The Dolby DP503 Two-Channel Digital Audio Encoder is a professional-grade audio processing unit designed for high-quality encoding in broadcast, production, and telecommunications environments. This 1U rack-mount encoder supports Dolby AC-2, Dolby Digital (AC-3), and MPEG-1 Layer II algorithms across data rates from 40 kbps to 448 kbps, with selectable sampling rates of 32 kHz, 44.1 kHz, or 48 kHz. The unit delivers exceptional audio fidelity with dynamic range exceeding 100 dB and THD+N performance down to 0.01% for Dolby Digital at 1 kHz.
## Technical Specifications
**Audio Processing**
• Supported algorithms: Dolby AC-2, Dolby Digital (AC-3), MPEG-1 Layer II
• Data rates: 40 kbps to 448 kbps
• Sampling rates: 32 kHz, 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz (Dolby AC-2 limited to 48 kHz)
• Channel configurations: Single-channel, dual-mono, joint-stereo
• A/D converters: 20-bit resolution
• Frequency response: 20 Hz ±0.25 dB (lower limit); upper limit varies with data rate
• Dynamic range: >100 dB
• Channel separation: >0.2 dB
• THD+N (Dolby Digital): <0.01% @ 1 kHz; <0.02% from 20 Hz to upper response limit
• THD+N (AC-2, MPEG-1 II): <0.1% @ 1 kHz; 55 dB (50 Hz–10 kHz)
• Data/control: RS-449 (37-pin); RS-232 (three 9-pin connectors); TTL status outputs (9-pin)
• Clock: Internal ±25 ppm (RS-422 output); external ±100 ppm (RS-422 input)
**Physical & Environmental**
• Form factor: 1U rack mount
• Dimensions: 44 mm H × 483 mm W × 324 mm D
• Weight: 4.8 kg
• Display: 16-character LCD with control keys; LED status indicators
• Operating temperature: 0–50°C, natural convection
• Storage temperature: -40–70°C
• Operating humidity: <90%, non-condensing
## Key Features
• Multiple algorithm support for broadcast and telecommunications workflows
• Precise frequency response and low distortion for transparent encoding
• Flexible analog input impedance selection and adjustable peak levels
• Dual digital audio inputs (AES/EBU and S/PDIF) with independent timing control
• Comprehensive status monitoring and remote control via serial interfaces
## Typical Applications
• Broadcast audio encoding and distribution
• Production facility signal processing
• Telecommunications audio transport
• ISDN-based audio transmission systems
## Compatibility & Integration
The DP503 integrates with professional audio workflows via standard AES/EBU and S/PDIF digital inputs, or active balanced analog XLR inputs. Serial interfaces enable remote operation, auxiliary data handling, and ISDN terminal adapter control. FCC Part 15 Class A and Industry Canada compliance support North American deployment.
