TASCAM ML-4D/OUT-X

Product overview

The TASCAM ML-4D/OUT-X is a compact half-rack converter that turns Dante network audio into four balanced XLR analogue line outputs, with a built-in DSP mixer for zoning, ducking and speaker tuning.

Made for the contractor market and the professional audio scene, the ML-4D/OUT works as the analogue output unit of a Dante system. Besides its four line outputs it sends four channels back to the network, so its 4 in / 4 out matrix mixer can feed other Dante devices too. Ducking and an ambient noise compensator are built into the mixer, and every output has a 10-band EQ, delay, limiter and polarity setting. It runs at up to 24-bit / 96 kHz, takes its power from the network cable (PoE) and is set up from TASCAM's own control software for Windows, Mac, iOS and Android. The ML-4D/OUT-X is the XLR connector model of the ML-4D/OUT.

Key features

• 4 balanced line outputs (XLR-3-32) with output signal indicators
• 4 Dante inputs and 4 Dante outputs, up to 24-bit / 96 kHz, AES67 mode supported
• 4 in / 4 out matrix mixer with ducking and an ambient noise compensator
• Per output: 10-band EQ with low and high cut, delay up to 300 ms, limiter, fader, mute and polarity
• Up to 50 scene presets
• PoE (Power over Ethernet) class 0, power daisy-chaining of two units, optional PS-P1220E AC adapter
• Dante daisy chain: two Dante Compact Processor models connect without a network switch
• TASCAM DCP CONNECT and TASCAM EZ CONNECT control software for Windows, Mac, iOS and Android
• Remote control via Dante
• Configurable reference level, from +15 dBu to +24 dBu maximum output
• Half-rack size, with brackets for desks and walls included; optional AK-RS1 rack shelf

Four zones from one Dante unit

The matrix mixer blends the four Dante inputs into four mixes, each with its own channel faders and master. Flexible routing sends the Dante inputs or the mixes to the four line outputs and the four Dante outputs, and DIRECT mode bypasses the mixer so the unit works as a straightforward four-channel line output converter.

Ducking and ambient noise compensation

When a mic signal arrives, ducking lowers the background music automatically, with adjustable threshold, attenuation and release time. The ambient noise compensator measures the noise of the room during gaps in the programme and adjusts the level so the main sound stays easy to hear, ideal for shops, restaurants and public areas.

Tune every speaker zone

Each output has a 10-band EQ with low cut and high cut, a delay of up to 300 ms in 0.02 ms steps for speaker alignment, a limiter that prevents distortion from sudden peaks, a fader, mute and polarity setting, so each zone can be matched to its powered speakers or amplifier and to the room.

Simple installation and control

Power comes over the network cable from a PoE switch, from the optional TASCAM PS-P1220E adapter, or through the power daisy-chain connectors. The included brackets fix the unit on or under a desk or on a wall, and the optional AK-RS1 shelf puts two units in one 19-inch rack space. Installers set everything in TASCAM DCP CONNECT; end-users get a simple TASCAM EZ CONNECT screen with only the sources and volumes they need.

In the box

• TASCAM ML-4D/OUT-X
• Installation brackets (x 2)
• Owner's Manual (including warranty)

TASCAM ML-4D/OUT-X: frequently asked questions

What does the ML-4D/OUT-X do?

It converts four Dante channels into four balanced analogue line outputs, and also returns four channels to the Dante network, with a built-in DSP mixer in between.

What is the difference between the ML-4D/OUT-E and the ML-4D/OUT-X?

The ML-4D/OUT-E has balanced Euroblock outputs and external CONTROL connectors for variable resistors; the ML-4D/OUT-X has balanced XLR outputs. The DSP, network and power features are the same.

Does it need a separate power supply?

No. It can be powered by PoE from a PoE network switch. The TASCAM PS-P1220E AC adapter is available as an option, and two units can share power through the daisy-chain connectors.

How is it controlled?

With TASCAM DCP CONNECT (full set-up) and TASCAM EZ CONNECT (simple end-user control), for Windows, Mac, iOS and Android.

Where can I buy the TASCAM ML-4D/OUT-X in India?

The TASCAM ML-4D/OUT-X is available from Shivansh Electronics, Kolkata, West Bengal, India, with delivery across India.

Workflow 1: Background music zones in a shop or restaurant

Feed up to four speaker zones from music sources on the Dante network.

Connections

Setup

1. Mount the unit with the included brackets and connect DATA+PoE to a PoE gigabit switch.
2. Route the Dante music channels to the ML-4D/OUT inputs with the Dante routing software.
3. In TASCAM DCP CONNECT build MIX 1-4, one per zone, and route them to analogue outputs 1-4.
4. Set each zone's level, EQ and limiter, then save the set-up as a preset.

Tip: Use TASCAM EZ CONNECT to give staff a simple volume screen for their own area.

Workflow 2: Announcements over background music with ducking

Lower the music automatically whenever someone speaks on the paging mic.

Connections

Setup

1. Route the paging mic channel and the music channels to the ML-4D/OUT Dante inputs.
2. In the mixer, turn on ducking and choose the mic channel as the ducking source.
3. Set threshold, attenuation and release time to suit the announcements.
4. Check each zone, then save the scene as a preset.

Tip: A short release time brings the music back quickly after each announcement.

Workflow 3: Ambient noise compensation in busy spaces

Keep speech and music clear as a hall, café or concourse gets louder.

Connections

Setup

1. Route the ambient mic channel to one of the ML-4D/OUT Dante inputs.
2. Turn on ANC for the mix and select the ambient mic as its source.
3. Set maximum and minimum gain, ratio and response time.
4. Set the threshold, gap time and gap threshold so noise is measured during pauses.

Workflow 4: Speaker tuning in meeting and conference rooms

Match the outputs to the room's powered speakers for clear, even sound.

Connections

Setup

1. Route the room audio to the ML-4D/OUT and set the reference level for the connected speakers.
2. Shape each output with the 10-band EQ and the low and high cut filters.
3. Use the output delay to align speakers at different distances.
4. Set the limiter threshold to protect the speakers, then save a preset.

Tip: Up to 50 presets let one room switch between lecture, meeting and event set-ups.

Workflow 5: Expanding analogue outputs on a Dante system

Add four analogue line feeds wherever the network reaches, without long analogue cable runs.

Connections

Setup

1. Connect the unit to the Dante network, or daisy-chain two Dante Compact Processor units without a switch.
2. Set the sample rate and latency for the network in the Dante routing software.
3. Set the unit to DIRECT mode so Dante inputs 1-4 go straight to analogue outputs 1-4.
4. Route the console channels to the unit and check the OUT SIG indicators.

Tip: Name each unit before routing: changing a device name later clears its routing.

Workflow 6: Simple end-user control with TASCAM EZ CONNECT

Let staff change sources and volume for their area, without access to the full set-up.

Connections

Setup

1. In TASCAM DCP CONNECT open the EZ CONNECT page and name an area.
2. Set an area password and choose the mix to control.
3. Select up to four volume targets, such as MIX 1-4 or ANALOG OUT 1-4.
4. Log in to TASCAM EZ CONNECT with the area password and test the controls.

Tip: Up to four areas can be set, each with its own password.