Studio Technologies Model 381 On-Air Beltpack

What is the Studio Technologies M381 On-Air Beltpack?
The Studio Technologies M381 On-Air Beltpack leverages advanced Dante® audio-over-Ethernet technology to offer a superior broadcasting solution. It is engineered to facilitate a full-fledged broadcast 'stand-up' on-air position seamlessly. This unit integrates main and talkback output channels, talent cue (IFB) input, and sidetone features into a compact and portable device. Ensuring compatibility with Dante Domain Manager™ and AES67 standards, it serves as an ideal component for contemporary networked audio setups.

Optimized Applications
Designed specifically for high-demand environments like broadcast sports, eSports, and live entertainment, the Model 381 excels in delivering pro audio quality and intuitive control. This device enables effortless deployment using just a Power-over-Ethernet connection, a microphone (either dynamic or phantom-powered), and a listening device such as headphones or an earpiece. The STcontroller software further refines its functionality by allowing detailed customization of operational parameters.

Setup and Ease of Use
Setting up the Model 381 is straightforward. It connects through an etherCON® RJ45 jack to any standard Ethernet port on a PoE-enabled network switch. This setup not only powers the unit but also handles all audio data transmission bidirectionally. Users can easily adjust their experience using the dual rotary controls that manage the talent cue levels for the headphone output, ensuring precise audio feedback and control during live broadcasts.

Advanced Ethernet and Power Configurations
The Model 381 employs a 100BASE-TX Ethernet interface for network connectivity and utilizes Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) to simplify its installation and reduce cable clutter. This feature underlines the unit's ability to integrate smoothly into existing network infrastructures while being recognized as a low power device by power sourcing equipment, ensuring efficient power management.

Superior Audio Quality and Flexibility
At the heart of the Model 381's impeccable performance are its sophisticated audio processing capabilities. It includes a low-noise, high dynamic range microphone preamplifier and a compressor circuit, which together ensure that the audio quality is maintained at optimal levels with minimal distortion. The digital handling of audio signals allows for flexible routing and control, enhancing both the input and output audio streams.

Configuration Choices
The flexibility of the Model 381 is one of its strongest features. Users can choose from multiple settings for microphone gain, phantom power, and headphone output, among others. The configuration is managed via the STcontroller software, which eliminates the need for mechanical adjustments and simplifies setup. The ability to tailor the device's operation makes it suitable for a wide range of professional audio needs.