Sonifex RB-DS2 – Stereo Delay Synchroniser & Time-Zone Delay

Product Overview

The Sonifex RB-DS2 Stereo Delay Synchroniser & Time-Zone Delay is a 1U rack-mount stereo audio delay designed for resynchronising audio to video and delaying programmes across time zones. The Sonifex RB-DS2 accepts balanced analogue and AES/EBU digital audio on XLRs, operating as a high-quality converter while applying precisely controlled delay to stereo or dual mono signals.

At a Glance

• Sonifex RB-DS2 stereo delay synchroniser and time-zone delay in a rugged 1U Redbox chassis.
• Balanced analogue and AES/EBU digital inputs and outputs with 24-bit audio performance.
• Base delay up to 10.5 seconds at 96 kHz, extendable to more than 4 hours using CompactFlash memory.
• Supports PAL and NTSC frame formats with delay set in samples, frames, milliseconds or hours.
• Front-panel display and rotary controller plus GPI and RS232 remote control options.

Product Details

In synchroniser mode, the Sonifex RB-DS2 corrects audio timing after video delays caused by standards converters, logo inserters or transmission chains, restoring accurate lip-sync at the output. Delay can be adjusted in fine increments using samples, fields, frames or milliseconds, with presets for common frame rates so setup is quick and repeatable.

For time-zone applications, the internal CompactFlash slot allows installation of a memory card so the Sonifex RB-DS2 can delay complete programmes by several hours. Up to eight user configurations can be stored and recalled locally or via GPI, allowing automation systems to switch delay times, inputs or bypass states instantly. Fail-safe relays route the input directly to the output if power is lost, ensuring continuity of service in critical installations.

Use Cases

• Audio resynchronisation after video delay in TV playout and contribution chains.
• Time-zone delay for satellite or network rebroadcast where content must be shifted by hours.
• Flexible stereo or dual-mono delay in complex radio and TV studio routing systems.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Q: How much delay can the Sonifex RB-DS2 provide?
  A: The unit offers up to around 10.5 seconds of stereo delay at 96 kHz, which can be expanded to more than 4 hours when a suitable CompactFlash card is fitted.
• Q: Which audio formats are supported?
  A: It supports balanced analogue line-level audio and AES/EBU digital audio with selectable sample rates from 32 kHz to 96 kHz at 16 or 24 bit.
• Q: How can the Sonifex RB-DS2 be controlled remotely?
  A: Delay presets and bypass can be switched via GPI contacts, while the RS232 port and control software allow full configuration and monitoring from a PC or control system.

Alternative Products

• Sonifex RB-PD2 Stereo Profanity Delay – ideal where a live profanity dump function is required rather than frame-accurate AV resynchronisation.
• Sonifex RB-DSD1 Digital Synchroniser/Delay – better suited to all-digital workflows that only require AES/EBU connectivity.

For more synchronisers and delay units, visit our

Clocks & Timers category
.