The new RSS S-0808 Digital Snake and S-4000M REAC Merge Unit were previewed at the InterBEE exhibition in Tokyo, extending the possibilities for digital audio configurations in all kinds of installed applications, and reinforcing RSS's growing reputation as a pro-audio solutions provider.
The S-0808 is an 8in/8out compact, lightweight digital snake that supports multiple power options including battery power, embedded power over REAC and power over Ethernet (PoE). The inputs offer remote controllable preamps, phantom-power, 24-bit 96kHz A/D conversion as well as choices of XLR, TRS line and even Hi-Z capability to reduce the need for DI boxes.
The versatility in power and input choices make the S-0808 suitable for location sound, festivals, stage boxes, remote broadcasting and other portable applications, says the company.
Audio and power can be transferred over Cat5e cable using the RSS S-4000D Splitter and Power Distributor or the new S-4000M REAC Merge Unit. The S-4000M can power up to four S-0808 units and also enable the merging of all connected I/O into one REAC stream. This allows distribution of 8x8 I/O units in a variety of locations, where AC power is not available or inconvenient to run.
Two units can be paired together for a complete point-to-point 8x8 snake system or it can be used as a stage input box with any RSS V-Mixer - all made possible using REAC (Roland Ethernet Audio Communication) protocol over a single Cat5e cable. A side-mounting adapter plate is included, which enables IDX V-Mount or Anton Bauer Gold Mount battery systems to be conveniently attached to the side to power the S-0808.
Says RSS marketing manager Martin Thomas: "The S-0808 and S-4000M are ideal for multi-use venues requiring versatile audio through the day, and will bring a new level of flexibility to the signal path from sources to console, providing the output that end-users have been asking us for. It also keeps the audio in the digital domain, preventing noise and signal degradation. From an installer's point of view, the space-saving benefits of sending audio over Cat5e cable are clear. Lower material cost, easier installation and, in the case of REAC (Roland Ethernet Audio Communication), intuitive and reliable operation, save time and effort for both installer and client."
(Jim Evans)
