Description
The SAS-8i is an audio input chassis designed for integration into SourceFlex distributed audio systems – it accepts up to eight switched balanced or unbalanced line sources and provides dedicated paging input and closure contacts. The chassis consolidates multiple line-level sources and routes them to SourceFlex controllers for distribution. This unit is intended for installations that require central source selection and local station level control.
Key features include eight switched audio inputs, a separate paging input, programmability for the number of active sources, and support for SAS-8C or SAS-82 controllers. The unit controls up to four SourceFlex listening stations and provides per-station level limiting to prevent excessive listening volume. An auto-resetting fuse protects the power feed to each listening station to maintain system reliability.
Audio performance is engineered for clarity and low distortion – the SAS-8i accepts input levels from -22 dBu to +4 dBu nominal and up to +22 dBu maximum, and offers a 40 dB adjustable output gain range via a trimmer. Frequency response is rated at 50 Hz to 35 kHz (±1 dB) and THD+N is specified at less than 0.1% at 1 kHz within a 20 Hz to 20 kHz bandwidth. Front-panel metering includes a green LED for level indication and a red LED that indicates 0 dB audio level.
Connectivity is optimized for installer workflows – eight switched inputs and the paging input use detachable terminal blocks, outputs to remote listening stations use 6-position detachable terminal blocks, and the unit provides a 24-pin ribbon cable header loop-thru bus to drive SAS-82 or SAS-8C controllers. Control inputs include a paging terminal that is activated by an external closure to ground. Power is supplied as 24 Vdc at 1 A, ground-referenced.
The SAS-8i is well suited to distributed audio applications such as museums, retail environments, corporate paging and background music systems. It centralizes source switching and paging while offering local level control and protection at each listening station. System integrators will find the programmable input count and loop-thru bus useful for scalable deployments where multiple chassis or controllers are combined.
Installation and configuration are straightforward – front-panel DIP switches set the number of inputs in use, trimmer presets set gain, and detachable terminal blocks simplify wiring and service. LED indicators provide visual confirmation of audio presence and output voltage at remote outputs to aid commissioning. The chassis ships in a compact cardboard box and is rated for ambient operation from 0 C to 50 C.
Overall the SAS-8i provides a practical audio input aggregation point for SourceFlex systems – it delivers selectable line inputs, paging integration, per-station level control, and built-in power protection for remote stations. The design focuses on predictable performance and easy integration with RDL SourceFlex controllers, making it a reliable choice for installers deploying distributed audio systems.
