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StarNet DM256

A Compact Powerhouse for Audio Format Conversion.

A powerful, high channel count, MADI to Dante and Dante to MADI digital audio format converter housed in a 1U 19” rack chassis.

MADI Optical, Coaxial & 56/64 LED indicators
Multiple Dithering Options
Dante or Legacy MADI clocking options
OLED display
External PSU
Simple menu navigation

Unleashing Unparalleled Power

The StarNet DM256 is the first Neve unit to integrate Dante IP core technology. This powerhouse enables an expansive I/O count of up to 256 channels of Dante Tx & Rx through a single Ethernet connection, setting a new benchmark in digital audio technology.

Expansive Digital I/O

Boasting one of the largest digital I/O counts on the market, the StarNet DM256 accommodates 256 channels of MADI IN/MADI OUT across four MADI ports. These ports feature duplex MADI SC optical connections and dual-BNC coaxial connections, meeting and exceeding professional MADI standards outlined by the Audio Engineering Society.

Precision Clocking Capability

The StarNet DM256 incorporates a modern, low-drift crystal oscillator clocking system and PLL, positioning itself as the ultimate master clock in any professional studio environment.

Dual Ethernet Redundancy

Dante connections are facilitated through dual Ethernet ports, offering redundancy for network failure resilience or daisy-chaining capabilities in switched mode.

Maximum Channel Mapping

Equipped with a Maximum Channel Mapping (MCM) feature, the DM256 ensures seamless multiplexing of MADI I/O assignments per port, maintaining session integrity during sample rate switches.

Legacy MADI Support

Each of the DM256 four MADI ports can independently be set to 56 or 64-channel MADI. In addition, legacy MADI gear only capable of 1FS sample rates(44.1, 48kHz), can connect and synchronise to the Dante network, even at 2FS (88.2, 96kHz) or 4FS (176, 192kHz) sample rates.

User Friendly Control

A front-mounted OLED screen provides ‘at-a-glance’ access to network settings, sample rate, bit depth, and more. Simple menu navigation buttons and input/output LEDs offer intuitive control for all four MADI ports.

Efficient Heat Management

Crafted with an external PSU design, the StarNet DM256 efficiently dissipates heat, safeguarding internal components for an extended lifespan. This design consideration underscores Neve’s commitment to delivering robust and reliable audio solutions.

StarNet DM256

A Compact Powerhouse for Audio Format Conversion

A powerful, high channel count, MADI to Dante and Dante to MADI digital audio format converter housed in a 1U 19” rack chassis.

Unleashing Unparalleled Power

The StarNet DM256 is the first Neve unit to integrate Dante IP core technology. This powerhouse enables an expansive I/O count of up to 256 channels of Dante Tx & Rx through a single Ethernet connection, setting a new benchmark in digital audio technology.

Expansive Digital I/O

Boasting one of the largest digital I/O counts on the market, the StarNet DM256 accommodates 256 channels of MADI IN/MADI OUT across four MADI ports. These ports feature duplex MADI SC optical connections and dual-BNC coaxial connections, meeting and exceeding professional MADI standards outlined by the Audio Engineering Society.

Precision Clocking Capability

The StarNet DM256 incorporates a modern, low-drift crystal oscillator clocking system and PLL, positioning itself as the ultimate master clock in any professional studio environment.

Dual Ethernet Redundancy

Dante connections are facilitated through dual Ethernet ports, offering redundancy for network failure resilience or daisy-chaining capabilities in switched mode.

Maximum Channel Mapping

Equipped with a Maximum Channel Mapping (MCM) feature, the DM256 ensures seamless multiplexing of MADI I/O assignments per port, maintaining session integrity during sample rate switches.

Legacy MADI Support

Each of the DM256 four MADI ports can independently be set to 56 or 64-channel MADI. In addition, legacy MADI gear only capable of 1FS sample rates(44.1, 48kHz), can connect and synchronise to the Dante network, even at 2FS (88.2, 96kHz) or 4FS (176, 192kHz) sample rates.

User Friendly Control

A front-mounted OLED screen provides ‘at-a-glance’ access to network settings, sample rate, bit depth, and more. Simple menu navigation buttons and input/output LEDs offer intuitive control for all four MADI ports.

Efficient Heat Management

Crafted with an external PSU design, the StarNet DM256 efficiently dissipates heat, safeguarding internal components for an extended lifespan. This design consideration underscores Neve’s commitment to delivering robust and reliable audio solutions.

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More Information and Support

General Specification

  • 4x MADI Duplex SC optical ports
  • 8x MADI BNC connectors (4x Rx, 4x Tx)
  • Dante Primary and Secondary connection for Audio-over-IP application
  • Word Clock Sync In/Out
  • 2x Dante Ethernet ports (Primary & Secondary)
  • 1x Communications Ethernet port
  • External PSU
  • Voltage: 90-240V
  • Current: 0.14A @240V, 0.33A @90V
  • Heat Dissipation: 313watts

Dimensions

  • Width: 483mm (19 inches)
  • Height: 24mm (1.75 inches)
  • Depth: 185mm (7.3 inches)
  • Weight: 2.1Kg (4.6Lbs)

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I connect the DM256 to my current MADI equipment?

The DM256 can be connected via MADI optical Duplex SC or Coaxial BNC connections. The Tx of each port is sent to both the Coaxial and Optical Tx ports, allowing for signal splitting if required.

How do I configure the DM256 for legacy MADI equipment?

Each of the four DM256 MADI ports can be configured for either 64, or 56-channel MADI from the front OLED display menu. If your equipment only supports 56 channel MADI, set it accordingly. In addition, if your legacy MADI equipment only supports 1FS sample rates of 44.1, or 48kHz, the Legacy clock option can be selected from the OLED menu for the selected port, allowing for operation at higher sample rates of 2FS or 4FS while maintaining correct synchronisation.

How do I adjust the DM256's sample rate & bit depth settings?

Sample rate, bit depth, pull-up, pull-down, & clocking options are all handled via the Audinate Dante Controller application. MADI port settings are controlled locally from the OLED menu.

Any questions on the DM256?

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