Focusrite A8R is a 1U, 8x8 analog line-level I/O interface for any Dante audio-over-IP network. With redundant networking and power supply, RedNet A8R is the ideal choice for providing analog I/O in many mission-critical applications, whether in post-production, broadcasting, live sound, or recording studios.

High-quality conversion with up to 119 dB of dynamic range is provided through two DB25 connectors on the rear panel, while an additional pair of AES3 I/O is provided through male and female XLR connectors for greater flexibility. The Word Clock I/O on the BNC connectors allows external devices to clock the RedNet A8R, or alternatively allows the RedNet A8R to act as a grandmaster network clock slave to the external input. Power is supplied through a pair of IEC power inputs with locking, and network connections are provided with a pair of Neutrik etherCON connectors with locking; providing redundant operation.

In addition, two AES/EBU I/O channels with input sample rate conversion are provided on XLR connectors. The unit's clock source can be internal, or external through Word Clock or DARS (through the XLR input). The RedNet A8R also outputs Word Clock, with Word Clock input and output on BNC connectors.

The sample rate and operating levels are selected remotely from the RedNet control software. The comprehensive front panel LEDs include the power supply and network status, the sample rate, and the tricolor signal level indicator (red-amber-green) per channel. Green "signal present" indicators are provided for the AES/EBU I/O, and three Clock Source indicators show Internal, Word Clock, and DARS.

The RedNet A8R has power and network redundancy, with two separate universal PSUs (100-240V) that include IEC connectors with retention clips, in addition to dual network interfaces in locking etherCON connectors, which can be configured remotely in Redundant or Switched (daisy-chain) mode.

RedNet A8R features soft start upon power-up and automatic muting during sample rate changes, to prevent audible clicks and pops.

RedNet A8R is CE marked, is UL/C-UL listed, and incorporates the grounding and EMC practices of AES48-2005. The platform complies with EU Directive 2002/95/IEC, the RoHS Directive.