Studio Technologies 209 TALENT CONSOLE User manual

Copyright © 2021 by Studio Technologies, Inc., all rights reserved
studio-tech.com
User Guide
Issue Preliminary 1, July 2021
This User Guide is applicable for serial numbers
M209-00151 and later with application firmware 1.03 and later
50643-0721, Issue Preliminary 1
Model 209 Talent Console

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Table of Contents
Revision History .......................................................................................... 4
Introduction ................................................................................................. 5
Getting Started ........................................................................................... 8
Dante Configuration .................................................................................... 11
Model 209 Configuration ............................................................................ 12
Operation .................................................................................................... 18
Technical Notes ......................................................................................... 18
Specifications ............................................................................................ 21
Appendix A–STcontroller Default Configuration Values ............................. 22
Appendix B–Model 209 Dimensions ........................................................... 24
Appendix C–Connecting the Model 209 with the Yellowtec m!ka
Mic Arm On Air ............................................................................................ 25

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Revision History
Issue Preliminary 1, July 2021:
• Initial preliminary release.

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Introduction
The Model 209 Talent Console offers a unique com-
bination of audio, remote control, and tally-output
resources for use in podcast and other specialized
audio applications. The unit is housed in a compact
enclosure that’s intended for mounting under a
tabletop, within custom furniture, or as part of an
on-air set.
The Model 209 supports Dante audio-over-Ether-
net digital media technology as well as AES67 for
integration into contemporary applications. In addi-
tion, Audinate’s Dante Domain Manager™ software
application is supported.
The Model 209 is extremely simple to deploy, is “pro”
quality throughout, and provides an intuitive user ex-
perience. The Model 209’s audio quality is excellent,
with low distortion, low noise, and high headroom.
Careful circuit design and rugged components ensure
long, reliable operation.
The Model 209 integrates directly into Dante audio-
over-Ethernet environments. With just a Power-over-
Ethernet (PoE) connection, a microphone, and a pair
of headphones or an earpiece, a complete audio
“position” can be created. In addition, remote control
inputs and tally outputs allow the Model 209 to inte-
grate directly into more complex applications.
A host of Model 209 features are configured using the
STcontroller personal computer software application.
This allows the unit’s operation to be tailored to meet
the exact needs of many installations. STcontroller is
a fast and simple means of confirming and revising
the unit’s operating parameters.
Applications
The Model 209 can provide an “all-Dante” solution
for one podcast location. A wide range of other
applications can also be supported, including sports
and entertainment TV and radio events, streaming
broadcasts, corporate and government AV instal-
lations, and post-production facilities. The unit’s
capabilities allow it to be easily integrated into REMI/
At-Home applications.
A high-performance microphone preamplifier and
associated analog-to-digital circuitry routes the input
audio signal to the Model 209’s digital microcontroller
integrated circuit. The audio quality compares very
well to that provided by high-end external microphone
preamplifiers, consoles, and I/O interfaces. A push-
button switch provides the user with direct control
over the microphone-associated audio signal as it
is routed to the main and talkback Dante transmit-
ter (output) audio channels. The audio switching is
performed in the digital domain and is virtually “click-
free.” Two Dante receiver (input) audio channels
supply the user with their talent cue signals. (Often
referred to as IFB in broadcast applications.) Should
the talent cue signal be “mix-minus” an integrated
sidetone function can provide the user with a micro-
phone confidence signal.
Remote control of a number of Model 209’s func-
tions can be easily performed. This is available in
the form of two contact-closure inputs, by way of
high-frequency tones that are embedded in the Dante
receiver (input) audio channels, or using UDP com-
mands supplied via Ethernet. Two tally outputs allow
direct control of LED status arrays associated with the
microphone mounting method. Using the Model 209
will often eliminate the need for an additional interface
or LED control method.
Installation, Configuration, and
Operation
Installation, configuration, and operation of the Model
209 is simple. The lightweight aluminum enclosure
mounts under a tabletop or other work surface.
On the unit’s back panel an RJ45 jack is used
to interconnect with a standard Ethernet port that
Figure 1. Model 209 Talent Console front and back views

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TALENT CONSOLE
supports Power-over-Ethernet (PoE). This connec-
tion provides both Model 209 power and bidirectional
Dante digital audio. Also located on the unit’s back
panel is a 3-pin female XLR connector which al-
lows connection of a dynamic, ribbon, or condenser
microphone. The connected microphone can be a
standalone “stick” type, a microphone associated
with a broadcast headset, or a mic installed as part
of a microphone mounting assembly. An integrated
low-noise P48 phantom power source allows sup-
port for a wide range of professional condenser
microphones.
Stereo or monaural headphones, headsets, or ear-
pieces can be connected by way of the ¼-inch and
3.5 mm 3-conductor jacks that are located on the
Model 209’s front panel. The headphone connections
on the two jacks are connected in parallel (“multed”),
providing the same 2-channel signal to various con-
nected devices. The unit’s two remote control inputs,
accessible using a 3.5 mm 3-conductor jack, allow
one or two contact closures to be connected. These
contact closures can be configured to provide a re-
mote version of the front-panel button function or to
activate the tally output functions. Accessible on a
separate 3.5 mm 3-conductor jack, two tally outputs
provide DC signals to operate associated LED status
indicators. The tally outputs are 12 volts DC and can
provide up to 100 milliamperes of current. These ro-
bust outputs can function independently or as a single
bi-directional current source to ensure compatibility
with a range of microphone on/off status indicators.
The STcontroller software application is used to con-
figure the Model 209’s many operating parameters.
This allows the unit’s performance to be optimized
to meet the needs of specific applications. Separate
STcontroller versions are available, free of charge, to
support personal computers running the WinOS and
macOS operating systems.
The user is presented with a simple set of controls
and indicators. A lighted pushbutton switch is used
to select the status of the microphone signal as it
is sent to the main and talkback Dante transmitter
(output) channels. A rotary level control, with internal
RGB LED lighting, allows on/off control and level
adjustment of the headphone output. An eight-LED
multi-purpose display provides a status indication of
various Model 209 operating characteristics.
Ethernet Data and PoE
The Model 209 connects to a local area network
(LAN) by way of a standard 100 Mb/s twisted-pair
Ethernet interface. Two LEDs display the status of
the network connection. The Model 209’s operating
power is provided by way of the Ethernet interface
using the 802.3af Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) stan-
dard. This allows fast and efficient interconnection
with an associated data network. To support PoE
power management, the Model 209’s PoE interface
reports to the power sourcing equipment (PSE) that
it’s a class 2 (low power) device.
Dante Audio-over-Ethernet
Audio data is sent to and received from the Model
209 using the Dante audio-over-Ethernet media net-
working technology. As a Dante-compliant device,
the Model 209’s two Dante transmitter (output) and
two Dante receiver (input) audio channels can be
routed (subscribed) to other devices using the Dante
Controller software application. The Dante transmitter
and receiver channels are limited to supporting four
Dante flows, two in each direction. The digital audio’s
bit depth is up to 32 with supported sample rates of
48 and 96 kHz. The Model 209 is compatible with
the AES67 interoperability standard. In this mode the
two Dante transmitter (output) channels will function
in multicast; unicast is not supported. In addition, the
unit is compatible with the Dante Domain Manager™
(DDM) software application.
Audio Quality
The Model 209’s audio performance is completely
“pro.” A low-noise, wide dynamic-range microphone
preamplifier ensures that mic input audio quality is
preserved while minimizing the chance of signal over-
load. The output of the microphone preamp is routed
to a high-performance analog-to-digital conversion
(ADC) section. The audio signal, now in the digital
domain, routes through the unit’s microcontroller
integrated circuit and on to the Dante interface sec-
tion where it is packetized and prepared for transport
over Ethernet.
Audio input signals arrive via the Dante receiver
(input) channels and pass into the Model 209’s
microcontroller integrated circuit. Channel routing,
headphone level control, and sidetone creation are
performed within the digital domain. This provides

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flexibility, allows precise control, and keeps the level
control from having to directly handle analog audio
signals. The two audio channels destined for the
headphone outputs are sent to a high-performance
digital-to-analog (DAC) integrated circuit and then
on to robust driver circuitry. High signal levels can
be provided to a variety of headsets, headphones,
and earpieces.
Configuration Flexibility
The Model 209 can be configured to meet the
needs of specific applications and user preferences.
All configuration choices are performed using the
STcontroller personal computer software applica-
tion which is available free of charge on the Studio
Technologies website. There are no mechanical
switch settings or button-press sequences required
to configure how the unit functions. Selectable param-
eters include P48 phantom power on/off, microphone
preamplifier gain, headphone and sidetone opera-
tion, talkback button operation, level display, remote
control inputs, and tally outputs.
Microphone Input and Audio
Outputs
The gain of the microphone preamplifier can be
selected over a range of 20 to 65 dB in single dB
steps. This allows the Model 209 to match the output
sensitivity of a range of standalone and headset-
associated microphones. A low-noise source of P48
phantom power can be enabled, if required, to sup-
port a variety of condenser microphones.
The talkback pushbutton switch, located on the Model
209’s front panel, can be configured from among five
operating modes. These choices allow the Model
209’s audio output operation to be tailored to meet
the specific needs of the application. As an example,
for a podcast application the pushbutton would typi-
cally be configured to provide a push to mute (cough)
function. This would ensure that the microphone
signal would remain active unless the talent needs
to momentarily disable it.
Headphone Output
The headphone output signal routing can be config-
ured from among three choices. The dual-channel
stereo mode is provided for applications where two
channels of talent cueing need to be independently
sent to the left and right headphone output channels.
The dual-channel mono mode allows the two Dante
receiver (input) audio channels to be summed (mixed
together) and sent to both the left and right head-
phone output channels. Lastly, a unique single-chan-
nel mono mode is provided for applications where
a single-channel headphone, earpiece, or earbud
is being used. The two Dante audio receiver (input)
channels are mixed together and sent only to the left
channel of the headphone output. No audio signal is
present on the headphone output’s right channel.
The integrated sidetone function can be configured to
meet specific user needs. Sidetone allows audio as-
sociated with the microphone input and microphone
preamplifier to be returned to the headphone output.
This is important as different applications may provide
“full mix” or a “mix-minus” talent cue signals. If a full
mix cue signal is provided then sidetone audio will not
be needed and the function can be disabled. In the
case, where a mix-minus signal is present, providing
the user with sidetone can be an important means
of confirming the signal that’s coming from the con-
nected microphone. The level of the sidetone signal
can either be fixed or allowed to be adjusted using
the front-panel control.
Remote Control Inputs and Tally
Outputs
The two remote control inputs can be configured to
activate a number of functions. They can be assigned
to perform the same action as the talkback pushbut-
ton switch. This allows control of the audio signal as it
is sent to the two Dante transmitter (output) channels.
The remote control inputs can also be configured to
control the tally outputs.
Unique to the Model 209 are the two tally outputs.
These 12 volts DC, 100 milliamperes maximum out-
puts are designed to “drive” arrays of LED status indi-
cators, such as are often associated with microphone
boom mounting arms. Each output can function
independently, providing separate DC outputs. They
can also be configured to provide a single differential
output. In this way, a tally status change will result
in the tally output current changing direction. This
allows support for some very useful implementations.
For example, without the need for extra circuitry or
an additional interface, the Model 209 can directly
control the status LED indicator assembly associ-

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TALENT CONSOLE
ated with the excellent on-air microphone mounting
products from Yellowtec® of Germany. With just two
connections the Model 209 can control both the white
and red LED indicators associated with the m!ka
mounting system.
The status of the tally outputs can be configured
to respond to six sources. “Virtual” buttons within the
STcontroller application can control the on/off status of
the tally outputs. This can be useful during unit instal-
lation and testing. The status of the main output can
also be used to control the tally outputs. This allows
a direct “on-air” light function to be established. As
previously noted, the two contact closure inputs can
be used to control the tally outputs. Finally, a high-
frequency tone present in a Dante receiver (input)
channel can also be configured to control the state of
a tally output. This tone-operated (TOX) control func-
tion allows easy integration with a DSP-based audio
processing unit. With no additional wiring and simple
programming, the processor can generate tones
required to control the state of the tally outputs.
Future Capabilities and Firmware
Updating
The Model 209 was designed so that its capabilities
and performance can be enhanced in the future.
A USB receptacle, located on the unit’s back panel,
allows the application firmware (embedded software)
to be updated using a USB flash drive. The Model
209 uses Audinate’s Ultimo™ integrated circuit to
implement the Dante interface. The firmware in this
integrated circuit can be updated via the Ethernet
connection, helping to ensure its capabilities remain
up to date.
Getting Started
What’s Included
Included in the shipping carton will be a Model 209
Talent Console and instructions on how to obtain
an electronic copy of this guide. As a device that is
Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) powered, no external
power source is provided.
In this section the unit will be mounted under a table-
top, desk, stage set, or other flat surface. Once that
has been completed signal interconnections will be
made using the connectors located on the front and
back surfaces of the Model 209’s enclosure. Ethernet,
microphone, remote control input, and tally output
interfacing will be performed on the unit’s back panel.
Headphone connections will be made by way of either
of the two connectors on the unit’s front panel.
Mounting the Unit
Four screws are used to mount the Model 209’s en-
closure to the underside of a flat surface. The specific
type of fastener would depend on the surface material
that the unit is being mounted to. The overall size of
the necessary mounting hardware would meet the
standard for #6 (English) or 3 mm (metric). Refer
to Appendix B, located at the end of this guide, for
mounting-dimension details.
Figure 2. Model 209 Talent Console shown in an
under-tabletop mounting configuration
Connections
An Ethernet data connection with power-over-Ether-
net (PoE) capability will be made using a standard
patch cord that is terminated with an RJ45 plug. A
microphone will be connected using a cable-mounted
3-pin male XLR connector. If one or both of the re-
mote control inputs is going to be utilized, they will
be connected by way of a 3-conductor (TRS) 3.5 mm
plug. Two tally outputs are available on the back panel
and interfaced using another 3-conductor (TRS) 3.5
mm plug. On the front panel are two jacks that are
provided for use by headphones, the earpieces of
headsets, or wired ear buds. Both are 3-conductor
(stereo), one being ¼-inch and the other 3.5 mm.
Ethernet Connection with PoE
A 100BASE-TX Ethernet connection that supports
power-over-Ethernet (PoE) is required for Model 209
operation. This one connection will provide both the
Ethernet data interface and power for the Model 209’s
circuitry. A 10BASE-T connection is not sufficient and

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MODEL 209
TALENT CONSOLE
a 1000BASE-T (GigE) connection is not supported
unless it can automatically “fall back” to 100BASE-TX
operation. The Model 209 supports Ethernet switch
power management, enumerating itself as a PoE
class 2 device.
The Ethernet connection is made by way of a
standard RJ45 jack that is located on the back of
the Model 209’s enclosure. This allows connection
by way of a cable-mounted standard RJ45 plug.
The Model 209’s Ethernet interface supports auto
MDI/MDI-X so that a “cross-over” or “reversing” cable
will never be required.
Microphone Input
The Model 209 provides a 3-pin female XLR con-
nector for interfacing a microphone with the high-
performance input circuit. The connected microphone
can be a standalone handheld (“stick”) type or can
be part of a broadcast-style headset. The Model
209’s microphone input is directly compatible with
balanced dynamic, ribbon, or P48 phantom powered
microphones. A microphone should be connected
such that its common is on connector pin 1, its signal
high (+) is on connector pin 2, and its sign low (–) is
on connector pin 3.
An STcontroller configuration setting allows the P48
microphone power source to be enabled or disabled
as desired. The gain of the microphone preamplifier
can also be configured over a 20 to 65 dB range.
Details on configuring the unit will be described later
in this guide.
Headphone Output
The Model 209 provides a 2-channel (“stereo”)
headphone output by way of a both a 3-conductor
¼-inch phone jack and a 3.5 mm TRS jack. Both are
located on the front panel. 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
sufficient care is taken. If a 3-conductor ¼-inch plug
is used by the device 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 should be left unconnected. But it’s also
likely that the monaural device will be terminated on
a 2-conductor (tip and sleeve) ¼-inch plug. When
a plug of this type is inserted into the Model 209’s
headphone output connector (jack) the Model 209’s
right headphone output channel will be shorted. (This
will occur since the ring lead will be directly shorted to
the sleeve lead.) This can lead to stress on the Model
209’s right channel headphone output circuitry as
well as drawing extra current from the output stage.
To prevent this condition from occurring the Head-
phone Output – Routing configuration choice should
be set for Single-Channel Mono. This disables the
right headphone output channel and sends the listen
audio source or sources only to the left headphone
output channel. Refer to a later section in this guide
for details on configuring the headphone output.
Remote Control Inputs
The Model 209 allows connection of two remote
control signals. Configuration settings in STcontroller
allow the remote control inputs, referred to as GPI 1
and GPI 2, to impact several Model 209 functions.
(GPI refers to “general purpose input.”) The exact
functioning of the two remote control inputs is deter-
mined by configuration settings, details of which are
discussed later in this guide.
A 3-conductor (TRS) 3.5 mm jack is located on the
Model 209’s back panel and provides access to the
two remote control inputs. Each input circuit is “ac-
tive low,” with a 3.4 k (3400) ohm resistor connected
to +3.3 volts DC to act as an input “pull up.” (In
addition, a combination of resistors and capacitors
provide ESD protection, minimizing the chance of
damage due to static discharge or other extraneous
signals.) A current flow of less than one milliampere
is required for a remote control input to be recognized
as active.
Figure 3. 3-conductor (TRS) 3.5 mm plug
configured for use with remote control inputs

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Prepare the interconnecting cable and associated
3-conductor (TRS) 3.5 mm plug to reflect that the tip
lead is used by remote control input GPI 1, the ring
lead by remote control input GPI 2, and the sleeve
lead is the common connection for both inputs.
Tally Outputs
The Model 209 provides two general-purpose “tally”
outputs that can be used for a variety of applications.
Each can directly drive an LED array or be utilized by
the input on another piece of equipment. The state of
the tally outputs (disabled or enabled) can follow the
state of Model 209’s main Dante transmitter (output)
channel, the state of the remote control inputs, the
presence of a high-frequency tone on the Dante re-
ceiver (input) channels, or by using “virtual” buttons
accessible in the STcontroller application.
The important thing to note about the tally outputs
is that they provide 12 volts DC with a significant
amount of current (100 milliamperes maximum). This
is in contrast to more-typical tally outputs provided by
other pieces of equipment. These tally outputs may
provide “logic” signals of 3.3 or 5 volts DC with just a
few milliamperes of current. While the Model 209’s
tally outputs are much more flexible, it’s important to
ensure that the connected devices can support the
voltage and current. For example, a series resistor
might be required if a Model 209 tally output is to be
connected to a single LED indicator. Two resistors
that create a voltage divider might be needed for com-
patibility with an input that requires a more-standard
logic voltage level.
The two tally outputs can function independently,
each providing either 0 or 12 volts DC, depending
on their configuration and output status. (The source
or sink current of each output is limited to 100 mil-
liamperes.) Settings in the STcontroller software
application also allow the two tally outputs to serve
in a differential mode. In this way, tally output 2 can
provide an output that is always opposite in polarity to
tally output 1, something required to directly support
bi-directional LED arrays.
The tally outputs were expressly designed to sup-
port the status indicator LED assembly that can be
included as part of the m!ka-series of microphone
mounting arms from Yellowtec (yellowtec.com).
Specifically provided are the tally output’s 12 volts
DC, 100 mA maximum capability along with two
differential output mode configuration settings. The
Model 209 can be easily configured to allow direct
support for m!ka’s bi-directional LED assembly. This
will enable the assembly’s two LED colors, depend-
ing on the status of Model 209 resources. Refer to
Appendix C of this guide for details on connecting to
a Yellowtec microphone mounting arm.
Prepare an interconnecting cable and associated
3-conductor (TRS) 3.5 mm plug for the design
application. The plug’s tip lead provide access to tally
output 1, the ring lead to tally output 2, and the sleeve
lead to the common connection for both outputs.
Figure 4. 3-conductor (TRS) 3.5 mm plug
configured for use with tally outputs
Figure 5. Model 209 Talent Console can be
configured to allow direct support for the
Yellowtec m!ka’s bi-directional LED assembly

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Dante Configuration
For audio to pass to and from the Model 209 requires
configuration of several Dante-related parameters.
These configuration settings are stored in non-volatile
memory within the Model 209’s circuitry. Configura-
tion will typically 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 209’s Dante interface is compatible with
the Dante Domain Manager (DDM) software appli-
cation. Refer to DDM documentation, also available
from Audinate, for details on which Model 209 and
related parameters may have to be configured.
Audio Routing
The Model 209 has two Dante transmitter (output)
channels that are associated with the unit’s Dante
interface. They must be assigned to the desired
Dante receiver (input) channels on one or two de-
vices. This achieves routing of the Model 209’s two
output audio channels to the device (or devices) that
will be “listening” to them. The two Dante receiver
(input) channels associated with the Model 209’s
audio inputs need to be subscribed (routed) with the
desired Dante transmitter (output) channels. These
two audio signals will provide the headphone cue sig-
nals to a Model 209 user. They can also be used in a
TOX (tone operated) mode to control the state of the
tally outputs. Within Dante Controller a “subscription”
is the term used for routing a transmitter flow (a
group of up to four output channels) to a receiver flow
(a group of input channels).
The Model 209 uses an Ultimo integrated circuit to
implement its Dante functionality. The number of
flows associated with this integrated circuit is four;
two transmitter (output) and two receiver (input). With
this small number of flows it’s possible that a flow
limitation condition could occur. A flow can be unicast,
multicast, or a combination of the two. If the Model
209’s Dante transmitter (output) channels need to be
subscribed (routed) to more than two flows it’s pos-
sible that an intermediary device, such as the Studio
Technologies’ Model 5422A Dante Intercom Audio
Engine, can be used to “repeat” the signals.
Note that when the AES67 mode has been enabled
in the Dante Controller application the Model 209’s
Dante transmitter (output) channels will only function
in multicast; unicast is not supported.
Unit and Channel Names
The Model 209 has a default Dante device name of
ST-M209- and a unique suffix. The suffix identifies
the specific Model 209 that is being configured. The
suffix’s actual alpha and/or numeric characters relate
to the MAC address of the unit’s Ultimo integrated
circuit. The two Dante transmitter (output) channels
have default names of Main and Talkback. The
two Dante receiver (input) channels have default
names of Headphone Ch1 and Headphone Ch2.
Using Dante Controller, the default device name and
channel names can be revised as appropriate for the
specific application.
Device Configuration
The Model 209 supports audio sample rates of 48
and 96 kHz with no pull-up/down options available.
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 selection of PCM 24 would be
appropriate. Clocking and device latency parameters
can be adjusted within Dante Controller if required but
the default values are typically correct.
Network Configuration
Typically, the Model 209’s Dante IP address and
related network parameters will be determined au-
tomatically using DHCP or, if that’s not available,
the link-local network protocol. If desired, Dante
Controller allows IP address and related network
parameters to be manually set to a fixed or static
configuration. While this is a more-involved process
than simply letting DHCP or link-local “do their thing,”
if fixed addressing is necessary then this capability
is available.
AES67 Configuration – AES67 Mode
Dante Controller allows a Model 209 to be config-
ured for AES67 operation. This requires the AES67
mode to be set for Enabled. As previously noted in
this guide, if AES67 mode is Enabled then the Dante
transmitter (output) channels will use multicast and
their sample rate will be fixed at 48 kHz.

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Model 209 Clocking Source
While technically the Model 209 can serve as
a Leader clock for a Dante network (as can all Dante-
enabled devices), in most cases the unit will be
configured to receive its timing reference (“sync”)
from another Dante device. As such, the Dante
Controller check box for the Preferred Leader that
is associated with the Model 209 would typically not
be enabled.
Model 209 Configuration
The STcontroller software application is used to
configure the way in which the Model 209 functions.
No DIP switch settings or other local actions are
used to configure the unit. This makes it imperative
that STcontroller be available for convenient use in
a personal computer that’s connected to the related
LAN.
Installing STcontroller
STcontroller is available free of charge on the Stu-
dio Technologies website. If required, download
and install STcontroller onto a designated personal
computer. This personal computer must be on the
same local area network (LAN) and subnet as the
Model 209 unit or units that are to be configured. Im-
mediately after starting STcontroller the application
will locate the devices that it can control. The Model
209 unit or units will appear in the device list. Use
the Identify command to allow easy recognition of a
specific Model 209 unit. Double-clicking on a device
name will cause the associated configuration menu
to appear. Review the current configuration and make
changes as required.
Changes made using STcontroller will be immedi-
ately reflected in the unit’s operation. No “reboot”
of the Model 209 is required. Each time a change
is made the eight LEDs in the multi-purpose display
will light orange in a distinctive pattern to indicate that
a command from STcontroller has been received.
All changes made using STcontroller will be stored
within the Model 209 in non-volatile memory. As such,
changes will remain, even as the unit undergoes
power-down/power-up cycles.
Microphone Input – P48 Phantom
Power
Choices are Off and On.
STcontroller allows selection of the on/off status of
the microphone input’s P48 phantom power source.
A green LED, labeled P48 and located on the lower-
right corner of the Model 209’s front panel, will light
when P48 is active. Using the check box, select the
on/off status of the P48 source to meet the needs of
the connected microphone.
Microphone Input – Gain
Choices are 20 dB to 65 dB in 1-dB steps.
The Model 209’s microphone preamplifier can be
adjusted over a range of 20 to 65 dB in 1-dB steps.
There’s no problem changing the gain setting while
the unit is operating although small audio clicks or
pops may occur during gain transitions. Selecting the
correct amount of gain for an application might require
some experimentation. The goal is to bring the analog
microphone’s signal up to the Dante reference level
which Studio Technologies considers to be –20 dBFS.
(This is 20 dB below digital maximum.) Configuring
operation to meet this Dante reference signal level
will help ensure the delivery of optimal audio to the
destination device or devices.
There’s no “perfect” preamplifier gain setting that this
guide can recommend. The two issues that impact
the setting are the output sensitivity of the connected
microphone and the acoustical output level of the
microphone’s user. A popular dynamic microphone for
podcast applications is the Shure® SM7B. The Model
209’s default preamplifier gain value of 50 dB might
work well to support it. For microphones associated
with broadcast headsets such as the Sennheiser®
HMD 26 or HMD 27, selecting an initial setting of 40
dB or 45 dB would be appropriate. For users who
speak loudly the gain might need to be reduced to
35 dB or even 30 dB. “Quiet” speaking users might
need a gain setting of 55 dB or even greater.
The multi-purpose display, located on the Model
209’s front panel, can serve as an 8-segment audio
level meter which can be used when setting the mi-
crophone preamplifier gain. Its operation is enabled
by default in STcontroller. In this case, when a voice
signal at a normal level is present on the connected

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microphone the five green LEDs should light. The
two orange LEDs should light on signal peaks; the
red LED will only light when the signal is near to or
actually “clipping.” If the meter does not light in this
manner, it’s recommended that the gain of the pre-
amplifier be adjusted as required.
As a “reality check,” it’s recommended that a level
meter associated with a device that’s digitally con-
nected to the Model 209’s Dante Main transmitter
(output) channel be observed. This will be an excel-
lent means of checking the actual signal level within
the signal “chain.” If necessary, adjust the gain of the
Model 209’s microphone preamplifier to achieve the
desired result.
Headphone Output – Routing
Choices are Dual-Channel Stereo, Dual-Channel
Mono, and Single-Channel Mono.
STcontroller allows selection from among three
headphone output modes. Each mode is distinct and
careful selection will help optimize the Model 209’s
operation for a range of applications.
Dual-Channel Stereo: The Dual-Channel Stereo
mode is provided for applications where two inde-
pendent audio sources need to be independently
routed to the two headphone output channels. 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 headphone output
channel. Note that in this mode the sidetone audio
signal, if enabled, will be routed to both the left and
right headphone output channels.
Dual-Channel Mono: The Dual-Channel Mono mode
can be useful in applications where the same audio
signals need to be provided to the user on both the left
and right headphone output channels. In this mode
Dante receiver (input) channel 1 and Dante receiver
(input) channel 2 are combined (mixed together
or “summed”) and routed to both the left and right
headphone output channels. Note that in this mode
the sidetone audio signal, if enabled, will be routed to
both the left and right headphone output channels.
Single-Channel Mono: The Single-Channel Mono
mode is specifically provided for applications where
a 2-conductor ¼-inch plug is being used with the con-
nected headphones, headset, or a broadcast-style
earpiece. In this mode audio from Dante receiver
(input) channel 1 and Dante receiver (input) chan-
nel 2 are combined (mixed or summed) to monaural
and routed to only the left channel of the headphone
output; no audio signal is routed to the right channel
of the headphone output. Note that in this mode the
sidetone audio signal, if enabled, will be routed to
only the left headphone output channel.
Headphone Output – Minimum Level
Choices are Full Mute and –40 dB.
Full Mute: A setting in STcontroller is used to config-
ure the headphone output’s minimum level. When Full
Mute is selected moving the headphone level control
fully counterclockwise will cause the headphone out-
put to fully mute. Selecting the full mute mode may
be appropriate for applications where minimizing the
chance of audio “leakage” is important. This could oc-
cur when during an event the connected headphones
or headset is at times placed on a desk or tabletop.
This could result in unwanted audio leakage from
the ear cups.
–40 dB: In the –40 dB setting the minimum head-
phone output level is approximately 40 dB below its
maximum; the headphone output channels will never
fully mute. This ensures that any audio signal present
on the Dante receiver (input) channels will always
be present on the headphone output, even if they
are at a very-low level. In many on-air broadcast or
streaming applications this would be the appropriate
setting, ensuring that a minimum amount of signal is
always present on the ‘phones. This minimal level can
make certain that talent cue (IFB) or other production
audio sources can always be heard, even faintly, by
a Model 209 user.
Headphone Output – Sidetone Mode
Choices are Main Active, Talkback Active, and Always
Active.
STcontroller allows selection from among three
sidetone modes. Sidetone is audio from the output
of the microphone preamplifier that is sent to the
headphone output channel or channels. It is mixed
(combined or summed) with audio that arrives by way
of the Model 209’s Dante receiver (input) channels.
Sidetone can be important, allowing the user to “hear”
themselves as appropriate for performance confirma-

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tion and comfort. The time at which sidetone audio is
actively routed to the headphone output channel or
channels is determined by this configuration.
Main Active: In this mode the sidetone function will
be active whenever the main output is active, i.e.,
sidetone audio will be sent to the headphone output
whenever an audio signal associated with the micro-
phone input is present on the Dante main transmitter
(output) channel.
Talkback Active: In this mode the sidetone function
will be active whenever the talkback function is active
and the audio signal is present on the Dante talkback
transmitter (output) channel.
Always Active: In this mode the sidetone function will
always be active and sidetone audio will be continu-
ously routed to the headphone output.
Note that the actual level of sidetone audio as it
is sent to the headphone output will be determined
by the selection made in the Headphone Output
– Sidetone Level configuration. It can also be con-
figured to be adjusted using the unit’s headphone
level control.
Headphone Output – Sidetone Level
Choices are High, Medium High, Medium, Medium
Low, Low, and Off.
As previously discussed, the Model 209 includes
a sidetone function that allows microphone audio
coming from the microphone preamplifier to be sent
to the headphone output. This will provide a user
confirmation function, confirming that they are actively
sending audio to the Dante main transmitter (output)
channel, the Dante talkback transmitter (output) chan-
nel, or both the Dante main and talkback transmitter
(output) channels. Overall sidetone operation is con-
figured using the Sidetone Mode selection function
as previously described.
The sidetone level can be adjusted from among six
choices, including five active levels as well as off (no
sidetone). This is the sidetone level that will be active
when the Model 209 is initially powered up. If Local
Sidetone Level Adjustment is set to No the sidetone
level will not change. If Local Sidetone Level Adjust-
ment is set to Yes the user is able to change the
sidetone level from among the six choices.
Headphone Output – Local Sidetone
Level Adjustment
Choices are No and Yes.
This configuration setting selects whether or not the
user is able to adjust the sidetone level using the
front-panel headphone level control. If the No setting
is selected then the rotary level control will not allow
the sidetone level to be adjusted. If the Yes setting
is selected then using the rotary level control in a
press-hold-and-turn sequence will allow the sidetone
level to be adjusted from among five choices as well
as no sidetone.
Selecting Yes is the most flexible configuration selec-
tion but can lead to confusion if multiple users have
access to the Model 209 on a regular basis. Each
would have to be aware of the sidetone level adjust-
ment method so they could optimize the sidetone
level for their own use. If the No setting was selected
then the sidetone level would be fixed from among
the five available values or completely off as selected
in the Sidetone Level configuration choice.
Talkback Button – Operation
Choices are Momentary – Mutes Main Out, Latch-
ing – Mutes Main Out, Momentary – Doesn’t Mute
Main Out, Latching – Doesn’t Mute Main Out, and
Disabled.
STcontroller allows the operating configuration of the
talkback button to be selected. There are five choices
available.
Momentary – Mutes Main Out: If this mode is select-
ed when the talkback button is not pressed the button
will light green, the microphone signal will be sent out
the Dante main transmitter (output) channel, and the
Dante talkback transmitter (output) channel will be
muted. Whenever the talkback button is pressed and
held the button will light orange, the audio signal will
mute on the Dante main transmitter (output) channel,
and the audio signal will become active on the Dante
talkback transmitter (output) channel.
Latching – Mutes Main Out: If this mode is selected
the talkback function will alternate between its off (in-
active) and on (active) states whenever the talkback
button is momentarily pressed. The button will light
green whenever the Dante main transmitter (output)
channel is active and light orange whenever the

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Dante talkback transmitter (output) channel is active.
Upon power being initially applied to the Model 209
the talkback function will be inactive, the button will
light green, and audio will be present on the Dante
main transmitter (output) channel.
Momentary – Doesn’t Mute Main Out: If this mode
is selected when the talkback button is not pressed
the button will be lit green, the microphone signal
will be sent to the Dante main transmitter (output)
channel, and the Dante talkback transmitter (output)
channel will be muted. Whenever the talkback button
is pressed and held the button will light alternating
between green and orange, audio signal will continue
to be present on the Dante main transmitter (output)
channel, and the audio signal will also become active
on the Dante talkback transmitter (output) channel.
The button lighting both green and orange is intended
to indicate that both Dante transmitter (output) chan-
nels are active.
Latching – Doesn’t Mute Main Out: If this mode is
selected the talkback function will alternate between
its off (inactive) and on (active) states whenever the
pushbutton is momentarily pressed. In either state
audio will be sent out the Dante main transmitter
(output) channel; it will never mute. The talkback
button will light green whenever the Dante main
transmitter (output) channel is active and the Dante
talkback transmitter (output) channel is not active.
It will alternate between green and orange when-
ever the talkback function is active. This indicates
that audio is being sent to both the Dante main and
talkback transmitter (output) channels. Upon power
being initially applied to the Model 209 the talkback
function will not be active and no audio will be sent
to the Dante talkback transmitter (output) channel.
Audio will be sent only to the Dante main transmitter
(output) channel and the button will be lit green.
Disabled: If this mode is selected the talkback func-
tion is prevented from becoming active. Microphone
audio will always be sent to the Dante main transmit-
ter (output) channel and the talkback pushbutton will
be lit green. The Dante talkback transmitter (output)
channel will always be muted. Whenever the talk-
back button is pressed the button will flash green to
indicate to users that the talkback function has been
disabled. Whether or not the button is pressed no
change to the audio routing will ever take place; audio
will always be present on the Dante main transmitter
(output) channel.
Talkback Button – Remote Control
Choices are None, GPI 1, and GPI 2.
The Model 209 provides two remote control inputs
which are labeled GPI 1 and GPI 2. (GPI is an acro-
nym for general-purpose input.) They can be used to
control the talkback function, serving as an external
version of the talkback pushbutton switch.
None: When selected for None, the two remote
control inputs, GPI 1 and GPI 2, will not impact the
operation of the Model 209.
GPI 1: When selected for GPI 1, its operation will im-
pact the status of the talkback function. It will perform
the same function as the talkback pushbutton. When
GPI 1 is in it’s low (shorted) state it will perform the
same function as if the pushbutton switch is being
pressed.
GPI 2: When selected for GPI 2, its operation will im-
pact the status of the talkback function. It will perform
the same function as the talkback pushbutton. When
GPI 2 is in it’s low (shorted) state it will perform the
same function as if the pushbutton switch is being
pressed.
System – Signal Present Display
Choices are Off and On.
The top surface of the knob associated with the
headphone level control can light as an indication of
the level of the audio associated with the two Dante
receiver (input) channels. This is accomplished by
lighting an RGB (red-green-blue) LED that is located
within the headphone level control. The top of the
knob surface will light green when signal levels are
in their normal range, yellow when the signal levels
are greater than normal, and red when the signal
levels are at risk of degrading audio performance.
Whether Off or On is selected will depend on user
preference.
System – Mic Level Display
Choices are Off, Always On, and On When Main
Active.
The Model 209’s multi-purpose display is located on
the front panel, directly below the headphone level

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control. The display consists of eight bi-color LEDs
that can individually light green, red, or orange. This
configuration setting selects when the multi-purpose
display will provide a real-time display of the output
level of the Model 209’s microphone preamplifier.
When acting as a level meter the five LEDs on the
left will progressively light green to indicate a normal
signal level. The next two LEDs, the sixth and sev-
enth, will light orange to indicate that the signal level is
greater than nominal. The eighth LED, on the far-right
end, will light red when the microphone preamplifier’s
output level is approaching or has reached its maxi-
mum. The action of the level meter can serve as a
user-confidence indication or as a guide when adjust-
ing the gain of the microphone preamplifier.
The selected configuration choice will depend on the
needs of the unit’s application. When selected for Off
the display will never show the level associated with
the output of the microphone preamplifier. When se-
lected for Always On, the display will indicate the level
of the output of the microphone preamplifier, no mat-
ter the on or off state of the Dante main and talkback
transmitter (output) channels. When selected for On
When Main Active, the level meter will be active only
when microphone audio is being sent to the Dante
main transmitter (output) channel.
It’s possible that the level display will only be enabled
during setup and testing of an application. After per-
formance confirmation, including adjusting the gain of
the microphone preamplifier, users may request that
the microphone level display function be turned off.
Tally Outputs – Configuration
Configuration – Output 1 Source
Choices are STcontroller On/Off Button, Main Output
Active, GPI 1, GPI 2, TOX – Headphone Ch1, and
TOX – Headphone Ch2.
The state (active or inactive) of Tally Output 1 can be
controlled by the configuration selected from among
the six available sources.
STcontroller On/Off Button: When this source is
selected the state of Tally Output 1 will be controlled
by the virtual pushbutton switch that’s present on
STcontroller’s Tally Output configuration page. Using
a mouse to click the On/Off button icon will cause the
state of Tally Output 1 to change. This function can
be useful during installation and configuration of the
Model 209 and related signals. It can also be used
as a means for an STcontroller user or associate to
control the state of Tally Output 1.
Main Output Active: When this source is selected
the state of Tally Output 1 will be controlled by the
state of the Dante main transmitter (output) channel;
Tally Output 1 will be active when microphone audio
is present on the Dante main transmitter (output)
channel. This can be used as a locally controlled
“on-air” indication.
GPI 1: When GPI 1 is selected the state of Tally
Output 1 will be controlled by the state of the remote
control input that is named GPI 1. Tally Output 1 will
be inactive when GPI 1 is not active. Tally Output 1
will be active when GPI 1 is in its enabled (low or
input shorted) state. This configuration choice can
be useful when an external signal, such as an on-
air contact closure from an automation system or
audio console, needs to control the on/off state of
Tally Output 1. In this way, an LED, typically associ-
ated with a microphone boom arm, can be directly
activated by a contact closure; no external interface
would be required.
GPI 2: This choice is similar to GPI 1 except Tally
Output 1 responds to the state of GPI 2. This is pro-
vided for control flexibility.
TOX – Headphone Ch1: This choice allows a high-
frequency signal present on the Dante receiver (input)
channel Headphone Ch1 to control the state of Tally
Output 1. The acronym TOX has traditionally meant
“Tone Operated Relay.” In the case of the Model 209 it
means that a high-frequency tone (typically 18 kHz or
above) can be added “in-band” to the Dante receiver
(input) channel and is used as a control signal. When
a signal that meets the requirements for level and
frequency is present on the Dante receiver (input)
Headphone Ch1 then Tally Output 1 will become ac-
tive. This is provided so that an audio channel can
provide both talent cue audio information along with a
“trigger” for Tally Output 1. (Refer to the specifications
section of this guide for details on what constitutes
a valid.)
Having talent audio combined with a high-frequency
tone is typically not a problem as the Model 209
includes a low-pass filter in the headphone output

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MODEL 209
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Tally Output 1; 0 volts DC is present on Tally Output
2. When Tally 1 is active 0 volts DC is present on its
output and 12 volts DC is present on Tally Output
2. This choice is provided so that the function sup-
ported by the two tally outputs that are functioning
differentially, typically a bi-directional LED array, can
be operated in a reverse manner. (This configuration
setting can eliminate the need for re-wiring connec-
tions should the LED array’s colors need to operate
in an opposite manner.)
Note that when either Differential – Active High or Dif-
ferential – Active Low has been selected the configu-
ration source for Output 2 is no longer available. The
function will be “grayed out” to indicate that only the
source for output 1 is active. (It will control the output
states of both Tally Output 1 and Tally Output 2.)
Tally Outputs – On/Off Buttons
On the Tally Outputs page there is a section called
On/Off Buttons which provides two software-imple-
mented (virtual) pushbutton switches. These allow
manual control of the status of the two tally outputs
when their respective output source configuration
has been selected for STcontroller On/Off Button. If
this configuration choice has not been selected then
the button will be “grayed out” and not available for
use.
On/Off Button – Output 1: This can be pressed,
using a mouse or keyboard key, to change the sta-
tus of Tally Output 1 from off-to-on or on-to-off. This
can prove useful during installation and testing of
the Model 209’s tally outputs. It can also be used to
manually control the status of Tally Output 1.
On/Off Button – Output 2: This can be pressed, us-
ing a mouse or keyboard key, to change the status of
Tally Output 2 from off-to-on or on-to-off. It can find
value during installation and testing of the Model
209’s tally outputs. It can also be used to manually
control the status of Tally Output 2. Note that this
button will be “grayed out” if either of the differential
operating modes has been selected. (The action of
Tally Output 2 will, in this situation, depend on the
action of Tally Output 1.)
path that is active only when TOX is selected. This
helps to prevent high-frequency signals from reach-
ing a user’s ears. However, using 20 kHz, or even
22 kHz, as the trigger will help minimize the chance
that a user’s ears will be impacted.
TOX – Headphone Ch2: This function has the same
action as TOX – Headphone Ch1 but utilizes the
Dante receiver (input) channel Headphone Ch2. This
is provided for control flexibility.
Configuration – Output 2 Source: The six configu-
ration choices that are available for controlling Tally
Output 2 are the same as provided for Tally Output 1.
Please refer to the previous paragraphs for details.
Note that this configuration section will be “grayed
out” if the configuration for the Operating Mode has
been selected for Differential – Active High or Differ-
ential – Active Low. This is because selecting one of
the two differential modes will disable Tally Output 2
as a separate function and associate its output state
with Tally Output 1.
Configuration – Operating Mode
Choices are Independent, Differential – Active High,
and Differential – Active Low.
This configuration choice determines how the Model
209’s two tally outputs function. When Independent
is selected Tally Output 1 and Tally Output 2 are,
as expected, completely independent. They are
controlled by their selected configuration source,
providing 0 volts DC when inactive and 12 volts DC
when active.
Differential – Active High: When selected Tally
Output 1 and Tally Output 2 work together, creating
a differential action. (Differential relating to the word
difference and the two tally outputs always providing
states opposite of each other.) When Tally 1 is not
active 0 volts DC is present on Tally Output 1; 12
volts DC is present on Tally Output 2. When Tally 1
is active 12 volts DC is present on its output and 0
volts DC is present on Tally Output 2.
Differential – Active Low: When selected Tally
Output 1 and Tally Output 2 again work together but
in a manner opposite of Differential – Active High.
When Tally 1 is not active 12 volts DC is present on

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using a permanent marker or “console tape,” with its
specific static IP address. If knowledge of a Model
209’s IP address has been misplaced there is no
reset button or other method to easily restore the unit
to a default IP setting.
In the unfortunate event that a device’s IP address
is “lost,” the Address Resolution Protocol (ARP) net-
working command can be used to “probe” devices
on a network for this information. For example, in
Windows OS the arp –a command can be used to
display a list of LAN information that includes MAC
addresses and corresponding IP addresses. The
simplest means of identifying an unknown IP address
is to create a “mini” LAN with a small PoE-enabled
Ethernet switch connecting a personal computer to
the Model 209. Then by using the appropriate ARP
command the required “clues” can be obtained.
Optimizing Network Performance
For best Dante audio-over-Ethernet performance a
network that supports VoIP QoS capability is recom-
mended. In applications that utilize multicast Ethernet
traffic enabling IGMP snooping can be valuable.
These protocols can be implemented on virtually all
contemporary managed Ethernet switches. There
are even specialized switches that are optimized
for entertainment-associated applications. Refer to
the Audinate website (audinate.com) for details on
optimizing networks for Dante applications.
Application Firmware Version
Display
A selection in the STcontroller software application
allows the Model 209’s application firmware version
to be identified. This can be useful when working
with factory personnel on application support and
troubleshooting. To identify the firmware version, be-
gin by connecting the Model 209 unit to the network
(via Ethernet with PoE) and wait until the unit starts
to function. Then, after starting STcontroller, review
the list of identified devices and select the specific
Model 209 for which you want to determine its ap-
plication firmware version. Then select Version and
Information under the Device tab. A page will then
display that will provide lots of useful information. This
includes the application firmware version and well as
details on the Dante interface firmware.
Operation
Pending.
Technical Notes
IP Address Assignment
By default, the Model 209’s Ethernet interface will
attempt to automatically obtain an IP address and
associated settings using DHCP (Dynamic Host
Configuration Protocol). If a DHCP server is not de-
tected an IP address will automatically be assigned
using the link-local protocol. This protocol is known
in the Microsoft® world as Automatic Private IP Ad-
dressing (APIPA). It is also sometimes referred to as
auto-IP (PIPPA). Link-local will randomly assign a
unique IP address in the IPv4 range of 169.254.0.1 to
169.254.255.254. In this way multiple Dante-enabled
devices can be connected together and automatically
function, whether or not a DHCP server is active on
the LAN. Even two Dante-enabled devices that are
directly inter-connected using an RJ45 patch cord will,
in most cases, correctly acquire IP addresses and be
able to communicate with each other.
An exception does arise when trying to directly inter-
connect two Dante-enabled devices that use Ultimo
integrated circuits to implement Dante. The Model
209 uses the Ultimo “chip” and, as such, a direct
one-to-one interconnection between it and another
Ultimo-based product would not be supported. An
Ethernet switch linking these units would be required
to successfully interconnect the two Ultimo-based de-
vices. The technical reason that a switch is required
relates to the need for a slight latency (delay) in the
data flow; an Ethernet switch will provide this. This
wouldn’t typically prove to be an issue as the Model
209 uses power-over-Ethernet (PoE) to provide its
operating power. As such, in most cases a PoE-en-
abled Ethernet switch would be utilized to support
Model 209 units.
Using the Dante Controller software application,
the Model 209’s IP address and related network
parameters can be set for a manual (fixed or static)
configuration. While this is a more involved process
than simply letting DHCP or link-local “do their thing,”
if fixed addressing is necessary then this capability is
available. But in this case, it’s highly recommended
that every unit be physically marked, e.g., directly

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MODEL 209
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4. Apply power to the Model 209 by connecting an
Ethernet signal that has Power-over-Ethernet
(PoE) present to the RJ45 jack.
5. After a few seconds the Model 209 will run
a “boot loader” program that will automati-
cally load the new application firmware file
(M209vXrXX.stm). This loading process will take
only a few seconds. During this time period the
green LED that’s located adjacent to the USB re-
ceptacle will flash slowly. Once the entire loading
process is over, taking approximately 10 seconds,
the Model 209 will restart using the newly loaded
application firmware.
6. At this time the Model 209 is functioning with the
newly-loaded application firmware and the USB
flash drive can be removed. But to be conserva-
tive, remove the PoE Ethernet connection first
and then remove the USB flash drive. The re-
connect the Ethernet signal to restart the unit.
7. Using STcontroller, confirm that the desired
application firmware version has been correctly
loaded.
Note that upon power being applied to the Model 209
if a connected USB flash drive doesn’t have the cor-
rect file (M209vXrXX.stm) in its root folder no harm
will occur. Upon power up the adjacent green LED will
flash on and off rapidly for a few seconds to indicate
this condition and then normal operation using the
unit’s existing application firmware will begin.
Ultimo Firmware Update
As previously discussed in this guide, the Model 209
implements its Dante connectivity using the Ultimo
integrated circuit from Audinate. The Dante Controller
software application can be used to determine the
version of the firmware (embedded software) that re-
sides in this integrated circuit. The firmware (embed-
ded software) residing in Ultimo can be updated using
the Model 209’s Ethernet port. Performing the update
process is easily accomplished using an automated
method called Dante Updater that’s included as part
of the Dante Controller application. This application is
available, free of charge, from the Audinate website
(audinate.com) The latest Model 209 firmware file,
with a name in the form of M209vXrX.dnt, is avail-
able on the Studio Technologies’ website as well as
Application Firmware Update
Procedure
It’s possible that updated versions of the application
firmware (embedded software) that is utilized by the
Model 209’s processor (microcontroller or MCU) inte-
grated circuit will be released to add features or cor-
rect issues. Refer to the Studio Technologies website
for the latest application firmware file. The unit has the
ability to load a revised file into its MCU’s non-volatile
memory by way of a USB interface. The Model 209
implements a USB host function that directly supports
connection of a USB flash drive. The Model 209’s
MCU updates its application firmware using a file
named M209XvXX.stm where X are decimal digits
that represent the version number.
The update process begins by preparing a USB
flash drive. The flash drive doesn’t have to be
empty (blank) but must be in the personal-com-
puter-standard FAT32 format. The processor in the
Model 209 is compatible with both USB 2.0, USB
3.0, and USB 3.1-compliant Flash drives. Save the
new firmware file in the root directory with a name
of M209vXrXX.stm where XrXX is the actual version
number. Studio Technologies will supply the appli-
cation firmware file inside a .zip archive file. While
the firmware file inside of the zip file will adhere to
the naming convention required by the Model 209, the
name of the zip file itself will include the file’s version
number. For example, a file named M209v1r03MCU.
zip would indicate that version 1.03 of the application
firmware (M209v1r03.stm) is contained within this zip
file along with a readme (.txt) text file.
Once the USB flash drive is inserted into the USB
interface, located on the back panel of the Model
209, the unit must be powered off and again powered
on. At this point the file will automatically load. The
precise steps required will be highlighted in the next
paragraphs of this guide.
To install the application firmware file, follow these
steps:
1. Disconnect power from the Model 209. This will
entail removing the Ethernet connection that is
made to the RJ45 jack.
2. Locate the USB connector on the back of the unit.
Insert the prepared USB flash drive into it.

Issue Preliminary 1, July 2021 Model 209 User Guide
Page 20 Studio Technologies, Inc.
MODEL 209
TALENT CONSOLE
being part of Audinate’s product library database. The
latter allows the Dante Updater software application
that is included with Dante Controller to automatically
query and, if required, update the Model 209’s Dante
interface.
Restoring Factory Defaults
A command in the STcontroller software application
allows the Model 209’s defaults to be reset to the fac-
tory values. From STcontroller select the Model 209
for which you want to restore its defaults. Select the
Device tab and then the Factory Defaults selection.
Then click on the OK box. Refer to Appendix A for a
list of the Model 209’s factory defaults