The next step in the d&b system approach: the DS10 Audio network bridge

Introducing the DS10 Audio network bridge from d&b audiotechnik, the next advance in the d&b system approach. The DS10 is designed specifically for d&b amplifiers. It provides 16 AES3 output channels via the Dante audio transport protocol through Ethernet, four AES3 input channels and an integrated 5port network switch.

Using the DS10, multiple channels can be sent from the console to the amplifiers using a single network cable. At the amplifiers, the DS10 distributes the audio signals to the AES3 inputs within the d&b amplifiers. The DS10 sends meta data information, such as Dante channel labels and cabling information via the AES3 channel stream to the latest generation of d&b amplifiers for simplified routing and troubleshooting.

The DS10 is more than just an interface between the Dante audio transport protocol and the d&b amplifiers. Four AES3 input channels enable use as a Dante break-in from a Front of House console. Additionally, the DS10 offers a ‘Bypass’ mode, which allows operation as an AES3 splitter, directly distributing the four AES3 input channels to all AES3 outputs.

The wide range power supply is suitable for mains voltages 100 – 240 V, 50 – 60 Hz, and features Overvoltage protection of up to 400 V.

The DS10 features an integrated 5-port switch, with options for a primary and redundant network, as well as further connectivity for external devices such as a laptop to access the d&b Remote network and control amplifiers using the d&b R1 remote control software. The DS10 can transport both audio and remote control data via the same network cable. All four channel d&b amplifiers [the D80, D20, 30D and 10D] can be controlled via Ethernet using the Open Control Architecture protocol (OCA), providing a high bandwidth and a quick response time for fast and accurate adjustment. These four channel amplifiers provide comprehensive Digital Signal Processing capabilities including two 16-band equalisers and up to 10 seconds of delay for each channel, as well as setups for d&b loudspeakers.

“d&b is now even further up the signal chain, straight from the console with all the signal processing carried out within the d&b amplifiers. Remote control data and audio can now be sent to the d&b amplifiers via the DS10, which guarantees simplicity in operation and flexibility in use“, explained Vicent Perales, d&b Product Manager. “This flexible 1 RU device really opens up the functionality of the d&b amplifiers, and enables seamless interoperability of Dante enabled devices with d&b systems.”

d&b audiotechnik DS10 Audio Network Bridge