Studio technologies 215a User manual

50733-1022, Issue P1

studio-tech.com

User Guide

Issue Preliminary 1, October 2022

This User Guide is applicable for serial numbers

M215A-00151 and later with Main Firmware version 1.00 and later

and STcontroller software application version 3.08.00 and later

Model 215A

Announcer’s Console

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Model 215A User Guide Issue Preliminary 1, October 2022

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Model 215A

ANNOUNCER’S CONSOLE

Table of Contents

Revision History ......................................................................................................... 4

Introduction ................................................................................................................ 5

Getting Started ........................................................................................................... 9

Dante Conguration .................................................................................................. 10

Model 215A Conguration......................................................................................... 12

Operation .................................................................................................................. 17

Technical Notes......................................................................................................... 21

Specications ............................................................................................................ 25

Appendix A: STcontroller Default Conguration Values ............................................ 27

Appendix B: 3-Pin Header Connector Details ........................................................... 28

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Revision History

Issue Preliminary 1, October 2022:

•Initial preliminary release.

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Introduction

The Model 215A Announcer’s Console is designed to

serve as the audio control center for announcers, commen-

tators, and production personnel. This tabletop unit sup-

ports applications utilizing the Dante®audio-over-Ethernet

media networking technology. The Model 215A is suitable

for numerous applications including on-air television sports

broadcasting, stadium announcement, and corporate AV.

Three pushbutton switches allow the user to control the

main and talkback audio output channels. Ease of use,

conguration exibility, and sonic excellence are some of

the unit’s highlights.

The Model 215A is compatible with broadcast and

audio system environments that use Dante technology. An

Ethernet connection with Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) power

is all that’s required to make the unit part of a sophisticated,

networked audio system. Add a microphone and pair of

headphones (or a broadcast headset) and the installation is

complete. Whether it’s the on-air audio, the talkback audio,

or the headphone cue feed, superior audio quality is always

maintained. Using the STcontroller software application, a

range of conguration choices allow the desired operating

parameters to be easily selected. And while exible to con-

gure, the user is presented with an easy-to-understand

set of controls and indicators.

User Controls and Status Indicators

Three pushbutton switches, four LED indicators, and three

rotary controls provide the user with a clear, easy-to-use

interface. One pushbutton switch controls the status of the

Dante main transmitter (output) channel. This is the audio

channel intended for on-air, announcement, or other pri-

mary uses. Two LEDs display the on/o󰀨 status of the main

output channel. Two additional pushbutton switches control

the status of the Dante talkback transmitter (output) chan-

nels. These are the audio signals used to communicate with

producers, directors, spotters, or other behind-the-scenes

production personnel. A status LED is associated with each

of the talkback pushbutton switches. The three pushbutton

switches utilize gold-plated contacts for reliable long-term

operation and include backlighting using white LEDs. Three

rotary controls allow the user to adjust the content and level

of the headphone output channels.

Microphone Input

A microphone signal is connected to the Model 215A by

way of a standard 3-pin female XLR connector. The unit

incorporates a high-performance microphone preamplier

which o󰀨ers low-noise, low-distortion, and high-headroom

amplication over a 19 to 64 dB range. The gain is adjust-

able in 3-dB steps. The microphone input is compatible with

balanced dynamic or condenser microphones. Phantom

Figure 1. Model 215A Announcer’s Console front

and back views

power is provided and meets the worldwide P48 standard.

A dual-color LED indicator serves as an optimization aid

when setting the gain of the microphone preamplier.

Output Channels and their Operation

By way of the Dante interface, the Model 215A provides

a main transmitter (output) channel and two talkback

transmitter (output) channels. The main output channel is

designed to serve as the on-air, stadium announcement,

or other primary audio feed. The talkback output channels

are intended to provide production trucks, control rooms,

or support personnel with a talent-originated cue signal.

In addition to the Dante main and talkback transmitter (out-

put) channels, a fourth Dante transmitter (output) channel,

called aux, is also provided. A conguration choice allows

the aux channel to be selected for Hot Mic, Tally Tone, or

Main Output with 18 kHz Tone operation.

When selected for Hot Mic, an un-switched audio output

whose source is the microphone preamplier is provided

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on the Dante aux transmitter (output) channel. This “always

active” audio signal could be utilized in an application

where the Model 215A is being used in conjunction with an

intercom system or audio console. Production personnel

may need to monitor the talent audio signal no matter the

status of the main or talkback functions.

When selected for Tally Tone operation, a 20 kHz sine wave

signal is present on the Dante aux transmitter (output)

channel whenever the main output function is active. This

tone can be useful as a “trigger” signal for other connected

devices that need to provide an indication whenever the

Model 215A is actively providing an “on-air” audio signal.

For example, a Studio Technologies’ Model 391 Dante

Alerting Unit can respond to the tally tone signal and pro-

vide an “on-air” indicator using its LED display. Alternatively,

a Studio Technologies’ Model 544D Interface unit could

provide a contact closure whenever the tally tone output

is active.

Main with 18 kHz Tone allows creation of a unique signal on

the aux output. Whenever the Dante main output function

is active the signal on the Dante aux transmitter (output)

channel will be a combination of audio from the microphone

preamplier and an 18 kHz sine wave tone. This type of

signal can be extremely useful in conjunction with REMI/

At-Home applications.

A large part of the Model 215A’s unique power is the ability

to congure the operation of the main and talkback func-

tions. To meet the needs of the many specic broadcast

and production applications, a variety of pushbutton switch

operating modes are available. The main pushbutton switch

can be selected to operate from among ve modes. In the

Push to Mute mode, the pushbutton performs a momentary

mute of the audio signal associated with the Dante main

transmitter (output) channel. In this way, a “cough” push-

button function is created, something typically required for

television sports broadcasting. In the Push to Talk mode,

the pushbutton switch provides a momentary active func-

tion for the Dante main transmitter (output) channel. This

mode would be appropriate for an application such as

stadium announcement. The Latching (alternate action)

mode allows the pushbutton switch to enable or disable

the audio signal associated with the Dante main transmitter

(output) channel as desired. This is useful in radio broad-

casting, announce-booth, or voice-over applications. The

fourth mode, Push to Talk/Tap to Latch, provides a hybrid

function, supporting both push to talk and tap to enable/tap

to disable operation. This operation is similar to that found

in many broadcast intercom system user stations. The

fth mode, Push to Mute/Tap to Latch, is a second hybrid

function, supporting both push to mute and tap to enable/

tap to disable operation.

The pushbutton switches associated with the talkback

functions can be independently congured to operate from

among three modes. One mode supports a push to talk

function. This is typically used for on-air broadcast applica-

tions. The second mode provides a latching function. The

third mode provides a push to talk/tap to latch function,

a hybrid mode that is discussed previously. This mode

can be especially useful when the Model 215A is used in

production-support applications.

Overall Model 215A operation can be configured from

among three modes. One mode is intended for on-air use

while the other two can be useful for production applica-

tions. The Model 215A’s On-Air mode is appropriate for on-

air television, radio, and streaming broadcast applications.

When on-air is selected the audio signal associated with the

Dante main transmitter (output) channel will always mute

when either or both the talkback functions are active. This

prevents audio that’s intended for production or support

personnel from being sent out the on-air audio path.

For non-on-air applications, the Model 215A can be cong-

ured to operate in two production modes. These allow the

Dante main transmitter (output) channel to be used as a

third talkback channel, rather than always muting when a

talkback function is active. By utilizing one of these produc-

tion modes, the unit can be even more powerful when used

in a live-event application, supporting personnel serving

in roles such as sports-event spotter, musical director, or

production assistant. In addition to changing how the Dante

main transmitter (output) channel will respond to talkback

pushbutton switch operation, one of the production modes

also support using the headphone output for connection

with a power amplier or amplied loudspeakers. In this

mode, the headphone output level will automatically be

reduced (attenuated or dimmed) whenever one of the

Dante main or talkback transmitter (output) channels is

active. This can enhance intelligibility and help prevent

acoustical feedback from occurring between loudspeakers

and a Model 215A-related microphone.

Headphone Output

The Model 215A provides a number of conguration choic-

es that relate to the unit’s 2-channel (stereo) headphone

output. These choices include the audio sources that are

utilized and how the three rotary level control’s function,

if and when sidetone action will take place, the minimum

headphone output level, and the overall headphone out-

put gain range. Five headphone output audio source and

routing modes are o󰀨ered. These modes impact how the

three rotary controls adjust the four Dante receiver (input)

channels and the sidetone audio signals.

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The rst two modes support standard on-air applications

and use Dante audio receiver (input) channels 1 and 2. In

the broadcast world, these two signals are often referred

to as talent cue or IFB audio. In live television applications

they typically originate in production trailers or control

rooms and provide one channel of program-with-interrupt

audio and a second channel with program-only audio. The

third, fourth, and fth conguration modes allow all four of

the Dante-provided audio sources to be utilized. These

can be useful for more complex or specialized situations.

The three headphone level controls (“rotary pots”) are

provided for setting the “mix” of the selected audio input

sources as well as adjusting the overall headphone output

level. How these controls function depend on the selected

headphone mode. The rst mode can be used to support

traditional on-air sports applications. In this mode, it would

be typical to route (Dante subscribe) program-with-inter-

rupt audio to the Dante receiver (input) channel 1 and

program-only audio to the Dante receiver (input) channel 2.

Rotary control A, located on the left side, is used to adjust

the level of the program-with-interrupt audio signal that’s

routed to the left headphone output channel. Rotary control

B, located in the center, is used to adjust the level of the

program-only audio signal that’s routed to the right head-

phone output channel. For use with dual-channel or stereo

cue signals, another headphone output mode provides a

stereo (“level/balance”) mode. In this mode, rotary control

A adjusts the level of both Dante receiver (input) channels

1 and 2, while rotary control B allows adjustment of the left/

right level balance. In both of these modes, rotary control

C, located on the right side, is used to adjust the level of

the sidetone audio signal that can be sent to both the left

and right headphone output channels.

When selected for the third headphone output mode rotary

control A adjusts the level of Dante receiver (input) channel

1 as it is sent to the left headphone output channel and

Dante receiver (input) channel 2 as it is sent to the right

headphone output channel. Rotary control B provides the

same function for Dante receiver (input) channels 3 and 4.

Rotary control C adjusts the sidetone level.

The fourth headphone output mode o󰀨ers another unique

routing choice. Rotary control A adjusts the level of Dan-

te receiver (input) channel 1 as it is sent only to the left

headphone output channel. Rotary control B adjusts the

level of Dante receiver (input) channel 2 as it is sent only

to the right headphone channel. Rotary control C adjusts

the level of Dante receiver (input) channels 3 and 4 as

they are sent, respectively, to the left and right headphone

output channels.

The fth headphone output mode is similar to the fourth,

with the exception that Dante receiver (input) channel 1 is

sent to both the left and right headphone output channels;

Dante receiver (input) channel 2 is sent to both the left and

right headphone output channels.

The sidetone function allows audio from the output of the

Model 215A’s microphone preamplier to be sent to the

left and right headphone output channels. This can be

useful, providing the user with an aural conrmation of

the signal connected to the microphone input. This ability

can be especially important when a “mix-minus” talent cue

signal is provided for the user. For application exibility

the sidetone function can be congured from among four

choices, specifying when it will be active in relation to the

status of the main and talkback functions. It can also be

disabled if desired.

To help minimize the chance of broadcast cues being

missed, the action of the rotary level controls can be con-

gured so that there’s always a minimum headphone output

level. Alternately, the rotary controls can be congured to

fully mute when the controls are at their minimum (fully

counterclockwise) position. When the rotary level control

on the right side, labeled C, is congured for sidetone use

it will always allow the sidetone signal to be fully muted.

The 2-channel (stereo) headphone output was designed to

meet the needs of contemporary headphones and head-

sets. Specically, the two output circuits act as voltage

drivers rather than power drivers. In this configuration,

they can provide high output levels with very low distortion

and noise, along with minimal current consumption. With

the Model 215A, all types of headphones, headsets, and

earpieces can be directly connected.

A conguration feature allows the overall headphone output

gain range to be selected. The low setting is appropriate for

most applications where users need to listen at moderate

levels. The high setting can be useful when monitoring at

higher levels is warranted by an application.

Dante Audio-over-Ethernet

Audio data is sent to and from the Model 215A using the

Dante audio-over-Ethernet media networking technology.

For exibility in meeting a variety of application and sonic

requirements, bit depths of up to 24 and sample rates of

44.1 and 48 kHz are supported.

Audio transmitter (output) and receiver (input) channels on

associated Dante-enabled devices can be routed (Dante

subscribed) to the Model 215A using the Dante Controller

software application. This makes selecting the way in which

the Model 215A ts into an application a simple matter. For

example, the Dante main transmitter (output) channel can

be routed to the Dante receiver (input) channel of an audio

console. The Dante talkback transmitter (output) audio

output channels could be routed to Dante receiver (input)

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inputs on a matrix intercom system. And the Dante aux

transmitter (output) channel, congured for Hot Mic, could

be routed directly to an amplied speaker for producer

or director use. No special assignment or “multing” using

cables or patch points is necessary to send a Dante trans-

mitter (output) channel to Dante receiver (input) channels of

multiple destinations – only a single mouse-click is required

to reroute or assign a Dante audio signal.

On its input side, the Model 215A allows up to four head-

phone cue sources to be received from an audio console,

matrix intercom system, or a variety of other Dante-enabled

devices; the sources don’t need to originate from the same

device although there is a limit of two. In this way, pro-

gram audio could be supplied by an audio console while

program-with-interrupt audio could be supplied by a matrix

intercom system.

Ethernet Data, PoE, and DC Power

Source

The Model 215A connects to a data network using a stan-

dard 100 Mb/s twisted-pair Ethernet interface. The physical

interconnection is made by way of a Neutrik®etherCON

RJ45 connector. While compatible with standard RJ45

plugs, etherCON allows a ruggedized and locking inter-

connection to meet the needs of harsh or high-reliability

environments. The Model 215A’s operating power can

be provided by way of the Ethernet interface using the

Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) standard. This allows fast and

e󰀩cient interconnection with the associated data network.

To support PoE power management, the Model 215A’s PoE

interface reports to the power sourcing equipment (PSE)

that it’s a class 2 (low power) device. (In PoE parlance the

Model 215A is a standard PD (powered device).) The unit

can also be powered using an external source of 12 volts

DC. For redundancy, both power sources can be connect-

ed simultaneously. If both sources are connected, PoE

will power the unit. Four LEDs, located on the back panel,

display the status of the network connection, PoE power

source, and Dante interface.

Conguration Flexibility

The Model 215A can be configured to meet the needs

of specic applications and user preferences. All congu-

ration tasks are performed using the STcontroller personal

computer software application, available free of charge on

the Studio Technologies’ website. (Versions of STcontroller

that are compatible with the Windows®and macOS®op-

erating systems can be downloaded.) In the Model 215A

there are no mechanical switch settings or button-press

sequences required to congure how the unit functions.

Selectable parameters include microphone preamplier

gain, P48 phantom power on/off, input channel routing

and headphone output performance, sidetone operation,

pushbutton switch operation, and overall operating mode.

Changes made to any of the configuration parameters

become active immediately.

The gain of the microphone preamplier can be selected in

3-dB steps over a 19 to 64 dB range. This allows the Model

215A to match the output sensitivity of a range of handheld

and headset-associated microphones. A low-noise source

of P48 phantom power can be enabled if required to support

condenser microphones. The four Dante receiver (input)

audio sources and the way in which they are assigned to

the headphone output channels can be congured. This

conguration includes how the three rotary controls (pots)

function. These ve unique choices allow almost any re-

quired headphone monitoring situation to be implemented.

Whether for use in on-air sports, in stadium announcement

applications, or as a production support tool, the Model

215A should be able to achieve the desired conguration.

The integrated sidetone function can be congured to oper-

ate from among three choices. This allows audio associated

with the output of the microphone preamplier to be sent

to the headphone output channels as required. Sidetone

can be important as some applications may provide a “mix-

minus” talent cue signal that doesn’t include the user’s own

voice content. A conguration selection allows the operation

of the main pushbutton switch and its associated function to

be selected from among ve choices. The talkback buttons

can be congured from among three choices.

Customization

In the world of broadcast and production audio it’s fair to

say that applications vary widely. To this end, one or two

additional XLR connectors can easily be mounted into the

Model 215A’s back panel. Multiple 3-position headers,

located on the Model 215A’s circuit board, provide tech-

nician access to microphone, headphone, pushbutton

switch, and relay connections. Using a variety of optional

factory-supplied connector and interface cable kits allows

a Model 215A to be optimized to meet the needs of spe-

cic applications. For example, some applications may

prefer to use a multi-pin XLR connector to interface with a

headset. This can easily be accomplished by installing the

appropriate 6- or 7-pin XLR connector kit and making a few

simple connections. Other applications may benet from

having “mult” or “loop-through” connections, something

easily incorporated into a Model 215A. External contact

closures to activate the main and/or talkback functions can

be interfaced using a 4-pin XLR connector kit.

Two general-purpose relay contacts are provided on the

Model 215A’s circuit board. Accessible using 3-pin header

connectors, they allow specialized congurations to be

created. Under software control, the form-A (normally open)

solid-state relay contacts can be congured to follow the

state of the main and talkback functions. Taking advantage

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ANNOUNCER’S CONSOLE

of the two locations provided for additional XLR connectors,

a technician may easily implement a variety of functions

such as a tally indication or audio muting during talkback.

Future Capabilities and Firmware

Updating

The Model 215A was designed so that in the future its

capabilities and performance can be easily enhanced. A

USB type A receptacle, located on the unit’s back panel,

allows the operating rmware (embedded software) to be

updated using a standard USB ash drive. The Model 215A

uses Audinate’s Ultimo™ integrated circuit for implementing

Dante. The rmware within this integrated circuit can be

updated via the Ethernet connection, helping to ensure

that its capabilities remain up to date.

Getting Started

In this section, signal interconnections will be made using

the connectors located on the back panel of the Model

215A. A microphone signal will be interfaced by way of a

3-pin XLR connector. A ¼-inch 3-conductor phone jack is

provided for the headphone output. An Ethernet connection

will be made using either a standard RJ45 patch cable or

an etherCON protected RJ45 plug. This will typically supply

power-over-Ethernet (PoE) along with data. A 4-pin XLR

connector allows the connection of an external source of

12 volts DC.

System Components

Included in the shipping carton will be a Model 215A

Announcer’s Console and instructions on how to obtain

an electronic copy of this guide. As a device that can be

Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) powered, no external power

source is provided. If the local-area-network (LAN) asso-

ciated with the application won’t provide PoE, an external

source of 12 volts DC will need to be provided. An appli-

cable power supply, the Studio Technologies’ PS-DC-02,

is available as an option.

Microphone Input

The Model 215A is compatible with balanced dynamic and

condenser microphones. Depending on the application, the

microphone may be part of a headset or be an independent

handheld or stand-mounted model. The Model 215A’s

P48 microphone power source will support essentially all

phantom-powered microphones. The quality of the Model

215A’s microphone preamplier and associated circuitry is

such that applications may benet from using “high-end”

microphones.

Microphone interconnection is made by way of a 3-pin

female XLR connector, located on the Model 215A’s back

panel. The mating connector (male) should be wired such

that pin 2 is signal high (+ or hot), pin 3 is signal low (– or

cold), and pin 1 is shield. It’s possible that an unbalanced

microphone will also work correctly. In this case, the mating

connector (male) should be wired so that XLR male pin 2

is signal high (+ or hot) and signal common/shield is con-

nected to both XLR male pins 1 and 3.

As of the writing date of this guide, the Sennheiser HMD

26-II and HMD 27 headsets are popular for on-air sports

broadcasting use. Fine products, they work very well with

the Model 215A. Adding the su󰀩x “-XQ” to the headsets’ full

part number species a 3-pin male XLR connector for the

microphone and a ¼-inch 3-conductor plug for the stereo

headphones. This conguration is very useful, allowing the

headsets to work directly “out of the box” with the Model

215A. These two headset models from the HMD-series

feature dynamic microphones and will function directly with

the Model 215A. Units from the HME-series of headsets

are NOT compatible with the Model 215A as they require

an electret (unbalanced, low-voltage DC) power source.

This is completely di󰀨erent from the P48 phantom power

standard that the Model 215A supports.

Models from manufacturers such as AKG, beyerdynamic,

DPA, Sennheiser, and Shure can perform very well in

Model 215A applications. A headset that users have

reported being satised with is the Audio-Technica BPHS1.

O󰀨ered at a relatively low price point, it may be applicable

for some applications.

Headphone Output

The Model 215A provides a 2-channel (“stereo”) head-

phone output by way of a 3-conductor ¼-inch phone

jack. Devices such as stereo headphones or “dual-ear”

broadcast-style headsets can be directly connected using

a 3-conductor ¼-inch plug. Following the usual convention,

the left channel should be terminated on the tip lead, the

right channel on the ring lead, and common on the sleeve

lead.

It’s also possible to use a monaural (“single-ear”) headset

or broadcast-type single earbud as long as su󰀩cient care

is taken. If a 3-conductor ¼-inch plug is used by the de-

vice it should be wired such that the tip lead is connected

to the positive terminal of the transducer and the sleeve

lead is connected to the negative or common lead of the

transducer; the plug’s ring lead should be left unconnected.

A single- or dual-ear monaural device that is terminated

on a 2-conductor (tip and sleeve) ¼-inch plug can also

be utilized. When a plug of this type is inserted into the

Model 215A’s headphone output connector (phone jack)

the unit’s right headphone output channel will be shorted.

(This occurs since the ring lead of the connector would be

directly shorted to the sleeve lead.) This can stress the

Model 215A’s right channel headphone output circuitry

as well as drawing extra current from the output stage. To

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ANNOUNCER’S CONSOLE

prevent this unwanted condition the Headphone Output

– Audio Sources and Routing should be set for Mode 4.

Audio should then only be routed (subscribed) to the Dante

receiver (input) channels associated with the left head-

phone output channels. This will prevent audio from being

sent to the right headphone output channel. Refer to a

later section for details on how to congure the headphone

output.

Ethernet Connection

An Ethernet connection that supports 100BASE-TX is

required for the Model 215A’s Dante audio-over-Ethernet

connectivity. A 10BASE-T connection is not su󰀩cient for

Model 215A operation. A 1000BASE-T (GigE) connection

is not supported unless it can automatically “fall back”

to 100BASE-TX operation. An Ethernet connection that

supports Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) is recommended as

it will provide both data and operating power for the Model

215A. For Ethernet switches that provide PoE (referred to

as power sourcing equipment or PSE), the Model 215A

will enumerate itself as a PoE class 2 device. If PoE is not

available an external 12 volts DC power source can also

be connected. A compatible power supply is not included

with the Model 215A and must be purchased separately.

The 100 Mb/s twisted-pair Ethernet connection is made

using a Neutrik etherCON protected RJ45 connector that

is located on the back panel of the Model 215A. This allows

connection using a cable-mounted etherCON plug or a

standard RJ45 plug. The Model 215A’s Ethernet interface

supports auto MDI/MDI-X which ensures that a “reversing”

or “crossover” data patch cable will not be required.

External 12 Volts DC Input

An external source of 12 volts DC can be connected to

the Model 215A by way of the 4-pin male XLR connector,

located on the back panel. While the requirement for the

external source is nominally 12 volts, correct operation will

take place over a range of 10 to 18 volts. The Model 215A’s

operating current is modest (less than 300 milliamperes)

and the exact value is stated in the Specications section.

The DC source should be terminated to a 4-pin female

XLR connector with pin 1 negative (–) and pin 4 positive

(+). Purchased as an option, the PS-DC-02 power supply

is available from Studio Technologies. Its AC mains input

allows connection of 100-240 volts, 50/60 Hz and its output,

terminated on a 4-pin XLR female connector, is 12 volts

DC, 1.5 amperes maximum.

Redundant Power

As previously discussed, an Ethernet connection that pro-

vides Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) can serve as the Model

215A’s power source. Alternately, an external 12 volts

DC source can be connected. For redundancy, both PoE

and the external 12 volts DC source can be connected at

the same time. If both PoE and an external 12 volts DC

source are connected, power will be drawn only from the

PoE supply. If the PoE source becomes inoperative the 12

volts DC source will provide the Model 215A’s power with

no interruption in operation.

Pushbutton Labeling

The specic pushbutton switches used in the Model 215A

were selected for several reasons. Foremost was the fact

that they are highly reliable, including having gold-plated

contacts for long life in less-than-ideal environments. The

second reason was that applying customized labels to the

underside of the pushbutton caps would be relatively sim-

ple. The labels, text printed on clear material, are placed

under the clear caps on top of the white plastic di󰀨user

material, essentially on the top of the pushbuttons.

From the factory, the pushbuttons are labeled, from left to

right, COUGH, TALKBACK 1, and TALKBACK 2. These

were selected to be appropriate for many on-air appli-

cations in English-speaking locations. It’s expected that

these may be changed to meet the specic needs of an

application.

As a “head start” for some applications, a clear sheet print-

ed with a number of commonly used pushbutton designa-

tions is included in the shipping carton. These were created

at the factory using a standard personal computer graphics

program and laser printed onto sheets of transparency lm.

The desired pushbutton labels can be cut out with a pair of

scissors or an X-ACTO®(razor) knife following the printed

guidelines that indicate the required size.

The clear lens on top of each pushbutton cap can be re-

moved with a ngernail or small screwdriver. Be certain not

to scratch the pushbutton if a screwdriver or other small tool

is used. The clear label can be removed and replaced. The

cap is then snapped back into the top of the housing using

nger-pressure only. No tool is required to replace the cap.

If you need to make your own labels the process is quite

simple. Use a personal computer to create the desired

text. The nished label size should be 0.625-inches (15.8

mm) square. The completed artwork can then be printed

on transparency lm sheets using a laser or inkjet printer.

These sheets are readily available from most o󰀩ce supply

stores. A pair of scissors or an X-ACTO (razor) knife will

complete the task.

Dante Conguration

For audio to correctly pass to and from the Model 215A

requires, at a minimum, that several Dante-related

parameters be congured. These conguration settings will

be stored in non-volatile memory within the Model 215A’s

Dante network interface circuitry. Conguration will typically

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ANNOUNCER’S CONSOLE

be done with the Dante Controller software application

which is available for download free of charge at audinate.

com. Versions of Dante Controller are available to support

Windows and macOS operating systems.

The Model 215A uses the Ultimo integrated circuit to im-

plement the Dante architecture. This dictates which param-

eters can be congured and what choices are available.

The Model 215A is compatible with AES67 and the Dante

Domain Manager™ (DDM) software application. AES67

operation requires that a setting within Dante Controller

be enabled. For DDM operation please refer to the specic

DDM documentation for details on what Model 215A and

related parameters may have to be congured.

Audio Routing

The Model 215A’s four Dante transmitter (output) channels

must be assigned to the desired Dante receiver (input)

channels on associated equipment. This will route the

main, talkback, and auxiliary transmitter (output) channels

to the devices that will be “listening” to them. Within Dante

Controller a “subscription” is the term used for routing a

transmitter ow (a group of up to four output channels) to

a receiver ow (a group of up to four input channels).

Using Dante Controller, the desired Dante transmitter

(output) channels can be routed to the four Dante receiver

(input) channels associated with the Model 215A. The exact

number utilized will depend on the specic application. The

congured headphone output audio sources and routing

mode will determine how the Dante receiver (input) chan-

nels will be associated with the three level controls and the

headphone output channels.

As previously mentioned, the Model 215A uses the Ultimo

integrated circuit to implement its Dante functionality. The

number of ows associated with this integrated circuit is

four, two transmitter and two receiver; as such, the chance

of a ow limitation is very possible. These ows can either

be unicast, multicast, or a combination of the two. (Note that

when operating in the AES67 mode the Dante transmitter

(output) channels will function only in multicast; unicast

is not supported.) If the Model 215A’s Dante transmitter

(output) channels need to be routed to more than two ows

it’s possible that an intermediary device with enhanced ow

capability, such as the Studio Technologies’ Model 5422A

Dante Intercom Audio Engine, can be used to “repeat” the

signals.

Unit and Channel Names

The Model 215A has a default Dante device name of

ST-M215A and a unique su󰀩x. The su󰀩x identies the

specic Model 215A that is being congured. The Model

215A provides four Dante transmitter (output) channels

with the default names of Main, Talkback 1, Talkback 2,

and Aux. The Model 215A has four Dante receiver (input)

channels with default names of Headphone Ch1, Head-

phone Ch2, Headphone Ch3, and Headphone Ch4.

Using Dante Controller, these names can be revised as

appropriate for the specic application.

Device Conguration

The Model 215A supports audio sample rates of 44.1 and

48 kHz with no pull-up/down options available. For most

professional audio applications, a sample rate of 48 kHz

would be appropriate. The digital audio data is in the form of

pulse-code modulation (PCM) samples. Encoding choices

within Dante Controller are PCM 16, PCM 24, and PCM 32,

but in most cases the default selection of PCM 24 would

be appropriate. Clocking and Device Latency Parameters

can be adjusted if required but the default values in Dante

Controller are typically correct.

Network Conguration – Address

By default, the Model 215A’s Dante IP address and related

network parameters will be determined automatically using

the DHCP or, if that’s not available, link-local network pro-

tocols. 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. 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 215A’s IP address has been mis-

placed there is no reset button or other method to easily

restore the unit to a known (default) IP setting.

AES67 Conguration – AES67 Mode

Dante Controller allows a Model 215A to be congured for

AES67 operation. This requires the AES67 Mode to be set

for Enabled. By default, AES67 mode is set for Disabled.

Model 215A Clocking Source

While technically the Model 215A can serve as a Leader

clock for a Dante network (as can all Dante-enabled devic-

es), in virtually all cases the unit will be congured to receive

its timing reference (“sync”) from another device. As such,

Dante Controller’s check box for Preferred Leader associ-

ated with the Model 215A would typically not be enabled.

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Model 215A Conguration

The STcontroller software application is used to congure

the way in which the Model 215A 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 personal computer that’s connected

to the related LAN.

Changes made using STcontroller will be immediately

reected in the unit’s operation; no Model 215A reboot is

required. Each time a Model 215A conguration change is

made the unit’s main and talkback LEDs on the front panel

will ash in a distinctive pattern. This provides a clear indi-

cation that a command from STcontroller has been received

and acted upon.

Installing STcontroller

STcontroller is available free of charge on the Studio Tech-

nologies’ website (studio-tech.com). Versions are available

that are compatible with personal computers running

selected versions of the Windows and macOS operating

systems. If required, download and install STcontroller

onto the designated personal computer. The network con-

nection of this personal computer must be on the same

local area network (LAN) and subnet as the Model 215A

unit that is going to be congured. Immediately after start-

ing STcontroller the application will locate all the Studio

Technologies’ devices that it can control. The one or more

Model 215A units to be congured will appear in the device

list. Use the Identify command to allow easy recognition

of a specic Model 215A unit. Double-clicking on a device

name will cause the associated configuration menu to

appear. Review the current conguration and make any

changes that are desired.

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Menu Page

The following conguration selections are available in the STcontroller menu:

Microphone Input – P48 Phantom Power

Choices are O and On.

STcontroller allows selection of the on/off status of the

microphone input’s P48 phantom power source. The on/

off status is displayed by way of an LED, red in color,

located on the back panel adjacent to the microphone input

connector. Select the status of the P48 source to meet the

needs of the connected microphone.

Microphone Input – Gain

Choices are 19 dB to 64 dB in 3-dB steps.

STcontroller is used to select the gain of the microphone

preamplier. There’s no problem changing the gain setting

while the unit is operating. Small audio clicks or pops might

occur during gain transitions but this shouldn’t be a major

issue as long as associated monitor loudspeakers are

temporarily attenuated or muted.

To select the correct amount of gain for an application will

probably take 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 the digital maximum of 0 dBFS). Operating

at this nominal signal level will help ensure that optimal

audio performance is delivered to the destination device

or devices.

There’s no “perfect” gain setting that this guide can

recommend. The two issues that impact the gain setting

are the output sensitivity of the connected microphone and

the acoustical output level of the microphone’s user. With

some headset microphones, such as that in a Sennheiser

HMD 26 or HMD 27, selecting an initial gain setting of 43

or 46 dB would be appropriate. Users who speak loudly

might need to have the gain reduced to 40 or even 37 dB;

quiet users might need 49 or 52 dB of gain.

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Observing the signal level on the device that’s being “fed”

(digitally supplied) by the Model 215A’s Dante main trans-

mitter (output) channel is a good means of checking the

actual signal level as it relates to the conguration of the

microphone preamplier. Most devices have some method

of providing an indication of the digital level, either in the

form of a numerical value, physical or virtual “VU” meter, or

LED-based display. The Studio Technologies’ Model 5202

Dante to Phones and Line Output Interface would also be

an excellent means of monitoring the Model 215A’s output

level. The Model 5202 provides a 2-channel LED level that

is calibrated in dBFS.

A dual-color LED, located on the Model 215A’s back panel

adjacent to the microphone input connector, is provided as

an aid when adjusting the gain of the microphone preampli-

er. It provides a 3-step indication of the output level of the

microphone preamplier. It will light green when the signal

level is –40 dBFS or greater, light in a mix of green and red

when the signal level is –14 dBFS or greater, and light red

only when the signal level is –4 dBFS or greater. When the

gain of the microphone preamplier is set optimally a signal

at a normal level that’s applied to the microphone input will

cause the LED to light green with an occasional peak signal

causing the LED to light both green and red at the same

time. A more conservative gain setting would nd that the

LED would only light green. A gain setting that results in

the LED ever lighting only red would be incorrect. The gain

must be reduced or the audio quality would probably be

severely compromised.

Headphone Output – Audio Sources and

Routing

Choices are Mode 1, Mode 2, Mode 3, Mode 4, and Mode 5.

STcontroller allows selection from among ve headphone

audio source and routing modes. Each mode is distinct

and careful selection will help optimize the Model 215A’s

operation for a range of applications.

Mode 1 – Ch1 L / Ch2 R / Sidetone LR: This mode is pro-

vided for on-air applications where two independent audio

sources need to be routed separately to the two headphone

output channels. Dante receiver (input) channel 1 will be

routed to the left headphone output channel and level con-

trol A will adjust its level. Dante receiver (input) channel 2

will be routed to the right headphone output channel and

level control B will adjust its level. Level control C will adjust

the level of the sidetone audio as it is sent to both the left

and right headphone output channels.

Mode 2 – Ch1 L Ch2 R / Balance LR / Sidetone LR: This

mode is provided for stereo applications that could include

live music events that are distributed via streaming audio or

by way of an over-the-air broadcast. In these applications

it’s typical to want the user to have a single control to simul-

taneously adjust the level of a stereo pair while a separate

potentiometer is used to adjust the left/right level balance.

When set for Mode 2 Dante receiver (input) channel 1 will

be routed to the left headphone output channel and Dante

receiver (input) channel 2 will be routed to the right head-

phone output channel. Level control A will adjust the level

of the input channels as they sent to both headphone out-

put channels. Level control B will adjust the level balance

between the left and right output channels. Level control

C will adjust the level of the sidetone audio as it is sent to

both the left and right headphone output channels.

Mode 3 – Ch1 L Ch2 R / Ch3 L Ch4 R / Sidetone LR: This

mode can be useful in applications where two stereo sig-

nals need to be provided to the user on the left and right

headphone output channels. In this mode, Dante receiver

(input) channels 1 and 2 are routed, respectively, to the left

and right channels of the headphone output. Level control

A adjusts the level of this stereo pair. Dante receiver (input)

channels 3 and 4 are also routed, respectively, to the left

and right channels of the headphone output. Level control

B adjusts the level of this stereo pair as it is sent to the

headphone output channels. Level control C adjusts the

level of the sidetone audio as it is sent to both the left and

right headphone output channels.

Mode 4 – Ch1 L / Ch2 R / Ch3 L Ch4 R: This mode is very

similar to Mode 1 except instead of providing sidetone

another stereo pair can be routed to the left and right head-

phone output channels. Dante receiver (input) channel 1 is

routed to the left channel of the headphone output. Level

control A adjusts its level. Dante receiver (input) channel

2 is routed to the right headphone output channel and

level control B adjusts its level. A stereo pair can enter the

Model 215A by way of Dante receiver (input) channels 3

and 4. These signals, whose level is adjusted using the

level control C, are sent, respectively, to the left and right

channels of the headphone output.

Mode 5 – Ch1 LR / Ch2 LR / Ch3 L Ch4 R: This mode is a

unique variation where two monaural signals can be routed

to both the left and right headphone output channels while

a stereo input source is routed, in stereo, to the headphone

output channels. Dante receiver (input) channel 1 will be

routed to both the left and right channels of the headphone

output. Its level is adjusted by level control A. Dante receiv-

er (input) channel 2 will also be routed to both the left and

right channels of the headphone output. Its level will be

adjusted using level control B. A stereo pair can enter the

Model 215A by way of Dante receiver (input) channels 3

and 4. These signals will be sent, in stereo, to the left and

right channels of the headphone output. Their level, as a

pair, will be adjusted using level control C.

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Headphone Output – Sidetone

Choices are O, Main Button, Talkback Buttons, and

Main and Talkback Buttons.

STcontroller allows the Model 215A’s sidetone function

to be congured as desired. Sidetone is audio from the

output of the microphone preamplifier that is sent to

the headphone output channels. This can be important,

allowing the user to “hear” themselves for performance

conrmation and comfort. Making a specic selection from

among the four available modes will depend on the needs

of the application. If a “full mix” is being provided to the

Model 215A’s Dante receiver (input) channels then locally

provided sidetone won’t be needed and the Off mode

should be selected. The user will hear themselves by way

of the audio signals that are arriving via the Dante receiver

(input) channels. If “mix-minus” audio is being supplied

to the Model 215A then selecting one of the headphone

source and routing modes which enables sidetone (modes

1, 2, or 3) can be an important means of establishing user

condence. The selected sidetone mode will determine

exactly when sidetone audio will be sent to the headphone

output channels.

O: In this mode, the sidetone function is not active.

Main Button: In this mode, the sidetone function will be

active whenever the main button function is active and

audio associated with the microphone preamplier is pres-

ent on the Dante main transmitter (output) channel.

Talkback Buttons: In this mode, the sidetone function will

be active whenever either or both of the talkback buttons

are active and audio associated with the microphone pre-

amplier is present on either or both of the Dante talkback

transmitter (output) channels.

Main and Talkback Buttons: In this mode, the sidetone

function will be active whenever one or more of the main

or talkback buttons are active and audio associated with

the microphone preamplier is present on the Dante main

or Dante talkback transmitter (output) channels.

Headphone Output – Gain Range

Choices are High and Low.

STcontroller is used to select the overall level of the

headphone output channels. The default setting, Low, is

designed so that users with typical audio input sources will

be inclined to set the three rotary level controls at approxi-

mately 50% of their rotation. This would be appropriate for

most applications. The High setting would be applicable

in cases where an extreme headphone output level is

required or the level of the audio input sources is lower than

typical. Using the High setting in the former application is

not recommended as hearing damage could result from

exposure to high signal levels.

Headphone Output – Minimum Level

Choices are –40 dB or Full Mute.

STcontroller allows selection of the headphone output’s

minimum level. In the –40 dB setting the minimum head-

phone output level is approximately 40 dB below the

maximum output level; the headphone output will never

fully mute. This ensures that audio signals present on the

selected Dante receiver (input) channels will always be

present on the headphone output channels. In most on-

air broadcast applications this is the appropriate setting,

ensuring that some level of signal is always present.

When Full Mute is selected moving any level control to its

fully counterclockwise position will cause its associated

channel to fully mute. If a level control is set to serve as a

balance control, moving it to either its fully counterclock-

wise or its fully clockwise position will cause the associat-

ed signal to mute. Selecting the Full Mute mode may be

appropriate for applications where minimizing the chance

of audio “leakage” into an active microphone is important.

As an example, this setting could useful when the connect-

ed headset or headphones are at times placed on a desk

or tabletop, adjacent to on-air talent.

Note that when level control C, located on the right side of

the front panel, has been congured to control the sidetone

level the conguration of the headphone output minimum

level mode will not impact it. When level control C is used

for sidetone, setting it to its fully counterclockwise position

will always cause the sidetone output level to fully mute.

Button Operation – Main

Choices are Push to Mute, Push to Talk, Latching, Push

to Talk/Tap to Latch, and Push to Mute/Tap to Latch.

STcontroller allows the operating mode of the main button

to be congured. There are ve choices available:

Push to Mute: If this mode is selected, the main button func-

tion will normally be active. The audio signal associated with

the output of the microphone preamplier will be routed to

the Dante main transmitter (output) channel. Whenever the

main button is pressed this audio signal will not be present

on the Dante main transmitter (output) channel.

Push to Talk: If this mode is selected, the main button func-

tion will normally be inactive. The audio signal associated

with the microphone preamplier will not be present on the

Dante main transmitter (output) channel. Whenever the

main button is pressed the audio signal will become active

on the Dante main transmitter (output) channel.

Latching: If this mode is selected, the main button’s function

will alternate between its active and inactive states when-

ever the main button is pressed. Upon Model 215A power

up the function will be in its inactive state.

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ANNOUNCER’S CONSOLE

Push to Talk/Tap to Latch: This mode is a combination of the

Push to Talk and Latching modes. It’s similar to the way talk

pushbutton switches function on user stations associated

with broadcast or production intercom systems. If the main

button is pressed and held the main button’s function will be

active. It will stay active until the main button is released. If

the main button is momentarily “tapped” the main button’s

status will change, either from inactive-to-active or from

active-to-inactive. Upon Model 215A power up the main

button function will be in its inactive state.

Push to Mute/Tap to Latch: This mode is a combination

of the Push to Mute and Latching modes. Whenever the

main button is momentarily “tapped” the main button’s

status will change, either from active-to-inactive or inac-

tive-to-active. The audio signal associated with the output

of the microphone preamplier will be routed to the Dante

main transmitter (output) channel. Whenever the main

button is pressed and held this audio signal will not be

present on the Dante main transmitter (output) channel. It

will stay in this condition until the main button is released.

Upon Model 215A power up the main button function will

be in its inactive state.

Button Operation – Talkback 1

Choices are Push to Talk, Latching, and Push to Talk/

Tap to Latch.

The manner in which talkback button 1 functions can be

congured. There are three mode choices available.

Push to Talk: If this mode is selected, the talkback function

will normally be inactive and the LED associated with the

talkback button will not be lit. Whenever the talkback button

is pressed the talkback function will become active and

depending on the unit’s conguration, the button’s green

or red LED will light.

Latching: If this mode is selected, the talkback function will

alternate between the active and inactive states whenever

the talkback button is pressed. Upon power up the talkback

function will be in its inactive state and its button LED will

not be lit.

Push to Talk/Tap to Latch: This mode is a combination of

the Push to Talk and Latching modes. It’s similar to the way

talk pushbutton switches function on user stations associ-

ated with broadcast or production intercom systems. If the

talkback button is pressed and held the talkback function

will be active. It will stay active until the talkback button is

released. If the talkback button is momentarily “tapped”

the status of the talkback function will change, either from

inactive-to-active or from active-to-inactive. Upon Model

215A power up the talkback button will be in its inactive

state and its LED will not be lit.

Button Operation – Talkback 2

Choices are Push to Talk, Latching, and Push to Talk/

Tap to Latch.

The manner in which talkback button 2 functions can be

congured. There are three mode choices available. How

they function are identical to those that described for talk-

back button 1.

System – Operating Mode

Choices are On-Air, Production, and Production with Dim.

The operating mode configures the overall manner in

which the Model 215A operates. Specically, it determines

how the Dante main transmitter (output) channel operates

vis-à-vis the Dante talkback transmitter (output) channels

and whether the headphone output level is reduced during

talkback operation. Understanding how these three modes

impact overall system operation will ensure that correct

operation and maximum usability will occur.

On-Air: When selected to the On-Air mode, the audio signal

on the Dante main transmitter (output) channel will mute

whenever either or both of the Dante talkback transmitter

(output) channels are active. The On-Air mode should

be selected for all on-air broadcast applications when it’s

imperative that the audio signal on the Dante main transmit-

ter (output) channel be muted whenever on-air talent uses

either or both of the talkback functions to communicate with

production personnel.

Production: When the system mode is set for Production,

the audio signal on the Dante main transmitter (output)

channel won’t mute in response to either or both of the

talkback functions being active. This mode allows the Dante

main transmitter (output) channel to be used, for example,

as an additional Dante talkback transmitter (output). In

this way, the Dante main and Dante talkback transmitter

(output) channels can be used independently, with neither

impacting the other. This also allows the three push-

button switches and their associated functions to be used

simultaneously. When selected for the correct application,

this mode can prove to be very useful. However, it’s not

appropriate for on-air use!

Production with Dim: This mode is identical to the Produc-

tion mode with the exception that the headphone output

will reduce in level (“dim”) whenever the main or talkback

functions are active. This mode was specically provided

to minimize the chance that acoustical feedback will occur

in applications where the headphone output is connected

to inputs on audio amplifiers or amplified speakers. In

this mode, the level of the headphone output channels is

reduced by 18 dB whenever a main or talkback function

is active. This mode is not appropriate when headphones

are going to be connected to the Model 215A!

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ANNOUNCER’S CONSOLE

System – Button Backlight Intensity

Choices are High and Low.

This conguration choice selects the intensity of the white

LEDs that provide backlighting for the three pushbutton

switches. Low is appropriate when the Model 215A is to

be used in an environment where the ambient light level is

low. High would be appropriate where other light sources in

the physical area may make the main and talkback push-

buttons more di󰀩cult to identify. High may also be useful

when identication markings have been inserted under the

clear lens caps.

System – Relay Output 1

Choices are O,Main Button,Talkback 1 Button,

Talkback 2 Button, and Main and Talkback Buttons.

This conguration choice selects when relay output 1 will

be enabled.

O: When relay output 1 is congured for O󰀨 the contact

associated with relay output 1 will never close (short). This

setting would be appropriate when relay output 1 is not

being utilized.

Main Button: When relay output 1 is congured for Main

Button the contact associated with relay output 1 will close

(short) whenever the main button function is active.

Talkback Button 1: When relay output 1 is configured

for Talkback Button 1 the contact associated with relay

output 1 will close (short) whenever the talkback button 1

function is active.

Talkback Button 2: When relay output 1 is configured

for Talkback Button 2 the contact associated with relay

output 1 will close (short) whenever the talkback button 2

function is active.

Main and Talkback Buttons: When relay output 1 is cong-

ured for Main and Talkback buttons the contact associated

with relay output 1 will close (short) whenever the main or

talkback button functions are active.

System – Relay Output 2

Choices are O,Main Button,Talkback 1 Button,

Talkback 2 Button,and Main and Talkback Buttons.

This conguration choice selects when relay output 2 will

be enabled.

The exact functioning of the choices for relay output 2 is

identical to those provided for relay output 1.

System – Dante Aux Output

Choices are O, Hot Mic, Tally Tone, and Main with

18 kHz Tone.

The Dante aux transmitter (output) channel is available

for special applications and is capable of providing a vari-

ety of audio signals. Each conguration choice has been

carefully selected and may prove useful in sophisticated

applications. If the Dante aux transmitter (output) channel

is not going to be utilized then the O mode choice should

be selected.

When Hot Mic is selected audio associated with the output

of the Model 215A’s microphone preamplier will always be

present on the Dante aux transmitter (output) channel. The

Hot Mic function can be very useful but has the potential for

abuse. By the very nature of a hot mic function, no button

press by the user can cause the audio signal on the Dante

aux transmitter (output) channel to become inactive. Users

must be aware that audio from the microphone preamplier

will always be present on this Dante transmitter (output)

channel.

When Tally Tone is selected a 20 kHz sine wave signal

at a level of –20 dBFS will be present on the Dante aux

transmitter (output) channel whenever the main output

function is active. This is provided as a control signal for

use in REMI/At-Home or other specialized applications. A

20 kHz tone being present on the Dante aux transmitter

(output) will serve as a tally signal indicating that audio can

be present on the Dante main transmitter (output) channel.

Main with 18 kHz Tone is an interesting configuration

choice. Whenever the Dante main transmitter (output)

channel is active the signal on the Dante aux transmitter

(output) channel will consist of a combination (sum or mix)

of audio from the output of the microphone preamplier

and an 18 kHz sine wave tone. In this way, the Dante aux

transmitter (output) can prove to be especially useful for

REMI/At-Home applications. Other products from Studio

Technologies, including the Model 5422A Dante Intercom

Audio Engine and the Model 391 Dante Alerting Unit, can

directly utilize this signal.

Operation

At this point, the microphone, headphone, Ethernet, and,

if required, 12 volts DC power connections should have

been made. The pushbutton labels may have been revised.

The desired conguration should have been made using

the STcontroller software application. The Dante transmit-

ter (output) and Dante receiver (input) channels should

have been routed (subscribed) using the Dante Controller

software application. Normal operation of the Model 215A

can now begin.

Issue Preliminary 1, October 2022 Model 215A User Guide

Page 18 Studio Technologies, Inc.

Model 215A

ANNOUNCER’S CONSOLE

Initial Operation

The Model 215A will begin functioning a few seconds after

its power source is connected. As previously discussed,

the power source can be provided by Power-over-Ether-

net (PoE) or an external source of 12 volts DC. If both are

connected, the PoE source will power the unit. Should PoE

subsequently no longer be available uninterrupted opera-

tion will continue using the external DC source.

Upon Model 215A power up most of the status and button

backlight LEDs will activate in a test sequence. The PoE,

USB, and SIG/PEAK LEDs, located on the back panel, will

light one after another. On the unit’s top surface, the two

status LEDs and the backlight LED associated with the

main pushbutton switch and the status and backlight LEDs

associated with the two talkback pushbutton switches will

momentarily light in sequence. Once that sequence has

completed all the LEDs will begin to function normally.

The manner in which the LINK/ACT, SYS, and SYNC LEDs

(all located below the etherCON connector) will light de-

pends on characteristics related to the connected Ethernet

signal and the conguration of the unit’s Dante interface.

This will be covered in detail in the next section.

After the power-up sequence has completed the Model

215A will begin normal operation. Depending on the select-

ed conguration one status LED associated with the main

pushbutton switch may be lit. The user is now presented

with three pushbutton switches, four LEDs, and three rotary

controls. These are simple to operate and understand, as

will be described in later sections.

Ethernet, PoE, and Dante Status LEDs

Four status LEDs are located below the etherCON connec-

tor on the Model 215A’s back panel. The LINK/ACT LED will

light green whenever an active connection to a 100 Mb/s

Ethernet network has been established. It will ash in re-

sponse to data packet activity. The PoE LED will light green

whenever Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) associated with the

connected Ethernet signal is providing operating power to

the Model 215A. The SYS and SYNC LEDs display the

operating status of the Dante interface and associated net-

work. The SYS LED will light red upon Model 215A power

up to indicate that the Dante interface is not ready. After a

short interval it will light green to indicate that it is ready to

pass data with another Dante device. The SYNC LED will

light red when the Model 215A is not synchronized with a

Dante network. It will light solid green when the Model 215A

is synchronized with a Dante network and an external clock

source (timing reference) is being received. It will slowly

light on and o󰀨 green when the Model 215A is part of a

Dante network and is serving as the Leader clock. (This

will not be the normal situation for most applications but is

technically possible.) Note that up to 30 seconds may be

required for the SYNC LED to reach its nal state.

How to Identify a Specic Model 215A

The Dante Controller software application o󰀨ers an identify

command that can be used to help locate a specic Model

215A. When Identify is selected for a specic unit the button

backlight LEDs will ash. In addition, the SYS and SYNC

LEDs, located directly below the etherCON connector on

the back panel, will slowly ash green. After a few seconds

the identication patterns will cease and normal Model

215A operation will again take place.

Signal Present/Peak LED

A dual-color LED is located on the Model 215A’s back

panel, adjacent to the microphone input connector. It mon-

itors the output of the microphone preamplier, providing a

3-step signal level indication. The LED will light green when

the signal level is –40 dBFS or greater. It will simultaneously

light green and red, appearing orange, when the signal

level is –14 dBFS or greater. The LED will light red when

the signal level is –4 dBFS or greater. During normal op-

eration this LED should light green and when signal peaks

are present, will occasionally light both green and red. If

the LED is lit constantly green and red at the same time

the gain of the microphone preamplier most likely should

be reduced. The LED should never light red only as this

would indicate a signal that’s in danger of reaching 0 dBFS

(digital “clipping”). This would indicate that the gain of the

microphone preamplier should be signicantly reduced.

P48 Phantom Power LED

A red LED indicator is located on the back panel adjacent

to the microphone input connector. Labeled P48, it will light

whenever the P48 phantom power source is active and

providing power to the microphone input

Pushbutton Switches and Status LEDs

Three pushbutton switches are used to control the audio

signals on the main and talkback output channels. The way

each operates depends on the selected conguration. Four

LED indicators are located adjacent to the pushbuttons and

reect the status of the audio signals associated with the

main and talkback output channels. The pushbuttons’ clear

lenses are backlit using white LEDs. The intensity (bright-

ness) of these LEDs is congured from a choice of two

values, low or high. The backlighting does not provide an

indication of the associated pushbutton’s status nor do they

serve as a tally function, but rather allow the pushbutton’s

labeling and location to be visible in low-light conditions.

Model 215A User Guide Issue Preliminary 1, October 2022

Studio Technologies, Inc. Page 19

Model 215A

ANNOUNCER’S CONSOLE

Main Button and LED Indicators

The pushbutton switch that is located on the left side, facto-

ry labeled as COUGH, functions according to the selected

conguration. Two LED indicators, located directly above

the pushbutton switch, are associated with the status of the

audio signal on the Dante main transmitter (output) chan-

nel. The green LED, located on the right, is lit whenever the

microphone audio signal is connected to the Dante main

transmitter (output) channel. This could be considered as

an “on-air” or “mic-active” indicator. If the Model 215A’s

system mode is congured to On-Air, the red LED, located

on the left, will be lit when the audio signal associated with

Dante main transmitter (output) channel is muted.

If the Model 215A is congured to operate in one of the

production modes, the red LED will never light. This is to

reect the fact that the main pushbutton switch has now

taken on a function similar to that of a talkback pushbutton

switch. To clarify, when the Model 215A is set to either of the

production modes, the red LED will never light; the green

LED will light whenever microphone audio is connected to

the Dante main (transmitter) output channel.

Main Button Modes

Depending on the selected conguration, there are ve

ways the main pushbutton switch can function:

Push to Mute: If this mode is selected, the audio signal

associated with the Dante main transmitter (output) channel

is normally active. The audio signal will mute whenever the

pushbutton switch is pressed and held.

Push to Talk: If this mode is selected, the audio signal as-

sociated with the Dante main transmitter (output) channel

is normally muted. The audio signal will become active

whenever the pushbutton switch is pressed and held.

Latching: If this mode is selected, the audio signal associ-

ated with the Dante main transmitter (output) channel will

alternate between its active and muted states whenever

the pushbutton switch s pressed. Upon power up the audio

signal will be in its muted state.

Push to Talk/Tap to Latch: This mode is a combination of

the Push to Talk and Latching modes. It’s similar to the

way talk pushbuttons function on user stations associated

with broadcast or production intercom systems. If the push-

button is pressed and held the audio signal associated with

the Dante main transmitter (output) channel will become

active until the pushbutton switch is released. If the push-

button switch is momentarily “tapped” the audio signal will

change state. Upon Model 215A power up the audio signal

will be in its muted state.

Push to Mute/Tap to Latch: This mode is a combination

of the Push to Mute and Latching modes. Whenever the

main button is momentarily “tapped” its status will alternate

between active and muted. When the main button’s func-

tion is active and the main button is pressed and held the

audio signal will mute on the Dante main output channel. It

will stay in this condition until the main button is released.

Upon Model 215A power up the audio signal will be in its

muted state.

Main Output vis-à-vis Talkback Activity

This short section applies only in the case where the Model

215A’s system mode is congured for On-Air and the main

pushbutton mode is set to Latching, Push to Talk/Tap to

Latch, or Push to Mute/Tap to Latch.

Talkback activity will always cause the audio signal asso-

ciated with the Dante main transmitter (output) channel

to be placed in its muted state. If the audio signal was in

the “latched-on” state when talkback activity began, once

talkback activity ends that state will resume; the audio

signal associated with the Dante main transmitter (output)

channel will again be in its on (“latched”) state.

Talkback Buttons and LED Indicators

The second pushbutton switch from the left, factory labeled

TALKBACK 1, controls the audio signal associated with

the Dante talkback transmitter (output) channel 1. The

third pushbutton switch from the left, factory labeled

TALKBACK 2, controls the audio signal associated with

the Dante talkback transmitter (output) channel 2. The

manner in which each talkback pushbutton switch func-

tions depends on the way each has been congured. One

LED indicator, green in color, is located directly above

each talkback pushbutton switch. It will light whenever the

microphone audio signal is connected to its associated

Dante talkback transmitter (output) channel. If the Model

215A’s system mode is selected for On-Air, whenever any

of the talkback functions are active the audio signal asso-

ciated with the Dante main transmitter (output) channel will

be placed in its muted state. If the Model 215A is selected

for either of the production modes, the status of the talk-

back pushbutton switches will not impact the status of the

audio signal associated with the Dante main transmitter

(output) channel.

Talkback Button Modes

The operation of the talkback pushbutton switch can be

independently congured using the STcontroller software

application. Depending on the selected configuration,

there are three ways each talkback pushbutton switch

can function:

Issue Preliminary 1, October 2022 Model 215A User Guide

Page 20 Studio Technologies, Inc.

Model 215A

ANNOUNCER’S CONSOLE

Push to Talk: If this mode is selected, the audio signal

associated with a Dante talkback transmitter (output)

channel is normally muted. The audio signal will become

active whenever its associated talkback pushbutton switch

is pressed and held.

Latching: If this mode is selected, the audio signal associ-

ated with a Dante talkback transmitter (output) channel will

alternate between its active and muted state whenever its

associated talkback pushbutton is pressed. Upon Model

215A power up the Dante talkback transmitter (output)

channels will be in their muted state.

Push to Talk/Tap to Latch: This mode is a combination

of Push to Talk and Latching. If the pushbutton switch is

pressed and held, the audio signal associated with its Dante

talkback transmitter (output) channel will become active

until that talkback pushbutton switch is released. If the talk-

back pushbutton switch is momentarily “tapped” the audio

signal will change state. Upon Model 215A power up the

talkback audio signals will always be in their muted state.

Headphone Output

Three rotary controls (“pots”) are located on the Model

215A’s front panel and are associated with the headphone

output. The way these control’s function will depend on the

conguration of the Audio Sources and Routing parameter

within the STcontroller software application. There are ve

modes available and each is unique. The overall level of

the headphone output is established using the gain range

conguration. Another conguration setting selects whether

the headphone output channels will maintain a minimum

output level or can be fully muted. The action of the sidetone

function is also congured using STcontroller.

To understand exactly how the level controls on a specic

Model 215A will function requires knowledge of how that

unit has been congured. Please refer to the Conguration

section for details. It may require a bit of study to fully under-

stand how the controls will function. The author would like to

be able to provide a simple explanation. But there are really

ve simple explanations, one for each conguration choice!

Each level control has a mechanical step (detent) that is

located at the halfway (50%) position of its rotation range.

This is intended to serve as an aid to Model 215A users. In

an ideal installation, setting the controls to their detent posi-

tion will result in a comfortable headphone output level. The

user, in response to a changing operating environment, can

then move the level controls to get more or less headphone

level as desired. The detent position will always remain as a

useful reference point. To achieve this condition, the audio

level on the appropriate Dante receiver (input) channels

will have to be calibrated as required. This is somewhat

counterintuitive to the usual mentality of just providing the

user with whatever level comes up by default. Spending a

few extra minutes “trimming” the levels of the audio channel

can result in much happier, and more-productive, users.

One of the headphone output modes uses control B, locat-

ed in the center of the unit, as a level balance function. In

this case, the detent position will send approximately equal

levels to both the left and right headphone output channels.

This is as one would expect from a “stereo” balance control

such as provided in consumer electronic equipment.

When the headphone minimum level conguration is set to

–40 dB, turning a level control to its fully counterclockwise

position will cause the level of its associated headphone

output channel(s) to become 40 dB below maximum.

This ensures that users will never be fully “isolated” from

potentially important cue signals. In addition, when a control

is set to provide a balance function, turning it to either its

fully clockwise or fully counterclockwise position will cause

the level on the applicable headphone output channel to

be 40 dB below its maximum.

If the headphone minimum level conguration is set for Full

Mute, turning a level control to its fully counterclockwise

position will cause the level of the associated headphone

output channel(s) to fully mute. In addition, when a control

is congured to provide a balance function, rotating it to

either its fully clockwise or fully counterclockwise position

will cause the level of the applicable channel to fully mute.

The overall level of the headphone output can be cong-

ured as desired for specic applications. In the STcontroller

conguration application this is referred to as the Gain

Range. The default setting, low, is designed so that users

will typically set the rotary controls at approximately 50%

of rotation. The high setting would be applicable in cases

where an extreme headphone output level is required or

the source material that is provided on the Dante receiver

(input) channels is lower than typical.

Sidetone Function Activity

The Model 215A’s sidetone function is used to send

post-microphone-preamplifier audio to the headphone

output as a user conrmation signal. Whether or not the

sidetone function can be active will depend on the con-

guration of the Headphone Output – Audio Sources and

Routing parameter in the STcontroller software application.

Three of the ve available modes enable sidetone. If one

of these three modes is selected, when sidetone audio will

actually be sent to the headphone output will depend on the

conguration of the Headphone Output – Sidetone parame-

ter in the STcontroller application. The Sidetone parameter

can be congured from among four choices. One disables

sidetone. The other three allow sidetone audio to be active

when the Dante main transmitter (output) channel is active,

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