Focusrite has released RedNet Control 2.4, adding Dante Domain Manager (DDM) and AES67/AES70 compatibility, as well as an AES3 Kill Switch function, background mode and other enhancements. The update makes all Focusrite Red audio interfaces, plus RedNet devices with Audinate Brooklyn 2, Ultimo and Ultimo X architecture, compatible with Dante Domain Manager.
This new functionality brings advantages to administrators of large networked audio systems, who can now assign the privilege structure of Dante Domain Manager to RedNet Control users. Specifically, RedNet Control 2.4 recognises the four distinct levels of system access granted within DDM: Site Administrator, Domain Administrator, Operator and Guest. As a result, users can be granted access only to the RedNet Control features necessary for their workflow. Those who just need to record audio from an existing subscription, for example, will not be able to make admin-level adjustments such as sample rate changes, or create new audio subscriptions.
Also new in RedNet Control 2.4, is AES3 Kill Switch control for RedNet D16 and RedNet D16R. Currently a RedNet D16R always sends information (a series of zeroes) on its AES3 outputs, making it impossible for downstream devices, such as amplifiers, to distinguish between ‘mute’ and ‘fault’ status. With the new Kill Switch feature, users can set channel pairs to automatically cut the AES3 transmission from the D16R in certain conditions, meaning that downstream devices can identify a failure and deal with it appropriately.
Another new feature in RedNet Control 2.4 is AES67 compatibility for RedNet X2P and RedNet AM2 Ultimo X interfaces. RedNet AM2 and RedNet X2P join RedNet and Red devices as AES67 compatible. This enables interoperability between Dante and different audio networking standards, including Ravenna. The update also provides AES70 compatibility – the control and monitoring open standard for AoIP devices – for RedNet interfaces.
With v2.4, RedNet Control 2 can now identify and update specific devices that require a firmware upgrade, as opposed to upgrading all system devices en masse. Lastly, RedNet Control 2.4 can now run as a background application if needed, so Midi control continues to function when the software window is closed.
RedNet Control 2.4 is available now as a free download for Mac and PC. There is no PC compatibility for Red/Thunderbolt users.
