Focusrite RedNet MP8R 8-Channel Remote-Controlled Dante Microphone Preamp

Overview

The Focusrite RedNet MP8R is an eight-channel remote-controlled microphone preamplifier and A-D interface designed for Dante audio-over-IP networks. Built in a rugged 1U rackmount chassis, it combines high-quality Focusrite microphone preamps, precision 24-bit/192kHz A-D conversion, redundant networking, and dual power supplies for demanding professional applications.

Designed with recording studios, broadcast facilities, post-production environments, and live sound systems in mind, the RedNet MP8R provides flexible remote control and a unique automatic gain compensation system. Each microphone input can provide both a direct feed and a gain-compensated feed, making digital microphone splitting practical for FOH, monitor, broadcast, and recording workflows.

Key Features

• 8-channel remote-controlled Focusrite microphone preamplifier and A-D interface
• Dante audio-over-IP networking with up to 24-bit/192kHz operation
• Gain range from 10dB to 65dB in 1dB steps
• Two selectable microphone input impedances: 2.4kΩ and 10kΩ
• +48V phantom power independently switchable per channel
• Independently switchable 20dB pad on every input
• Independently switchable high-pass filter on every channel
• Polarity inversion available per channel
• Automatic gain compensation for flexible digital signal splitting
• Dual redundant Ethernet connections
• Dual internal power supplies with independent fault monitoring
• Remote control through RedNet Control, Pro Tools, MIDI, and OCA
• 6-segment LED metering for all eight channels
• OLED display for gain and system information
• Rugged 1U all-metal rackmount construction

Eight Focusrite Microphone Preamps

The RedNet MP8R features eight high-performance Focusrite microphone preamps with a 10dB to 65dB gain range. Each channel provides selectable 2.4kΩ or 10kΩ input impedance, allowing the preamps to accommodate a wide variety of microphones and multi-preamp configurations.

The inputs support signals up to +29dBu with the pad engaged, while the preamps deliver low noise and high dynamic range. With a typical EIN of -129dBu A-weighted and a typical signal-to-noise ratio of 118dB A-weighted, the MP8R is designed for clean and detailed microphone capture.

Flexible Input Processing

Each microphone channel includes individually controllable +48V phantom power, a 20dB pad, high-pass filtering, and polarity inversion. These controls can be adjusted locally from the front panel or remotely, giving engineers practical control over microphone signals without needing to access the rack unit directly.

Automatic Gain Compensation

One of the RedNet MP8R's key advantages is its automatic gain compensation architecture. Each preamp produces two network outputs: one direct feed and one automatically compensated feed. This allows the analogue microphone gain to be controlled by one engineer while another receives a stable-level signal.

This makes the MP8R particularly useful for digital splits between front-of-house and monitor engineers, broadcast and recording teams, or other workflows where multiple users need the same microphone source without one engineer's gain adjustments affecting another feed.

High-Resolution A-D Conversion

Each microphone preamp is followed by a precision A-D converter supporting up to 24-bit/192kHz operation. The converter path is designed for low latency, wide frequency response, and accurate transfer of microphone signals into the Dante network.

Remote Control and Monitoring

RedNet MP8R provides extensive remote control through RedNet Control software, allowing engineers to manage preamp gain and channel settings from a connected computer. The unit can also be controlled through Pro Tools, MIDI, or Open Control Architecture for integration with professional control systems.

For local operation, the front panel provides six-segment level meters for all eight channels, dedicated status indicators, and an OLED display showing input gain and system information.

Redundant Dante Networking

Two locking etherCON network connections provide flexible Dante integration. Redundant mode allows the MP8R to connect to two independent networks for increased system resilience, while switched mode uses the integrated network switch to support daisy-chaining of compatible Dante devices.

Dual Power Supplies

Two independent internal power supplies provide additional reliability for critical-path applications. Separate IEC power inputs and front-panel status indicators allow engineers to monitor both supplies, while remote monitoring can also report power-supply status and faults.

Rugged Professional Construction

The RedNet MP8R is built for demanding professional environments, with an all-metal 1U chassis, locking etherCON network connections, Neutrik XLR microphone connectors, and secure power connections. Its rugged construction makes it suitable for permanent installations as well as touring and mobile production systems.

Typical Uses

• Professional recording studios
• Live sound microphone preamplification
• FOH and monitor engineer microphone splits
• Broadcast and television production
• Post-production facilities
• Dante audio-over-IP installations
• Remote microphone preamp systems
• Multi-room studio recording
• Touring and mobile production systems
• Critical-path audio systems requiring redundant power and networking

Specifications

• Type: 8-channel remote-controlled microphone preamp and A-D interface
• Network: Dante audio-over-IP
• Microphone Inputs: 8 x female XLR
• Gain Range: 10dB to 65dB in 1dB steps
• Input Impedance: 2.4kΩ / 10kΩ switchable
• Maximum Input Level: +29dBu ±0.5dB
• Minimum Input Level: -46dBu ±0.5dB
• Phantom Power: +48V, independently switchable per channel
• Pad: -20dB, independently switchable per channel
• High-Pass Filter: -6dB at 65Hz, 12dB/octave
• Frequency Response: 20Hz–40kHz ±0.1dB
• EIN: -129dBu A-weighted typical
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 118dB A-weighted typical
• THD+N: -98dB typical at -1dBFS
• Sample Rates: 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4 and 192kHz
• Resolution: 24-bit
• Clock Sources: Internal or Dante Network Master
• Network Connections: 2 x locking etherCON, compatible with standard RJ45
• Network Modes: Redundant or Switched
• Power Supplies: 2 x internal
• Power Inputs: 2 x IEC
• Rack Format: 1U, 19-inch

What's Included

• Focusrite RedNet MP8R
• 2 x IEC AC Mains Cables
• 2 x IEC Mains Cable Retaining Clips
• Safety Information Sheet
• RedNet Getting Started Guide
• Product Registration Card

Why Choose the Focusrite RedNet MP8R?

The Focusrite RedNet MP8R combines eight high-quality remote-controlled microphone preamps with precision A-D conversion and Dante networking in a rugged 1U chassis. Its automatic gain compensation, flexible input controls, dual network connections, redundant power supplies, and comprehensive remote control make it a practical solution for professional recording, live sound, broadcast, and other critical-path audio systems.