AMS Neve StarNet DM256

A powerful, high channel count, MADI to Dante and Dante to MADI digital audio format converter housed in a 1U 19” rack chassis.

Los Angeles, CA. 25th January 2024 – Neve®, a leading innovator in audio technology, announces the launch of the StarNet DM256 at NAMM 2024. The DM256 is a compact and professional unit, redefining format conversion in recording studios, live sound venues, and broadcast/post-production suites.

Unleashing Unparalleled Power

The StarNet DM256 showcases its prowess by effortlessly converting up to 256 channels of Dante®, Rx to 256 channels of MADI Tx and vice versa. With the integration of Dante IP core technology, this powerhouse enables an expansive I/O count through a single ethernet connection, setting a new benchmark in audio technology.

A Digital Symphony of Features

Boasting one of the largest digital I/O counts on the market, the StarNet DM256 accommodates 256 channels of MADI inputs and outputs across four MADI ports. These ports feature duplex MADI SC optical connections and dual-BNC coaxial connections, meeting and exceeding professional MADI standards outlined by the Audio Engineering Society.

Precision in Every Beat

The StarNet DM256 incorporates a modern, low-drift crystal oscillator clocking system and PLL, positioning itself as the ultimate master clock in any professional studio environment. Dante connections are facilitated through dual ethernet ports, offering redundancy for network failure resilience or daisy-chaining capabilities in switched mode.

Masterful Control and Monitoring

Equipped with a Maximum Channel Mapping (MCM) feature, the DM256 ensures seamless multiplexing of MADI I/O assignments per port, maintaining session integrity during sample rate switches. The unit’s front-mounted OLED screen provides at-a-glance access to crucial network settings, sample rate, bit depth, and more.

Elevated Longevity

Crafted with an external PSU design, the StarNet DM256 efficiently dissipates heat, safeguarding internal components for an extended lifespan. This design consideration underscores Neve’s commitment to delivering robust and reliable audio solutions.

Chris Bloor, Engineering Manager at AMS Neve says:

“The DM256 not only redefines format conversion but sets a new standard for versatility and reliability in professional audio environments. With its extensive I/O capabilities, modern clocking system, and user-friendly features, the DM256 stands as a testament to our legacy of pushing the boundaries and shaping the future of sound engineering.”

Key Feature Snapshot:

Converts up to 256 channels of Dante Rx to 256 channels of MADI Tx, and vice versa.
Harnesses Dante IP core technology for extensive I/O capability through a single Ethernet connection.
Accommodates a vast digital I/O count with 256 channels of MADI IN/MADI OUT.
MADI ports support duplex MADI SC optical connections and dual-BNC coaxial connections, meeting professional MADI standards.
Utilises a modern, low-drift crystal oscillator clocking system and PLL, making it an ideal master clock in any professional studio environment.
Provides Dante connections through dual ethernet ports for redundancy or daisy-chaining in switched mode.
Features Maximum Channel Mapping (MCM) for automatic multiplexing of MADI I/O assignments per port.
Supports 32-bit integer bit depths with multiple dithering options to prevent truncation-distortion.
Front-mounted OLED screen displays essential information for easy monitoring and control.
External PSU design ensures efficient heat dissipation, safeguarding internal components for a prolonged lifespan.