The Model 385 Mic/Intercom Beltpack combines a high-performance microphone preamplifier with a 1-talk/2-listen intercom interface. It is designed specifically for use by audio personnel who operate parabolic microphones, boom poles, or other specialized microphones to gather audio content for broadcast and live-event applications. Housed in a convenient beltpack form-factor, the lightweight unit supports the Dante audio-over-Ethernet standard and is powered by Power over Ethernet (PoE). The portable Model 385 offers a unique combination of on-air microphone and intercom audio resources. Supporting Dante audio-over-Ethernet networking, it allows direct integration into contemporary fixed and mobile broadcast environments. With the inherent interoperability of Dante, the Model 385 can be used with other Studio Technologies’ Dante-enabled products or a multitude of devices from many other manufacturers. For maximum flexibility, the Model 385 is compatible with the Dante Domain Manager™ (DDM) software application and is AES67-compliant.

Using a standard 3-pin XLR connector, a dynamic or condenser microphone can be connected to the Model 385’s main microphone input. To support condenser microphones, a P48 phantom power source can be enabled. A low-noise, low-distortion microphone preamplifier circuit offers adjustable gain over a range of 19 to 64 dB in 3-dB steps. The analog audio from the preamplifier is converted to 24-bit digital and then output by way of a Dante digital-audio transmitter (output) channel. If enabled, a digitally controlled analog limiter function will help control the dynamic range of the signal associated with the connected main microphone.

A broadcast headset can be connected using a 5-pin XLR connector. The input circuitry for the headset’s microphone offers adjustable gain, as well as a source of low-voltage (“electret”) DC power. The output of the headset’s microphone preamplifier is sent out a second Dante transmitter (output) channel in response to the action of a pushbutton switch. This serves as the intercom talk channel and can be integrated with other Dante-enabled intercom beltpacks and related devices.

Up to four audio sources can be combined (“mixed”), then routed to the headset’s 2-channel headphone output. Three “push-in/push-out” (“pop-out”) rotary controls allow a user to adjust the listen levels associated with the output of the main microphone preamplifier and the audio signals that arrive by way of the unit’s two Dante receiver (input) channels. These audio signals are typically associated with intercom or other Dante-supporting audio equipment. It would be typical for one intercom and one program audio source to be supplied to the Model 385.

The fourth “listen” source is audio from the headset’s microphone preamplifier. This is referred to as sidetone and can be sent, at a fixed level, to the headset’s headphone outputs as a user confirmation signal. The ability of the user to create a custom headphone mix helps to ensure that they can effectively perform their role in a broadcast production.

The Model 385 is optimized for broadcast sports and live-entertainment events. The unit’s audio quality is excellent, with low distortion, low noise, and high headroom. Careful circuit design and rugged components ensure long-term, reliable operation. Needing only a Power over Ethernet (PoE) connection, a dynamic or phantom-powered microphone, and a single- or dual-ear broadcast headset, the unit is ready for fast “on-air” deployment while maintaining “pro” audio quality and an intuitive user experience. An integral belt clip on the unit’s aluminum enclosure allows convenient placement on the clothing of broadcast personnel.

The STcontroller software application, available free of charge from Studio Technologies, is used for configuring the Model 385's operating parameters, including main microphone preamplifier gain, P48 phantom power on/off, limiter on/off, headset microphone electret power on/off, headset microphone preamp gain, headset headphone signal routing, sidetone operation, and talkback button action. The Model 385 can be used as part of STcontroller's VenueView event monitoring capabilities.