Focusrite has announced RedNet, a new professional audio networking system. Launching with five brand new products and comprehensive control software, it delivers all the features required for a professional studio environment.

At RedNet's heart is the tried-and-tested digital audio networking technology Dante by Audinate, developer of high-quality media networking. Dante uses conventional IP-based Ethernet switches to carry up to 256 channels (128 inputs and 128 outputs) of high-resolution digital audio over a single, standard Ethernet network. RedNet provides extremely low latency: under three milliseconds analogue-to-analogue at any sample rate when using the optional Focusrite RedNet PCIe card. Dante has been in use for some time in the live sound field where it's deployed at major events, and live systems are routinely tested for up to a week without the loss of a single sample.

Now, Focusrite brings Dante to the studio as part of a complete, scalable system with a range of high quality digital audio interfaces and components. These provide a diversity of input and output options, with the simplicity and practicalities of Ethernet connectivity. What's more, RedNet is non-proprietary, meaning it will work with any ASIO- or Core Audio-compliant DAW, including Pro Tools 9, Logic and Nuendo.

RedNet interfaces can operate alongside any supported PC or Mac with an Ethernet port (including laptops), using Audinate's Dante Virtual Soundcard (DVS) driver, meaning portable RedNet rigs can be configured. However, Focusrite's RedNet PCIe card, which features its own, single Ethernet socket, is dedicated to communicating with the RedNet network. It's the technology on this card that yields the extremely low latencies that make RedNet the "ultimate" studio upgrade.

Each RedNet I/O device includes JetPLL jitter-elimination technology, and delivers dynamic range of 120dB, with 24-bit resolution at sample rates up to 192kHz. RedNet is the embodiment of the traditional Focusrite ethos: providing the high performance of today's most advanced digital conversion designs alongside pristine analogue circuitry and implementation, with "exceptional value for money" and "stunning styling".

Key System Features:

• 24-bit operation at up to 192kHz sampling rates.
• Very low latency: under 3ms at any sample rate (when using RedNet PCIe card).
• Up to 128 inputs and 128 outputs.
• Superb audio quality with a dynamic range of 120dB.
• Reliable and robust: Dante technology uses standard networking components.
• JetPLL technology provides ultra-low jitter in all RedNet I/O devices.
• Units are hot-swappable, detected and configured automatically on plug-in.
• Included RedNet software provides easy system configuration and control.

The RedNet range will initially comprise five products:

RedNet 1: Eight-channel A-D/D-A Interface:

• Provides eight analogue inputs and outputs.
• Front-panel status and signal LED indicators.
• Analogue I/O on DB25 connectors.

RedNet 2: 16-channel A-D/D-A Interface:

• Provides 16 analogue inputs and outputs.
• Front-panel status and signal LED indicators.
• Analogue I/O on DB25 connectors.

RedNet 3: Digital I/O Interface:

• Provides 32 digital inputs and outputs.
• Up to 32 channels of ADAT I/O at up to 96kHz (up to 16 channels at 192kHz).
• Up to 8 channels of AES/EBU I/O (replaces one ADAT interface).
• Stereo S/PDIF I/O (replaces one AES/EBU interface).

RedNet 4: Eight-channel Mic/Line Input Interface:

• Eight Mic/Line inputs for RedNet (XLRs for Mic inputs, DB25 for Line inputs).
• Eight professional, remote-controllable Focusrite microphone preamps.
• Hi-Z instrument inputs on channels 1+2.
• Gain Range: 63dB (0 to 63dB with -8dB pad; 1dB steps from +8dB to +63dB).
• Front-panel controls plus comprehensive software for remote operation.

RedNet PCIe Card:

• Required for lowest latency performance, such as tracking.
• Delivers 128 inputs and 128 outputs with less than 3ms latency.
• Supports sample rates up to 192kHz.
• Fits into any PC or Mac with a PCI Express card slot.

Pricing and release dates have not yet been announced.