Wheatstone Brings Out Blade-4

Wheatstone is introducing its fourth generation I/O unit for the WheatNet-IP audio network. The Blade-4 includes routable audio processing, mixing, codecs and software apps, plus AoIP networking, control and interoperability in one rack unit. 

“We’re adding more and more intelligence onto the AoIP network with every new Blade,” said Jay Tyler, Wheatstone’s director of sales. “Rather than a basic I/O rack unit sitting there taking up space, why not expand on that space with routable audio tools like mixing, processing and streaming? Blade-4 is something that every existing and future WheatNet-IP user is going to benefit from.” 

Wheatstone notes that Blade-4 can be integrated into any new or existing WheatNet-IP network. It works with other manufacturers and network environments through SMPTE ST 2110 audio support and AES67 compliance. Blade-4 supports NMOS device discovery, AES67 multichannel support and packet timing adaptability.

Each Blade-4 has its own operating system, so it does not need a tablet, laptop or desktop to run applications. It sports dual Ethernet ports and power supplies for redundancy. 

Opus, MP3 and AAC codecs were added to the AoIP network for remotes and home studios. No additional hardware is required. 

Blade-4 incorporates all standard Blade features, including two 8×2 stereo utility mixers, routable stereo processor with parametric equalizer/compressor/limiter, 12 physical universal logic ports, and 128 programmable software LIO ports.

The blades are part of the WheatNet-IP Intelligent Network, a complete IP audio ecosystem of consoles, talent stations, I/O units, accessories, virtual tools, UIs and appliances.