Studio Technologies 5204 User manual

50278-1223, Issue 3
Copyright © 2023 by Studio Technologies, Inc., all rights reserved
studio-tech.com
User Guide
Issue 3, December 2023
This User Guide is applicable for serial numbers
M5204-02001 and later with application rmware 1.3 and later
and Dante rmware 4.8.0 (UltimoX v4.2.8.2) and later.
Model 5204
Dual Line Input to Dante Interface

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Model 5204 User Guide Issue 3, December 2023
Studio Technologies, Inc. Page 3
Model 5204
DUAL LINE INPUT TO DANTE INTERFACE
Table of Contents
Revision History............................................................................ 4
Introduction................................................................................... 5
Getting Started ............................................................................. 7
Connections.................................................................................. 7
Dante Conguration...................................................................... 8
Operation...................................................................................... 8
Technical Notes ............................................................................ 10
Specications ............................................................................... 13

Issue 3, December 2023 Model 5204 User Guide
Page 4 Studio Technologies, Inc.
Model 5204
DUAL LINE INPUT TO DANTE INTERFACE
Revision History
Issue 3, December 2023:
• Revises format of document.
• Documents use of UltimoX integrated circuit.
• Notes support for AES67 and Dante Domain Manager (DDM).
Issue 2, August 2015:
•Documents enhanced unit identication feature.
•Adds improvements to IP address conguration assignment explanation.
Issue 1, August 2014:
•Initial release.

Model 5204 User Guide Issue 3, December 2023
Studio Technologies, Inc. Page 5
Model 5204
DUAL LINE INPUT TO DANTE INTERFACE
Introduction
The Model 5204 Interface is a general-purpose audio
device that supports applications utilizing the Dante
®
audio-over-Ethernet media networking technology.
Two 2-channel (“stereo”) analog line-level audio sig-
nals can be connected to the Model 5204 and then
converted to two channels on an associated Dante
connection.
Analog audio signals connect to line input A by way of
a 3-conductor (“stereo”) 3.5 mm jack. This allows the
direct interfacing of signals from a variety of sourc-
es such as personal audio and multimedia players,
smartphones, and personal computers. These signals
typically have an average (nominal) signal level in
the range of –20 to –10 dBu. Line input B supports
connection of balanced analog audio signals using
two XLR connectors. Average signal levels for these
types of signals are typically in the range of 0 to
+4 dBu. Each input has an associated dual-channel
rotary level control to optimize its audio performance.
Following the level “pots” the signals from inputs A
and B are summed (combined or mixed together) to
create one 2-channel signal. (The channel 1 signals
of line inputs A and B are summed to create output
channel 1; channel 2 signals of line inputs A and B
are summed to create output channel 2.) The two
channels are then output by way of the Dante inter-
face. Multi-step LED meters provide conrmation of
the level of the two output audio channels.
The audio quality of the Model 5204 is excellent, with
low distortion and noise and high headroom. Careful
circuit design and excellent components ensure long,
reliable operation. A wide range of applications can
be supported, including TV, radio, and streaming
broadcast events, corporate and government AV
installations, and Dante system testing.
For user convenience a dedicated charging port
(DCP) is provided on a standard USB type A connec-
tor. This allows powering and charging of associated
devices, such as personal audio players and tablets.
The compact, lightweight design allows the Model
5204 to be used in portable or desktop situations
or deployed as a permanent solution in xed appli-
cations. Standard connectors ensure fast, reliable
deployment. The unit requires only an Ethernet con-
nection to supply both the data interface as well as
Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) power. The Model 5204’s
audio, data, and dedicated charging port use power
provided by the PoE connection.
Applications
The Model 5204 is perfect for use in conjunction with
a variety of xed and portable audio equipment that
o󰀨er analog output signals. An obvious application
is with legacy equipment that only offers analog
outputs. A few simple connections are all that’s
required to covert those signals into the world of
Audio-over-Ethernet. When deploying, maintaining,
or modifying Dante networks the unit can be a useful
test tool, offering a simple, high-quality means of
creating a 2-channel signal source. For permanent
applications there’s no reason why a Model 5204
can’t reside within an equipment rack or be mounted,
using optional brackets, underneath a table or on-air
studio set. In a conference room setting the unit can
be permanently connected to a PoE-enabled Ethernet
port, ready to accept a signal source from various
user-provided devices.
Line Input A
Using a 3-conductor (“stereo”) 3.5 mm jack, it’s a
simple matter to connect unbalanced sources to the
Model 5204’s line input A. These signals would typical-
ly be provided by personal computers, smartphones,
Figure 1. Model 5204 Dual Line Input to Dante Interface front and rear views

Issue 3, December 2023 Model 5204 User Guide
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Model 5204
DUAL LINE INPUT TO DANTE INTERFACE
or personal audio devices which have average (nomi-
nal) levels in the range of –20 to –10 dBu. One rotary
control is used to adjust the input level, making it a
simple task to optimize the conversion of the input
analog audio source to the Dante output. The level
knob is a push-in/push-out type which helps prevent
inadvertent adjustment.
Line Input B
The Model 5204’s line input B is designed for use
with professional line-level analog audio signals.
The 2-channel input is electronically balanced,
capacitor-coupled, and uses two standard 3-pin fe-
male XLR connectors. A single rotary level control
allows the input sensitivity of both channels to be
adjusted. Using the push-in/push-out knob it’s a
simple matter to adjust the input circuitry to match
average (nominal) signal levels which would typically
be in the range of 0 to +4 dBu. And with a maximum
input level of +24 dBu there will always be su󰀩cient
headroom for “pro” audio performance. Protection
components in the input circuitry help ensure reliability
in tough eld applications.
Summing (Mixing) of the Input
Signals
The two channels associated with line input A and the
two channels associated with line input B are mixed
(summed), sent to analog-to-digital conversion cir-
cuitry, and then transmitted over the Dante network.
The two signals associated with the channel 1 (or
“left”) inputs are combined and sent out Dante chan-
nel 1. The two signals associated with the channel 2
(or “right”) inputs are combined and sent out Dante
channel 2. (There is no provision for creating a mon-
aural signal which is typically not an issue as other
connected Dante-enabled equipment can usually
perform such tasks.)
Metering
Two 7-step LED meters provide a real-time level
indication of the two audio output channels. Scaled
in dBFS (decibels referenced to full scale digital) the
meters o󰀨er a direct view of the signal levels as they
are transported in the digital domain via Dante. Opti-
mal audio performance requires transporting signals
at their proper levels — without an accurate indication
this can be di󰀩cult to achieve.
Ethernet Data and PoE
The Model 5204 connects to a data network using
a standard 100 Mb/s twisted-pair Ethernet interface.
The physical interconnection is made by way of a
Neutrik
®
etherCON RJ45 connector. While compat-
ible with standard RJ45 plugs, etherCON allows a
ruggedized and locking interconnection for harsh or
high-reliability environments. An LED displays the
status of the network connection.
The Model 5204’s operating power is provided by way
of the Ethernet interface using the Power-over-Eth-
ernet (PoE) standard. This allows fast and e󰀩cient
interconnection with the associated data network. To
support PoE power management, the Model 5204’s
PoE interface reports to the power sourcing equip-
ment (PSE) that it’s a class 3 (mid power) device.
An LED is provided to indicate when power is being
supplied to the Model 5204. Note that no provision has
been made to allow an external power source to be
connected. However, if the associated Ethernet switch
does not provide PoE capability a commonly-available
mid-span PoE power injector can be utilized.
Dedicated Charging Port (DCP)
A unique resource is the Model 5204’s dedicated
charging port. Using a standard USB type A recep-
tacle, the port has a 5 volt output with a maximum
current of approximately 1 amp. This nominally
5 watt output should be su󰀩cient to rapidly charge a
personal audio player, smartphone, or tablet device.
An auto-detect feature supports divider mode, short
mode, and 1.2 V/1.2 V charging modes. Besides
charging, the port can allow a connected device to
continuously send audio to the associated Dante
network without requiring an external power source.
Note that in this situation, interfacing a device with
the Model 5204 requires separate cables, one for the
analog audio source and one for powering/charging.
One note of interest: the dedicated charging port
derives its power from the Ethernet with Power-
over-Ethernet (PoE) connection. While the Mod-
el 5204’s audio and data circuitry takes very little
energy, the dedicated charging port can source up
to approximately 5 watts. As such, the Model 5204’s
Ethernet interface will identify itself to upstream power-
sourcing-equipment (PSE), typically an Ethernet
switch with integrated PoE, as a PoE class 3 powered
device (PD).

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Model 5204
DUAL LINE INPUT TO DANTE INTERFACE
Dante Audio-over-Ethernet
Audio data is sent from the Model 5204 using the
Dante Audio-over-Ethernet media networking technol-
ogy. As a Dante-compliant device, the Model 5204’s
two audio channels can be assigned to other devices
using the Dante Controller software application. Bit
depths of up to 24 and sample rates of 44.1, 48, 88.2,
and 96 kHz are supported. Two bi-color LEDs provide
an indication of the Dante connection status.
The Model 5204 uses Audinate’s UltimoX™ integrated
circuit for implementing Dante. The integrated circuit’s
rmware can be updated via the Ethernet connection,
helping to ensure that its capabilities remain up to
date.
The Model 5204 uses Audinate’s UltimoX™ integrated
circuit for implementing Dante. The integrated circuit’s
rmware can be updated via the Ethernet connection,
helping to ensure that its capabilities remain up to
date.
Getting Started
Included in the shipping carton are a Model 5204
Interface unit 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. Should a PoE midspan power
injector be required it must be purchased separately.
Mounting Options
There is no provision for directly mounting one or more
Model 5204 units in an equipment rack. However, the
overall height of the unit was carefully selected so that
it could be placed without interference on a single
space (1U) rack shelf. The Model 5204’s enclosure
width allows up to four units to be placed side-by-side
on a 1U shelf that’s mounted in a standard 19-inch
equipment rack. Hook-and-loop (“Velcro”) tape can be
used to secure the Model 5204 units to the shelf. A
set of mounting brackets is available to allow a Model
5204 to be attached to the underside of a desk, table,
broadcast set, or other at surface. Contact Studio
Technologies for details.
Connections
In this section, signal interconnections will be made
using the connectors located on the front and
back panel of the Model 5204. An Ethernet data
connection with Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) capability
will be made using either a standard RJ45 patch ca-
ble or an etherCON protected RJ45 plug. Line-level
signal sources will be connected using the 3.5 mm
jack associated with line input A and the 3-pin XLR
connectors associated with line input B. The USB
dedicated charging port can be connected to power
or charge an external device.
Ethernet Connection
A 100BASE-TX Ethernet connection that supports
Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) is required for Model
5204 operation. This one connection will provide
both the Ethernet data interface and power for the
Model 5204’s circuitry. A 10BASE-T connection is not
su󰀩cient and a 1000BASE-T (GigE) connection is not
supported unless it can automatically “fall back” to
100BASE-TX operation. For PoE switch (PSE) power
management the Model 5204 will enumerate itself as
a PoE class 3 device.
The Ethernet connection is made by way of a Neutrik
etherCON protected RJ45 connector that is located
on the back panel of the Model 5204. This allows
connection by way of a cable-mounted etherCON
plug or a standard RJ45 plug. The Model 5204’s Eth-
ernet interface supports auto MDI/MDI-X so that most
cabling implementations will be correctly supported.
Line Input A
Line input A is intended for connection with a 2-
channel (stereo) unbalanced line-level analog audio
signal source. This will typically be associated with
consumer and semi-professional devices such as
personal audio players, AV equipment, and tablet
and personal computers. These signals will typically
have a nominal level in the range of –15 to –10 dBu.
Devices are connected to line input A by way of a
3.5 mm 3-conductor jack located on the Model 5204’s
front panel. As is standard for 2-channel (stereo)
audio signals present on this type of connector chan-
nel 1 (left) is connected to the jack’s tip lead, channel
2 (right) to the jack’s ring lead, and the common con-
nection to the jack’s sleeve.
Line Input B
Line input B is intended for connection with two
balanced line-level analog audio signal sources
associated with professional audio and video equip-
ment. These will include devices such as audio con-
soles, video storage and playback systems, wireless

Issue 3, December 2023 Model 5204 User Guide
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DUAL LINE INPUT TO DANTE INTERFACE
microphone receivers, and audio testing equipment.
The audio quality is such that using line input B for
on-air broadcast or streaming applications would
be appropriate. The two channels associated with
line input B are analog, electronically balanced, and
capacitor coupled.
The Model 5204 provides two 3-pin female XLR con-
nectors for interfacing signals with line input B. Pin 2
on a mating connector (3-pin male XLR) should be
connected as signal + (high), pin 3 as signal – (low),
and pin 1 as common/shield. With an unbalanced
source connect signal + (high) to the pin 2 and signal
– (low/shield) to both pins 1 and 3.
USB Dedicated Charging Port
A USB type A receptacle is located on the back panel
of the Model 5204. It allows connection to a wide va-
riety of devices that obtain power for operation and/
or charging via USB. No data is transferred to or from
the Model 5204 with this connector, only power is pro-
vided. The dedicated charging port (DCP) is capable
of automatically enumerating (“handshaking”) with a
number of the popular device protocols. This allows
operation with most mobile phones, tablet computers,
and personal audio devices. Using the appropriate
cable, simply connect the dedicated charging port to
the selected device. Up to 5 watts of energy can be
delivered on a continuous basis. It’s possible that the
device being powered and/or charged is also serving
as the source of analog audio for line input A. In this
case, two interface cables will be used to link the
device with the Model 5204.
Dante Conguration
Several Model 5204’s Dante-related parameters
can be congured. These conguration settings will
be stored in nonvolatile memory within the Model
5204’s circuitry. Conguration 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 OS X
®
operating systems.
The Model 5204 uses the UltimoX 2-input/2-output
integrated circuit to implement the Dante architecture.
However, only the two transmitter (output) channels
are utilized. This dictates which parameters can be
congured and what choices are available. The Model
5204 is compatible with AES67 and the Dante Domain
Manager™ (DDM) software application. AES67
operation requires that a setting within Dante Con-
troller be enabled. For DDM operation please refer to
the specic DDM documentation for details on what
Model 5204 and related parameters may have to be
congured.
The two transmitter channels associated with the
Model 5204’s Dante interface must be assigned to the
desired receiver channels. Within Dante Controller a
“subscription” is the term used for routing a transmitter
ow (a group of output channels) to a receiver ow (a
group of input channels). Note that as of the writing of
this guide the number of transmitter ows associated
with an UltimoX integrated circuit is limited to two.
The Model 5204 will support audio sample rates of
44.1, 48, 88.2, and 96 kHz with a limited selection of
pull-up/pull-down values. The Model 5204 can serve
as the Leader clock for a Dante network but in most
cases it will “sync” to another device. (Note that when
operating in the AES67 mode, the Dante transmit-
ter (output) channels will function only in multicast;
unicast is not supported.)
The Model 5204 has a default Dante device name of
ST-M5204 and a unique su󰀩x. The su󰀩x identies the
specic Model 5204 that is being congured (it relates
to the MAC address of the UltimoX integrated circuit).
The two Dante transmitter channels have default
names of Ch1 and Ch2. Using Dante Controller the
default device and channel names can be revised as
appropriate for the specic application.
The Model 5204 can be configured for AES67
operation. This requires the AES67 Mode to be set
for Enabled. By default, AES67 mode is set for Dis-
abled. As previously mentioned, in the AES67 mode
the Dante transmitter (output) channels will function
in multicast; unicast is not supported.
Operation
At this point an Ethernet connection with Power-
over-Ethernet (PoE) capability should have been
made. The unit’s Dante conguration settings should
have been selected using Dante Controller software
application. At a minimum the Model 5204’s two Dan-
te transmitter channels should have been routed to
receiver channels on an associated device. Analog
signal source connections to line input A and line
input B should have been made as desired. A device

Model 5204 User Guide Issue 3, December 2023
Studio Technologies, Inc. Page 9
Model 5204
DUAL LINE INPUT TO DANTE INTERFACE
may have been connected to the USB dedicated
charging port. Normal operation of the Model 5204
can now begin.
Initial Operation
The Model 5204 will immediately begin to function
as soon as a Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) power
source is connected. At this time the USB dedicated
charging port will become functional. However, full
operation may take up to 20 seconds to begin. Upon
initial power up the four status LEDs located on the
back panel will begin to light. The meter LEDs on
the front panel will light in a test sequence. After the
meter LEDs complete their test sequence one meter
LED associated with channel 1 and one meter LED
associated with channel 2 will briey light to indicate
the version number of the unit’s rmware (embedded
software). (Understanding how to “read” the applica-
tion rmware number will be discussed in detail later
in this guide.) Once that sequence has completed
and the Dante connection has been established full
operation will begin.
Ethernet, PoE, and Dante Status
LEDs
Four status LEDs are located below the Ethernet con-
nector on the Model 5204’s back panel. The PoE LED
will light green to indicate that Power-over-Ethernet
(PoE) associated with the connected Ethernet signal
is providing operating power for the Model 5204. The
LINK/ACT LED will light green whenever an active
connection to a 100 Mb/s Ethernet network has been
established. It will ash in response to data packet ac-
tivity. The SYS and SYNC LEDs display the operating
status of the Dante interface and associated network.
The SYS LED will light red upon Model 5204 power
up to indicate that the Dante interface is not ready.
After a short interval it will light green to indicate that it
is ready to pass data with another Dante device. The
SYNC LED will light red when the Model 5204 is not
synchronized with a Dante network. It will light solid
green when the Model 5204 is synchronized with a
Dante network and an external clock source (timing
reference) is being received. It will slowly ash green
when the Model 5204 is part of a Dante network and
is serving as a Leader clock.
How to Identify a Specic
Model 5204
The Dante Controller software application o󰀨ers an
identify command that can be used to help locate a
specic Model 5204. When identify is selected for a
specic unit its meter LEDs will light in a unique pat-
tern. In addition, the SYS and SYNC LEDs, located
directly below the etherCON connector on the back
panel, will slowly ash green. After a few seconds the
LED identication patterns will cease and normal Mod-
el 5204 level meter and Dante status LED operation
will again take place.
Level Meters
Two 7-step LED meters will display the level of the two
Dante transmitter (output) channels. The meter steps
are calibrated in dBFS which indicates the number of
dB below the maximum possible digital signal level.
The maximum level, 0 dBFS, is the digital audio ref-
erence level equal to “full scale.” Full scale refers to
the maximum level possible for a sine wave before
“digital clipping.” In typical applications a signal level
of –20 dBFS would be the desired nominal (normal
average) value. The five meter steps that have a
threshold of –20 dBFS and less light with the color
green. The step that lights at –15 dBFS and great-
er is yellow in color and indicates a “hot” or above
average signal level. The top step lights red in color
when a signal levels is –5 dBFS or greater, indicating
that a potentially “clipped” (distorted due to excessive
level) signal is present.
Input A
The signal connected to the tip (left channel) connec-
tion of line input A’s 3.5 mm jack is associated with
Dante transmitter (output) channel 1. The ring (right
channel) connection of the 3.5 mm jack is associated
with Dante transmitter channel 2. The push-in/push-out
rotary control adjusts the input level of both channels
of line input A. In its fully counterclockwise position
the input signal are essentially o󰀨 (muted). Adjust the
control such that normal input signals will cause the
ve green LEDs to light. Peak signals can cause the
yellow LED to light on occasion. But the yellow LED
should never be continuously lit. The red LED should
never light, except possibly in the case of an extreme
peak. The red LED lighting on a regular basis indicates
that the signal level is at risk of reaching digital 0
(0 dBFS) which is destructive to audio quality.

Issue 3, December 2023 Model 5204 User Guide
Page 10 Studio Technologies, Inc.
Model 5204
DUAL LINE INPUT TO DANTE INTERFACE
Input B
The signal connected to line input B’s channel 1 3-pin
female XLR connector is associated with Dante trans-
mitter (output) channel 1. The signal connected to line
input B’s channel 2 XLR connector is associated with
Dante transmitter (output) channel 2. The push-in/
push-out rotary control adjusts the input level of both
channels of line input B. In its fully counterclockwise
position the input signals are essentially o󰀨 (muted).
Adjust the control such that normal input signals will
cause the ve green LEDs to light. Peak signals can
cause the yellow LED to light on occasion. But the
yellow LED should never be continuously lit. The red
LED should never light, except possibly in the case of
an extreme peak. The red LED lighting on a regular
basis indicates that the signal level is at risk of reaching
digital 0 (0 dBFS) which is destructive to audio quality.
Line Inputs A & B Combine
It’s important to highlight that the Model 5204’s two
2-channel line inputs (A and B) combine in the ana-
log domain. In e󰀨ect the Model 5204 is a dual-input
2-channel (stereo) mixer and Dante converter. A signal
present on channel 1 (left) of line input A and a signal
present on channel 1 of line input B will combine (mix
together or sum) after (“post”) the two level controls.
This combined signal is routed to the analog-to-digital
converter circuitry and on to the Dante transmitter
(output) for channel 1. A signal present on channel 2
(right) of line input A and a signal present on channel 2
of line input B will combine (mix together or sum) after
(“post”) the two level controls. This combined signal is
routed to the analog-to-digital converter circuitry and
on to the Dante transmitter (output) for channel 2. But
note that no monaural version of the input signals is
created.
USB Dedicated Charging Port
There are no special instructions when using the dedi-
cated charging port. Simply connect the desired device
and the function will typically automatically start. The
only limitations will be with the port’s 5 volt, 1 ampere
(5 watt) maximum power supply capability. A connect-
ed device that requires more energy for operation may
not enumerate (handshake or negotiate) successfully.
No damage will occur in this case.
There are no LEDs or performance indicators or
conguration settings associated with the dedicated
charging port. It’s really just a “plug-in and go” feature.
Technical Notes
IP Address Assignment
By default the Model 5204’s Ethernet interface will
attempt to obtain an IP address and associated set-
tings using DHCP (Dynamic Host Conguration Pro-
tocol). If a DHCP server is not detected an IP address
will be assigned using the link-local protocol. This
protocol is known in the Microsoft
®
world as Automatic
Private IP Addressing (APIPA). It is also sometimes
referred to as auto-IP (PIPPA). Link-local will assign
an IP address in the IPv4 range of 169.254.0.1 to
169.254.255.254. In this way, multiple Dante-enabled
devices can be connected together and automatically
function, whether or not a DHCP server is active on
the LAN. Even two Dante-enabled devices that are
directly interconnected using an RJ45 patch cord will
correctly acquire IP addresses and be able to com-
municate and transport audio.
Using the Dante Controller software application the
Model 5204’s IP address and related network parame-
ters can be set for a xed (“static”) conguration. While
this is more involved than letting DHCP or link-local
“do their thing,” if xed addressing is necessary then
that capability is available. In this case, it’s highly
recommended that each unit be physically marked,
e.g., directly using a permanent marker or “console
tape,” with its specic IP address. If knowledge of a
Model 5204’s IP address has been misplaced there
is no reset button or other method to 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 personal computer
connected directly to the Model 5204. Then by using
the appropriate ARP command the required “clues”
can be obtained.
For best Dante audio-over-Ethernet performance a
network that supports VoIP QoS capability is rec-
ommended. This can typically be implemented on
virtually all contemporary managed Ethernet switch-
es. There are even specialized switches that are

Model 5204 User Guide Issue 3, December 2023
Studio Technologies, Inc. Page 11
Model 5204
DUAL LINE INPUT TO DANTE INTERFACE
optimized for entertainment-associated applications.
Refer to the Audinate website (audinate.com) for
details on optimizing networks for Dante applications.
Updating Main Application
Firmware
The Model 5204 uses a Freescale HCS-08-series
microcontroller (MCU) integrated circuit to run its
main application firmware (embedded software).
The rmware is loaded into and stored in the MCU’s
nonvolatile memory by way of a stand-alone hard-
ware programmer unit that interfaces with a header
connector located on the unit’s motherboard. This
rmware programming is done at the factory at the
time of manufacture using a Cyclone Pro or Cyclone
Universal stand-alone programmer unit from P&E
Micro (pemicro.com). There is no provision for up-
dates of the application rmware to easily be per-
formed in the eld. Unlike some of the other Studio
Technologies’ Dante-enabled products, the Model
5204 does not have a USB interface for firmware
updating. This is because of the Model 5204’s simple,
well-dened functionality and commensurate limited-
resource MCU.
It’s possible that updated versions of the Model 5204’s
application rmware will be released. This could be
due to software bug xes or feature improvements.
It’s expected that in most cases Model 5204 units will
be returned to the factory should this rmware need to
be loaded. This would be true unless a user, reseller,
or distributor has access to an appropriate stand-
alone programmer unit. For reference the Studio
Technologies’ website will make available the latest
version of the Model 5204’s application rmware le
along with a text description le. Contact the factory
for additional details.
UltimoX Firmware Update
As previously discussed, the Model 5204 implements
Dante connectivity using the 2-input/2-output UltimoX
integrated circuit from Audinate. The Dante Controller
software application can be used to determine the
version of the rmware (embedded software) residing
in the UltimoX “chip.” This rmware can be updated
by way of the Model 5204’s Ethernet connection. The
latest Dante rmware le is available on the Studio
Technologies’ website. The Dante Firmware Update
Manager application is used to install the rmware.
This program is also available for download on the
Studio Technologies’ website.
Identifying the Firmware Version
Number
As previously discussed, upon power up the meter
LEDs are used to briey display the version number of
the Model 5204’s rmware (embedded software). This
information is typically only necessary when working
with the factory on support issues. The meter LEDs
will rst go through a display sequence followed by
an approximately 1-second period where the version
number will be indicated. The top row of seven LEDs
will display the major version number with a range of
1 to 7. The bottom row of seven LEDs will display the
minor version number with a range of 1 to 7. Refer to
Figure 2 for details.
Identifying the Firmware Version
Number
As previously discussed, upon power up the meter
LEDs are used to briey display the version number of
the Model 5202’s rmware (embedded software). This
information is typically only necessary when working
with the factory on support issues. The meter LEDs
will rst go through a display sequence followed by
an approximately 1-second period where the version
number will be indicated. The top row of seven LEDs
will display the major version number with a range of
1 to 7. The bottom row of seven LEDs will display the
minor version number with a range of 1 to 7. Refer to
Figure 2 for details.

Issue 3, December 2023 Model 5204 User Guide
Page 12 Studio Technologies, Inc.
Model 5204
DUAL LINE INPUT TO DANTE INTERFACE
Figure 2. Detail of front panel showing the LEDs that display the rmware version.
In this example, the version shown is 1.3.
Major Version Number
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
lOOO O OO
OOlO O OO
.1 .2 .3 .4 .5 .6 .7
Minor Version Number

Model 5204 User Guide Issue 3, December 2023
Studio Technologies, Inc. Page 13
Model 5204
DUAL LINE INPUT TO DANTE INTERFACE
Specications
Network Audio Technology:
Type: Dante Audio-over-Ethernet
AES67-2018 Support: yes, selectable on/o󰀨
Dante Domain Manager (DDM) Support: yes
Bit Depth: up to 24
Sample Rates: 44.1, 48, 88.2, and 96 kHz
Number of Transmitter (Output) Channels: 2
Dante Audio Flows: 2 transmitter
Analog to Digital Equivalence: a +4 dBu input with
0 dB gain selected results in a Dante digital output level
of –20 dBFS
Network Interface:
Type: twisted-pair Ethernet with Power-over-Ethernet
(PoE)
Data Rate: 100 Mb/s (10 Mb/s Ethernet not supported)
Power: Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) per IEEE 802.3af
class 3 (mid power, ≤12.95 watts)
General Audio Parameters:
Frequency Response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz, ±0.5 dB,
line input B to Dante
Distortion (THD+N): 0.01%, measured at 1 kHz,
+4 dBu, line input B to Dante
Dynamic Range: >100 dB, A-weighted, line input B
to Dante
Line Input A:
Type: 2-channel (“stereo”) unbalanced, capacitor-
coupled
Input Impedance: 10 k ohms
Nominal Level: adjustable using rotary level control,
–3 dBu @ 100% rotation
Maximum Level: +10 dBu
Line Input B:
Type: 2-channel (“stereo”) electronically balanced,
capacitor-coupled
Input Impedance: 20 k ohms
Nominal Level: adjustable using rotary level control,
+11 dBu @ 100% rotation
Maximum Level: +24 dBu
Meters: 2
Function: displays level of Dante output signals
Type: 7-segment LED, modied VU ballistics
Dedicated Charging Port:
Function: powering and charging of connected
devices; no data interface
Output (Nominal): 5 volts DC, 1 amp (5 watts)
Compatibility: auto-detect supports divider mode,
short mode, and 1.2 V/1.2 V charging modes
Connectors:
Ethernet: Neutrik etherCON RJ45
Line Input A: 3-conductor (“stereo”) 3.5 mm jack
Line Input B: 2, 3-pin female XLR
Dedicated Charging Port: USB type A receptacle
Dimensions (Overall):
4.2 inches wide (10.7 cm)
1.7 inches high (4.3 cm)
5.1 inches deep (13.0 cm)
Mounting Option: MBK-02 Mounting Bracket Kit
Weight: 0.8 pounds (0.35 kg)
Specications and information contained in this
User Guide subject to change without notice.