Studio Technologies Model 204 Announcer Console with One Dante Talkback Output

When it comes to delivering exceptional audio performance in broadcast sports, eSports, live events, entertainment, and streaming applications, the Model 204 Announcer's Console stands out with its unique blend of analog and digital audio capabilities. Encased in a compact, durable steel enclosure, this console is designed for table-top use, making it an ideal choice for space-constrained environments. Its sleek and compact design not only makes it visually appealing but also highly functional in tight spaces.

The Model 204 supports Dante audio-over-Ethernet technology with AES67 compatibility, ensuring seamless integration into modern audio setups. This console is remarkably easy to deploy and offers professional-grade quality throughout, providing users with an intuitive and user-friendly experience. Its audio quality is top-notch, characterized by low distortion, minimal noise, and ample headroom, thanks to its meticulous circuit design and robust components that promise long-lasting reliability.

This versatile console integrates effortlessly into both Dante audio-over-Ethernet and standard analog audio environments. With just a Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) connection, a microphone, and headphones or an earpiece, you can establish a complete broadcast on-air position. The Model 204's microphone output facilitates direct connections to analog microphone-level inputs on cameras, remote I/O interfaces, or audio consoles. Additionally, two remote control inputs allow for external switches or contact closures to activate the main and talkback button functions, with one input configurable to provide a low-voltage DC "tally" output reflecting the main output state.

Configuration of the Model 204 is streamlined through the STcontroller software application, which offers an extensive array of parameters to tailor the unit's functions to specific application needs. This software provides a fast and straightforward method for confirming and adjusting the unit's operating parameters.

The Model 204 is a versatile solution for a wide range of applications, including sports and entertainment TV and radio events, streaming broadcasts, corporate and government AV installations, and post-production facilities. Its compact size makes it particularly suitable for live sports events, such as basketball, where space is at a premium. The console features four Dante receiver (input) audio channels for talent cue (IFB) signals, with an integrated sidetone function for microphone confidence signals. Two Dante transmitter (output) audio channels, designated as main and talkback, are routed via a local-area network (LAN) to inputs on Dante-compatible devices. The main and talkback pushbutton switches provide direct control over audio routing, with digital domain switching that is virtually "click-free."

The Model 204 offers both Dante digital audio and analog microphone level outputs, simplifying integration into diverse on-air environments. The talkback audio channel, available as a Dante transmitter (output) channel, facilitates routing to various devices, including matrix intercom systems, audio consoles, and monitor loudspeaker systems. For scenarios where the Dante main output channel is not utilized, the console provides a microphone output connection for seamless integration with analog inputs, such as those on ENG-style cameras.

Setup and operation of the Model 204 are straightforward. An etherCON RJ45 jack connects to a standard twisted-pair Ethernet port on a PoE-enabled network switch, providing both power and bidirectional digital audio. The console's 3-pin XLR mic input connector accommodates dynamic or condenser microphones, with integrated P48 phantom power support for condenser microphones. A 3-pin XLR microphone output connector offers a "direct mic out" function for integration with related devices. Stereo headphones, headset connections, or monaural earpieces can be connected to the phones output jack. External switches or contact closures can activate the main and talkback button functions, while a low-voltage/low-current DC output provides a Main Out Tally function.

The Model 204 connects to a LAN via a standard 100 Mb/s twisted-pair Ethernet interface, with a Neutrik etherCON RJ45 connector ensuring a ruggedized and locking interconnection for demanding environments. Operating power is supplied through the Ethernet interface using the 802.3af PoE standard, with the console enumerating as a class 2 (low power) device for PoE power management.

Dante audio-over-Ethernet technology facilitates audio data transmission to and from the Model 204. As a Dante-compliant device, its two Dante transmitter (output) channels and four Dante receiver (input) channels can be routed to other devices using the Dante Controller software application. The console supports four Dante flows, two in each direction, with a digital audio bit depth of up to 24 and sampling rates of 44.1 or 48 kHz. Bi-color LEDs indicate Dante connection status, while an additional LED displays Ethernet connection status. The Model 204 is compatible with the AES67 interoperability standard and the Dante Domain Manager (DDM) software application.

The Model 204's audio performance is truly professional, featuring a low-noise, wide dynamic-range microphone preamplifier and a VCA dynamics controller (compressor) to preserve mic input audio quality while minimizing signal overload. The audio signal undergoes analog-to-digital conversion with sampling rates of 44.1 and 48 kHz and a bit depth of up to 24. Channel routing, headphone level control, and sidetone creation occur within the digital domain, offering flexibility and precise control. The audio channels destined for the phones outputs are processed by a high-performance digital-to-analog converter and robust driver circuitry, delivering high signal levels to various headsets, headphones, and earpieces.