Details
WRC-1 is an advanced rack-mountable wireless router, designed specifically for pro audio applications such as on-stage monitor mix control or DLNA playback.
The WRC-1 router is ideal for use with the Waves MyMon personal monitor mixing app, as well as other audio setups that require secure and robust WiFi connectivity.
To serve the unique needs of live sound engineers, stage productions and other live audio and AV environments, WRC-1 offers unique benefits that go beyond standard router features: rack-mountable design, made specifically for audio equipment racks; rugged and robust industrial build; and stronger RF distribution to secure dependable, steady communication.
WRC-1 comes with basic router management software to control the most common features required by users. In addition, an advanced set of router configuration features is accessible by installing a free advanced firmware package (scroll all the way down this page for details).
WRC-1 can also be used for DLNA playback from mobile devices (iOS, Android) and external computers (macOS, Windows). When connected to a mixer, the DLNA player allows anyone on stage (e.g. band members) to easily stream a music file from their mobile device directly to the mixing console.
- Rugged 19” rack-mountable metal chassis (1U)
- Simultaneous dual-band operation (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz)
- Quiet fanless design
- 4x 10/100/1000 (1 WAN and 3 LAN) Gigabit Ethernet ports
- 2 Pro-Grade lockable RJ45 ports + 3 standard RJ45 ports
- DLNA player with balanced analog outputs (XLR L/R)
- Integrated USB3 hub with fast universal charging
- Internal universal power supply
Typical WRC-1 Setup: In-ear monitoring with the Waves MyMon app
In this setup, WRC-1 is used to route audio via the Waves MyMon app for personal monitor mixing:
- Waves eMotion LV1 mixer system, running on a SoundGrid network.
- The WRC-1 router: Note that the WRC-1 should not be connected to your SoundGrid network. The router (as well as the Waves MyMon app) should run on an independent WiFi network.
- MyMon application installed on iOS or Android mobile devices.
This MyMon setup is just one example of the WRC-1 used in an audio environment. There are many other similar applications for remote control of audio consoles and PA equipment in venues, stage productions, houses of worship, etc., which require a robust WiFi router solution.
WRC-1 can also be used in various facilities (corporate, educational, etc.) as a DLNA player for simplified audio playback.
Features & Benefits In-Depth
Rugged 19” rack-mount metal chassis (1U)
Generic routers typically require the user to design and build a custom tray to have a “portable” unit that withstands the demands of a Pro-Audio/Live sound environment.
Front panel mount antennas with SMA connectors
WRC-1 for use whilst securely mounted in equipment racks. SMA connectors allow the user to remove and store the antennas when the rack door is closed.
Pro-Grade lockable RJ45 ports
WRC-1 WAN port and one LAN port use professional RJ45 sockets with Neutrik latch-lock connectors to keep critical LAN cables secure during an event.
Integrated USB hub
The integrated 5-port USB hub provides practical conveniences for the busy touring engineer. Enjoy the convenience of having charging points on hand for phones/tablets. By installing the Advanced Firmware, these ports can host USB Mass Storage media to make music tracks or images available on the network.
Internal universal power supply
Built for the rigours of touring/live environments, unlike generic wireless routers having a wall-wart PSU, WRC-1 has a universal voltage, auto-switching internal power supply.
DLNA player with balanced XLR outputs
The integrated DLNA player functionality allows wireless playback of audio from mobile devices to dedicated balanced analog output ports on the WRC-1 back-panel. For example, when connected to a mixer, the DLNA player provides a simple and efficient way for a band member to easily stream a music file from their mobile phone directly to the mixing console (which could in turn route to the monitor mixes or PA).
Wireless Access Point functionality
Deploy the WRC-1 as the central wireless access point for the live sound WiFi network providing robust connectivity between the digital mixer and related apps on mobile devices. Bi-directional data includes the ability to transfer data from the wireless mobile apps to the wired mixer, as well as functional status and indicators from the digital mixer to the mobile app.
Simultaneous dual-band operation
The 2.4G and 5G WiFi networks on the WRC-1 operate independently. Unique network names and passwords can be set individually for each to secure WiFi device access.
Advanced MIMO technology
WRC-1 uses advanced multiple-input, multiple-output (MIMO) technology to deliver higher data throughput and extend WiFi range. DHCP and Static IP protocols for broadband operation are also supported. The advanced firmware also supports the PPPoE protocol.
Browser-based configuration
Configure the WRC-1 using its intuitive, browser-based Administrator Tool. The configuration tool can be accessed using a standard browser on a computer or laptop connected directly to a network port.
WRC-1 Basic vs. Advanced Firmware
WRC-1 includes router management software to quickly set the WiFi password and configure network settings such as the system IP address. These features are the most common changes needed by customers and are fully supported by Waves.
An advanced set of router configuration features is accessible by installing an advanced firmware package on the WRC-1. The advanced features include router capabilities such as QoS and NAT settings, advanced firewall settings, guest Wi-Fi settings, and other features that are not typically required in live sound installations. Please note that Waves provides this advanced firmware for you install, but does not offer official support for the advanced firmware.