Interfaces - xNodes

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A short history lesson. Back in 2003, when we first sprang the idea of real-time, uncompressed audio running on a standard Ethernet backbone, everyone applauded — with the world becoming ever more networked and IP-centric, IP-Audio was an idea whose time had come. What broadcasters needed was a way to get audio from legacy devices into the AoIP realm. So we invented Axia Audio Nodes to interface studio audio devices with Livewire networks. And the networked studio design they enabled revolutionized the way broadcast facilities are built.

Introducing xNodes. xNodes are the new generation of light, half-rack, high-performance IP-Audio interfaces. They're loaded with advanced new features and capabilities. They're so advanced, in fact, that they practically configure themselves. They're fanless, which means they're noiseless too; you can put them in any studio. They have a versatile mounting arrangement that lets you deploy two xNodes in just 1RU of rack space, as well as by themselves on ceilings, walls or under counters with the available wall-mount kit. They've got even better audio performance specs than our original Audio Nodes (and those were nothing to sneeze at). They even have managed power options and dual network interfaces for redundant operation.

Five flavors to choose from. Broadcast studios have a mixture of different audio signal types, so there are a variety of xNodes to match.

Analogue

    Analog xNodes have 8 mono or 4 stereo balanced line-level inputs and 8 mono or 4 stereo balanced line-level outputs, on RJ-45 and DB-25 connectors. Each input is switchable to accommodate either consumer-level -10dBv or professional level +4dBu sources. Short-circuit protected outputs can deliver up to +24dBu before clipping. Axia uses only studio-grade A/D/A converters and low-noise components.

AES

    AES/EBU xNodes have 4 AES/EBU inputs and 4 AES/EBU outputs. Left and right input signals may be split and routed independently as mono signals. Audio is everything to us, so performance specs are stunning: 48 kHz sampling rate, 126dB of dynamic range, and <0.0003% THD. Sample rate conversion is available on all inputs; the unit can also be synchronized to a house clock to provide sync for your entire Axia network.

GPIO

    You've got the audio in the system — what about machine control? GPIO xNodes provide 6 general-purpose logic ports for control of studio peripherals. Audio devices, loudspeaker muting relays, signal lamps, etc. Each port has 5 opto-isolated inputs and 5 outputs. A logic port can be associated with any audio input or output. It's transparent: logic always follows audio in an Axia network, so control is routed right along with your source material.

Microphone

    Microphone xNodes have four professional-grade microphone preamps with selectable Phantom power and software-adjustable gain. There are also four balanced analog line outputs to conveniently deliver headphone and studio monitor feeds back to your talent. Like the Analog and AES xNodes, inputs and outputs are presented both on easy-to-install RJ-45s and high-density DB-25s, to suit your connection preference.

Mixed

    The Mixed-Signal xNode is your utility player; perfect for places that require a mix of different audio I/O types. It provides 1 selectable Mic/Line analog input, 2 dedicated analog line inputs, 3 analog line outputs, 1 digital AES3 input and 1 AES3 output, and 2 GPIO ports. It's  truly a "jack of all trades," and master of them all.

    Microphone xNodes have four professional-grade microphone preamps with selectable Phantom power and software-adjustable gain. There are also four balanced analog line outputs to conveniently deliver headphone and studio monitor feeds back to your talent. Like the Analog and AES xNodes, inputs and outputs are presented both on easy-to-install RJ-45s and high-density DB-25s, to suit your connection preference.