The RDL RU-VCA6A Six Channel Audio Attenuatoris a six-channel audio attenuator module for local and/or remote control of balanced or unbalanced line-level sources. The unit has six audio channels for level control of surround sound (5.1) or six individual analog audio channels. Each module can be remote controlled from a single or multiple locations. Rear-panel terminals provide flexible control options using a variety of RDL remote controls or OEM equipment.

Audio levels are controlled in 0.5 dB steps using noiseless zero-crossing digital attenuators for optimum reliability, precise tracking, and long-term click-free service. Wide-band low-noise performance makes the attenuator suited to level adjustment in the most demanding applications. Rear-panel inputs and outputs may each be wired balanced or unbalanced.

The RU-VCA6A powers up in one of two operating modes set by a rear-panel switch. In the MOM (momentary) mode, audio level is controlled by momentary pushbuttons or pulses. Remote terminals and front-panel pushbuttons are provided for up and down ramping control. If either button is held in, the audio will ramp automatically. If a button is pulsed (< 0.5 second), the audio will increment one step. The time of both the UP and DOWN ramps is individually adjustable on the front panel.

Pushing remote UP and DOWN buttons simultaneously, or pressing the front-panel GO TO PRESET button, returns the audio to a preset level. The preset level is stored by adjusting the desired level using the UP and DOWN buttons, then pressing and holding the front-panel PRESET button for 3 seconds. A rear-panel switch sets the audio power-up level to either the preset level or the last level setting used. Multiple remote control locations are possible in the MOM mode. External control pulses may be either of positive polarity or pulled-to-ground (open-collector).

In the 0 to 10 VDC mode, the preset function is disabled and the audio level is controlled by a remote 10 kΩ linear taper pot or by 0 to 10 VDC. A single remote control location is possible using a remote 10 kΩ pot.

In both operating modes, two separate 0 to 10 VDC outputs are provided. The linear RAMP output drives the level display on RDL remote controls; the EQ RAMP output is used to control an automatic RDL Loudness Equalizer. A front-panel 10-LED string display indicates the relative audio level. Control expansion is possible using the EXTERNAL CONTROL DATA jacks. One module can be set as a MASTER module to control the level of one or more additional RU-VCA2A or RU VCA6A modules set to the SLAVE mode.

The unit can be used individually, or combined with other RDL products as part of a complete system.

Local or Remote Audio Level Control    Attenuate Six Channels or Surround Sound    Noiseless Zero-Crossing Adjustment Steps    96 dB Attenuation Range in 0.5 dB Steps    Adjustment of Multiple Modules    Precise Level Tracking on Each Channel    Balanced/Unbalanced Line Inputs/Outputs    Adjustable Ramp Up/Down Rates    Selectable Level Control Options    Selectable Master/Slave Mode

Related Questions and Answers

Q: 1. Is this recorder capable to solo and mute channels to the headphone out, while recording?

A: Hi Alejandro. Yes, both mute and solo are available while recording. Please note that mute will also mute it from the currently recording tracks.

Q: 2. Can set up post fade insulated tracks with Mixpre Series II recorders at 32 Bit (to feed post fade signal directly to ISO tracks?

A: Hi Renzo. Post-fade signals are audio signals that are after or "post" the ISO inputs and tracks. Generally, post-fade signals are not sent to ISO tracks. Please feel free to send an email to support@sounddevices.com with technical questions. Thank you!

Q: 3. Can you mount this on a tripod then mount a camera on top? What would be the weight limit?

A: Yes you can.

Q: 4. Which port would be used to accept TC in from something like a Tentacle Sync?

A: The Sound Devices MixPre-6 II 6-Channel / 8-Track Multitrack 32-Bit Field Recorder (B&H # SOMIXPRE6II) will accept TC sync from its digital I/O ports: 1x 1/8" / 3.5 mm SMPTE Timecode Input 1x Micro-HDMI SMPTE Timecode Input

Q: 5. Are the outputs balanced?

A: The MixPre-6 II analog output is an unbalanced 3.5mm port.

Q: 6. Do I need to add a mixer to this? If I do add a mixer, what do I gain?

A: No, a separate mixer is not required for use with the Sound Devices MixPre-6 II 6-Channel / 8-Track Multitrack 32-Bit Field Recorder. Whether you might want to use a separate mixer depends on the requirements for a specific application. For example, you could use a separate mixer if you need additional input channels to connect more than four microphones, instruments, or line level audio sources to record simultaneously.

Q: 7. Hi Is it possible to use Channel Knobs to Adjust ISO Levels in 32-Bit float? BR

A: Thank you for the immediate response. I asked this because in my MIxpre 6 in Custon mode I have full control of the gain level up to 96dB (76 plus 20 dB), and the most important thing I can see the meter view at the LCD With the series II, which can be see (always talking about ISO track in 32 Bts) One more time thanks BR Renzo

Q: 8. I'm a little confused. The mixpre 3 ii has a timecode generator, but you have to keep it on the camera? Can't you just jam timecode to the camera then separate them. My whole reason for picking up the zoom f6 or mixpre 3 ii was to get my sound equipment off my shoulder rig

A: The MixPre-3 II has a timecode generator, so it can maintain timecode on its own. As long as the camera that is being jammed from the MixPre-3 II also has a timecode generator, the 2 devices do not need to be continuously connected. However, if the camera only contains a timecode reader, the camera would require a constant connection to a timecode generator.

Q: 9. How important are the 1/4-inch TRS inputs for event / wedding videographers? Is it more flexible when connecting to a DJ soundboard? Can't decide between Mixpre 3 ii or Mixpre 6 ii.

A: Hi Alex. Both 1/4" TRS and XLR connections are very common at such venues when connecting gear to/from mixing panels. The most important question is: How many inputs do you need? If you feel that you may need more than 3 inputs at 1 time, the MixPre-6 II may be a better option. Otherwise, you may need to confirm in advance of the event what cables are required based on DJ equipment, since the MixPre-3 II does not have combination jacks.

Q: 10. Is the L mount battery sled included with the MixPre-6 II? or would I need to buy it separately?

A: Only the 4 AA is included. This is the recommended optional L-battery sled: Sound Devices MX-LMount Battery Sled for MixPre-3, MixPre-6 & MixPre-10T B&H # SOMXLMOUNT: https://bhpho.to/36kjkOB