Redback has released the A4460 which is designed to distribute four stereo input sources into eight stereo output zones. Myke Ireland looks further into its capabilities.

For as long as I’ve been involved in the AV industry, Redback has epitomised the Swiss army knife of affordable AV equipment. It’s been a while since I’ve had my hands on a piece of Redback gear, so I’m genuinely excited to delve into the capabilities of their latest offering – the A4460 4×8 Stereo Audio Switcher System. Nestled in a compact 1RU unit, this device promises to redefine how audio distribution is managed across various setups.

The Redback A4460 is touted as being great for environments that demand precise audio control, from bustling function centres and luxury hotels to sophisticated home audio systems.

With its capacity to route four stereo inputs to eight distinct output zones, this switcher is not just about connectivity: it’s about crafting the perfect audio landscape for any occasion. Equipped with promising features and the potential for extensive control, the A4460 invites us to explore how it might just be the central cog in modern audio management systems, ensuring seamless integration and operation.

Join me as we unpack the features and performance of the Redback A4460, exploring how it stands to impact the world of audio distribution.

Out of the box

Unpacking the Redback A4460, you’re introduced to a sleek, 1RU rack unit that epitomises compact efficiency. Its robust metal chassis is designed to fit seamlessly into any standard audio equipment rack, making it ideal for both permanent fixtures and mobile setups. The unit’s durable construction is tailored to endure the demands of frequent use across varied environments – but mostly those where the day-to-day TLC of AV systems may not be as readily available.

The main rack unit houses all necessary connections with clearly labelled inputs and outputs, streamlining setup for audio professionals. It features unbalanced RCA connectors for all inputs and outputs, which of course doesn’t come with the interreference reduction of an XLR connection. This always needs to be considered when you have no internal way of managing the noise floor.

Something I always appreciate on permanent install boxes is a lack of accessible buttons and dials on the front of the unit, keeping inexperienced meddling hands away from complex routing. For access to that level of configuration, you need one of the optional Redback control plates.

It’s important to note that the A4460 doesn’t come with a control panel in the standard package. For optimal use and to fully leverage the unit’s capabilities, it should be paired with one of the optional controllers. These are available in either 7” or 4.3” sizes, with Master and Zone versions to suit different operational needs. For this review, I have been testing with the 7” Master version, which is not included as standard but enhances the functionality significantly.

Each unit can support up to eight paired wall plate zone controllers, echoing the eight distributed zones available. All controller connections are UDP category cables and will supply POE directly to each controller. The unit also has a built-in Bluetooth receiver, which by default takes up one of your input zones. For added ingenuity, you can also piggyback up to two controllers on a single run cutting down on time and not having to install “home runs” for each controller.

The controllers are elegantly designed with a minimalist aesthetic that belies its functional complexity. It features soft-touch buttons and LED indicators that provide clear feedback on the status of each audio channel. Wall-mountable, the controller offers practical accessibility and can be placed strategically for optimal operational efficiency.

The synergy between the rack unit and the optional controller enables precise control over the audio routing with minimal effort, making the A4460 a versatile solution ready to deliver superior audio management once the appropriate controller is integrated.

Inside the box

The Redback A4460 4×8 Stereo Audio Switcher enables precise control of audio distribution by allowing four stereo inputs to be independently routed to any of eight outputs. Such versatility is invaluable for venues like conference centres or entertainment complexes, where separate zones may require distinct audio feeds tailored to specific events or atmospheres.

Each input can be selectively routed to one or more outputs without any loss of audio quality, ensuring that sound remains crisp and clear, regardless of the complexity of the setup. This capability is underpinned by high-quality circuitry that prevents signal degradation, even when multiple routes are active simultaneously.

The switcher’s programming interface is designed for intuitive use. It includes a visual representation of routing paths, which simplifies the process of configuring connections. Most routine configurations are pre-set, allowing technicians to focus on customising parameters like input sensitivity and volume control for each zone. This streamlined setup process reduces installation time dramatically, enabling quicker turnaround for projects with tight deadlines.

Moreover, the A4460 includes advanced features such as priority input settings, which can override other channels when activated – perfect for paging systems or emergency announcements. Additionally, the unit supports external triggering of inputs, allowing users to automate switching based on external events, further enhancing the system’s adaptability to user needs.

The ease of programming and operational flexibility of the A4460 not only minimises the time required on-site but also empowers audio technicians to execute sophisticated audio scenarios effortlessly, directly reflecting its technical capabilities in practical applications. Just keep in mind you’ll need a “Master” controller for the initial setup of the design… I’d suggest that perhaps you have one “Master” in every design that is kept a little further away from the day-to-day users, where the “Zone” controllers are probably a little safer.

In the real world

In practical terms, the installation of the Redback A4460 4×8 Stereo Audio Switcher System is remarkably straightforward and efficient. The physical mounting of the rack unit and the control panel is relatively simple, typically requiring about three to four hours on-site, including full integration with your existing audio matrix. This quick setup process is a significant advantage for professionals looking to maximise productivity during installations, and there are a couple of really helpful “rinse and repeat” features.

Once mounted, configuring the system is even more expedient, often taking less than an hour to complete. The A4460’s user interface is designed for simplicity and ease of use, making it accessible even for those with minimal technical experience. For AV technicians handling recurring projects with similar audio setup needs, the switcher offers a particularly useful feature: configuration files can be saved to an SD card. This allows for the same settings to be quickly uploaded to similar installations across multiple rooms or venues, streamlining the setup process and significantly cutting down on programming time.

Additionally, the A4460 is equipped with six GPIO’s, these can be used for critical integrations such as EWIS muting or activating mutes in response to signals from other systems. Such features make the A4460 not only a versatile tool for routine audio management but also a reliable component in a broader EWIS/safety and communication system, ensuring that it meets the dynamic needs of modern installations.

Final thoughts

The Redback A4460 stands out as an exceptional value in the AV market, offering a wealth of features at a price point that is hard to beat. Priced at around half of what you might expect for a device so feature-rich – typically under two thousand dollars – it delivers extensive functionality without breaking the bank. This unit is not only simple to install but also user-friendly enough that individuals without extensive AV experience can manage setup and operation effectively.

Furthermore, the system promises a forthcoming enhancement with the development of an iOS and Android app, which will extend control functionality and offer greater flexibility to users.

Proudly Australian-made, the A4460 comes with an industry-leading ten-year warranty, underscoring Redback’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. Local support is readily available, ensuring that any assistance you require is just a phone call away.

In summary, if you’re in the market for a reliable, versatile audio switcher that maximises both functionality and budget, the Redback A4460 should undoubtedly be at the top of your list. Its blend of intuitive design, robust features and future-ready technology makes it a compelling choice for any setting requiring sophisticated audio distribution solutions.

Manufacturer: Redback

Distributed by: Altronics