Radial SW8 Auto Switcher
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- This item is covered for 3 years
Essential Information About the Radial SW8 8-Channel Auto-Switcher
Essential Information About the Radial SW8 8-Channel Auto-Switcher
- Redundant Security: automatic switching between two 8-channel sources (playback A/B, digital recorders, etc.) to prevent any live interruptions.
- Intelligent Fault Detection: monitoring via a tone (sine wave) on channel 1, with visual alert and configurable actions (alarm, mute, switch).
- Stage-Ready Connectivity: TRS or D-Sub 25 inputs, XLR or D-Sub 25 outputs, 19-inch rack format.
- Optimized Live Control: mute and stand-by functions, dedicated LEDs, footswitch or desktop triggering options.
Manufacturer Information
Radial
https://www.radialeng.com
info@radialeng.com
------------------------
Safety manager:
Algam SAS
Email: contact@algam.net
Address:
A Playback Redundancy Standard, Optimized by Radial
Since its release, the Radial SW8 has established itself as a benchmark for securing playback and orchestration systems in concerts. Adopted over the years on major tours and productions, it has also evolved thanks to user feedback: Radial has enhanced ergonomics and control functions to make it an even more effective switcher in demanding contexts where fault tolerance must be near zero.
Who Is It For and What Is It Used For?
The SW8 is aimed at FOH engineers, stage managers, and technical teams managing multitrack playbacks (effects, stems, click tracks, guides, orchestrations) in concerts, musicals, or corporate events. The principle is simple: you connect two synchronized players, record a sine wave on channel 1, and the SW8 monitors the presence of this reference. In case of disappearance (crash, cut, output problem), the system can alert you and ensure continuity by switching to the backup machine.
Technical specifications
| Frequency response - start | 20 Hz | THD | 0,002% @ 1 kHz |
| Frequency response - end | 20 kHz | Inputs | jack, Sub-D 25 |
| Category | switch | Analog outputs | jack, Sub-D 25, XLR |
| Number of channels | 8 | Power supply | DC 15 V |
| Digital conversion | No | Weight | 4.2 kg |
| Max input level (dBu) | 26 | Dimensions (mm) | 445 x 152 x 45 |
| Settings | Global -20 dB attenuator, Automatic switch, ground lift switch, mute, input selector, noise gate threshold, standby | ||
Questions frequently asked
How does the Radial SW8 detect a playback failure?
A sine wave recorded on channel 1 is used as a monitoring reference. If this signal disappears, a red LED indicates the fault and the selected action can be an alarm, mute, or switch to machine B.
Is it possible to automatically switch between two playback computers?
Automatic switching to system B is one of the available settings. The switcher manages 8 channels for two synchronized players, including stems, clicks, guides, or orchestrations.
What audio connections are available?
Inputs are offered in jack and Sub-D 25. Analog outputs use jack, XLR, and Sub-D 25 connectors, with outputs labeled as XLR or D-Sub 25.
Does the SW8 allow muting outputs during a concert?
Manual muting of the main outputs, standby between tracks, and a global mute are available. Footswitch or desktop control options can be used, with dedicated LED indicators.
What are the audio levels and performance specifications of the switcher?
The input accepts a maximum level of +26 dBu and the global attenuator provides -20 dB. Frequency response ranges from 20 Hz to 20 kHz. Total harmonic distortion is stated at 0.002% at 1 kHz.



