Sound Devices Astral Opto I/O Expansion Box for Astral ARX32

The Sound Devices Astral Opto screws onto an Astral ARX32 receiver and adds native Optocore audio, so the ARX32 connects straight to an Optocore network and a DiGiCo console.

It also adds a second, redundant set of analog and AES digital outputs, two more MADI outputs with their own sync input, 16 GPIO connections, and a redundant AC mains supply.

Setup

The Astral Opto attaches under the ARX32 through a bridge board, and a double rack ear assembly holds the two units together in the rack. Power is shared, so either unit can power both, and both can be plugged in for redundancy. It is controlled from the ARX32’s own menus, and its firmware updates with the ARX32’s.

Outputs and GPIO

Its Optocore outputs carry up to 64 channels at 1G or 2G. At 48 kHz both MADI outputs carry all 64 channels, and at 96 kHz they split them, 1 to 32 and 33 to 64. GPIO inputs can trigger transmitter functions such as mute or record, and transmitter conditions can trigger outputs for console macros, relays, or lamps.

Good to Know

The Astral Opto has HMA connectors for its Optocore outputs, and a version with ST connectors is sold as the Astral Opto (ST). It carries a one-year warranty, extended to two years with registration.

Features

• Screw-on expansion box for the Astral ARX32
• Native Optocore I/O for DiGiCo consoles
• Redundant AC mains supply
• Second set of analog and AES outputs
• Two extra MADI outputs with their own sync input
• 16 GPIO connections
• Controlled from the ARX32’s menus