WHIRLWIND DS168R Digital Snake Module Rack Mount Cobranet 16-CHANNEL Xlr

( Brand: Whirlwind ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: DS168R ), ( Form Factor: Rack Mountable ), ( Type: Digital Snake Output Module ), ( Color: Black ), ( Input/output Ports: Xlr Output, Db25 Analog Output, Cobranet ), ( Analog/digital: Analog Digital ), ( Features: Digital Output, Analog Output, Cobranet ), ( Rack Unit Height: 2u )

Review WHIRLWIND 16-channel Digital Snake Output Module Rack Mount Cobranet Xlr

The Whirlwind DS168r 16-Channel Digital Snake Module Rack Mount CobraNet XLR is a versatile and powerful digital audio transport solution designed for professional live sound and installations applications. This 16-channel module is part of Whirlwind's popular DS Series, which is renowned for its reliability and high-performance audio transport capabilities.

The DS168r is a rack-mountable module, making it an excellent choice for integrating digital audio transport into a standard rack setup. It features 16 individually addressed, high-headroom XLR input channels, each with selectable 48V phantom power and adjustable input gain. This allows for seamless integration of microphones, line-level sources, and other audio devices into the digital snake system.

The module utilizes CobraNet technology, a popular and widely adopted networking protocol for transporting high-quality digital audio over standard Ethernet infrastructure. This makes it easy to integrate the DS168r into existing network infrastructures, allowing for long-distance, low-latency digital audio transport.

The DS168r also features a number of advanced features to enhance functionality and ease of use. These include a built-in web server for remote configuration and control, an internal clock for precise synchronization, and support for multiple sample rates and word lengths. Additionally, the module is designed for easy integration with popular digital audio workstation (DAW) software, allowing for seamless recording and playback of digital audio.

Overall, the Whirlwind DS168r 16-Channel Digital Snake Module Rack Mount CobraNet XLR is an essential tool for any professional live sound or installation application that requires high-performance, long-distance digital audio transport. Its rugged construction, advanced features, and seamless integration with existing network infrastructure make it a reliable and indispensable component of any system.

Whirlwind DS168R 16-Channel Digital Snake Module: A Comprehensive Analysis

The Whirlwind DS168R 16-channel digital snake module is a popular choice for live sound and recording engineers seeking a reliable, efficient, and flexible solution for managing audio signals over long distances. In this analysis, we will discuss the key pros and cons of investing in this CobraNet XLR device.

1. High Channel Count: With 16 channels, the DS168R can accommodate a good number of microphones, instruments, or line-level sources for live applications or recording sessions.

2. CobraNet Compatibility: The device utilizes the CobraNet protocol, which allows for high-quality, low-latency digital audio transmission over standard Ethernet networks.

3. Rack-Mount Design: The DS168R's compact and rugged 1U rack-mount form factor makes it easy to integrate into existing professional audio setups.

4. Digital Signal Processing: The unit offers built-in digital signal processing capabilities, including parametric EQ, high-pass and low-pass filters, and compressors per channel.

5. Remote Control: The Whirlwind DS168R comes with a free software application called Lake Controller, which enables remote control and monitoring of the device's settings and parameters.

1. Cost: The DS168R is a premium product, and its price point may be a barrier for entry for some users.

2. Complexity: Digital snakes and CobraNet systems can require a learning curve for those unfamiliar with the technology.

3. Power Requirements: The unit requires a separate power supply, which adds to the overall cost and complexity of the system.

4. Limited Analog I/O: The DS168R is purely digital, meaning it does not offer any analog inputs or outputs. This could be a drawback for applications that require both digital and analog connections.

The Whirlwind DS168R 16-channel digital snake module is an excellent investment for audio professionals seeking a high-performance, flexible, and efficient solution for managing digital audio signals in live sound or recording environments. With its robust feature set, including CobraNet compatibility, rack-mount design, and built-in digital signal processing, the DS168R offers significant advantages over traditional analog snake systems. However, its cost and complexity may be a barrier for entry for some users, and its lack of analog I/O could be a limitation for certain applications.

If you are a professional audio engineer, live sound technician, or recording studio owner in need of a reliable and versatile digital audio snake system, the Whirlwind DS168R is an excellent choice. Its high-quality features, such as CobraNet compatibility, digital signal processing, and rack-mount design, make it a solid investment for your audio setup. However, if you are new to digital audio technology or require both digital and analog connections, you may want to consider other options that better suit your needs before making a purchase.

Details:

Two available, Manufacturers: The DS168R Connect Digital Snake Receiver by Whirlwind pairs with the DS168T transmitter for a complete 16 x 8 digital snake solution. Pulled these out of a working broadcast environment. The DS168R operates on the CobraNet digital transport protocol through RJ45 port located rear panel. Manual gain and phantom power controls on the front panel provide simple operation making a computer optional and/or not required.

Using this system, the unit interfaces directly with Yamaha digital consoles or any other CobraNet compatible I/O device. Also on the rear is a set of DB25 connectors which duplicate analog connections and provide parallel I/O for monitor front house use. This receiver has eight analog inputs, sixteen outputs, and two digital outputs using SPDIF AES. Add a 100 BASE-T network switch in the mix and multiple units can be chained for up to 64 simultaneous inputs while providing splits several locations.

part #: ds168r prices

• $199.99-$300.00

specifications signalprocessorgo:

• brand: Whirlwind
• mpn: Ds168r
• form factor: Rack Mountable
• type: Digital Snake Output Module
• color: Black
• input/output ports: Xlr Output, Db25 Analog Output, Cobranet
• analog/digital: Analog Digital
• features: Digital Output, Analog Output, Cobranet
• rack unit height: 2u

offer signalprocessorgo:

• quantity: 1
• started: May 25, 2026
• availability: In Stock
• options: Ship-to-home
• sold: 0
• best offers: True

returns signalprocessorgo:

• policy: No Returns

payments signalprocessorgo:

• wallet: Paypal
• other
• credit card: Discover

general signalprocessorgo:

• Musical Instruments Gear > Pro Audio Equipment > Signal Processors/Rack Effects
• condition: Used

seller signalprocessorgo:

• # reviews: 11
• city: Shasta Lake, California
• rating: 100.0%

shipping signalprocessorgo:

• cost: $9.35
• carrier: USPS
• class: Standard
• type: Calculated
• service: USPS Ground Advantage
• transit: 4-9 Days

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