Network to Stereo Headphone Amplifier-Dante

The RDL SF-NH1 is a compact network-to-stereo headphone amplifier that converts two Dante signals into a stereo headphone feed with local level adjustment. It supports 24-bit digital audio, four selectable sample rates, and 100 Mbps Dante transmission. The durable metal housing measures 2.79 inches wide, 1.68 inches high, and 5.77 inches deep, with placement options for free-standing, surface-mounted, or rack-mounted use.

Ideal Use Cases

The SF-NH1 is intended for Dante-based audio systems that require a dedicated stereo headphone listening point. Its selectable sample rates and adjustable output level allow it to accommodate different Dante system configurations while providing a direct left-and-right headphone feed. The supported operating environment of 0° C to 50° C defines the ambient temperature range for installation.

• Systems that need to convert two Dante network signals into stereo headphone audio.
• Locations requiring free-standing placement, surface mounting, or rack mounting.
• Dante installations operating at 44.1, 48, 88.2, or 96 kHz sample rates.

Why Choose This Model

The SF-NH1 combines its Dante interface, headphone amplification, and level adjustment in a durable metal enclosure. It supports 24-bit audio and provides a maximum output level of 150 mW into 100 Ω at 0 dBFS. Output impedance is specified below 50 Ω, while 20 dB of headroom is available above -20 dBFS.

Three indicators provide operating information without requiring access to additional equipment. Ethernet Link and Speed indicators are located on the rear panel, while a Sync indicator is positioned on the front panel. This arrangement provides visible confirmation of the network connection and Dante synchronization status.

Installation and Integration

Network connectivity is provided through an RJ45 connector with Link and Speed indicators. The interface uses the Dante digital audio Ethernet protocol at a transmission rate of 100 Mbps. Power is supplied through PoE Class 0 in accordance with IEEE 802.3af. Supported sample rates are 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz by default, 88.2 kHz, and 96 kHz.

The enclosure can be used as a free-standing component or incorporated into surface-mount and rack-mount installations. Its compact dimensions are 2.79 inches wide by 1.68 inches high by 5.77 inches deep. Gain and level specifications are stated with a tolerance of ±1 dB.

Performance Highlights

• Audio resolution: 24-bit Dante audio with selectable sample rates from 44.1 kHz through 96 kHz.
• Frequency response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz within ±0.5 dB.
• Maximum output: 0 dBFS equals 150 mW into a 100 Ω load.
• THD+N: Below 0.05% from 20 Hz to 20 kHz at -20 dBFS, with 0.015% typical at 1 kHz.
• Crosstalk: Below -80 dB at 1 kHz and -20 dBFS.
• Noise: Below -75 dB relative to -20 dBFS and below -95 relative to 0 dBFS.

What Makes It Different

The SF-NH1 is specifically configured to turn two Dante signals into a stereo headphone feed with adjustable level. Its output specification includes two mini-jack stereo connections for the left and right channels. The combination of 24-bit conversion, selectable Dante sample rates, headphone-level output, PoE operation, and multiple mounting methods keeps the interface focused on network-to-headphone integration.

The front Sync indicator complements the rear Ethernet Link and Speed indicators, allowing connection and synchronization status to be checked from the corresponding sides of the unit. The metal construction supports the stated free-standing, surface-mount, and rack-mount configurations.

Final Assessment

The RDL SF-NH1 provides a clearly defined path from two Dante network signals to adjustable stereo headphone audio. Its 20 Hz to 20 kHz frequency response, 24-bit support, sample rates up to 96 kHz, 150 mW maximum output into 100 Ω, and IEEE 802.3af PoE requirement make its capabilities straightforward to match with a Dante installation. Compact dimensions and three placement options provide additional flexibility when integrating the interface into an equipment layout.