Studio Technologies Unveils Model 385 Mic/Intercom

Studio Technologies has introduced the Model 385 Mic/Intercom Beltpack, a compact, Dante-enabled unit aimed at broadcast and live-event audio teams using parabolic mics, boom poles and other specialised microphones to capture critical on-air sound.

The portable beltpack pairs a high-performance microphone preamplifier with a single-talk/two-listen intercom interface, bringing both on-air mic and intercom capabilities together in a rugged, wearable format. It supports Dante audio over Ethernet and is powered via Power-over-Ethernet (PoE), allowing straightforward integration into contemporary fixed and mobile broadcast set-ups.

"The Model 385 was developed to address the evolving needs of broadcast sports and live entertainment production teams that require reliable, high-quality microphone and intercom functionality in a highly portable format," says Gordon Kapes. "By combining exceptional audio performance, Dante networking, and flexible monitoring capabilities into a single rugged device, the Model 385 gives field audio personnel an efficient and intuitive solution for demanding production environments."

Using a standard 3-pin XLR, the Model 385 accommodates both dynamic and condenser microphones, with selectable P48 phantom power for condenser use. Its low-noise, low-distortion preamplifier provides adjustable gain from 20 to 65 dB in 1 dB steps. The analogue mic signal is converted to 24-bit digital audio and delivered via a Dante transmitter channel.

A 5-pin XLR supports a broadcast headset, offering adjustable gain and low-voltage electret power for the headset microphone. The headset mic output is routed through a second Dante transmitter channel, activated by a pushbutton talk switch, enabling intercom with other Dante-enabled beltpacks and intercom systems.

"The flexibility of Dante networking was a major design priority for the Model 385," adds Kapes. "Users can easily integrate the unit with Studio Technologies products as well as a wide range of Dante-enabled equipment from other manufacturers. The unit is Dante Domain Manager compatible and offers AES67 compliance. With only a PoE Ethernet connection, a microphone, and a headset required, crews can quickly get up and running while maintaining dependable communications and premium audio performance."

Users can create tailored headphone mixes by combining up to four audio sources into the dual-channel headphone output. Three push-in/push-out rotary controls set listen levels for the main mic preamp output and two incoming Dante receiver channels, which are typically used for intercom and programme audio feeds. An integrated sidetone function provides confidence monitoring of the headset microphone.

Engineered for broadcast sports and live entertainment, the Model 385 delivers high headroom with low noise and distortion. A robust aluminium chassis with an integral belt clip supports reliable operation in the field.

Configuration is handled via the free STcontroller software, with options for microphone gain, phantom power, headset electret power, headset routing, sidetone settings and talkback button behaviour. The unit also supports STcontroller's VenueView event monitoring features.

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