Line-Level Bi-Directional Network Interface-2 Balanced Line Inputs, Dante Input-2 Balanced Line Outputs, Dante Output-with PoE

The RDL RU-LB2P is a line-level, bidirectional network audio interface that connects balanced analog audio equipment with Dante. Its two balanced inputs convert standard line-level sources into two Dante channels, while two Dante channels are converted to balanced line-level outputs. The interface operates through a 100 Mbps RJ45 network connection and supports 24-bit audio at 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz, with 48 kHz as the default. It can be powered from 24 Vdc or through Class 0 IEEE 802.3af PoE.

Ideal Use Cases

The RU-LB2P is suited to networked audio systems that require two analog channels entering a Dante network and two Dante channels returning to balanced analog equipment. Its defined two-input, two-output configuration is appropriate when a system needs bidirectional conversion without additional channel capacity. Detachable terminal blocks provide balanced input and output connections, while PoE allows network and power delivery through the installation infrastructure when compatible IEEE 802.3af power is available.

Why Choose This Model

This model combines balanced analog I/O, Dante transport, signal monitoring, and two power options in a compact enclosure. Both inputs and both outputs use detachable terminal blocks. The outputs operate at a nominal +4 dBu level, and the digital-to-analog reference is specified as 18 dBFS equals +4 dBu. Eleven indicators provide visible operating information: one Power In indicator, two output signal LEDs, four LEDs forming two input VU meters, two Network Sys and Sync indicators, and Ethernet Link and Speed indicators.

The enclosure measures 5.8 inches wide, 1.7 inches high, and 5.2 inches deep. This defined footprint, combined with the RJ45 network connector and detachable audio connections, makes the physical and electrical requirements straightforward to account for during system planning.

Installation and Integration

Network connectivity is provided through an RJ45 connector with Link and Speed indicators. The documented Ethernet transmission rate is 100 Mbps, and the digital audio protocol is Dante. Analog sources connect to the two balanced inputs, and the two balanced outputs connect the selected Dante channels to downstream line-level equipment.

Power may be connected through the power jack or detachable terminal block. The stated requirement is 24 Vdc at 120 mA plus connected loads. The recommended supplies are the PS-24AS for the USA and PS-24AX for international use. Alternatively, the RU-LB2P accepts Class 0 IEEE 802.3af PoE. The specified ambient operating range is 0 degrees C to 40 degrees C. Supported network audio settings are 24-bit depth with 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz sampling.

Performance Highlights

• Frequency response is specified from 20 Hz to 20 kHz within plus or minus 0.5 dB.
• THD+N is specified at less than 0.05 percent.
• Noise below +4 dBu is specified at less than -80 dB with the output active and less than -95 dB with outputs muted.
• Common-mode rejection is greater than 60 dB from 50 Hz to 120 Hz.
• Headroom above +4 dBu is greater than 18 dB.

Input impedance is greater than 20 kilohms. Output impedance is specified as 150 ohms balanced or 75 ohms unbalanced, with a nominal output level of +4 dBu. These documented characteristics define how the interface operates with standard line-level sources and destinations.

What Makes It Different

The RU-LB2P handles both documented conversion paths in one unit: two standard line-level sources become Dante channels, and two Dante channels become balanced line-level outputs. Its combination of bidirectional audio conversion and PoE distinguishes the RU-LB2P configuration within the supplied product information. Separate signal, VU, system, synchronization, link, and speed indicators provide status information for the analog and network sides of the interface.

Final Assessment

The RDL RU-LB2P is a focused choice for systems requiring two balanced analog inputs, two balanced analog outputs, and Dante connectivity over 100 Mbps Ethernet. It provides 24-bit operation, two supported sample rates, +4 dBu nominal outputs, detachable audio terminals, and either 24 Vdc or IEEE 802.3af PoE power. Its specifications make it best evaluated against the required channel count, network rate, operating level, and installation power method.