Telos Alliance xNodes Overview
The xNode lightweight, half-rack, high-performance IP-Audio interface from Telos Alliance is loaded with advanced features and capabilities. One-button configuration takes a new xNode from out-of-the-box to on-the-air in under one minute. They’re fanless, which means they’re noiseless too. Versatile mounting options let you deploy two xNodes in just 1RU of rack space, or on ceilings, walls, and under counters with an available wall-mount kit. xNodes have studio-grade audio performance specs. Redundant power options (using AC mains and Power-over-Ethernet) and dual-redundant network interfaces are included, both with automatic switching. And xNodes are fully AES67-compliant, so they work with all AES67 audio gear—now, and in the future. In fact, they are the first and only AoIP I/O devices that are Livewire+™, RAVENNA, and AES67 compliant. Every xNode not only supports RAVENNA audio stream interoperability, but also enables advertising/discovery of those streams natively, above and beyond AES67.
xNodes are available in Analog, AES/EBU, Microphone-level, Mixed-Signal, and GPIO versions to handle virtually any signal encountered in today’s broadcast studio.
Telos Alliance xNodes Features
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Fanless design with cast-aluminum heat-sinks is completely silent in-studio. Front-panel heat sinks are cooled by ambient air, not “rack air,” eliminating overheating worries.
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World’s only fully AES67-compliant AoIP interface; xNodes are “universal translators” that support a huge installed base of Livewire+ hardware as well as audio streams from other AES67-compliant devices. Now features improved AES67 performance through reception optimization.
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First and only AoIP I/O device that is Livewire+, RAVENNA, and AES67 compliant. Every xNode not only supports RAVENNA audio stream interoperability, but also enables advertising/discovery of those streams natively, above and beyond AES67.
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High-resolution front-panel multi-function OLED display meters inputs and outputs or GPIO status, gives software and other status information.
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Power-efficient: xNodes use just 14 Watts each.
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Exclusive redundant power plan uses AC and Power over Ethernet (IEEE 802.3af) supplied by compliant Ethernet switches. Multi-color front-panel LED glows green when AC mains power is used, red when PoE is used, and orange when both AC and PoE are connected.
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Exclusive redundant network connection: Dual NICs allow you to connect xNode to separate network branches for full audio pathway redundancy. Automatic failover activates backup connection should the primary be interrupted.
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Built-in Syslog server with configurable event filter and SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) support help you stay fully informed, should an xNode’s power or connection status change.
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Synchronize your AES master clock to a designated xNode AES/EBU input to keep all of your AES streams synchronized to the house clock.
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xNodes use premium components, including rugged cast aluminum faceplates and heat sinks, high-resolution OLED displays, bulletproof power supplies designed for high-availability telecom applications, studio-quality SRCs with recording-studio specs.
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I/O connections via industry-standard RJ-45 audio connectors or high-density DB-25 connections, both available prefabricated and ready to attach in seconds.
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Versatile mounting options: Use freestanding, rack singly or side-by-side in 1 RU, or wall-mount using an optional surface-mount kit.
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Analog xNode inputs can be configured to supply four stereo audio channels, eight true mono channels, or 5.1 surround + stereo downmix. Outputs support the same variety of selections, easily selectable in software via the built-in web interface.
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On the Analog, AES/EBU, Mixed Signal, and Microphone xNodes, a fully configurable mixing matrix allows for mixing of both physical and network inputs, stream conversion, and a multitude of other unique solutions.
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Telos Alliance xNodes In Depth
The AoIP Interface that’s twice as powerful. (But only half the size.)
One day, all audio equipment will be networked. Until then, there are xNodes, the world’s first self-configuring, fully AES67-compliant AoIP interfaces.
xNodes give you an easy way to add non-networked audio devices to your studio network. They pack a lot of I/O into a very small space. And xNodes are so simple to set up, they nearly configure themselves.
All xNodes feature a high-resolution OLED front panel display and two “soft” buttons to provide status information and assist with initial setup, and a multi-color LED that gives at-a-glance information about the xNode’s power configuration. To ensure ultra-reliable network operations and extremely low delay, xNodes run Linux on an embedded processor, and a built-in web server in each node gives you remote configuration and control—in an intuitive, easy-to-understand manner—using any standard web browser.
xNodes are loaded with features designed to ensure the uptime of your network. Dual Ethernet ports can provide redundant connections to separate network segments. Redundant power capability with automatic switchover enables xNodes to run on house mains or PoE (Power over Ethernet), letting the network switch itself supply power, and enabling easy single-cable setup in places where AC power isn’t practical. Built-in Syslog servers with a configurable event filter and SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) support let you stay fully informed, should an xNode’s power or connection status change.
The xNode Matrix Mixer feature is one of the most flexible and capable virtual mixers available. It lets users mix physical inputs (like mics and playback devices) with digital network sources (like stream inputs) to a single output. With the xNode Matrix Mixer feature, broadcasters can bypass the studio console during automated dayparts and send on-air mixes straight to the transmitter thus simplifying audio workflows. This one-of-a-kind solution offers the power and flexibility of a big studio mixer switching system in a compact ½ RU device!
xNodes are convenient, too. For example, a Microphone xNode placed in a studio can take audio from microphones and also provide outputs to associated studio monitors and headphones. An xNode in the rack room can collect audio from network feeds, codecs and other shared sources for system-wide use while providing handy outputs for audio processors and other terminal-room gear.
xNodes provide audio quality superior to any other AoIP interface. Not only are they capable of operating at a network sampling rate of 48kHz, they also employ high-resolution 32-bit floating-point SRC chips. xNodes produce a “sweeter,” more natural audio quality—clients routinely tell us of noticeable sonic improvements after installation.
xNodes are versatile and cost-efficient. Since they’re half the size of other AoIP interfaces, they cost less. And you can mix-and-match I/O as needed: Choose between analog, AES/EBU, or Mic-level inputs, without paying for ports you won’t use. High-density GPIO xNodes let you easily provide logic and control for your audio source devices.
xNodes are easy to deploy, too. When you connect an xNode to your network, it automatically prompts you to give it an ID via the front-panel controls. Then, it derives a unique static IP address, and even gives names to its sources and outputs (which you can edit later, from the comfort of your computer). All you have to do is connect devices to the inputs, and it advertises that its audio sources are available for use, allowing any users access to them.
xNodes are also fanless, so you can tuck one anywhere you need I/O without worrying about cooling fans or heat—they consume only 14 Watts of power! Two xNodes fit side-by-side in a single rack space using the included rack-mount kit. Or, mount them to walls, ceilings, or under countertops, with an optional surface-mount kit.
Five different xNodes provide analog and AES ins and outs, microphone inputs and GPIO logic ports, wherever you need them. No need for “home runs” to a central rack—one CAT-5 cable connection is all an xNode needs to interface multiple channels of bi-directional audio to your network.
Microphone xNode
The Microphone xNode has four professional-grade microphone preamps with selectable Phantom power and software-adjustable gain. There are also four balanced analog line outputs to conveniently deliver headphone and studio monitor feeds back to your talent. Inputs and outputs are presented both on easy-to-install RJ-45s and high-density DB-25s, both of which connect to easily available 3rd-party breakout cables, to suit your connection preference.
Analog xNode
The Analog xNode has 8 mono or 4 stereo balanced line-level inputs and 8 mono or 4 stereo balanced line-level outputs, on RJ-45 and DB-25 connectors. It can also accommodate 5.1 Surround inputs and outputs, each with an associated discrete Stereo mix. Each input is switchable to accommodate either consumer-level -10dBv or professional level +4dBu sources. The short-circuit protected outputs can deliver up to +24dBu before clipping. Axia uses only studio-grade A/D/A converters and low-noise components, so that each Analog node provides superior audio performance for high-end studio use.
AES/EBU xNode
Our AES/EBU xNode has 4 AES/EBU inputs and 4 AES/EBU outputs. Left and right input signals may be split and routed independently as mono signals. Stunning performance specs include 48 kHz sampling rate, 126dB of dynamic range, and <0.0003% THD. Sample rate conversion is available on all inputs; the unit can also be synchronized to a house clock to provide sync to your entire Axia network.
Mixed-Signal xNode
The Mixed-Signal xNode is your utility player; perfect for places that require a mix of different audio I/O types. It provides 1 selectable Mic/Line analog input, 2 dedicated analog line inputs, 3 analog line outputs, 1 digital AES3 input and 1 AES3 output, and 2 GPIO ports – truly a “jack of all trades.”
GPIO xNode
GPIO xNode provides 6 general-purpose logic ports for machine control of studio peripherals – audio devices, loudspeaker muting relays, signal lamps, etc. – each with 5 opto-isolated inputs and 5 outputs. A logic port can be associated with any audio input or output and routes control data transparently along with the audio.
Telos Alliance SDI Node
As the successor to the SDI xNode, the Telos Alliance SDI AoIP Node continues our commitment to bring the power and flexibility of Audio over IP to broadcast television by de-embedding and converting up to 8 pairs of audio from two SDI inputs to AES67. Audio can then be shared on the network, processed for loudness compliance, and ultimately re-embedded into two SDI output streams.
Telos Alliance xNodes Specifications
Microphone Preamplifiers
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Source Impedance: 150 Ohms
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Input Impedance: 4 k Ohms minimum, balanced
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Nominal Level Range: Adjustable, -75 dBu to -20 dBu
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Input Headroom: >20 dB above nominal input
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Phantom power: +48VDC, switchable
Analog Line Inputs
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Input Impedance: >40 k Ohms, balanced
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Nominal Input Range: Selectable, +4 dBu or -10dBv
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Input Headroom: 20 dB above nominal inputMeta
Analog Line Outputs
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Output Source Impedance: <50 Ohms balanced
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Output Load Impedance: 600 Ohms, minimum
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Nominal Output Level: +4 dBu
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Maximum Output Level: +24 dBu
Digital Audio Inputs And Outputs
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Reference Level: +4 dBu (-20 dB FSD)
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Impedance: 110 Ohm, balanced
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Signal Format: AES3 (AES/EBU)
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AES3 Input Compliance: 24-bit with sample rate conversion
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AES3 Output Compliance: 24-bit
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Digital Reference: Internal (network timebase) or external reference 48 kHz, +/- 2 ppm
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Internal Sampling Rate: 48 kHz
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Input Sample Rate: 32 kHz to 192 kHz
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Output Sample Rate: 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz
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A/D Conversions: 24-bit, Delta-Sigma, 256x oversampling
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D/A Conversions: 24-bit, Delta-Sigma, 256x oversampling
Frequency Response
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Any input to any output: +/- 0.5 dB, 20 Hz to 20 kHz
Latency
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Analog Input to Analog Output, 2.75ms including network, converters, and mixing process
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Digital Input to Digital Output, 1.75ms including network mixing engine (ASRC off)
Dynamic Range
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Analog Inputs to Analog Outputs 108dB referenced to 0dBFs, 111dB A-weighted
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Analog Inputs to Digital Outputs 110dB referenced to 0dBFs, 113dB A-weighted
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Digital Inputs to Analog Outputs 112dB referenced to 0dBFs, 115dB A-weighted
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Digital Inputs to Digital Outputs 126dB
Equivalent Input Noise
- Microphone Preamp: -128 dBu, 150 Ohm source, reference -50 dBu input level
Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise
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Mic Pre Input to Analog Output: < 0.005%, 1 kHz, -36dBu input, +18dBu output
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Analog Input to Analog Output: < 0.005%, 1 kHz, +18dBu input, +18dBu output
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Analog Input to Digital Output: < 0.004%, 1 kHz, +18dBu input, -6dBFs output
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Digital Input to Analog Output: < 0.004%, 1 kHz, -6dBFs input, +18dBu output
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Digital Input to Digital Output: < 0.0003%, 1 kHz, -20dBFs
Crosstalk Isolation, Stereo Separation And CMRR
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Analog Line channel to channel isolation: 90dB minimum, 20Hz to 20kHz
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Analog Line stereo separation: 85dB minimum, 20Hz to 20kHz
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Analog Line Input CMRR: 80dB minimum, 20Hz to 20kHz
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Microphone Input CMRR: >60 dB, 20 Hz to 20 kHz
Power Supply AC Input
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Auto-ranging supply, 95VAC to 240VAC, 50 Hz to 60 Hz, IEC receptacle, internal fuse
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Power consumption: 14 Watts
Operating Temperatures
- 0 degree C to +40 degree C, <90% humidity, no condensation
Dimensions
- 8.5” (22 cm) wide; two may be mounted side-by-side in a standard 1RU rack space; 1.72” (4.4 cm)
height, 11.75” (30 cm) depth
Regulatory
North America: FCC and CE tested and compliant, power supply is UL approved.
Europe: Complies with the European Union Directive 2002/95/EC on the restriction of the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment (RoHS), as amended by Commission Decisions 2005/618/EC, 2005/717/ EC, 2005/747/EC (RoHS Directive), and WEEE.
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The pin configuration of the xNode DB25 connectors follow the Audio Engineering Societies AES59-2012 standard. This same standard is also known as the Tascam configuration. For information about compatible pre-made cables or instruictions on fabricating your own cables, please refer to this document.
Axia systems use high-reliability switched Ethernet using patented Livewire networking technology developed by Telos. This sophisticated switching architecture eliminates the need for expensive proprietary TDM main frames, DSP farms and local acquisition frames. Also, Axia eliminates the need for PC sound cards. Not only does this save the cost of the sound cards, it also eliminates corresponding console or router input cards. And Axia eliminates miles of discrete wiring and labor used to install standalone routers, instead using CAT-6 to transport dozens of digital stereo channels on a single cable. By using this standardized transport backbone, Axia eliminates purpose-built hardware, which translates into dramatically reduced system cost.
Axia uses the same technology that underlies VoIP telephony. Did you know that nearly 80 of the Fortune 100 companies now use VoIP? Or that VoIP PBX systems now outsell the old kind by a wide margin? With these systems, telephones plug into a standard Ethernet/IP network. Contrast this with traditional PBX phone gear — proprietary devices which required you to purchase phone sets and parts exclusively from the company that built the mainframe. You were locked into a single vendor, because the technology that ran the mainframe was owned by the company that made the gear. IP is now accepted as a universal transport for almost any kind of signal. You see it in television studios, business teleconferencing, government communications, banking, etc. And it’s hardly unproven, especially for applications specific to radio studio infrastructure. As of 2012, over 3,000 studios around the world - many in mission-critical, 24/7 broadcast applications in major markets like New York City, Chicago, Paris, Rome and Bangkok - have been built using Axia IP-Audio infrastructure.
Of course. IP is great for data, no? GPIO xNodes let you bring logic commands from external devices like CD players, DAT machines, etc., into the network. The logic data is then “bound” to the audio stream, and is routed with it to whatever console the source is loaded on. Devices equipped with Livewire interfaces (like the latest Telos Zephyrs and phone hybrids, Omnia audio processors, AudioScience cards and IDC satellite receivers, for example) supply audio and control logic directly from the device to the Ethernet switch over a single CAT-5e connection, further simplifying in-studio wiring and making Livewire’s audio+logic routing even more convenient.
An IP-Audio network is like a car: you don’t have to understand how the engine works in order to drive it. Just connect two pieces of gear together with CAT-5e and they will talk to each other — like plugging a mic into a mixer. The Livewire protocol takes care of routing the audio without any need for intervention from you. And the equipment interface is all web-based with GUI control. It works intuitively, and you don’t have to know anything about the tech inside to make it work. Axia consoles even include builtin, zero-configuration network switches — no network switch setup needed. That having been said, another of the advantages of Ethernet and IP is that it’s well-documented. Telos founder Steve Church and technologist Skip Pizzi have even collaborated on a book published by Focal Press, Audio Over IP: Building Pro AoIP Systems With Livewire. It’s available from all the usual booksellers, and as an eBook as well.
With those other guys, you’d better hire their systems engineers. With us, it’s much easier! If you know how to use a Web browser and plug a telephone into the wall, you’ve got all the skills needed to install and configure your new Axia network. And Axia Technical Support is there to help if you need it, too. If you still decide you’d like on-site installation services, we’ll be happy to talk with you about it.
Yes. Devices that generate PAD plug into the Axia network; the information they supply is sent along with its associated audio, and any devices that need it can also plug into the network and retrieve it. This means that you can send audio and PAD together, without incurring extra costs for separate audio and data networks.
Livewire is not compressed. Axia xNodes produce linear 48 kHz, 24-bit studio-grade audio, and there are switches that have enough bandwidth to carry 10,000+ channels of uncompressed, real-time stereo audio simultaneously.
Not necessarily. Axia networks can work with your existing consoles — just plug the inputs and outputs into the xNodes and add our XY Controllers for route switching. For sophisticated systems, use our PathfinderPC router control software package. You can do everything any other router can do – and much more. Of course, if you do decide to use Axia consoles, you’ll have the advantage of features like automatic mix-minus on every channel, the ability to control Telos phone systems and codecs right from the mixing board, the option to use integrated Intercom systems with broadcast-quality audio, and even the ability to remotely-control your console from another room – or even offsite. And setup is simple — the built-in network switch inside Axia integrated console engines lets you daisy-chain up to 4 consoles together without the need for an external switch.
Most certainly, should you choose to do so. The Ethernet switch naturally isolates traffic. You may even use one link for both audio and data, since the audio is prioritized. This will probably be the case when a PC is connected to the network — you will sometimes want to download files, receive e-mail, etc., in addition to the audio stuff.
There is no practical limit. You may have as many studios and audio channels as your Ethernet switch can support. Switches come in all sizes, some with hundreds of ports. And multiple switches may be cascaded to expand ports.
Like all Axia gear, xNodes give you plenty of choices. You can run an Analog or AES xNode in stereo mode, generating 4 channels of stereo input and 4 channels of stereo output, or mono mode, with 8 channels in and out.
Look at Ethernet for data applications. You have everything from a few PCs in a small office to huge campus networks with thousands of nodes. This is one of the reasons we went with Ethernet - you can use it for big and small facilities. The technology and economics naturally scale to suit the application size. We figure, in fact, that small stations may benefit the most as they gain routing capability at a very modest cost. And, should you choose to use Axia consoles, it gets even simpler, thanks to the onboard, zero-configuration network switch that’s built into every Axia integrated console engine. These engines include I/O for mics, analog and AES inputs and outputs, GPIO ports and Livewire inputs for networked audio devices, along with a zero-configuration Gigabit network switch that lets you daisy-chain up to 4 studios without a core switch. Thanks to the “all in one” nature of these mixing engines, Axia consoles are as well-suited for standalone operation as they are for networked installations.
All Axia devices have a web browser control and monitoring capability. You can address them individually, or use our iProbe network management software, which documents keeps track of every device connected to your network.
With xNodes. These come in variants for line and microphone applications. There are also a growing number of Livewire partners, offering dozens of software and hardware products that connect directly to Livewire via CAT-5. Audio, control and data all travel down that one cable, making it even easier and more efficient to add new audio peripherals to your network.
Axia networks utilize network switches with Spanning Tree Protocol, a link management protocol that provides path redundancy while preventing network loops. Axia xNodes take full advantage of STP, with dual NICs that allow simultaneous, redundant connections to your audio network. In the event that one cable is unplugged, audio streams are automatically, seamlessly routed to the second, redundant connection.
