XLR Audio over Fiber

Models:
PN: F-2A-XLR-B-TxRx-RM
8 Bi-Directional XLR model description
8-Channel Bi-Directional Balanced XLR Audio over Fiber (Rack-Mount)
Description

8-Channel Bi-Directional Balanced XLR Audio over Fiber (Rack-Mount)

Product Overview

The F-8A-XLR-B-TxRx-RM is a professional, broadcast-grade 8-channel bi-directional balanced analog audio over fiber system, designed for long-distance, noise-immune transport of high-quality XLR audio signals. Each unit functions as both a transmitter and receiver, allowing simultaneous two-way audio transport over a single fiber strand.

Using optical isolation, the system completely eliminates ground loops, EMI, and RF interference, making it ideal for broadcast, studio, live production, stadiums, campuses, and industrial environments where long cable runs and electrical noise are a concern.

The unit supports 8 balanced XLR inputs and 8 balanced XLR outputs, enabling 8 audio channels in each direction at the same time. The rack-mount enclosure makes it suitable for fixed installations and professional headend environments.

Typical Applications

  • Broadcast studios and TV stations

  • Audio links between control rooms and studios

  • Live sound and event production

  • Stadiums and arenas

  • Houses of worship

  • Campus and facility intercom/audio distribution

  • Industrial and high-EMI environments

  • Audio transport between buildings without ground-loop risk


System Architecture

Each F-8A-XLR-B-TxRx-RM unit operates as a bi-directional node:

  • 8 XLR inputs → transmitted over fiber

  • 8 XLR outputs ← received from fiber

  • A pair of identical units is required to form a complete link

  • Audio is transported uncompressed and in real time

 

Features

Key Features

  • 8 bi-directional balanced XLR audio channels

  • Simultaneous transmit and receive on all channels

  • Single-fiber operation (Tx/Rx on one strand)

  • Analog, uncompressed audio transport

  • Balanced XLR (mic/line-level compatible)

  • No latency, no compression

  • Immune to EMI, RFI, and ground loops

  • Long-distance transmission over fiber

  • Rack-mount metal enclosure

  • Broadcast- and studio-grade reliability

Video
Unleashing Sound: 16-Channel XLR balance Audio Over Fiber Explained!
Today We'll Be Discussing Thor Fiber 16 Channels of Uni-Directional Audio Over Fiber https://thorbroadcast.com/product/xlr-audio-over-fiber-1.html/110 Welcome to our latest tech deep dive! Today, we’ll be exploring the incredible capabilities of the Thor Fiber 16-Channel XLR Balanced Audio Over Fiber Unit, specifically the F-16A-XLR-TX/RX. This device is a game changer for anyone in the audio industry, from live event producers to broadcasters. Equipped with 16 balanced 3-pin XLR inputs, this unit supports single-mode fiber connections up to an impressive twenty kilometers. Plus, it’s rack mountable at nineteen inches, making it a perfect fit for any professional setup. The setup process is remarkably straightforward: just connect power, link the fiber, plug in your XLR audio sources, and power it on. It's that easy! In our test environment, we’ll generate a 100 Hz sine wave and send it over 35.4 kilometers of single-mode fiber. The signal chain is simple: we’ll take the signal from the generator to the transmitter, through the fiber, to the receiver, and finally to the oscilloscope. As we make adjustments, you’ll see the oscilloscope respond in real-time, showcasing the reliability and clarity of this audio transmission method. Imagine the applications! Whether you're hosting a live event, broadcasting from a studio, or performing in a theater, this unit ensures that audio remains pristine, no matter the distance. It’s perfect for recording studios, conference rooms, and even sports venues, allowing for clear and uninterrupted sound transmission. To learn more about the F-16A-XLR-TX/RX and see it in action, visit our website at ThorBroadcast.com. You’ll find it in the Analog Audio Video section, ready to elevate your audio game! Stay tuned for more tech insights, and let’s dive into the world of audio over fiber! Here are some possible applications for a 16-channel XLR balanced audio over fiber unit: Live Event Production: Ideal for concerts, festivals, and events, allowing multiple audio sources to be transmitted over long distances without signal degradation. Broadcasting: Perfect for television and radio stations where high-quality audio is essential, enabling seamless integration of multiple audio feeds. Theater Productions: Useful in stage performances for connecting microphones and instruments to a centralized audio system, ensuring clear sound for audiences. Recording Studios: Facilitates multi-track recording setups, allowing various instruments and vocalists to connect without interference. Broadcast Trucks: Essential for mobile production units, enabling the transmission of audio from various sources directly to the broadcasting system. Conference and Meeting Rooms: Provides high-quality audio for panel discussions and presentations, ensuring clear communication over long distances. Corporate Events: Useful for transmitting audio from multiple presenters and microphones, enhancing sound quality in large venues. House of Worship: Ideal for connecting multiple microphones and instruments in churches or auditoriums, delivering clear audio for sermons and performances. Educational Institutions: Can be used in lecture halls or auditoriums to connect audio systems for better sound distribution during classes or events. Sports Venues: Enhances sound quality for commentary and announcements in stadiums and arenas, ensuring fans receive clear audio. Visit https://thorbroadcast.com/ for more details
Thor Fiber XLR Audio Over Fiber - Long Distance Balanced Audio Transmission
The Thor Fiber XLR Audio Over Fiber units allow you to send high-quality, balanced audio signals over fiber optics, enabling long-distance transmission far beyond the limits of traditional copper cables. Our **Audio Interface with XLR Kit** includes both a transmitter and receiver, with options for 2, 4, 8, 16, or 32 XLR inputs/outputs on a single transmitter unit. These can be sent over fiber to the receiver unit, which provides an equal number of XLR outputs. Thanks to the power of fiber optics, the audio signal maintains its integrity over long distances, delivering **16-bit digitally encoded broadcast-quality audio**. Ideal for **Rental, Staging, Concerts, Theater, Churches, Stadiums, Broadcast/Studio, CCTV, and Professional AV applications**, these kits are perfect for environments where reliable, long-range audio transmission is a must. Key features: - **Balanced Audio Transmission** over one multi-mode or single-mode optical fiber. - **Multiple XLR Input/Output Options** (2, 4, 8, 16, 32). - **Available for Stand-Alone or Rack-Mount Installations.** - **Fiber Connections**: Standard ST/PC connectors, optional SC/PC or FC/PC. - **Range Options**: Up to 20km (single-mode) or 3,000m (multi-mode), with extended versions available (40km, 80km, 120km). Common devices used with the Thor XLR Audio Transmitter and Receiver: - XLR Audio Mixers - Digital Audio Recorders (with XLR IN/OUT) - Audio Signal Splitters with XLR Perfect for environments like **Concerts**, **Broadcast Studios**, **Stadiums**, and more! https://thorbroadcast.com/product/xlr-audio-over-fiber-1.html
Model Selection

Uni-Directional Models:

F-2A-XLR-TX/RX - 2 XLR Balanced Audio over Fiber Transmitter / Receiver kit up to 20KM  singlemode / 3000feet multimode -Stand alone ( portable)

F-4A-XLR-TX/RX - 4 XLR Balanced Audio over fiber Transmitter / Receiver kit up to 20KM  singlemode / 3000feet multimode - Stand alone ( portable)

F-8A-XLR-TX/RX-RM - 8 XLR Balanced Audio over fiber Transmitter / Receiver kit up to 20KM  singlemode / 3000feet multimode 19"Rack Mountable

F-16A-XLR-TX/RX-RM - 16 XLR Balanced Audio over fiber Transmitter / Receiver kit up to 20KM  singlemode / 3000feet multimode  (special order) 19"Rack Mountable

F-32A-XLR-TX/RX-RM - 32 XLR Balanced Audio over fiber Transmitter / Receiver kit up to 20KM  singlemode / 3000feet multimode   (special order) 19"Rack Mountable

Bi-Directional Models:

F-2A-XLR-B-TX/RX - Stand alone ( portable) 2 Bi-directonal XLR Balanced Audio over 1 fiber Transmitter / Receiver (transceivers) kit up to 20KM  singlemode / 3000feet multimode 

F-2A-XLR-B-TX/RX-RM  2 Bi-directonal XLR Balanced Audio over 1 fiber Transmitter / Receiver (transceivers) kit up to 20KM  singlemode / 3000feet multimode  - 19"Rack Mountable form factor

F-4A-XLR-B-TX/RX-RM - 4 Bidirectional  XLR Balanced Audio over 1 fiber Transmitter / Receiver (transceivers) kit up to 20KM  singlemode / 3000feet multimode  19"Rack Mountable form factor

F-8A-XLR-B-TX/RX-RM - 8 Bidirectional  XLR Balanced Audio over 1 fiber Transmitter / Receiver (transceivers) kit up to 20KM  singlemode / 3000feet multimode  19"Rack Mountable form factor

PN:  F-4A-XLR-TX/RX-XX  ( XX= 40,60,80,120) 40km, 60Km, 80km 120km models available for all XLR Audio products  (special order)

Specification
Parameter Specification
Audio Channels 8 balanced XLR bi-directional (8 Tx + 8 Rx)
Audio Type Analog balanced audio
Connector Type XLR (female inputs / male outputs)
Direction Simultaneous bi-directional
Audio Level Line level (mic/line compatible depending on system configuration)
Frequency Response 20 Hz – 20 kHz
Signal-to-Noise Ratio ≥ 90 dB
Distortion (THD) < 0.01%
Latency Zero / real-time
Optical Interface Single-mode fiber
Fiber Connector LC / SC (model-dependent)
Fiber Type Single-mode
Transmission Distance Up to 20 km (standard), longer distances optional
Optical Wavelength 1310 nm / 1550 nm (WDM)
Power Supply AC 100–240 V or DC (model-dependent)
Form Factor Rack-mount (1U)
Operating Temperature 0°C to +50°C
Housing Metal enclosure
Question and Answers