The Studio Technologies Model 342 Intercom Station is a compact, desktop device that supports two channels of talk and listen. The unit begins with the features offered by traditional analog party-line (PL) intercom user devices and adds a range of new capabilities, along with the advanced performance and flexibility that Dante® audio-over-Ethernet provides. Over a standard IP network, multiple Model 342 Intercom Station units and other compatible Studio Technologies' products can be used to create party-line intercom applications with help from an external Dante-enabled audio matrix such as the Studio Technologies' Model 5421 or Model 5422A Dante Intercom Audio Engines. Alternately, Model 342 units can be used "point-to-point" or interfaced with Dante-compatible matrix intercom systems.
Only a single Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) connection is required for operation. Key user features can be easily configured using the STcontroller software application. Configurable parameters include electret microphone power, microphone preamplifier gain, talk button operation, status LED action and intensity, sidetone operation, and headphone channel assignment. Hardware features include dual-channel (stereo) headphone output, dual headset connectors, integrated sidetone, call signal receive display, and remote mic kill ("talk off"). The range of capabilities, along with the excellent audio quality supported by the digital audio path, offers a unique and powerful user experience.
Setting up and configuring a Model 342 is simple. An etherCON® RJ45 receptacle is used to interconnect with a standard twisted-pair Ethernet port associated with a local-area network (LAN). This connection provides both power and bidirectional digital audio. The unit is compatible with both broadcast and "gaming" headsets. A "professional" broadcast or intercom-style headset with a dynamic or electret (DC-powered) microphone can be interfaced with a Model 342 using a 5-pin XLR connector. The Model 342 also directly supports connection of earbuds or gaming headsets that utilize a 3.5 mm 4-conductor (TRRS) CTIA-compliant plug. These moderately priced devices, commonly associated with mobile phones or personal computers, are often of high quality and may be the preferred headset for some applications. With the Model 342's moderate price and ability to support a broad range of headsets, the overall cost of deploying a high-performance intercom system can often meet budget goals.