About the Focusrite RedNet PCIeR 128x128 Dante Interface for Mac and PC
The Focusrite RedNet PCIeR is a high-channel-count Dante network audio interface in the form of a PCI Express card, designed to provide a high-performance, low-latency connection between a Mac or PC and a Dante audio network. This card enables the computer to send and receive up to 128 channels of bidirectional, uncompressed 24-bit/96kHz audio over a standard Gigabit Ethernet network. It effectively turns the computer into a powerful node on the Dante network, allowing it to integrate seamlessly with other Dante-enabled hardware such as mixing consoles, stage boxes, amplifiers, and recording systems. This is particularly valuable in professional audio applications like live sound, broadcast, and large-scale studio recording where numerous audio channels must be routed between computers and outboard gear with minimal delay.
A key advantage of the PCIeR is its direct connection to the computer's PCIe bus, which offers higher bandwidth and lower latency than USB or Thunderbolt interfaces when handling extremely high channel counts. The card features two Gigabit Ethernet ports, allowing for primary and secondary network connections for redundancy, which is critical in mission-critical live environments. Configuration and control are managed through Dante Controller software, which provides a visual patchbay for routing audio channels across the entire network. The RedNet PCIeR is part of Focusrite's RedNet series, which is built on professional, road-tested hardware and is fully interoperable with any Dante-compliant equipment from other manufacturers.
Designed for reliability in demanding professional settings, the PCIeR card is built with high-quality components and includes Focusrite's renowned conversion technology for pristine audio quality. It is an essential tool for system integrators and audio engineers who need to incorporate a computer—running Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) software, virtual instruments, or playback systems—into a large-scale, networked audio infrastructure with the utmost fidelity and stability.