Studio Technologies 5304 User manual

50715-1221, Issue Preliminary 1
Copyright © 2021 by Studio Technologies, Inc., all rights reserved
studio-tech.com
User Guide
Issue Preliminary 1. December 2021
This User Guide is applicable for serial numbers
M5304-00151 and later with Application Firmware 1.02 and later
Model 5304
Intercom Station

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Model 5304 User Guide Issue Preliminary 1, December 2021
Studio Technologies, Inc. Page 3
Model 5304
INTERCOM STATION
Table of Contents
Revision History ................................................................................................................................ 4
Introduction........................................................................................................................................ 5
Getting Started .................................................................................................................................. 8
Dante Conguration .......................................................................................................................... 11
Model 5304 Conguration ................................................................................................................. 12
Operation........................................................................................................................................... 17
Technical Notes................................................................................................................................. 17
Specications .................................................................................................................................... 20
Appendix A–STcontroller Default Conguration Values..................................................................... 22
Appendix B– Graphical Description of the Installation Kit for Panel-Cutout or Surface-Mounting
Use (Order Code RMBK-10) ............................................................................................................. 23
Appendix C–Graphical Description of Left- or Right-Side Rack-Mount Installation Kit for
One “1/2- Rack” Unit (Order Code RMBK-11)................................................................................... 24
Appendix D–Graphical Description of Rack-Mount Installation Kit for Two “1/2- Rack” Units
(Order Code RMBK-12)..................................................................................................................... 25
Appendix E–Graphical Description of Center Rack-Mount Installation Kit for One “1/2- Rack”
Unit (Order Code RMBK-13) ............................................................................................................. 26

Issue Preliminary 1, December 2021 Model 5304 User Guide
Page 4 Studio Technologies, Inc.
Model 5304
INTERCOM STATION
Revision History
Issue Preliminary 1, December 2021:
•Initial preliminary release.

Model 5304 User Guide Issue Preliminary 1, December 2021
Studio Technologies, Inc. Page 5
Model 5304
INTERCOM STATION
Introduction
The Model 5304 Intercom Station provides four
independent talk and listen channels that are com-
patible with Dante
®
audio-over-Ethernet networks.
An extensive range of congurable parameters allow
the performance to be optimized for numerous inter-
com applications. The unit is designed to serve as a
user station for production and support personnel in
applications including on-air television broadcasting,
live events, theater, industrial, aerospace, house of
worship, and corporate AV. The Model 5304’s four
channels can be part of a virtual “party-line” intercom
system created with other compatible devices. The
unit’s lightweight aluminum enclosure is intended for
desktop or tabletop use. Optional mounting kits allow
one or two Model 5304 units to be mounted in one
space (1U) of a standard 19-inch rack enclosure.
Over a standard IP network, multiple Model 5304 units
can become part of a party-line (PL) intercom applica-
tion with help from an external Dante-enabled audio
device such as the Studio Technologies’ Model 5421
or Model 5422A Dante Intercom Audio Engine unit.
Model 5304 units can also be deployed in conjunction
with Dante-compliant matrix interface systems. The
Model 5304’s range of resources makes it possible
to use units locally or as part of a REMI or “At-Home”
implementation.
Only a headset and a Power-over-Ethernet (PoE)
connection are required for operation. Key user fea-
tures can be easily congured using the STcontroller
Figure 1. Model 354 Talk Station front and back views
software application. Congurable parameters include
electret microphone powering, microphone pream-
plier gain, talk and auxiliary button operation, call
signal support, headphone channel assignment, and
remote control inputs. Specic user features include
integrated sidetone operation, remote mic kill (“talk
o󰀨”), LED display intensity, and microphone audio
level display. The wide range of capabilities, along
with the excellent audio quality provided by the digital
audio signal path, o󰀨ers a unique and highly e󰀨ective
user experience.
Set up and conguration of the Model 5304 is simple.
An RJ45 jack is used to interconnect with a standard
twisted-pair Ethernet port associated with a local-area
network (LAN). This connection provides both power
and bidirectional digital audio. Two LEDs provide an
indication of the Ethernet connection’s status. A broad-
cast or intercom-style stereo or monaural headset
with a dynamic or electret (DC-powered) microphone
interfaces with the unit using a 5-pin XLR connector.
A 3-conductor 3.5 mm jack allows connection of two
external switches or contact closures to activate two
selected talk channels.
The STcontroller software application is used to select
the unit’s operating parameters. STcontroller is avail-
able, free of charge, from the Studio Technologies’
website. Versions are available that are compatible
with the Windows
®
and macOS
®
operating systems.
STcontroller is a fast and simple means of congur-
ing, revising, saving, and loading a unit’s operating
parameters.

Issue Preliminary 1, December 2021 Model 5304 User Guide
Page 6 Studio Technologies, Inc.
Model 5304
INTERCOM STATION
Dante Audio-over-Ethernet
Audio data is sent to and received from the Model
5304 using the Dante audio-over-Ethernet media
networking technology. As a Dante-compliant device,
the Model 5304’s four Dante transmitter (output) and
four Dante receiver (input) audio channels can be
assigned (routed or “subscribed”) with other devices
using the Dante Controller software application. The
Dante transmitter (output) and receiver (input) chan-
nels are limited to supporting four Dante ows, two in
each direction. The Dante digital audio’s bit depth is
up to 24 with a sampling rate of 48 kHz.
The Model 5304 is compliant with the AES67 interop-
erability standard. In addition, the unit is compatible
with the Dante Domain Manager™ (DDM) software
application.
Audio Quality
The Model 5304’s audio quality is completely “pro.”
A low-noise, wide dynamic-range microphone pre-
amplier and associated analog dynamics controller
(compressor) circuit ensures that microphone audio
quality is preserved and minimizes the chance of
signal overload. If desired, DC power can be enabled
to support electret microphones. The output of the
microphone preamp and compressor is routed to an
analog-to-digital conversion (ADC) section that sup-
ports a sampling rate of 48 kHz with a bit depth of up to
24. The audio signal, now in the digital domain, travels
through the unit’s 32-bit microcontroller integrated
circuit and on to the Dante interface section where it is
packetized and prepared for transport over Ethernet.
The microphone audio signal can also be routed to
the headphone output whenever one or more of the
“talk” channels are active. This “sidetone” function
supports the user by allowing them to monitor the
audio associated with their own microphone. The level
of the sidetone signal can be congured from among
ve choices as well as being disabled.
Audio signals arrive in the Model 5304 by way of
four Dante receiver (input) channels. These audio
signals pass into the Model 5304’s microcontroller
integrated circuit where channel routing, headphone
level control, and sidetone functionality are performed
within the digital domain. Five rotary encoders allow
the level of each input channel, and the overall level,
to be adjusted. The mix of audio signals destined
for the 2-channel headphone output is sent to a
high-performance digital-to-analog converter (DAC)
integrated circuit and then on to robust driver circuit-
ry. High signal levels can be provided to a variety of
headsets, headphones, and earpieces.
User Controls and Indicators
The Model 5304’s front panel includes ve rotary con-
trols (multi-step “encoders”), ve pushbutton switches,
and an 8-segment multipurpose display. Four of the
encoders are used to adjust the listen level of the
four Dante receiver (input) audio channels. They are
also used to fully mute an input as well as activating a
channel “solo” listen function. Using RGB (red-green-
blue) LEDs, the knob associated with each encoder
can illuminate, displaying three colors to represent
the approximate level of the audio input signal, light-
ing purple if the channel is fully muted, or ashing or
lighting orange when an in-band (20 kHz tone) call
signal is detected. An additional rotary encoder is used
to control the overall audio level of the signals being
sent to the headset outputs. It can also be used to
fully mute the headphone output channels.
The four pushbutton switches are used to enable the
routing of microphone audio to the Dante transmitter
(output) “talk” audio channels. Conguration choices
allow the operation of the four talk buttons to be op-
timized to meet an application’s needs. Their action
can be independently congured, as well as selected
to send only voice audio, or to send both voice audio
and an 18 kHz sine wave tone. This latter capability
is specically provided for supporting REMI/AT-Home
or other specialized applications. A fth pushbutton
switch, labeled AUX, can be congured to provide
either an “all talk” function or to serve as a call enable
button.
The multipurpose display utilizes eight bi-color LEDs
to provide a range of Model 5304 performance indica-
tions. It can serve as an audio level meter, providing
a real-time indication of the microphone signal as it is
sent to one or more of the active “talk” channels. It will
also provide an indication of the setting of the rotary
encoders. The multipurpose display will also indicate
when a conguration choice has been made or when
the Dante identication function has been received.

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Studio Technologies, Inc. Page 7
Model 5304
INTERCOM STATION
Call Signaling Support
Call functions allow Model 5304 users to send and
receive channel-specic visual alert signals. Using 20
kHz tones, the call signals are sent as part of the audio
channels (“in band”) allowing interoperability between
multiple Model 5304 units and other products from
Studio Technologies. This call signaling method is
also compatible with analog legacy party-line intercom
systems. Call signals can be useful to indicate to users
that they are needed “on headset” or that they should
be actively listening to an intercom channel. The call
function can also be used to provide real-time cues to
production personnel during the running of live events.
The auxiliary pushbutton switch, located on the right
side of the Model 5304’s front panel, can be cong-
ured to serve as a call button. In this way, any active
talk channel will include a 20 kHz call tone when the
auxiliary button is pressed. A call signal present on
any of the four Dante receiver (input) channels can
be detected and displayed. To optimize call operation
for specic applications, a conguration choice allows
the way in which the Model 5304 will light its LED
indicators when call signals are received.
Conguration Flexibility
A highlight of the Model 5304 is its ability to be easily
congured to meet the needs of specic users and
applications. All conguration choices are made using
the STcontroller software application that communi-
cates with the Model 5304 by way of the unit’s Eth-
ernet network connection. Congurable parameters
include microphone power and preamplifier gain,
sidetone audio operation, signal present indication,
microphone level display, talk button operation, call
indication, remote control inputs, and headphone
monitoring.
The microphone input can be selected for compati-
bility with dynamic or electret microphones. The gain
of the microphone preamplier can be selected from
among ve choices. These selections allow compat-
ibility with a variety of microphones that are part of
broadcast and intercom headsets.
A unique Model 5304 feature is the ability to individu-
ally congure the way that each of the four talk push-
button switches function; four choices are available.
For standard intercom user station operation, Push
to Talk, Tap to Latch, or Push to Talk/Tap to Latch
operation can be selected. For situations where only
monitoring of an intercom channel is desired the
Disabled mode is available. Conguration choices
allow the two remote control inputs to be individually
assigned to mimic the action of any one of the four
intercom talk buttons or the auxiliary button.
Four audio channels arrive via Dante and are des-
tined for the 2-channel headphone output. Each
input source can be independently routed to the
left headphone channel, right headphone channel,
or both the left and right headphone channels. This
exibility allows a variety of listening environments to
be created, including stereo, single-channel monaural,
and dual-channel monaural. As previously described,
a rotary encoder is used to control the audio level
associated with each Dante receiver (input) channel.
In addition, a fth rotary encoder allows the overall
headphone level to be controlled.
Ethernet Data and PoE
The Model 5304 connects to a Ethernet local-area
network (LAN) using a standard 100 Mb/s twisted-pair
Ethernet interface. The physical interconnection is
made by way of an RJ45 jack. Two LEDs display the
status of the network connection.
The Model 5304’s operating power is provided
by way of the Ethernet interface using the 802.3af
Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) standard. This allows
fast and e󰀩cient interconnection with the associated
data network. To support PoE power management,
the Model 5304’s PoE interface reports to the power
sourcing equipment (PSE) that it’s a class 2 (low
power) device.
Future Capabilities and Firmware
Updating
The Model 5304 was designed such that its capabil-
ities and performance can be easily enhanced in the
future. A USB connector, located on the unit’s back
panel, allows the application rmware (embedded
software) to be updated using a standard USB ash
drive. The Model 5304 uses an UltimoX4™ integrated
circuit from Audinate to implement its Dante interface.
The rmware in this integrated circuit can be updated
via the Ethernet connection, helping to ensure that its
capabilities remain up to date.

Issue Preliminary 1, December 2021 Model 5304 User Guide
Page 8 Studio Technologies, Inc.
Model 5304
INTERCOM STATION
Deployment
The Model 5304 is ready, “out of the box,” for
deployment on a desk, table, or other at surface.
Its compact enclosure is essentially “½-rack” wide
and one rack space high. The RMBK-10 installation
kit, purchased as an option, allows one unit to be
mounted in a panel cutout or on a wall surface. Three
other installation kits, also purchased as options,
allow one or two Model 5304 units to be mounted in
one space (1U) of a standard 19-inch rack. The
RMBK-11 allows one Model 5304 unit to be mounted
on the left or right side of a single rack space. The
RMBK-12 allows two Model 5304 units to be mounted
in a single rack space. The RMBK-12 also allows a
Model 5304 to be mounted with any other compatible
Studio Technologies’ unit, including the popular Model
5421 Dante Intercom Engine. Finally, the RMBK-13
allows one Model 5304 to be mounted in the center
of a single rack space.
Getting Started
In this section a location will be selected for the
Model 5304 Intercom Station. If desired, an optional
installation kit will be used to mount a Model 5304 unit
into a panel cutout, wall surface, or equipment rack.
Signal interconnections can be made using the unit’s
three connectors, two on the back and one on the
front. An Ethernet data connection with Power-over-
Ethernet (PoE) capability will be made using a stan-
dard RJ45 patch cable. Some applications will use the
3-conductor 3.5 mm jack located on the back panel to
access the Model 5304’s two remote control inputs. A
dual-channel or single-channel (dual- or single-ear)
headset will be connected using a cable-mounted
5-pin male XLR connector.
What’s Included
Included in the shipping carton are a Model 5304
Intercom Station and instructions on how to obtain
an electronic copy of this guide. As a device that is
Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) powered, no external
power source is provided. In most applications an
Ethernet switch with the required PoE capability will
be utilized. An optional installation kit allows a Model
5304 to be mounted in a rectangular opening in a
tabletop or attached to a at surface. If one or two
Model 5304 units are going to be mounted in a 19-inch
equipment rack then having one of the optional rack-
mount installation kits is required. If an installation kit
was purchased it would typically have been shipped
in a separate carton.
Locating the Model 5304
The Model 5304’s location will depend on where the
user needs access to it. The Model 5304 is shipped as
a self-contained “throw down” unit suitable for portable
use or placement in a semi-permanent location. In-
stalled on the bottom of the chassis are screw-a󰀩xed
“bump on” protectors (also known as rubber “feet”).
These are useful if the unit is going to be placed on a
surface where scratching of either the Model 5304’s
enclosure or the surface material could take place.
However, if applicable the “feet” can be removed
when installation in a panel cutout, wall mount, or rack
enclosure is going to be performed.
Once the unit’s location has been established
its twisted-pair Ethernet cabling must be within
100-meters (325-feet) of the Ethernet port on the as-
sociated PoE network switch. This overall length limit
can be overcome by using a ber-optic interconnec-
tion between the Model 5304-related PoE-supporting
Ethernet switch and another Ethernet switch that’s
part of the application’s local-area-network (LAN).
With fiber interconnects there’s no reason why a
Dante-supported LAN can’t be distributed over many
miles or kilometers.
Panel Cutout or Surface Mounting
One Model 5304 Unit
Installation kit RMBK-10 allows one Model 5304 to
be mounted in a panel cutout or onto a at surface.
The kit contains two standard-length brackets and
four 6-32 thread-pitch Phillips-head machine screws.
Refer to Appendix B for a visual explanation.
Get ready to install the kit by rst removing the four
machine screws and associated “bump on” protectors
from the bottom of the Model 5304’s chassis. They
are removed using a #1 Phillips screwdriver. Store the
four machine screws and four “bump on” protectors
for possible later use.
To prepare the unit to mount in a cutout or other
opening in a panel, use a #2 Phillips screwdriver and
two 6-32 machine screws to attach one of the stan-
dard-length brackets onto the left side (when viewed
from the front) of the Model 5304’s enclosure. Orient

Model 5304 User Guide Issue Preliminary 1, December 2021
Studio Technologies, Inc. Page 9
Model 5304
INTERCOM STATION
the standard-length bracket such that its front is par-
allel to the Model 5304’s front panel. The screws will
mate with the threaded fasteners that can be seen on
the side of the Model 5304’s enclosure, near the front
of the unit. Using two additional 6-32 machine screws,
attach the other standard-length bracket onto the right
side of the Model 5304’s enclosure.
Once the two standard-length brackets have been
installed the Model 5304 will be ready to be mounted
into an opening. Secure the unit into the top left and
right edges of the opening using two mounting screws
per side.
To prepare the unit to be mounted onto a at surface
simply requires the standard-length brackets be
attached to the Model 5304 at 90 degrees from how
they were mounted for use in a panel cutout. Use a
#2 Phillips screwdriver and two 6-32 machine screws
to attach one of the standard-length brackets onto the
left side (when viewed from the front) of the enclosure.
Orient the bracket such that its front is parallel with
the top surface of the Model 5304’s enclosure. The
screws will mate with the threaded fasteners that can
be seen on the side of the Model 5304’s enclosure,
near the front of the unit. Following the same orienta-
tion, use two additional 6-32 machine screws to attach
the other standard-length bracket onto the right side
of the Model 5304’s enclosure.
Once the two standard-length brackets have been
installed the Model 5304 will be ready to be mounted
onto a at surface. Secure the unit to the surface using
two mounting screws per side.
Left- or Right-Side Rack Mounting
One Model 5304 Unit
Installation kit RMBK-11 allows one Model 5304 to be
mounted in the left or right side of one space (1U) of a
standard 19-inch rack enclosure. The kit contains one
standard-length bracket, one long-length bracket, and
four 6-32 thread-pitch Phillips-head machine screws.
Refer to Appendix C for a visual explanation.
Get ready to install the kit by removing the four
machine screws and associated “bump on” protectors
from the bottom of the Model 5304’s chassis. They
are removed using a #1 Phillips screwdriver. Store the
four machine screws and four “bump on” protectors
for possible later use.
To prepare the unit to mount in the left side of a rack
enclosure, use a #2 Phillips screwdriver and two 6-32
machine screws to attach the standard-length bracket
onto the left side (when viewed from the front) of the
enclosure. The screws will mate with the threaded
fasteners that can be seen on the side of the Model
5304’s enclosure, near the front of the unit. Using
two additional 6-32 machine screws, attach the long-
length bracket onto the right side of the Model 5304’s
enclosure.
To prepare the unit to mount in the right side of a
rack enclosure, use a #2 Phillips screwdriver and
two 6-32 machine screws to attach the long-length
bracket onto the left side of the enclosure. Using
two additional 6-32 machine screws, attach the
standard-length bracket onto the right side of the
Model 5304’s enclosure.
Once the standard-length and long-length brackets
have been installed the Model 5304 will be ready
to be mounted into the designated equipment rack.
One space (1U or 1.75 vertical inches) in a standard
19-inch equipment rack is required. Secure the unit
into the equipment rack using two mounting screws
per side.
Rack-Mounting Two Model 5304
Units
Installation kit RMBK-12 is used to allow two Model
5304 units to be mounted in one space (1U) of a
standard 19-inch equipment rack. The kit can also be
used to mount one Model 5304 and one other Studio
Technologies’ product that is compatible with the
RMBK-12, such as the Model 5421 Dante Intercom
Audio Engine. The RMBK-12 installation kit contains
two standard-length brackets, two joiner plates, eight
6-32 thread-pitch Phillips-head machine screws,
and two 2-56 thread-pitch Torx™ T7 thread-forming
machine screws. Refer to Appendix D for a visual
explanation.
Get ready to install the kit by removing the four
machine screws and associated “bump on” protectors
from the bottom of each chassis. They are removed
using a #1 Phillips screwdriver. Store the eight
machine screws and eight “bump on” protectors for
possible later use.

Issue Preliminary 1, December 2021 Model 5304 User Guide
Page 10 Studio Technologies, Inc.
Model 5304
INTERCOM STATION
With assistance from a #2 Phillips screwdriver, use
two of the 6-32 machine screws to attach one of the
standard-length brackets onto the left side (when
viewed from the front) of one of the Model 5304 units.
The screws will mate with the threaded fasteners that
can be seen on the side of the Model 5304’s enclo-
sure, near the front of the unit. Using two more of the
6-32 machine screws, attach one of the joiner plates
onto the right side of that same Model 5304 unit.
Again using two of the 6-32 machine screws, attach
the second standard-length bracket onto the right side
of the second Model 5304 or another compatible unit.
Using the nal two 6-32 machine screws, attach the
second joiner plate onto the left side of the second
Model 5304 or other compatible unit with an orien-
tation of 180 degrees from the way in which the rst
plate was installed.
To complete the assembly, “join” the units together
by sliding each joiner plate through the other. The
grooves in each joiner plate will carefully align with
each other and form a relatively tight bond. Line up
the two units so that the front panels form a common
plane. With the aid of a Torx T7 screwdriver, use the
two 2-56 Torx machine screws to secure the two
joiner plates together. The screws should t snugly
into the small openings formed by the mating of the
two joiner plates.
The 2-unit assembly is now ready to be mounted
into the designated equipment rack. One space (1U
or 1.75 vertical inches) in a standard 19-inch equip-
ment rack is required. Secure the assembly into the
equipment rack using two mounting screws per side.
Center Rack Mounting One
Model 5304 Unit
Installation kit RMBK-13 allows one Model 5304 to
be mounted in the center of one space (1U) of a
standard 19-inch rack enclosure. The kit contains two
medium-length brackets and four 6-32 thread-pitch
Phillips-head machine screws. Refer to Appendix E
for a visual explanation.
Get ready to install the kit by removing the four
machine screws and associated “bump on” protectors
from the bottom of the Model 5304’s chassis. They
are removed using a #1 Phillips screwdriver. Store the
four machine screws and four “bump on” protectors
for possible later use.
To prepare the unit to mount in the center of a rack
enclosure, use a #2 Phillips screwdriver and two 6-32
machine screws to attach one of the medium-length
brackets onto the left side (when viewed from the
front) of the enclosure. The screws will mate with the
threaded fasteners that can be seen on the side of
the Model 5304’s enclosure, near the front of the unit.
Using two additional 6-32 machine screws, attach the
other medium-length bracket onto the right side of the
Model 5304’s enclosure.
Once the two medium-length brackets have been
installed the Model 5304 will be ready to be mounted
into the designated equipment rack. One space (1U or
1.75 vertical inches) in a standard 19-inch equipment
rack is required. Secure the unit into the equipment
rack using two mounting screws per side.
Ethernet Connection with PoE
A 100BASE-TX Ethernet connection that supports
Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) is required for Model
5304 operation. This one connection will provide
both the Ethernet data interface and power for the
Model 5304’s circuitry. A 10BASE-T connection is
not su󰀩cient and a 1000BASE-T (GigE) connection
is not supported unless it can automatically “fall back”
to 100BASE-TX operation. The Model 5304 supports
Ethernet switch power management, enumerating
itself as a PoE class 2 device. Any source that is
compliant with the IEEE® 802.3af standard will func-
tion correctly. Should the selected Ethernet switch
port support Energy-E󰀩cient Ethernet (EEE) it must
be disabled to help ensure reliable Dante operation.
The Ethernet connection is made by way of an RJ45
jack that is located on the Model 5304’s back panel.
This allows connection by way of a RJ45 plug that’s
part of a typical Ethernet “patch cable.” A crossover
cable will never be required as the Model 5304’s
Ethernet interface supports auto MDI/MDI-X. The
maximum cable distance is 100-meters (325-feet) for
twisted-pair Ethernet cabling.
Remote Control Inputs
Provision has been made to allow external switches
or contact closures to mimic the operation of one or
two of the four intercom talk pushbutton switches or
the aux pushbutton switch. The exact functioning of
the two remote control inputs is determined by cong-
uration settings, details of which are discussed later
in this guide.

Model 5304 User Guide Issue Preliminary 1, December 2021
Studio Technologies, Inc. Page 11
Model 5304
INTERCOM STATION
A 3-conductor 3.5 mm jack is located on the Model
5304’s back panel and provides access to the two re-
mote control inputs. The input circuitry is “active low,”
which means that they are enabled whenever they
are connected (shorted) to the common connection.
Technically, each remote-control input is created with
a 3.4 k (3400) ohm resistor connected to +3.3 volts
DC that acts as an input “pull up.” Additional resistors
and capacitors provide ESD protection, minimizing the
chance of damage to a remote-control input due to
static discharge or other extraneous signals. A current
ow of approximately one milliampere is required for
a remote-control input to be recognized as active.
Prepare an interconnecting cable and associated
3-conductor 3.5 mm plug to reect that the tip lead
is used by Remote Control Input 1, the ring lead by
Remote Control Input 2, and the sleeve lead is the
remote control common. Refer to Figure 2 for con-
nection details.
To allow users of stereo (dual-earpiece or “double
mu󰀨”) headsets to hear a monaural version of the two
headphone output channels does not require special
wiring of the 5-pin male XLR mating connector. The
headset’s left headphone channel should always
be wired to pin 4 and the right headphone channel to
pin 5. Conguration choices, discussed later in this
guide, can then be used to create the desired monau-
ral output. It’s important not to connect together (short)
pins 4 and 5 of the Model 5304’s headset connector
as damage to the unit’s output circuitry could result.
Monaural (single-earpiece or “single mu󰀨”) headsets
should be wired such that its headphone is wired only
to pin 4; pin 5 should be remain unused. Conguration
choices, discussed later in this guide, can be used to
create a monaural output.
It’s possible that some Beyerdynamic headset inter-
connecting cable assemblies terminate the earpiece’s
left and right connections opposite from what the
Model 5304 and other broadcast equipment requires.
These cable assemblies may terminate the left ear-
piece to pin 5 of the XLR connector and the right ear-
piece to pin 4. If this condition is present, it will require
reversing or “ipping” the two wires in a headset’s
5-pin male XLR connector such that the left earpiece
connects to pin 4 and the right earpiece to pin 5.
Dante Conguration
For audio to pass to and from the Model 5304 requires
that several Dante-related parameters be config-
ured. These conguration settings will be stored in
non-volatile memory within the Model 5304’s circuitry.
Conguration will typically be done with the Dante
Controller software application which is available for
Figure 3. Headset connection pinout chart
Figure 2. 3-conductor 3.5 mm (TRS) remote control
in pinout diagram
Headset Connection
The Model 5304 provides a 5-pin female XLR connec-
tor that interfaces with an intercom or broadcast-style
headset. The headset will incorporate both a micro-
phone and headphones. The latter will provide either
a dual-ear or single-ear headphone with dual-channel
(stereo) or single-channel (monaural) audio perfor-
mance. The headset connector is located on the front
panel for easy access by the user. Refer to Figure 3
for headset connection details. The microphone input
connections are compatible with most unbalanced
or electret (low-voltage DC-powered) microphones.
A balanced dynamic microphone should, in most
cases, also function correctly if the signal – (low) is
connected to Model 5304’s mic in –/shield connection.
No support is provided for microphones that require
P12 or P48 phantom power.

Issue Preliminary 1, December 2021 Model 5304 User Guide
Page 12 Studio Technologies, Inc.
Model 5304
INTERCOM STATION
download free of charge at audinate.com. Versions of
Dante Controller are available to support the Windows
and macOS personal computer operating systems.
The Model 5304 uses the UltimoX4 4-input/4-output
integrated circuit to implement its Dante interface. The
unit is compatible with the Dante Domain Manager
(DDM) software application.
Audio Routing
The four Dante receiver (input) channels associated
with the Model 5304 need to be routed (connected)
to Dante transmitter (output) channels on associated
equipment. Conguration settings allow these four
audio sources to ultimately be sent to the Model
5304’s 2-channel headphone output. The Model
5304’s four Dante transmitter (output) channels must
be assigned to Dante receiver (input) channels on as-
sociated equipment. This achieves routing the Model
5304’s four talk output audio channels to the device
(or devices) that will be “listening” to them.
Within Dante Controller a “subscription” is the term
used for routing a transmitter channel or ow (a group
of up to four output channels) to a receiver channel or
ow (a group of up to four input channels). The num-
ber of transmitter ows associated with an UltimoX4
integrated circuit is limited to two. These can either be
unicast, multicast, or a combination of the two. If the
Model 5304’s transmitter (output) channels need to be
routed using more than two ows it’s possible that an
intermediary device, such as the Studio Technologies’
Model 5422A Dante Intercom Audio Engine, can be
used to “repeat” the signals.
Unit and Channel Names
The Model 5304 has a default Dante device name
of ST-M5304- followed by a unique su󰀩x. The suf-
fix identifies the specific Model 5304 that is being
congured. The su󰀩x’s actual alpha and/or numeric
characters relate to the MAC address of the unit’s
UltimoX4 integrated circuit. The four Dante transmitter
(output) channels have default names of Ch1, Ch2,
Ch3, and Ch4. The four Dante receiver (input) chan-
nels have default names of Ch1, Ch2, Ch3, and Ch4.
Using Dante Controller, the default device name and
channel names can be revised as appropriate for the
specic application.
Device Conguration
The Model 5304 only supports an audio sample rate
of 48 kHz with no pull-up/pull-down values available.
The audio encoding is fixed for PCM 24. Device
Latency and Clocking can be adjusted if required but
the default value is typically correct.
Network Conguration –
IP Address
By default, the Model 5304’s Dante IP address and
related network parameters will be determined auto-
matically using DHCP or, if not available, the link-local
network protocol. If desired Dante Controller allows
the IP address and related network parameters to be
manually set to a xed (static) conguration. While
this is a more-involved process than simply letting
DHCP or link-local “do their thing,” if xed addressing
is necessary then this capability is available. But in this
case, it’s highly recommended that a unit be physically
marked, e.g., directly using a permanent marker or
“console tape,” with its specic static IP address. If
knowledge of a Model 5304’s IP address has been
misplaced there is no reset button or other method to
easily restore the unit to a default IP setting.
AES67 Conguration – AES67
Mode
The Model 5304 can be configured for AES67
operation. This requires the AES67 Mode to be set for
Enabled. By default, AES67 mode is set for Disabled.
Note that in the AES67 mode the Dante transmitter
(output) channels will function in multicast; unicast is
not supported.
Model 5304 Clocking Source
While technically the Model 5304 can serve as a Lead-
er clock for a Dante network (as can all Dante-enabled
devices) in virtually all cases the unit will be congured
to receive “sync” from another device. As such, the
check box for Preferred Leader associated with the
Model 5304 would not be enabled.
Model 5304 Conguration
The STcontroller software application is used to con-
gure the way in which the Model 5304 functions. No
DIP switch settings or other local actions are used
to congure the unit. This makes it imperative that
STcontroller be available for convenient use on a per-
sonal computer that’s connected to the related LAN.

Model 5304 User Guide Issue Preliminary 1, December 2021
Studio Technologies, Inc. Page 13
Model 5304
INTERCOM STATION
Installing STcontroller
STcontroller is available free of charge on the Studio
Technologies’ website (studio-tech.com). Versions
are available that are compatible with personal com-
puters running selected versions of the Windows and
macOS operating systems. If required, download and
install STcontroller onto a designated personal com-
puter. This personal computer must be on the same
local area network (LAN) and subnet as the Model
5304 units that are to be congured. Immediately after
starting STcontroller the application will locate all the
Studio Technologies’ devices that it can control. The
one or more Model 5304 units to be congured will
appear in the device list. Use the Identify command
to allow easy recognition of a specic Model 5304
unit. Double-clicking on a device name will cause the
associated conguration menu to appear. Review the
current conguration and make any changes that are
desired.
Changes made using STcontroller will be immediately
be reected in the unit’s operation; no Model 5304
reboot is required. Each time a change is made the
multifunction display on the Model 5304’s front panel
will ash orange in a distinctive pattern to indicate
that a command from STcontroller has been received.
General Menu Page
The following conguration selections are available
in the General menu selections tab:
Microphone Input – Electret Power
Choices are Enabled or Not Enabled (box checked
or not).
Enable the Electret Power check box if the connected
headset has an electret microphone that requires a
source of low-voltage DC power for operation. If the
associated headset has a dynamic (non-powered)
microphone do not enable the Electret Power check
box. Most broadcast headsets that terminate on a
5-pin male XLR connector will not require microphone
power. The electret power on/o󰀨 status is displayed by
way of a red LED, labeled MIC PWR, that is located on
the left side of the Model 5304’s front panel, adjacent
to the headset connector.
Note that the Model 5304 cannot supply P12 or P48
phantom power that may be required for balanced
condenser (capacitor) microphones. This should not
pose an issue as this type of microphone is essentially
never associated with a headset that would be used
for intercom applications.
Microphone Input – Gain
Choices are 24 dB, 30 dB, 36 dB, 42 dB, and 48 dB.
The gain of the microphone preamplier associated
with the headset’s microphone can be congured to
operate from among ve choices. The multifunction
display, located on the Model 5304’s front panel, can
act as a guide when setting the preamplifier gain.
When a voice signal at a normal level is present on
the connected microphone and at least one of the talk
buttons is active, the ve green LEDs should light,
the two orange LEDs may light intermittently. If, for
example, all ve green LEDs rarely or never light and
the gain was set to 24 dB, it might be a good idea to
change the setting to 30 dB or 36 dB. If either or both
orange LEDs ever light then the selected gain should
be reduced. A dynamics controller (compressor) cir-
cuit is associated with the output of the microphone
preamplier. This will impact the level as shown on
the multifunction display. Selecting too much gain will
result in the compressor circuit being active all the
time, an undesirable sonic condition.
There’s no problem changing the gain setting while
the unit is operating although small audio clicks or
pops may occur during gain transitions. Selecting
the correct amount of gain might require some
experimentation. The goal is to bring the microphone’s
signal up to the Dante reference level which Studio
Technologies considers to be –20 dBFS. (This is
20 dB below digital maximum.) Operating in the range
of this “reference” signal level will help ensure the
delivery of “clean” audio to the destination devices.
There’s no “perfect” preamplier gain setting that this
guide can recommend. The two issues that impact
the setting are the output sensitivity of the connected
microphone and the acoustical output level of the
microphone’s user. With dynamic headsets selecting
an initial setting of 42 dB would be appropriate. Users
who speak loudly might need to have their gain re-
duced to 36 or even 30 dB. “Quiet” users might need
a gain setting of 48 dB.

Issue Preliminary 1, December 2021 Model 5304 User Guide
Page 14 Studio Technologies, Inc.
Model 5304
INTERCOM STATION
Aux Button – Mode
Choices are All Talk, Call, and Disabled.
The Aux button, located on the right side of the Model
5304’s front panel, can be congured to perform either
of two tasks. In addition, it can be disabled such that
it performs no action. When selected for All Talk,
pressing the Aux button will cause the four intercom
talk buttons and associated intercom functions to
become active. (The exception being if a button
has been set for disabled.) This can be useful for
applications where a user needs to easily connect
their microphone to all the intercom channels. When
selected for Call, pressing the Aux button will cause
a call signal (20 kHz sinewave tone) to be sent out
on all active intercom talk channels. If the Aux button
is disabled then pressing it will cause no action to
take place.
Sidetone – Level
Choices are High, Medium High, Medium,
Medium Low, Low, and O.
The Model 5304 includes a sidetone function that
allows microphone audio coming from the microphone
preamplier and follow-on compressor circuit to be
sent to the both channels of the headphone output.
This serves as a user confirmation that they are
actively sending audio out one or more of the intercom
output channels. (Sidetone audio will only be routed
to the headphone output when at least one of the talk
channels is active.)
The level of the sidetone audio can be selected from
among ve values. The correct value is simply the
one that makes the user most comfortable. Sidetone
audio can also be disabled by selecting O󰀨. Selecting
O󰀨 would be useful only in special applications such
as during troubleshooting or where user talk audio is
being returned as part of their listen audio signals. The
four rotary level controls associated with the intercom
channels will not impact the sidetone level. The overall
level control will impact the sidetone level.
Sidetone – Local Level Adjustment
Choices are O and On.
A press-and-turn function can allow a Model 5304
user to adjust the sidetone level using the overall level
control. When selected for On the user can select the
sidetone level from among ve values as well as o󰀨.
When selected for O󰀨 the user cannot change the
sidetone level. It will strictly follow the sidetone level
that has been selected using the conguration choice
that was detailed previously.
Remote Control – Input 1
Choices are O, Channel 1, Channel 2, Channel 3,
Channel 4, and Aux.
The action performed when Remote Control In 1 is
enabled will follow the conguration selected from
among six choices. When O󰀨 is selected no action
will be associated with the status of Remote Control
Input 1. When Channel 1 is selected activating remote
Control Input 1 will provide the same function as would
happen when pressing the talk 1 pushbutton. (The
exact action will depend on the button’s conguration.)
The same action will take place when selecting the
conguration to be channels 2, 3, or 4. But in these
cases, Remote Control Input 1 will control the action
associated talk channels 2, 3, or 4 respectively. When
Aux is selected activating Remote Control Input 1 will
provide the same action as would occur if the Aux
button was pressed.
Remote Control – Input 2
Choices are O, Channel 1, Channel 2, Channel 3,
Channel 4, and Aux.
The configuration choices and related actions for
Remote Control In 2 are the same as those provided
for Remote Control In 1.
System – LED Intensity
Choices are High and Low.
The five pushbutton switches and five rotary con-
trols have LED indicators associated with them. The
LED intensity conguration choice allows the overall
intensity of these LEDs, as a group, to be selected.
Deciding which choice, High or Low, is optimal will
typically depend on the amount of ambient light that
is present is the area where the Model 5304 located.
System – Input Signal Present Display
Choices are O and On.
The top surface of the knobs associated with the ve
rotary controls can light as an indication of the level
of the audio associated with a specic control and
related function. This is accomplished by the incorpo-
ration of RGB (red-green-blue) LEDs located within

Model 5304 User Guide Issue Preliminary 1, December 2021
Studio Technologies, Inc. Page 15
Model 5304
INTERCOM STATION
each rotary control. If congured for On, the knob
will light green when signal levels are in the normal
range, yellow when the signal level is greater than
normal, and red when the signal level is at risk of de-
grading audio performance. Note that even if the Input
Signal Present Display function is set for O󰀨 the rotary
controls will still display their normal and muted state
using LED illumination.
System – Microphone Level Display
Choices are O and On.
This conguration choice selects whether or not the
level of the microphone preamplier and follow-on
compressor (dynamics control) circuit will display on
the multifunction display. When selected for O󰀨 the
eight LEDs in the multifunction display will not respond
to the microphone level. If selected for On the multi-
function display will respond to the output level of the
microphone preamplier and compressor whenever
one or more of the talk functions is enabled. Selecting
On would be appropriate when adjusting the gain of
the microphone preamplier.
System – Channel Button Action
Choices are One Only and Multiple.
This mode allows the relationship between the four
talk buttons to be congured. In the One Only mode
only one of the four talk buttons can be active at any
one time. A talk button that has been “latched on” will
automatically un-latch if another talk button becomes
active. This is sometimes known as a “radio button”
mode in homage to how radio station selection buttons
in an automobile radio can be congured. If Multiple
is selected then one or more of the talk buttons can
be simultaneously enabled. Pressing one button will
not impact the status of the others.
System – Button LED Action
Choices are Red when O / Green when On,
Green when O / Red when On, Unlit when O /
Green when On, and Unlit when O / Red when On.
The action of the red and green LED indicators asso-
ciated with the four talk pushbutton switches can be
congured. (There are two red and two green LEDs
in each of the pushbutton switch.) The LEDs action
in the talk pushbutton switches are congured as a
group, all acting in the same manner. The third and
fourth choices were specically provided to support
users who have limitations in their ability to discern
between two colors (“color blindness”). Note the LEDs
in the Aux pushbutton switch will not be impacted by
this conguration setting. Its LEDs will always perform
the same action.
Red when O󰀨 / Green when On: The LEDs in each of
the four talk pushbutton switches will light red when
its associated function is o󰀨 (not active). The LEDs
in each pushbutton switch will light green when its
associated function is on (active).
Green when O󰀨 / Red when On: The LEDs in each
of the four talk pushbutton switches will light green
when its associated function is o󰀨 (not active). The
LEDs in each pushbutton switch will light red when
its associated function is on (active).
Unlit when O󰀨 / Green when On: The LEDs in each of
the four talk pushbutton switches will not light when
its associated function is o󰀨 (not active). The LEDs
in each pushbutton switch will light green when its
associated function is on (active).
Unlit when O󰀨 / Red when On: The LEDs in each of
four talk pushbutton switches will not light when its
associated function is o󰀨 (not active). The LEDs in
each pushbutton switch will light red when its associ-
ated function is on (active).
System – Headset Channel Solo
Choices are O, 6 dB, 9 dB, 12 dB, 15 dB, and
Full Mute.
This conguration choice allows an audio console
“solo” function to be available to Model 5304 users.
When selected for O󰀨 the solo function is disabled.
When one of the five other solo modes has been
selected then pressing one of the four rotary controls
associated with the four intercom channels will cause
the solo mode to be enabled. The level of the audio
signal associated with the “soloed” channel will remain
the same. But the audio level of any signal associated
with the other intercom channels will be reduced in
level by either 6, 9, 12, or 15 dB or fully muted.
System – Microphone Kill
Choices are O, Device ID, Global Kill Command,
and Device ID / Global Kill Command.
The mic kill function allows a network-provided
message to automatically disable any of the four talk

Issue Preliminary 1, December 2021 Model 5304 User Guide
Page 16 Studio Technologies, Inc.
Model 5304
INTERCOM STATION
channels that are “latched” on. Specically, it’s pos-
sible to remotely change all active (on) talk channels
to their o󰀨 state. This function is sometimes referred
to as a “talk o󰀨” function. There are two means avail-
able to remotely disable all active talk channels. The
Device ID method uses the identication command
generated by the Dante Controller or STcontroller
applications as a “trigger” to disable any active talk
channels. The Global Kill Command can be generated
by applications that incorporate the Studio Technol-
ogies’ proprietary message generation method. This
method utilizes the sending of a data command over
the Ethernet connection. Select the desired micro-
phone kill conguration from among the four choices.
Either method can be selected to function individually,
or both can be selected to be recognized. Selecting
O󰀨 simply means that no remote microphone control
(“mic kill”) is supported.
Channel Specic Menu Page
The following configurations apply individually to
intercom talk Channels 1 through 4. Each is available
for the four channels although only channel 1 will be
described.
Button Mode
Choices are Push to Talk, Tap to Latch,
Push to Talk / Tap to Latch, and Disabled.
The manner in which the talk button functions can be
congured from among four choices.
Push to Talk: If this mode is selected the button’s
function will normally be inactive. Whenever the button
is pressed its associated function will become active.
Tap to Latch: If this mode is selected the button’s
function will alternate between its active and inactive
states whenever the button is pressed. Upon Model
5304 power up the button will be in its inactive state.
Push to Talk / Tap to Latch: This mode is a combina-
tion of the Push to Talk and Tap to Latch modes. It’s
similar to the way in which pushbutton switches often
function on user stations associated with broadcast or
production intercom systems. If the button is pressed
and held the associated function will become active. It
will stay active until the button is released. If the button
is “tapped” the status of the function will change, ei-
ther from inactive-to-active or from active-to-inactive.
Upon Model 5304 power up the button will be in its
inactive state.
Disabled: In this mode the button will not perform a
function. Pressing it will simply cause the button to
ash red, indicating that it has been disabled.
Button Function
Choices are Talk and Talk with 18 kHz.
The audio action that occurs when the talk channel
function becomes active will follow this conguration.
There are two modes available.
Talk: In this mode whenever the specic talk chan-
nel is active microphone audio will be sent out the
associated Dante transmitter (output) channel. The
sidetone function will be active whenever the talk
function is active.
Talk with 18 kHz Tone: This mode is similar to the Talk
mode except that an 18 kHz sine wave tone is added
(mixed or summed) with the microphone audio. It is
intended for use in REMI/At-Home intercom applica-
tions where a “pilot tone” needs to be sent along with
talk audio. This capability was specically provided
for use with the tone-activated (“TOX”) IFB function in
the Studio Technologies’ Model 5422A Dante Intercom
Audio Engine product or the IFB (talent cue) function
in the Models 232, 234, and 236 Announcer’s Con-
soles. The sidetone function will be active whenever
the Talk with 18 kHz Tone function is active.
Headphone Routing
Choices are Left, Right, and Left and Right.
The audio associated with the Model 5304’s Dante
receiver (input) channel can be monitored using the
headset’s headphone outputs. The destination chan-
nel(s) can be congured as desired.
Left: In this mode the input audio will be sent only to
the left headphone output channel.
Right: In this mode the input audio will be sent only
to the right headphone output channel.
Left and Right: In this mode the input audio will be sent
to both the left and right headphone output channels.
Call Indication
Choices are O, Flash, Solid, and Flash then Solid.
The Call Indication conguration allows the manner
in which the four talk pushbutton switches will light
when a call signal is detected on its respective Dante
receiver (input) channel. Technically, call is detected

Model 5304 User Guide Issue Preliminary 1, December 2021
Studio Technologies, Inc. Page 17
Model 5304
INTERCOM STATION
as being active when a 20 kHz nominal audio tone is
present in an audio signal path. (It would typically be
a sine- or square wave signal that’s combined with
voice audio.)
O󰀨: When this mode is selected and a call signal is
detected in a Dante receiver (input) channel then the
associated pushbutton will not light.
Flash: In this mode the pushbutton will ash orange if
a call signal is detected and the channel’s talk function
is not active. If the channel’s talk function is active
when a call signal is detected then the button will ash
alternately green and orange. (Green indicates that
the talk function is active and orange indicates that a
call signal is detected.)
Solid: When this mode is selected then a button will
light orange when a call signal is detected; it will light
orange whether or not the talk function associated
with that button is active.
Flash then Solid: In this mode a button will rst ash
orange (or green and orange) for a few seconds and
then light solid orange, remaining lit orange until the
call signal is no longer present.
Operation
– Pending –
Technical Notes
IP Address Assignment
By default, the Model 5304’s Dante-associated
Ethernet interface will attempt to automatically obtain
an IP address and associated settings using DHCP
(Dynamic Host Conguration Protocol). If a DHCP
server is not detected an IP address will automatically
be assigned using the link-local protocol. This protocol
is known in the Microsoft
®
world as Automatic Private
IP Addressing (APIPA). It is also sometimes referred to
as auto-IP (PIPPA). Link-local will randomly assign a
unique IP address in the IPv4 range of 169.254.0.1 to
169.254.255.254. In this way, multiple Dante-enabled
devices can be connected together and automatically
function, whether or not a DHCP server is active on
the LAN. Even two Dante-enabled devices that are
directly interconnected using an RJ45 patch cord will,
in most cases, correctly acquire IP addresses and be
able to communicate with each other.
An exception does arise when trying to directly
interconnect two Dante-enabled devices that use
Ultimo integrated circuits to implement Dante. The
Model 5304 uses an UltimoX4 “chip” and, as such,
a direct one-to-one interconnection between it and
another Ultimo-based product would typically not
be supported. An Ethernet switch linking these units
would be required to successfully interconnect the
two Ultimo-based devices. The technical reason that
a switch is required relates to the need for a slight
latency (delay) in the data ow; an Ethernet switch
will provide this. This wouldn’t typically prove to be
an issue as the Model 5304 uses Power-over-Ether-
net (PoE) to provide its operating power. As such, in
most cases a PoE-enabled Ethernet switch would be
utilized to support Model 5304 units.
Using the Dante Controller software application,
the Model 5304’s IP address and related network
parameters can be set for a manual (xed or static)
conguration. While this is a more involved process
than simply letting DHCP or link-local “do their thing,”
if xed addressing is necessary then this capability is
available. But in this case, it’s highly recommended
that every unit be physically marked, e.g., directly
using a permanent marker or “console tape,” with its
specic static IP address. If knowledge of a Model
5304’s IP address has been misplaced there is no
reset button or other method to easily restore the unit
to a default IP setting.
In the unfortunate event that a device’s IP address
is “lost,” the Address Resolution Protocol (ARP) net-
working command can be used to “probe” devices on
a network for this information. For example, in Win-
dows OS the arp –a command can be used to display
a list of LAN information that includes MAC addresses
and corresponding IP addresses. The simplest means
of identifying an unknown IP address is to create a
“mini” LAN with a small PoE-enabled Ethernet switch
connecting a personal computer to the Model 5304.
Then by using the appropriate ARP command the
required “clues” can be obtained.
Optimizing Network Performance
For best Dante audio-over-Ethernet performance
a network that supports VoIP QoS capability is
recommended. In applications that utilize multicast
Ethernet traffic enabling IGMP snooping can be
valuable. (In this case, ensure that support for PTP

Issue Preliminary 1, December 2021 Model 5304 User Guide
Page 18 Studio Technologies, Inc.
Model 5304
INTERCOM STATION
timing messages is still available.) These protocols
can be implemented on virtually all contemporary
managed Ethernet switches. There are even special-
ized switches that are optimized for entertainment-
associated applications. Refer to the Audinate website
(audinate.com) for details on optimizing networks for
Dante applications.
Application Firmware Version
Display
A selection in the STcontroller software application
allows the Model 5304’s application rmware version
to be identified. This can be useful when working
with factory personnel on application support and
troubleshooting. To identify the rmware version, be-
gin by connecting the Model 5304 unit to the network
(via Ethernet with PoE) and wait until the unit starts
to function. Then, after starting STcontroller, review
the list of identied devices and select the specic
Model 5304 for which you want to determine its ap-
plication rmware version. Then select Version and
Information under the Device tab. A page will then
display that will provide lots of useful information. This
includes the application rmware version and well as
details on the Dante interface rmware.
Application Firmware Update
Procedure
It’s possible that updated versions of the application
firmware (embedded software) that is utilized by
the Model 5304’s microcontroller (MCU) integrated
circuit will be released to add features or correct is-
sues. Refer to the Studio Technologies’ website for
the latest application rmware le. The unit has the
ability to load a revised le into its MCU’s non-volatile
memory by way of a USB interface. The Model 5304
implements a USB host function that directly supports
connection of a USB ash drive. The Model 5304’s
MCU updates its application firmware using a file
named M5304XvXX.stm where Xs are decimal digits
that represent the version number.
The update process begins by preparing a USB ash
drive. The ash drive doesn’t have to be empty (blank)
but must be in the personal-computer-standard FAT32
format. The processor in the Model 5304 is compat-
ible with USB 2.0, USB 3.0, and USB 3.1-compliant
Flash drives. Save the new rmware le in the root
folder with a name of M5304vXrXX.stm where XrXX
is the actual version number. Studio Technologies
will supply the application rmware le inside a .zip
archive le. While the rmware le inside of the zip le
will adhere to the naming convention required by the
Model 5304, the name of the zip le itself will include
the le’s version number. For example, a le named
M5304v1r01MCU.zip would indicate that version
1.01 of the application rmware (M5304v1r01.stm)
is contained within this zip le along with a readme
(.txt) text le.
Once the USB ash drive is inserted into the USB
host interface, located on the back panel of the Model
5304, the unit must be powered o󰀨 and again powered
on. At this point, the le from the USB ash drive will
automatically load. The precise steps required will be
highlighted in the next paragraphs of this guide.
To install the application rmware le, follow these
steps:
1. Disconnect power from the Model 5304. This will
entail removing the Ethernet connection that is
made to the RJ45 jack on the back panel.
2. Locate the USB receptacle on the back of the unit.
Insert the prepared USB ash drive into it.
3. Apply power to the Model 5304 by connecting
an Ethernet signal that has Power-over-Ethernet
(PoE) present to the RJ45 jack.
4. After a few seconds the Model 5304 will run a “boot
loader” program that will automatically load the
new application rmware le (M5304vXrXX.stm).
This loading process will take only a few seconds.
During this time period the green LED that’s located
adjacent to the USB receptacle will ash slowly.
Once the entire loading process is over, taking
approximately 10 seconds, the Model 5304 will
restart using the newly loaded application rmware.
5. At this time, the Model 5304 is functioning with the
newly loaded application rmware and the USB
ash drive can be removed. But to be conserva-
tive, remove the PoE Ethernet connection rst and
then remove the USB ash drive. Re-connect the
Ethernet signal to restart the unit.
6. Using STcontroller, conrm that the desired appli-
cation rmware version has been correctly loaded.

Model 5304 User Guide Issue Preliminary 1, December 2021
Studio Technologies, Inc. Page 19
Model 5304
INTERCOM STATION
Note that upon power being applied to the Model 5304
if a connected USB ash drive doesn’t have the cor-
rect le (M5304vXrXX.stm) in its root folder no harm
will occur. Upon power up the adjacent green LED will
ash on and o󰀨 rapidly for a few seconds to indicate
this condition and then normal operation using the
unit’s existing application rmware will begin.
Ultimo Firmware Update
As previously discussed in this guide, the Model 5304
implements its Dante connectivity using the UltimoX4
integrated circuit from Audinate. The Dante Controller
software application can be used to determine the ver-
sion of the rmware (embedded software) that resides
in this integrated circuit. The rmware (embedded
software) residing in the UltimoX4 can be updated
using the Model 5304’s Ethernet port. Performing
the update process is easily accomplished using
an automated method called Dante Updater that’s
included as part of the Dante Controller application.
This application is available, free of charge, from
the Audinate website (audinate.com). The latest
Model 5304 rmware le, with a name in the form of
M5304vXrX.dnt, is always available on the Studio
Technologies’ website as well as being part of Audi-
nate’s product library database. The latter allows the
Dante Updater software application that is included
with Dante Controller to automatically query and, if
required, update the Model 5304’s Dante interface.
Restoring Factory Defaults
A command in the STcontroller software application
allows the Model 5304’s defaults to be reset to the fac-
tory values. From STcontroller select the Model 5304
for which you want to restore its defaults. Select the
Device tab and then the Factory Defaults selection.
Then click on the OK box. Refer to Appendix A for a
list of the Model 5304’s factory defaults.

Issue Preliminary 1, December 2021 Model 5304 User Guide
Page 20 Studio Technologies, Inc.
Model 5304
INTERCOM STATION
Specications
Power Source:
Power-over-Ethernet (PoE): class 2 (low power,
≤6.49 watts) per IEEE
®
802.3af
Network Audio Technology:
Type: Dante audio-over-Ethernet
AES67-2018 Support: yes, selectable on/o󰀨
Dante Domain Manager (DDM) Support: yes
Bit Depth: up to 24
Sample Rate: 48 kHz
Pull-Up/Down Support: no
Dante Transmitter (Output) Channels: 4
Dante Receiver (Input) Channels: 4
Dante Audio Flows: 4; 2 transmitter, 2 receiver
Transmitter (Output) and Receiver (Input)
Nominal Level: –20 dBFS
Audio Channels: 4 talk, 4 listen
Network Interface:
Type: 100BASE-TX, Fast Ethernet per IEEE 802.3u
(10BASE-T and 1000BASE-T (GigE) not supported)
Power-over-Ethernet (PoE): Per IEEE 802.3af
Data Rate: 100 Mb/s (10 Mb/s and 1000 Mb/s not
supported)
Microphone Input:
Compatibility: analog dynamic or electret
microphones
Type: unbalanced
Electret Microphone Power: 3.3 volts DC via 2 k
(2000) ohms series resistance, selectable on/o󰀨
Gain: 24, 30, 36, 42, or 48 dB, selectable
Frequency Response: 42 Hz to 18 kHz, –3 dB,
nominal
Distortion (THD+N): <0.03%, 1 kHz, 24 dB gain
Noise Floor: –94 dBFS (A-weighted)
Compressor:
Threshold: 1.5 dB above nominal level
(–18.5 dBFS)
Slope: 2:1
Headphone Output:
Type: 2-channel
Compatibility: intended for connection to stereo
(dual-channel) or monaural (single-channel) head-
sets with nominal impedance of 50 ohms or greater
Maximum Output Voltage: 2.9 Vrms, 1 kHz, with
150 ohm load
Frequency Response: 7 Hz to 9.8 kHz, –3 dB
Distortion (THD+N): <0.02%
Dynamic Range: >100 dB
Call Send Function:
Signaling Method: 20 kHz, within selected Dante
transmitter (output) audio channels
Send Level: –20 dBFS
Call Receive Function:
Sources: Dante receiver (input) channels 1-4
Signaling Method: 20 kHz +/-800 Hz, nominal,
within audio channels
Receive Level: –27 dBFS minimum
Detect Time: 10 milliseconds, minimum
Remote Control Inputs: 2
Function: congurable, can mimic the action of any
of the ve button functions
Type: active low, 1 mA maximum, inputs pulled up
to 3.3 volts DC via 3.4 k (3400) ohm resistors
Connectors:
Headset: 5-pin female XLR
Ethernet: RJ45 jack
Remote Control Inputs: 3-conductor (TRS)
3.5 mm jack
USB: type A receptacle (used only for updating
application rmware)
Conguration: requires Studio Technologies’
STcontroller software application
Software Updating: USB ash drive used for
updating application rmware; Dante Updater
application for updating Dante interface rmware