Studio Technologies 216 User manual

Copyright © 2017 by Studio Technologies, Inc., all rights reserved
www.studio-tech.com
User Guide
Issue 5, November 2017
This User Guide is applicable for serial numbers
M216-00151 and later with application firmware 2.1 and later
50388-1117, Issue 5

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Model 216 User Guide Issue 5, November 2017
Studio Technologies, Inc. Page 3
Table of Contents
Revision History ............................................................ 4
Introduction ................................................................... 5
System Features ........................................................... 5
Installation ..................................................................... 11
Configuration ................................................................ 13
Dante® Configuration ................................................... 21
Operation ...................................................................... 22
Technical Notes ............................................................. 26
Specifications ................................................................ 32
Appendix A .................................................................... 33
Appendix B .................................................................... 34

Issue 5, November 2017 Model 216 User Guide
Page 4 Studio Technologies, Inc.
Revision History
Issue 5, November 2017:
1. Documents two new system modes: production with tone and production with dim
and tone. (Added to support tone-operated (TOX) IFB functionality in Model 5422
Dante Intercom Audio Engine.)
Issue 4, July 2017:
1. Documents that the unit now supports the STcontroller software application.
2. Documents the new configurable headphone output level feature.
Issue 3, March 2017:
1. Documents revised headphone operating mode choices. This relates only to application
firmware 1.3 and later as noted on the title page.
Issue 2, September 2015:
1. Documents enhanced unit identification feature.
2. Adds improvements to IP address configuration assignment explanation.
Issue 1, July 2014:
1. Initial release.

Model 216 User Guide Issue 5, November 2017
Studio Technologies, Inc. Page 5
Introduction
What This User Guide Covers
This User Guide is designed to assist you
when installing, configuring, and using
Model 216 Announcer’s Consoles. Addi-
tional background technical information
is also provided.
System Overview
The Model 216 Announcer’s Console is
designed to serve as the audio control
center for announcers, commentators, and
production personnel. This tabletop unit
supports applications utilizing the Dante®
Audio-over-Ethernet media networking
technology. The Model 216 is suitable for
numerous applications including on-air
television sports broadcasting, stadium an-
nounce, and corporate AV. It can also serve
as a 4-channel IFB (talent cueing) master
station for remote production (REMI) appli-
cations. The unit integrates all on-air, talk-
back, and cue audio signal routing in one
compact system. Four pushbutton switches
allow the user to control the main and talk-
back audio output channels. Ease of use,
configuration flexibility, and sonic excel-
lence are some of the unit’s highlights.
The Model 216 is compatible with the latest
broadcast and audio system environments
that use the 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. Connect 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. A range of
configuration choices allow the desired
operating parameters to be easily selected.
These choices can be made locally using
pushbutton switches or remotely using the
STcontroller application. And while flexible
to configure, the user is presented with
an easy-to-understand set of controls and
indicators.
System Features
User Controls and Status
Indicators
Four pushbutton switches, five LED indica-
tors, and three rotary controls provide the
user with a clear, easy-to-use interface. One
pushbutton switch controls the status of
the main output. This is the audio channel
Figure 1. Model 216 front and back views

Issue 5, November 2017 Model 216 User Guide
Page 6 Studio Technologies, Inc.
intended for on-air, announcement, or other
primary uses. Two LEDs display the on/off
status of the main output. Three additional
pushbutton switches control the status of
the talkback output channels. 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 pushbuttons. The pushbut-
ton switches use gold-plated contacts for
reliable long-term operation and include
backlighting using white LEDs. Three rotary
controls allow the user to adjust the con-
tent and level of the headphone output.
Microphone Input
The Model 216 provides a high-perfor-
mance microphone preamplifier which
offers low-noise, low-distortion, and high
headroom amplification over a 19 to 64 dB
range. The gain is adjustable in 3-dB steps.
A 2-digit display indicates the amplification
in dB. The microphone input is compat-
ible with balanced dynamic or condenser
microphones. Phantom power is provided
and meets the worldwide P48 standard.
A dual-color LED indicator serves as an
aid for optimizing the setting of the pre-
amplifier’s gain. Microphone signals are
connected to the Model 216 by way of a
standard 3-pin female XLR connector.
Microphone operating parameters can
be set both locally and by way of the
STcontroller remote control software
application. Two pushbutton switches,
accessible on the bottom of the unit, allow
adjustment of the microphone preamplifi-
er’s gain and the on/off status of P48 phan-
tom power. The STcontroller application
allows personal computer users to both
view and change the preamp gain and
P48 on/off status.
Output Channels and their
Operation
By way of the Dante interface, the Model
216 provides a main output channel and
three talkback 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 produc-
tion trucks, control rooms, or support per-
sonnel with talent-originated cue signals.
A large part of the Model 216’s unique
power is the ability to configure the opera-
tion of the main and talkback functions.
To meet the needs of the many specific
broadcast and production applications,
a variety of pushbutton operating modes
are available. The main pushbutton can
be selected to operate from among four
modes. In the “push-to-mute” mode
the pushbutton performs a momentary
mute of the audio signal associated with
the main output channel. In this way a
“cough” pushbutton function is created,
something typically required for television
sports broadcasting. In the “push-to-talk”
mode the pushbutton provides a momen-
tary active function for the main output.
This mode would be appropriate for an
application such as stadium announce-
ment. An alternate action “latching” con-
figuration allows the pushbutton to enable
or disable the audio signal associated with
the main output channel as desired. This
is useful in radio broadcasting, announce-
booth, or voice-over applications. The
fourth mode 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.

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Studio Technologies, Inc. Page 7
The three pushbutton switches associ-
ated with the talkback functions can be
configured to operate from either of two
modes. One of the modes supports a
“push-to-talk” function. This is typically
used for on-air broadcast applications.
The other mode provides a hybrid func-
tion, the operation of which is discussed in
the previous paragraph. The hybrid mode
is especially useful when the Model 216 is
used in a production-support application.
Overall Model 216 operation can be con-
figured from among one on-air and four
production modes. The Model 216’s on-air
mode is appropriate for on-air television,
radio, and streaming broadcast applica-
tions. When on-air is selected the audio
signal associated with the main output
channel will always mute when either or
both talkback functions are active. This
prevents audio that’s intended for produc-
tion or support personnel from being sent
out the on-air audio path.
For non-on-air applications, the Model 216
can be configured to operate in one of
four production modes. These allow the
main output to be used as a fourth talk-
back output channel, rather than always
muting when a talkback function is active.
Using these production modes the unit
can be even more powerful when used in
a live event application, such as serving
as a small IFB (talent cueing) console for
a sports-event spotter, musical director, or
production assistant. In addition to chang-
ing how the main output functions, two of
the production modes also support using
the headphone output for connection with
amplified speakers. In these modes the
headphone output level will automatically
be reduced (attenuate or dim) whenever
the main or talkback output channels are
active. This can enhance intelligibility and
help prevent acoustical feedback from
occurring between the speakers and the
active microphone.
REMI IFB Creation
Two production modes, production with
tone and production with dim and tone,
are specifically included to support the
tone operated IFB function that’s part
of the Studio Technologies’ Model 5422
Dante Intercom Audio Engine. These
modes add an 18 kHz sine-wave signal
to the talk audio so that activation of the
Model 5422’s TOX (tone operated inter-
rupt) IFB function will occur. The TOX func-
tion supports the REMI production model
where production personnel are present
at one physical location while a broadcast
event takes place at another. Only audio
paths linking the sites are required for pro-
fessional-quality IFB signals to be created.
The Model 216 can serve as a 4-channel
IFB master station while the Model 5422,
located at the event site, will perform the
switching between interrupt audio (coming
from the Model 216) and program audio
(originating at the event site).
Headphone Output
The Model 216 provides a number of
configuration choices that relate to the
headphone output. These choices include
the headphone output gain range, which
audio sources are utilized, how the rotary
level controls function, and what sidetone
action will take place. Four headphone
control source assignment modes are of-
fered. These modes impact how the three
rotary controls adjust the four Dante input
channels and the sidetone audio signals.
The first two modes support standard on-
air applications and use Dante audio input
channels 1 and 2. In the broadcast world

Issue 5, November 2017 Model 216 User Guide
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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 and
fourth configuration 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 (“rota-
ry 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 output mode.
The first mode can be used to support
traditional on-air sports applications. In
this mode it would be typical to feed (con-
nect) program-with-interrupt audio to the
channel 1 audio input and program-only
audio to the channel 4 audio input. Rotary
control C1, located on the left side, is used
to adjust the level of the program-with-in-
terrupt audio signal that’s routed to the left
headphone output channel. Rotary control
C2, located in the center, is used to adjust
the level of the program-only audio sig-
nal that’s routed to the right headphone
output channel. For use with dual-channel
or stereo cue signals, another headphone
output mode provides a stereo (“level/bal-
ance”) mode. In this mode rotary control
C1 adjusts the level of both input channels
1 and 2, while rotary control C2 allows
adjustment of the left/right level balance.
In both of these modes rotary control C3,
located on the right, is used to adjust
the level of the sidetone audio signal that
is sent to both the left and right head-
phone output channels.
In the third headphone output mode rotary
control C1 adjusts the level of the channel
1 input audio source before it is routed to
both the left and right headphone output
channels. Rotary control C2 adjusts the
level of the channel 2 audio source before
it is routed to both the left and right head-
phone output channels. Rotary control
C3 adjusts the level of both the channel 3
and channel 4 audio inputs which are then
routed to, respectively, the left and right
headphone output channels.
The fourth headphone output mode is
similar to the third with the exception that
input 1 is routed only to the left head-
phone output channel while input 2 is
routed only to the right headphone output
channel. Inputs 3 and 4 will function in the
same way in both modes 3 and 4.
The sidetone function allows audio from
the Model 216’s microphone preamplifier
to be routed to the headphone output.
This can be useful, providing the user with
an aural confirmation of the signal con-
nected to the mic input. It is especially
important when a “mix-minus” talent cue
signal is provided for the user. For appli-
cation flexibility the sidetone function can
be configured from among four choices,
specifying when it will be active in rela-
tion to the status of the main and talkback
functions.
To help minimize the chance of broadcast
cues being missed, the action of the level
controls can be configured so that there’s
always a minimum headphone output
level. Alternately, the controls can be con-
figured to fully mute when they are at their
minimum (fully-counterclockwise) position.
When the level control on the right side is
used for sidetone it will always allow the
sidetone signal to be fully muted.

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Studio Technologies, Inc. Page 9
The headphone output was designed to
meet the needs of contemporary head-
phones and headsets. Specifically, the
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. The output
circuits can safely drive stereo or mono
loads. This ensures that all types of head-
phones, headsets, and earpieces can be
directly connected.
A configuration feature allows the head-
phone 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
216 using the Dante Audio-over-Ethernet
media networking technology. For flex-
ibility in meeting a variety of sonic require-
ments 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 assigned to the
Model 216 using the Dante Controller
software application. This makes selecting
the way in which the Model 216 fits into
an application a simple matter. For exam-
ple, the main audio output channel can
be assigned to the input of an audio con-
sole. The talkback audio output channels
could be assigned to inputs of a matrix
intercom system. No special routing or
“multing” using cables or patch points is
required to send the output channels to
multiple destinations. And a single mouse-
click is all that’s required to reroute the
audio signals.
On the input side, the Model 216 allows
up to four headphone 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.
“Program” audio could be supplied by
an audio console while “IFB” (interrupted
foldback or talent cue) audio could be
supplied by a matrix intercom system.
Ethernet Data, PoE, and DC
Power Source
The Model 216 connects to a data network
using a standard 100 Mb/s twisted-pair
Ethernet interface. The physical intercon-
nection is made by way of a Neutrik®
etherCON RJ45 connector. While compat-
ible with standard RJ45 plugs, etherCON
allows a ruggedized and locking intercon-
nection for harsh or high-reliability environ-
ments. The Model 216’s operating power
can be provided by way of the Ethernet
interface using the Power-over-Ethernet
(PoE) standard. This allows fast and
efficient interconnection with the associ-
ated data network. To support PoE power
management, the Model 216’s PoE inter-
face reports to the power sourcing equip-
ment (PSE) that it’s a class 2 (low power)
device. The unit can also be powered
using an external source of 12 volts DC.
For redundancy, both power sources
can be connected simultaneously. If both
sources are connected PoE will power the
unit. Four LEDs display the status of the
network connection, PoE power source,
and Dante interface.

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Configuration and Flexibility
Model 216 configuration settings can be
made using twelve DIP switches and two
pushbutton switches. The STcontroller
software application can be used to view
and change the gain of the microphone
preamplifier and the on/off status of P48
phantom power. The 12-position switch
array configures parameters such as the
pushbutton operating modes, headphone
operating mode, sidetone function, and
the overall system mode. The pushbuttons
are used to set the gain of the microphone
preamplifier, control the on/off status of
the microphone P48 phantom power func-
tion, and select the headphone output
gain range. The switches and pushbuttons
are accessible via the bottom of the Model
216’s enclosure; the unit does not have to
be disassembled. Changes made to any
of the configuration parameters become
active immediately. To prevent unwanted
access to the configuration switches and
pushbuttons a security panel, included
with each unit, is attached to the bottom
of the enclosure.
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 216’s back panel. Multiple
3-position “headers” located on the Model
216’s circuit board provide technician
access to many of the input and output
connections. Using a variety of optional
factory-supplied modules and interface
cable kits allows a Model 216 to be op-
timized to meet the needs of specific
applications. For example, some applica-
tions 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 benefit from hav-
ing “mult” or “loop-through” connections,
something easily incorporated into a
Model 216. And access to the relay con-
tacts can be made adding a 4-pin XLR
connector kit.
Two general-purpose relay contacts are
provided on the Model 216’s circuit board.
Accessible using 3-pin “header” connec-
tors they allow specialized configurations
to be created. Under software control, the
form-A (normally open) solid-state relay
contacts follow the state of the main and
talkback 1 pushbuttons. Taking advantage
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.
Firmware Updating
A USB connector, located on the Model
216’s back panel, allows the operating
firmware (embedded software) to be up-
dated using a standard USB flash drive.
The Model 216 uses Audinate’s Ultimo™
integrated circuit for implementing Dante.
The integrated circuit’s firmware can be
updated via the Ethernet connection, help-
ing ensure that its capabilities remain up
to date.
Dante-Enabled Announcer
Console Products
The Model 216 is just one in a series of
Dante-enabled announcer console prod-
ucts available from Studio Technologies.
For applications that require an alternate
set of features the other products in the
200-Series should be reviewed. Complete
information is available on the Studio
Technologies website.

Model 216 User Guide Issue 5, November 2017
Studio Technologies, Inc. Page 11
Installation
In this section signal interconnections will
be made using the connectors located
on the back panel of the Model 216. 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 data con-
nection will be made using either a stan-
dard RJ45 patch cable or an etherCON
protected RJ45 plug. A 4-pin XLR connec-
tor allows the connection of an external
source of 12 volts DC.
System Components
Included in the shipping carton are the fol-
lowing: Model 216 Announcer’s Console,
user guide, and pushbutton label sheet.
If the installation or specific application
requires an external source of 12 volts DC
it needs to be provided separately. An ap-
plicable power supply, the Studio Technol-
ogies PS-DC-02, is available as an option.
Microphone Input
The Model 216 is compatible with bal-
anced dynamic and condenser micro-
phones. Depending on the application,
the microphone may be part of a headset
or be an independent handheld or stand-
mounted model. The Model 216’s P48
power source will support essentially all
phantom-powered microphones. The
quality of the Model 216’s microphone
preamplifier and associated circuitry is
such that special applications may ben-
efit from using “high-end” microphones.
If selected appropriately models from
manufacturers such as AKG, Beyer, DPA,
Sennheiser, and Shure will perform very
well in Model 216 applications.
Microphone interconnection is made by
way of a 3-pin female XLR connector
which is located on the Model 216’s
back panel. The mating connector (male)
should be wired so 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 connec-
tor (male) should be wired so that pin 2
is signal high (+ or hot), and signal com-
mon/shield is connected to both pins 1
and 3.
As of the writing date of this guide, the
Sennheiser HMD 26 and HMD 27 head-
sets are very popular for on-air sports
broadcasting use. Fine products, they
work very well with the Model 216. Adding
the suffix “-XQ” to the headsets’ full part
number specifies a 3-pin male XLR con-
nector for the dynamic microphone and
a ¼-inch 3-conductor plug for the stereo
headphones. This configuration is very
useful, allowing the headsets to work di-
rectly “out of the box” with the Model 216.
Another headset that users have reported
being satisfied with is the audio-technica
BPHS1. Offered at a lower price-point, it
may be applicable for some applications.
If the writer may digress for a moment to
recount a story… an audio dealer once
shared a secret with me concerning
headsets. He loved selling the “lower-
end” (much less expensive) models of
name-brand headsets, which he did by
the veritable “boatload.” Why? Because
these usually broke soon after going into
service! He knew that on a regular basis
he’d receive orders for more of them. Had
these users, from the beginning, pur-
chased only premium-quality headsets,
their total cost of ownership would have
been much less. Enough said…

Issue 5, November 2017 Model 216 User Guide
Page 12 Studio Technologies, Inc.
Headphone Output
The Model 216’s headphone output is
compatible with stereo or mono head-
phones, headsets, or earpieces. Connect-
ing devices with a nominal impedance
of 100 ohms or greater is preferred. This
shouldn’t prove to be an issue since es-
sentially all of the contemporary devices
meet this recommendation.
Devices are connected to the headphone
output by way of a ¼-inch 3-conductor
phone jack located on the Model 216’s
back panel. As is standard for stereo
headphones, the left channel is connected
to the tip lead of the ¼-inch headphone
jack. The right channel is connected to
the ring lead of the jack. Common for both
channels is connected to the sleeve lead.
Devices with ¼-inch 2-conductor “monau-
ral” plugs can also be used with the Model
216’s headphone output. In this arrange-
ment only the tip lead (left channel) will
be active. The 2-conductor plug will physi-
cally connect (“short”) the ring lead (right
channel) to the sleeve lead (common).
Technically this won’t damage the circuitry
associated with the right-channel head-
phone output since 10 ohm protection
resistors are electrically in series with the
headphone output circuits.
Ethernet Connection
An Ethernet connection that supports
100BASE-TX is required for the Model
216’s Dante Audio-over-Ethernet con-
nectivity. A 10BASE-T connection is not
sufficient for Model 216 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 preferred as it will
provide operating power for the Model
216. For Ethernet with PoE switch (PSE)
power management the Model 216 will
enumerate itself as a PoE class 2 device.
If PoE is not available an external 12 volt
DC power source can also be connected.
This will be discussed in the next section
of this guide.
The 100 Mb/s twisted-pair Ethernet con-
nection is made by way of a Neutrik ether-
CON protected RJ45 connector that is
located on the back panel of the Model
216. This allows connection by way of a
cable-mounted etherCON plug or a stan-
dard RJ45 plug. The Model 216’s Ethernet
interface supports auto MDI/MDI-X so
that most cabling implementations will be
directly supported.
External 12 Volt DC Input
An external source of 12 volts DC can
be connected to the Model 216 by way
of the 4-pin male XLR connector which
is located on the back panel. While the
requirement for the external source is
nominally 12 volts, correct operation will
take place over a 10 to 18 volt range. The
Model 216 requires 270 milliamperes at
12 volts DC for correct operation. 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 to 100-
240 volts, 50/60 Hz and its 12 volt DC,
1.5 amperes maximum output is terminat-
ed on a 4-pin female connector.
As previously discussed in this guide, an
Ethernet connection that provides Power-
over-Ethernet (PoE) can serve as the
Model 216’s power source. Alternately,
an external 12 volt DC source can be

Model 216 User Guide Issue 5, November 2017
Studio Technologies, Inc. Page 13
connected. For redundancy, both PoE and
the external source can be connected at
the same time. If both PoE and an external
12 volt DC source are connected, power
will be drawn only from the PoE supply.
If the PoE source becomes inoperative
the 12 volt DC source will provide the
Model 216’s power with no interruption
in operation.
Pushbutton Labeling
The four pushbutton switches used in
the Model 216 were selected for several
reasons. Foremost was the fact that they
are highly reliable, using gold-plated
contacts for long life in less-than-ideal
environments. A second reason was that
applying customized labels to the push-
button caps would be very simple. The
labels, text printed on clear material, are
placed under the clear caps on the top of
the pushbuttons.
From the factory the pushbuttons are
labeled, from left to right, COUGH,
TALKBACK 1, TALKBACK 2, and
TALKBACK 3. These were selected to be
appropriate for many on-air applications
in English-speaking locations. But it’s
expected that these may need to be
changed to meet the needs of specific
applications.
As a “head start” for some applications,
a clear sheet with a number of commonly
used pushbutton designations printed on
it is included in the shipping carton. These
were created at the factory using a stan-
dard personal computer graphics program
and laser printed onto sheets of transpar-
ency film. The desired pushbutton labels
can be cut out with a pair of scissors or an
X-ACTO® knife following the printed guide
lines that indicate the required size.
The clear lens on top of each pushbut-
ton cap can be removed with a fingernail
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 finger-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
finished label size should be 0.625-inches
(15.8 mm) square. The completed artwork
can then be printed on transparency film
sheets using a laser or inkjet printer. These
sheets are readily available from most of-
fice supply stores. A pair of scissors or an
X-ACTO® (razor) knife will complete the
task.
Configuration
For the Model 216 to support the needs
of specific applications a number of op-
erating parameters must be configured.
These include headphone output gain
range, microphone preamplifier gain, P48
phantom power on/off status, pushbutton
operation, sidetone, headphone operating
mode, and system mode. Two pushbut-
ton switches and a 12-position DIP switch
assembly can be used to establish the de-
sired configuration. A 2-digit LED display
will indicate the selected headphone gain
range, gain of the microphone preamplifier
and the P48 phantom power on/off status.
The pushbutton switches, LED display,
and DIP switches are accessed through
an opening in the bottom of the Model
216’s enclosure. The enclosure does not
have to be disassembled to gain access.

Issue 5, November 2017 Model 216 User Guide
Page 14 Studio Technologies, Inc.
To prevent unauthorized personnel from
changing the configuration settings, a
security panel is attached to the bottom
of the Model 216’s enclosure. For conve-
nience, the security panel provides a sum-
mary of the configurable parameters and
related information. Refer to Appendix A
for a representative view. The security pan-
el is held in place by means of four rubber
bumpers (“feet”) that have built-in screws.
Using your fingers, remove the four bum-
pers so that the panel can be removed.
Refer to Figure 2 for a detailed view of the
configuration switch assemblies.
Headphone Output Gain
Range, Mic Preamp Gain,
and P48 Phantom Power
On the unit, two pushbutton switches,
located on the bottom of the Model 216,
are used to set the headphone gain range.
They can also be used to select the gain
of the microphone preamplifier and the
on/off status of the P48 phantom power
source. A 2-digit LED display provides a
status indication of all these functions.
As previously mentioned, the STcontroller
software application can be used to view
and revise the gain of the microphone pre-
amplifier and the on/off status of the P48
phantom power source.
Selecting the Headphone Output Gain
Range
Upon application of Model 216 power
the 2-digit display, as part of its power-up
sequence, will first display the firmware
version and then the current setting of the
headphone output gain range. The setting
will be either low or high. During the brief
interval when the headphone gain range
is displayed the two pushbuttons can be
used to change the setting.
Local Selection of Mic Preamp Gain
The two pushbutton switches can be
used to select the gain of the microphone
preamplifier. The range is 19 to 64 dB in
3-dB steps. 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 at-
tenuated or muted. As expected, the
2-digit LED display will directly indicate,
in dB, the selected amount of gain.
Figure 2. Bottom view of Model 216 showing
configuration switches and 2-digit display

Model 216 User Guide Issue 5, November 2017
Studio Technologies, Inc. Page 15
Selecting the correct amount of gain for an
application might take a little experimenta-
tion. The goal is to bring the mic’s signal
up to the Dante reference level which is
typically considered to be –20 dBFS. (This
is 20 dB below digital maximum.) Operat-
ing at this signal level will help ensure the
delivery of “clean” audio to the destination
device or devices.
There’s no “perfect” gain setting that this
guide can recommend. The two issues
that impact the setting are output sensi-
tivity of the connected microphone and
the acoustical output level of the micro-
phone’s user. With some headset micro-
phones, such as the Sennheiser HMD 26
or HMD 27, selecting an initial 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.
Using the device that’s digitally connected
(via Dante) to the Model 216’s main output
channel is typically the best way to check
the signal level and the setting of the mic
preamplifier. Most devices have some
method of providing an indication of
the digital level, either in the form of a
numerical value, virtual meter, or LED-
based meter display. The Studio Technolo-
gies’ Model 5202 Dante to Phones and
Line Output Interface would also be an
excellent means of monitoring the Model
216’s output level. The Model 5202
provides a 2-channel LED level that is
calibrated in dBFS.
Level Status LED Indicator
A dual-color LED, located on the back
panel directly below the microphone
input connector, is provided as an aid
when using the Model 216. It can also be
useful when setting the gain of the Model
216’s microphone preamplifier. It provides
a 3-step indication of the output level of the
microphone preamplifier. It will light green
when the signal level is –40 dBFS
or greater, a mix of green and red when the
signal level is –14 dBFS or greater,
and red only when the signal level is
–4 dBFS or greater. When the gain of the
microphone preamplifier is set optimally a
normal signal applied to the microphone
input will cause the LED to light green
with an occasional “peak” signal caus-
ing the LED to light both green and red at
the same time. A more conservative gain
setting would find that the LED would only
light green. A gain setting that results in the
LED ever lighting only red is incorrect. The
gain must be reduced or the audio quality
will be severely compromised.
Local Selection of P48 Phantom Power
The Model 216 can provide P48 phantom
power to the connected microphone. The
two pushbutton switches can be used to
control whether or not P48 phantom power
is active. Pressing both pushbuttons simul-
taneously will toggle (change) the on/off
state. The decimal point indicator, located
on the lower right corner of the 2-digit
LED display, is used to show the P48
phantom power on/off status. When the
decimal point is lit P48 phantom power is
enabled. By the very nature of phantom
power it should be able to be left enabled
at all times. But generally people prefer
to turn it off unless required for a specific
microphone.
Remote Configuration of Gain and P48
Phantom Power
Using the STcontroller application allows
personal computer users to view and ad-
just the Model 216’s mic preamplifier gain
and P48 phantom power on/off status.

Issue 5, November 2017 Model 216 User Guide
Page 16 Studio Technologies, Inc.
The application is available for download
on the Studio Technologies website
(www.studio-tech.com). Its initial release
is compatible with the Windows® operat-
ing system. Changes made using the ap-
plication will be displayed in real-time on
the Model 216’s 2-digit display. Changes
made to the mic pre gain and P48 on/off
status using the Model 216’s pushbutton
switches will be displayed in STcontroller.
LED Display Time-Out
The 2-digit LED display provides an in-
dication of the headphone output gain
range, the gain of the microphone pre-
amplifier as well as the on/off status of
P48 phantom power. As a power-saving
measure the display will automatically
stop lighting approximately 100 seconds
after the last time that either of the bot-
tom pushbutton switches is pressed. A
different time-out interval applies after the
Model 216 has had power applied and
neither pushbutton is pressed; the display
will light for approximately 10 seconds and
then turn off.
In most cases this display auto-off function
will lead a technician or installer to initially
observe that the 2-digit display is not light-
ing. For example, a Model 216 has been
operating normally but the security panel
has just been removed. To cause the
2-digit display to again light just requires
pressing either of the bottom pushbutton
switches. This “wakes up” the display and
resets the timer. The initial press of either
pushbutton will not cause the gain to
change or impact the P48 phantom power
on/off status. Only when the 2-digit display
is active will the pushbuttons impact the
settings.
Figure 3. Main button mode switch settings
Operating Modes
Twelve DIP switches are used to configure
the Model 216’s operating modes. Techni-
cally, these switches “talk” to a micro-
controller integrated circuit and associ-
ated software that give the Model 216 its
“smarts.” The software has been carefully
designed to provide a number of different
ways in which the unit can function. It’s
important to carefully review the available
options and choose the ones that best
meet the needs of a specific application.
Note that the switches can be changed
even while the Model 216 is powered up
and operating. The unit’s operating char-
acteristics will change in real-time in re-
sponse to switch changes.
Main Button Mode
Switches 1 and 2 configure how the main
pushbutton functions.
There are four available modes:
• Push to Mute: In this mode the audio
signal on the main output channel
is normally active. The audio signal
will mute whenever the pushbutton is
pressed and held. This is the “cough”
mode typically used for on-air sports
broadcasting applications.

Model 216 User Guide Issue 5, November 2017
Studio Technologies, Inc. Page 17
Two modes are available:
• Push to Talk: In this mode the audio
signal on the talkback output channels
is normally muted. The audio signal will
become active whenever its associated
pushbutton is pressed and held.
• Hybrid: This mode is a combination
of push to talk and latching action. If a
pushbutton is pressed and held the au-
dio signal associated with that talkback
output channel will become active until
the pushbutton is released. If a push-
button is momentarily “tapped” the
audio signal on the associated talk-
back output channel will change state.
Upon power up the audio signals on the
talkback output channels will be in their
muted state.
Button Backlight Intensity
Switch 4 selects the intensity of the white
LEDs that provide backlighting for the four
pushbutton switches. Two choices are
available: low and high. Low is appropriate
when the Model 216 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 pushbuttons more difficult
to identify. High may also be useful when
identification markings have been inserted
under the clear lens caps.
• Push to Talk: In this mode the audio
signal on the main output channel is
normally muted. The main audio signal
will become active whenever the push-
button is pressed and held.
• Latching: In this mode the audio signal
on the main output channel will change
between its active and muted states
whenever the pushbutton is pressed.
Upon power up the audio signal on the
main output will be in its muted state.
• Hybrid: This mode is a combination
of push to talk and latching action. It’s
similar to the way talk pushbuttons
function on user stations associated
with broadcast and production intercom
systems. If the pushbutton is pressed
and held, the audio signal on the main
output channel will become active until
the pushbutton is released. If the push-
button is momentarily “tapped” the
audio signal on the main output channel
will change state. Upon power up the
audio signal on the main output channel
will be in its muted state.
Talkback Button Mode
Switch 3 configures the way the talkback
pushbuttons function.
Figure 4. Talkback buttons switch settings
Figure 5. Button backlight intensity switch
settings

Issue 5, November 2017 Model 216 User Guide
Page 18 Studio Technologies, Inc.
Sidetone
Switches 5 and 6 configure the way the
sidetone function operates.
There are four choices available:
• SW7 Off (Down)/SW8 Off (Down): Audio
input channel 1 is assigned to the left
headphone output channel and audio
input channel 2 is assigned to the right
headphone output channel. The level of
audio inputs 1 and 2 are controlled by
rotary level control C1, located on the
left side of the front panel. Audio in-
put channel 3 is assigned to the left
headphone output channel and audio
input channel 4 is assigned to the right
headphone output channel. The level
of audio inputs 3 and 4 are controlled
by rotary level control C2, located in
the center of the front panel. Sidetone
audio is assigned to both the left and
right headphone output channels and its
level is controlled by rotary level control
C3, located on the right side of the front
panel.
• SW7 On (Up)/SW8 Off (Down): Audio
input channel 1 is assigned to the left
headphone output channel and audio
input channel 2 is assigned to the right
headphone output channel. The level of
Figure 7. Headphone operating mode switch
settings
Four modes are available:
• Off: In this mode the sidetone function
not active.
• Main Button: In this mode the sidetone
function will be active whenever the
audio signal is present on the main
output channel.
• Talkback Button: In this mode the side-
tone function will be active whenever
the audio signal is present on any of
the talkback output channels.
• Main and Talkback Buttons: In this
mode the sidetone function will be
active whenever the audio signal is
present on the main and/or talkback
output channels.
Headphone Operating Mode
Switches 7 and 8 are used to select how
the four Dante receiver (audio input)
channels, three rotary level controls,
and 2-channel headphone output work
together.
Figure 6. Sidetone switch settings

Model 216 User Guide Issue 5, November 2017
Studio Technologies, Inc. Page 19
and audio input channel 4 is assigned
to the right headphone output channel.
The level of audio inputs 3 and 4 is con-
trolled by rotary level control C3, located
on the right side of the front panel. The
sidetone function will not be active.
Headphone Minimum Level
Switch 9 is used to configure the head-
phone output’s minimum level. In the
–40 dB setting the minimum headphone
output level is approximately 40 dB below
maximum. The headphone output will nev-
er fully mute. This ensures that any audio
signal present on the assigned audio input
channels (1 and 2 or 1, 2, 3, and 4) will
always be present on the headphone out-
put. In most on-air broadcast applications
this is the appropriate setting, ensuring the
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 chan-
nel to fully mute. If a rotary level control is
set to serve as a balance control, moving
it to either fully counterclockwise or fully
clockwise position will cause the associ-
ated signal to fully mute. Selecting the full
mute mode may be appropriate for ap-
plications where minimizing the chance of
audio “leakage” is important. This could
occur when the connected headset or
headphones are at times placed on a desk
or tabletop.
audio inputs 1 and 2 are controlled by
rotary level control C1, located on the
left side of the front panel. The balance
(relative level) of both these signals is
controlled by rotary level control C2,
located in the center of the front panel.
Sidetone audio is assigned to both the
left and right headphone output chan-
nels and its level is controlled by rotary
level control C3, located on the right
side of the front panel. Audio inputs 3
and 4 are not used.
• SW7 Off (Down)/SW8 On (Up): Audio
input channel 1 is assigned to both the
left and right headphone output chan-
nels. The level of the signal being sent
to both channels is controlled by rotary
level control C1, located on the left side
of the front panel. Audio input channel
2 is assigned to both the left and right
headphone output channels. The level
of the signal being sent to both chan-
nels is controlled by rotary level control
C2, located in the center of the front
panel. Audio input channel 3 is assigned
to the left headphone output channel
and audio input channel 4 is assigned
to the right headphone output channel.
The level of audio inputs 3 and 4 is con-
trolled by rotary level control C3, located
on the right side of the front panel. The
sidetone function will not be active.
• SW7 On (Up)/SW8 On (Up): Audio input
channel 1 is assigned to the left head-
phone output channel and its level is
controlled by rotary level control C1, lo-
cated on the left side of the front panel.
Audio input channel 2 is assigned to the
right headphone output channel and its
level is controlled by rotary level control
C2, located in the center of the front
panel. Audio input channel 3 is assigned
to the left headphone output channel
Figure 8. Headphone minimum level switch
settings

Issue 5, November 2017 Model 216 User Guide
Page 20 Studio Technologies, Inc.
• When selected to the on-air mode the
audio signal on the main output channel
will mute whenever the audio signal on
any of the talkback output channels is
active. The on-air mode should be se-
lected for all on-air broadcast applications
when it’s imperative that the audio signal
on the main output channel be muted
whenever on-air talent uses a talkback
output channel to communicate with
production personnel.
• When the system mode is set for produc-
tion with dim the audio signal on the
main output channel is never muted in
response to the audio signal on any of
the talkback output channels being ac-
tive. In addition, the level of the head-
phone output is dimmed (reduced in level
or attenuated) by 18 dB whenever the
main or talkback output channels have
audio present. In this way the four output
channels can be used independently,
with none impacting the other. And, the
headphone output can be connected to
amplified loudspeakers. The speakers
will reduce in level whenever one of the
output channels is active, preventing
acoustical feedback.
• When the system mode is set for produc-
tion the audio signal on the main output
channel is never muted in response to the
audio signal on any of the talkback output
channels being active. This mode allows
the main output channel to be used, for
example, as an additional talkback out-
put. In this way the main and talkback
output channels can be used indepen-
dently, with neither impacting the other.
This also allows all four pushbuttons to
be used simultaneously. When selected
for the correct application, this production
mode can prove to be very useful. But
it’s not appropriate for on-air use!
Figure 9. System mode settings
When the rotary level control on the right
side of the front panel has been assigned
to control the sidetone level the setting of
the headphone minimum level mode will
not impact it. In this case when the control
is in its fully counterclockwise position it
will always cause the sidetone level to be
fully muted.
System Mode
Switches 10, 11, and 12 are used to con-
figure the system mode of the Model 216.
Specifically, they determine how the main
output channel operates vis-à-vis the talk-
back output channels, whether the head-
phone output level is reduced during talk
operation, and whether a high-frequency
tone is added to the talk signal. Under-
standing how these five modes impact
overall system operation will ensure that
correct operation and maximum usability
will occur.
On-Air (talkback status impacts
main out status)
Production (talkback status
does not impact main out status)
SW1-10, SW1-11, SW1-12 – System Mode
1 2 3 45 6 78
O
N9 10 1112
1 2 3 45 6 7 8
O
N9 10 1112
1 2 3 45 6 78
O
N9 10 1112
1 2 3 45 6 78
O
N9 10 1112
Production with Dim (talkback status
does not impact main out status;
headphone out dims during talk)
1 2 3 45 6 78
O
N9 10 1112
Production with Dim & Tone (talkback
status does not impact main out status;
headphone out dims during talk;
18 kHz tone added to talk audio)
Production with Tone (talkback status
does not impact main out status;
18 kHz tone added to talk audio)