Klark Teknik DN9680 - 8-Port AES50 Extender and Multiplexer with 3280FT Range in Silver Finish

The Klark Teknik DN9680 is a highly versatile and robust AES50 extender and multiplexer designed to expand the range and functionality of AES50 digital audio networks. This unit is ideal for live sound applications, studio recording, and broadcast environments where high channel counts and long-distance connectivity are crucial. The DN9680 can multiplex up to eight AES50 connections, providing 192 bidirectional channels of audio. These channels can be transmitted over a single optical fibre cable or CAT5 copper cable, greatly simplifying the setup of long-haul cable connections by combining multiple AES50 streams into one snake cable. It supports distances of up to 1,000 meters with optical fibre or 100 meters with CAT5 copper, ensuring flexible and reliable connectivity even in large or complex setups.

The DN9680 acts as both a bidirectional multiplexer and demultiplexer, combining multiple AES50 streams into a single outgoing connection and simultaneously unbundling incoming audio streams to route them to their corresponding AES50 ports. This allows the use of a single snake system that seamlessly transmits multiple channels over long distances, with a minimal propagation delay of just 250 microseconds. The device is compatible with single-mode dual fibre cable as standard, while the optional DN9680-MM upgrade kit provides support for multimode dual fibre cables, extending the range to 500 meters. This flexibility makes the DN9680 suitable for a wide range of digital audio systems that require high-quality, long-distance AES50 transmission.

With support for 96 kHz sample rates, the DN9680 offers an impressive channel capacity of 192 bidirectional channels at 96 kHz, ensuring it can handle large-scale audio operations with ease. The device also features an internal "AES Grade 1" temperature-compensated word clock oscillator with 1 ppm stability, providing highly accurate clock synchronization for both AES50 and third-party network domains. This precision clocking is essential for maintaining audio integrity over long distances, minimizing jitter and clocking errors that can degrade sound quality. The DN9680 offers multiple clock synchronization options, including AES50, external clock sources, and snake clock signals, giving users complete control over their network's synchronization setup.

In addition to its powerful audio capabilities, the DN9680 features an onboard web server that allows users to configure the device via a web browser, eliminating the need for multiple control applications and operating system compatibility concerns. This web interface makes it easy to configure clock sources, sample rates, and snake options directly from any device with internet access. The front panel of the DN9680 includes status LED indicators for AES50, network synchronization, and clock source settings, providing real-time feedback on the device's operation. Additionally, the alphanumeric LCD display allows for easy labeling of individual units, which is essential in large-scale systems with multiple DN9680 units.

Built to withstand the rigors of live concert touring, the DN9680 is housed in a rugged 1U rackmount chassis that is both durable and portable. Premium Neutrik etherCON connectors are used for AES50 network ports and copper snake connections, ensuring reliable operation in demanding environments. The dual-fibre Neutrik opticalCON DUO connector enables a bidirectional optical link on a single multimode fibre cable, making the DN9680 an ideal solution for long-distance audio transmission with minimal setup. The unit is powered by an auto-ranging universal switch-mode power supply, ensuring compatibility with global power systems.

The DN9680 provides a comprehensive solution for expanding AES50 networks and bridging the distance gap between digital audio devices, offering high channel capacity, flexible connectivity options, and reliable performance. It is the perfect choice for professionals seeking to build large, high-quality AES50 networks for live sound, studio, or broadcast applications, while ensuring long-distance audio transmission with minimal signal degradation.

Features

• Multiplexes up to 8 AES50 connections into a single optical fibre or CAT5 cable
• Extends AES50 connections up to 1,000 meters with optical fibre or 100 meters with CAT5 cable
• Supports 192 bidirectional channels at 96 kHz, ensuring high-capacity audio transmission
• Bidirectional multiplexer and demultiplexer for seamless routing of AES50 streams
• Minimal propagation delay of 250 microseconds for transparent operation
• Internal "AES Grade 1" temperature-compensated word clock with 1 ppm stability for precise clock synchronization
• Compatible with single-mode and multimode dual fibre cables with optional DN9680-MM upgrade kit
• Flexible clock synchronization options, including AES50, external clock sources, and snake clock
• Onboard web server for browser-based configuration via Ethernet control port
• Status LED indicators and alphanumeric LCD display for monitoring device performance and network status
• Neutrik etherCON connectors for AES50 ports and copper snake connections, ensuring reliable and secure connections
• Rugged 1U rackmount chassis designed for live concert touring environments
• Universal auto-ranging switch-mode power supply for worldwide use
• Dimensions: 19 x 16.1 x 1.75 inches, Net Weight: 10.8 lbs, Shipping Weight: 15.2 lbs
• Operating temperature range: +5°C to +45°C, Storage temperature range: -20°C to +60°C

Specifications

Inputs and Outputs

• Audio: 8 x AES50 etherCON ports with integral status LEDs
• Snake (options): 1 x copper snake (cable can be up to 100 m long)
• 1 x optical snake (cable can be up to 1000 m long)
• Unit configuration port: 1 x Ethernet control port for RJ45 connector
• Mains power inlet: 3-pin IEC connector

DN9680 General

• Dimensions: 19 x 16.1 x 1.75 inches
• Net weight: 10.8 lbs
• Shipping weight: 15.2 lbs
• Power consumption: 50 W
• Power requirement: 110-240 V~, 50-60 Hz
• Operating temperature range: +5°C to +45°C
• Storage temperature range: -20°C to +60°C