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Studio Technologies Model 381 On-Air Beltpack

BH #STMODEL381 • MFR #M381
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Studio Technologies Model 381 On-Air Beltpack
Key Features
  • For Complete Stand-Up On-Air Position
  • Dante Audio-over-Ethernet Technology
  • One Main and One Talkback Output Channel
  • Flexible 2-Channel Headphone Output
The Studio Technologies Model 381 On-Air Beltpack is a compact yet feature-rich solution designed for broadcast stand-up positions, live sports, eSports, and entertainment productions. Built on Dante audio-over-Ethernet technology, it offers professional-grade audio performance with main and talkback output channels, talent cue (IFB) input, sidetone capabilities, and highly flexible headphone monitoring. With AES67 compliance and Dante Domain Manager (DDM) compatibility, the Model 381 is extremely well suited to modern, networked broadcast environments.
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Studio Technologies Model 381 Overview

The Studio Technologies Model 381 On-Air Beltpack is a compact yet feature-rich solution designed for broadcast stand-up positions, live sports, eSports, and entertainment productions. Built on Dante audio-over-Ethernet technology, it offers professional-grade audio performance with main and talkback output channels, talent cue (IFB) input, sidetone capabilities, and highly flexible headphone monitoring. With AES67 compliance and Dante Domain Manager (DDM) compatibility, the Model 381 is extremely well suited to modern, networked broadcast environments.

Dante Audio-over-Ethernet Technology
The Model 381 seamlessly integrates into IP-based audio networks, replacing complex analog setups with a single Ethernet cable for both power and audio. With two Dante input channels for talent cueing and two Dante output channels for main and talkback audio, it ensures high-quality, low-latency digital audio transmission.
Compact and Portable for On-Air Use
Designed for stand-up broadcast positions, the ultracompact and lightweight Model 381 can be easily worn on a belt or placed on a desk. The curved top surface minimizes interference with clothing, ensuring a discreet, professional look when used on camera.
One Main and One Talkback Output Channel
The Model 381 supports two independent Dante output channels:

  • Main Output (On-Air): Delivers high-fidelity, broadcast-ready audio directly to networked devices.
  • Talkback Output: Enables private communication with production staff or other talent, with configurable routing via Dante Controller.

A top-panel pushbutton switch provides a combination talkback and "cough" function, allowing talent to communicate off-air or mute their mic as needed. Users can configure whether the main output remains active when talkback is engaged.

2-Channel Headphone Output with Independent Volume Controls
The flexible headphone output ensures customized monitoring, supporting:

  • Stereo headphones
  • Single-ear earpieces
  • Broadcast headsets

Two independent volume knobs allow users to adjust the mix of two Dante input channels for talent cueing (IFB), ensuring the right balance of program audio and producer communication.

Integrated Sidetone Functionality
For talent using mix-minus IFB feeds, the Model 381 provides a built-in sidetone feature, allowing users to hear their own voice in their headphones. This ensures natural-sounding monitoring and prevents overcompensation in vocal delivery.
Professional-Quality Audio Performance
  • Low-noise microphone preamp with configurable gain settings
  • Phantom power (48V) support for condenser microphones
  • Integrated compressor for dynamic control (pre- or post-processing selection available)
  • 24-bit digital audio processing with sample rates up to 96 kHz
  • Virtually click-free digital switching for audio routing
STcontroller Software for Flexible Configuration
Using the free STcontroller software, users can fully customize the Model 381's settings, including:

  • Microphone preamp gain (five selectable levels)
  • Phantom power on/off
  • Headphone mix routing
  • Sidetone operation
  • Talkback button behavior
Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) for a Single-Cable Solution
The Model 381 is powered via PoE, eliminating the need for external power supplies. Simply connect to a PoE-enabled network switch or PoE injector for both power and digital audio transmission.
Rugged and Reliable Construction
Built for professional use, the Model 381 features a lightweight yet durable aluminum enclosure and a stainless steel belt clip for secure attachment. The Neutrik etherCON RJ45 connector ensures a rugged, locking Ethernet connection, ideal for demanding broadcast environments.
Future-Proof with Firmware Updates
The USB firmware update feature allows users to upgrade functionality as needed, ensuring the Model 381 remains compatible with evolving Dante networks.

Studio Technologies Model 381 Specs

Power Source
Power-over-Ethernet (PoE): Class 2 (Low Power, ≤ 6.49 W) per IEEE 802.3af
Network Audio Technology
Type: Dante Audio-over-Ethernet
AES67-2018 Support: Yes
Dante Domain Manager (DDM) Support: Yes
Bit Depth: Up to 24
Sample Rate: 44.1,48, 88.2, and 96 kHz
Number of Transmitter (Output) Channels: 2
Description of Transmitter Channels: Main (Pre- or Post-Compressor, Selectable), Talkback (Post-Compressor)
Number of Receiver (Input) Channels: 2
Description of Receiver Channels: Headphone Channel 1 and Headphone Channel 2
Dante Audio Flows: 4; 2 Transmitter, 2 Receiver
Network Interface
Type: 100BASE-TX, Twisted-Pair Ethernet, Power-over-Ethernet (PoE)
Supported Data Rate: 100 Mb/S (10 Mb/S and 1000 Mb/S GigE Ethernet Not Supported)
Microphone Input
Compatibility: Dynamic or Phantom-Powered Microphones
Type: Balanced, Capacitive Coupled
Impedance: 2.8 Kilohms, Nominal
Gain: 36, 42, 48, 54, and 60 dB, Selectable
Frequency Response: 30 Hz to 20 kHz, -3 dB at 30 Hz, -0.6 dB at 20 kHz
Distortion (THD+N): < 0.020%, 1 kHz, 36 dB Gain, -32 dBu Input Level
Dynamic Range: 96 dB, A-Weighted
Phantom Power: P48 per IEC 61938 Standard, On/Off Selectable with Status LED
Compressor
Application: Always Used for Dante Talkback Audio Output Channel, Can Be Used for Dante Main Output Channel
Threshold: 1 dB Above Nominal Level (-19 dBFS)
Slope: 2:1
Status LED: Compressor Active
Headphone Output
Type: 2-Channel
Compatibility: Intended for Connection to Stereo (Dual-Channel) or Mono (Single-Channel) Headphones, Headsets, or Earpieces with Nominal Impedance of 50 Ohms or Greater
Maximum Output Voltage: 3.1 Vrms, 1 kHz, 150-Ohm Load
Frequency Response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz, +0/-1 dB
Distortion (THD+N): 0.001%, +10 dBu Output, 150 Ohm Load
Dynamic Range: > 102 dB
Connectors
Microphone Input: 3-Pin Female XLR
Headphone Output: 1/4" TRS Jack
Ethernet: Neutrik etherCON RJ45
USB: Type A Receptacle (Located Inside Model 381's Enclosure and Used Only for Updating Firmware)
Configuration
Uses Studio Technologies' STcontroller Personal Computer Application
Environmental
Operating Temperature: 32 to 122°F / 0 to 50°C
Storage Temperature: -40 to 158°F / -40 to 70°C
Humidity: 5 to 95%, Non-Condensing
Dimensions (W x H x D)
3.1 x 1.5 x 4.9" / 7.9 x 4 x 12.5 cm
Weight
8 oz / 230 g
Packaging Info
Package Weight
0.96 lb
Box Dimensions (LxWxH)
12.7 x 7.2 x 3.7"

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