Midas AS88 Dual HyperMAC to 8 Port Dual Redundant AES50 Converter

Dual HyperMAC to 8 redundant AES50 SuperMAC conversion at 96 kHz

The Midas AS88 is a high-capacity network converter that seamlessly converts two high-bitrate HyperMAC connections into eight fully redundant AES50 connections, and vice versa, with ultra-fast audio switching. Built for speed and reliability, the AS88 supports up to 192 bidirectional channels at 96 kHz, making it the ideal backbone for large-scale live sound and broadcast setups.

Using the AS88 with the Midas HD96 console enables full redundancy across both console Snake ports, unlocking greater channel capacity and enhanced system reliability. The unit utilizes advanced FPGA-based switching technology for dependable HyperMAC failover to a redundant connection. Equipped with rugged industry-standard RJ45 and optical connectors, the AS88 ensures seamless system integration and reliable high-performance audio transmission over long distances.

The AS88 features a 2U rackmountable chassis with dual copper and optical HyperMAC inputs, 16 RJ45 AES50 outputs, and an Ethernet port for network integration. Microprocessor-controlled redundancy management communicates with the console to indicate cable states, giving engineers full transparency and control. Dual redundant auto-ranging universal switch-mode power supplies with independent inlets ensure reliable operation worldwide.

Key Features

• Dual redundant HyperMAC to 8 redundant AES50 SuperMAC converter
• Up to 192 bidirectional channels at 96 kHz
• Advanced FPGA-based switching technology for dependable failover
• Dual redundant auto-ranging universal switch-mode power supply
• Compact and rugged 2U rackmountable design for touring environments
• Industry-standard RJ45 and optical connectors for copper and fibre connections

Professional Applications

• HD96 console systems requiring expanded AES50 stage box connectivity
• Large-scale touring productions with multiple stage boxes and I/O units
• Festival and multi-stage events requiring distributed audio networking
• Broadcast facilities with complex routing and redundancy requirements
• Installed sound systems in large venues, theaters, and arenas

System Integration

The AS88 serves as the primary distribution hub between HyperMAC console connections and AES50-based stage boxes and I/O units. It enables connection of up to eight AES50 stage boxes from a single converter, dramatically expanding I/O capacity. Combined with the AS80 for additional HyperMAC redundancy, the AS88 creates a comprehensive and fully redundant audio networking infrastructure for the HD96 ecosystem.

Broadcast Workflow Benefits

In touring and broadcast environments, the AS88 reduces cabling complexity while enabling full redundancy with the HD96-24 and HD96-AIR consoles. Engineers can expand I/O capacity across multiple stage positions from a centralized rack location, and microprocessor-controlled redundancy management provides real-time cable state monitoring from the console surface.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many AES50 ports does the AS88 provide?

The AS88 provides 8 fully redundant AES50 SuperMAC ports from dual HyperMAC connections, with 16 RJ45 AES50 outputs total.

What consoles is the AS88 designed to work with?

The AS88 is designed primarily for use with the Midas HD96 series consoles and other HyperMAC-equipped Midas systems.

Does the AS88 support optical connections?

Yes. The AS88 features both RJ45 copper and optical connectors for versatile deployment in copper or fibre environments.

How many audio channels can the AS88 handle?

The AS88 supports up to 192 bidirectional audio channels at 96 kHz.

Is the AS88 rack mountable?

Yes. The AS88 features a rugged 2U rackmountable chassis designed for touring and installed applications.

Related Equipment and Workflow Compatibility

The AS88 is commonly used alongside the Midas HD96-24 and HD96-AIR consoles, AS80 HyperMAC converters, and DL-series stage boxes including the DL151, DL152, DL153, DL154, DL155, DL251, and DL252. It serves as the primary AES50 distribution hub in large-format Midas digital audio networking systems.

Why Professionals Use This Type of Product

• Expands AES50 connectivity from dual HyperMAC connections to 8 redundant ports
• Enables full Snake port redundancy on Midas HD96 console systems
• Supports high channel counts up to 192 bidirectional channels at 96 kHz
• FPGA-based failover ensures uninterrupted audio in demanding environments
• Rugged 2U design with dual redundant power for touring reliability

Additional Compatibility Information

The Midas AS88 is a dual HyperMAC to 8-port dual redundant AES50 SuperMAC converter supporting up to 192 bidirectional channels at 96 kHz. With industry-standard RJ45 and optical connectors, dual redundant power supplies, FPGA-based failover switching, and a rugged 2U rackmount chassis, it is designed for professional live sound, touring, broadcast, and installed audio networking applications with Midas HD96 series digital console systems.