Focusrite RedNet MP8R

RedNet MP8R is an 8-channel remote microphone preamplifier and converter for the Dante . Developed from the RedNet 4 remote studio microphone preamplifier, the MP8R is packed with features that make it ideal for use in live sound, recording and broadcast environments where reliability is paramount. The MP8R has two Ethernet ports with different operating modes, including daisy-chaining and redundancy, confirmed by front panel indicators. There are two separate power supplies with fault detection function and separate power connections at the rear. Power failures are indicated both remotely and on the front panel. The MP8R is characterised by a robust, roadworthy exterior and the highest quality interior. In addition, the MP8R offers a compact 1U rackmount form factor.

The MP8R preamps are the latest version of the award-winning Focusrite microphone preamps, with a history dating back to the original Focusrite products in the mid-1980s. Today's Focusrite preamps keep pace with the latest developments in audio technology, offering lower noise and greater dynamic range than ever before. The MP8R preamps offer an increased maximum input level of 28 dBu, a 20 dB pad, a high-pass filter, polarity reversal and phantom power. Each preamp has a dual input impedance of 10k½ or 2.4k½, so you can run multiple mic preamps in parallel.

A special feature of the MP8R for live applications is its gain tracking function. The unit appears as a 16-channel device on the network, with the first eight channels being direct preamp feeds, while the remaining eight are automatically DSP level-compensated outputs derived from the first eight channels. This architecture allows 'splits' - such as monitor/FOH - to be set up in the digital domain, so that one engineer can control the analogue mic gain, while a second receives an output level that is constant regardless of the analogue mic gain setting.

The preamps can be controlled in a number of ways, including via the RedNet Control software package, Pro Tools and MIDI, and OCA (Open Control Architecture). The preamps can also be controlled from the front panel of the MP8R, where a 6-segment level meter, numerical gain display and other indicators allow comprehensive monitoring of operation.

The mic preamps are followed by eight channels of Focusrite's legendary high-precision A/D converters, operating at up to 192kHz/24-bit with minimal latency and offering best-in-class dynamic range and overall performance.

Like all RedNet, the MP8R works seamlessly and fully with all other Dante and infrastructure. Patching and interconnection can be managed with Dante, while RedNet Control provides comprehensive remote control of the microphone preamps.