone preamp, and incorporating input from leading live sound practitioners during its development, the MP8R provides a wealth of features that make it particularly applicable to the live sound/recording and broadcast environments, where reliability is paramount. Dual Ethernet ports are provided, with several operating modes including daisy-chaining and redundancy confirmed by front-panel indicators. Two separate power supplies with fault detection capability are included, with separate power input sockets on the rear panel. Power failure is indicated both remotely and on the front panel. The MP8R features a rugged, roadworthy exterior and maximum internal build quality. In addition, the MP8R offers a compact 1U rack-mount form factor.

The MP8R preamps represent the latest iteration of Focusrite's award-winning mic pre designs, with a pedigree that stretches back to the original Focusrite products of the mid-1980s. Fully keeping pace with the latest developments in audio technology, today's Focusrite preamps offer lower noise and great dynamic range than ever before. The preamps in the MP8R offer an increased maximum input level of 28dBu, plus a 20dB pad, high-pass filter, polarity inversion and phantom power. Each preamp has a dual input impedance of 10k½ or 2.4k½, allowing flexibility when running multiple mic pres in parallel.

A particular feature of the MP8R targeted at the live sound field is its gain tracking ability. The unit appears as a 16-channel device on the network, the first eight channels being direct preamp feeds, while the remaining eight are automatically DSP level-compensated outputs sourced from the first eight. This architecture allows "splits" — such as monitor/FOH — to be set up in the digital domain, permitting one engineer to control the analogue mic gain while a second receives an output level that is constant irrespective of the analogue mic gain setting.

The preamps may be controlled in a variety of ways, including via the RedNet Control software package, Pro Tools and MIDI, and OCA (Open Control Architecture); in addition, the preamps can be operated from the MP8R front panel, where 6-segment level metering, numeric gain display and other indicators provide comprehensive monitoring of the unit's operation.

Following the mic pres are eight channels of Focusrite's legendary high-precision A/D converters, operating at up to 192kHz/24-bit with minimum latency and offering class-leading dynamic range and overall performance.

Like the totality of the RedNet range, the MP8R interoperates seamlessly and fully with any other Dante audio-over-IP network components and infrastructure. Patching and interconnection can be managed with the Dante control software, while RedNet Control offers comprehensive remote mic pre operation.

Key Features:

• 8-channel remote-controlled mic pre with A/D and Dante audio-over-IP networking
• Eight remote-controlled Focusrite mic preamps and precision A/D conversion at up to 192kHz provide a compact, rugged interface compatible with any Dante network hardware and infrastructure.
• Power and Ethernet redundancy
• MP8R is ideal for critical path applications, with dual power supplies that include local and remote status indication, and dual Ethernet ports.
• Tailored for the Live Sound environment
• MP8R includes rugged road-worthy construction, high build quality and built-in redundancy for power and network connections.
• Flexible input capability
• Including a new, enhanced input level capability, MP8R mic pres include dual input impedance to deliver maximum performance in a variety of configurations.
• Remote or local control of mic pre parameters
• In addition to mic gain, MP8R mic pres offer 20dB Pad, High-pass filter and polarity inversion, all controllable remotely or from the front panel.
• Multiple remote control possibilities
• MP8R has full front panel control, but can most effectively be operated via RedNet Control software on a host computer, or directly via Pro Tools or MIDI, or OCA (Open Control Architecture). RedNet Control software allows full routing and control from your audio computer system via a software control panel — without hardware patching.
• Best-in-class Focusrite A/D conversion
• The eight mic pres are followed by precision low-latency conversion at up to 24-bit 192kHz, offering best-in-class dynamic range.
• Comprehensive indicators tell status at a glance
• Two power LEDs (one per PSU) are provided, along with remote indication of PSU status. 6-segment metering provides useful level indication for each channel and function indicators indicate individual preamp settings. An OLED display indicates input gain and system information.
• Separate outputs with automatic gain compensation
• Each preamp provides two outputs: one direct and the other that is automatically gain-compensated to deliver a constant level. This gain tracking capability allows "splits", such as FOH/monitor, to be carried out in the digital domain, permitting one engineer to control the analogue mic gain while a second receives a gain-compensated output.
• Superb road-worthy build quality
• Designed for life on the road, MP8R features etherCON locking Ethernet connectors, highest quality Neutrik XLR connectors and locking power input sockets. The compact 1U all-metal enclosure is ruggedly constructed and redundant power and Ethernet facilities maximise reliability in the field.