Balanced audio source selector

ELECTRONICALLY CONTROLLED PASSIVE SWITCHING | Balanced SIGNAL PATH | 4 BALANCED INPUTS | 2 BALANCED OUTPUTS | Precision Relay Architecure

eXpLoRer

Designed and Manufactured by Nereneas

eXpLoRer is a precision-built balanced audio switcher designed for high-end systems that use multiple XLR sources.

With four balanced inputs and two independent outputs, Explorer allows complex systems to be connected and controlled while preserving the integrity of the signal path.

Every connection is switched using high-quality latching relays, ensuring minimal contact resistance and complete signal transparency.

Pure Signal Integrity

eXpLoRer is built around one simple principle:

  • the signal path must remain untouched.

Instead of using electronic switching or integrated multiplexers, Explorer relies entirely on precision relay switching.

The result is a switching architecture that behaves like a direct connection between components.

  • No active electronics

  • No coloration

  • No compromise

Precision Relay Switching

Relay switching stage and control electronics of eXpLoRer

At the heart of eXpLoRer are high-quality latching relays.

These relays are chosen for their:

• extremely low contact resistance
• long-term reliability
• silent operation

The relays are controlled by a dedicated microcontroller, which manages the switching logic and the capacitive touch interface.

However, the audio signal path itself remains entirely passive, passing only through the relay contacts without any active electronics in the signal chain.

Because the relays are latching, they consume power only during switching. Once engaged, the selected signal path remains stable without continuous current flow.

This architecture also means that the selected signal path remains active even if the unit is powered off, preserving the connection between components at all times.

Remote Control Capability

eXpLoRer can also be controlled using the Nereneas remote control, allowing convenient source selection directly from the listening position.

SIGNAL ARCHITECTURE

Simplified signal architecture of eXpLoRer

eXpLoRer routes four balanced inputs through a precision relay matrix to two independent outputs, while maintaining a fully passive audio signal path

Dedicated Connector & Power Board

Dedicated connector board integrating all XLR connections of eXpLoRer

All XLR connectors in eXpLoRer are mounted on a single dedicated circuit board.

This architecture eliminates unnecessary wiring between connectors and switching stages, keeping the signal path extremely short and consistent.

The same board also integrates the linear power supply used by the control electronics, creating a compact and carefully controlled layout.

By consolidating connectors and power circuitry on one board, the design minimizes potential electromagnetic interference, reduces the risk of ground loops, and improves overall mechanical stability.

The result is a cleaner signal path, improved reliability, and a construction approach consistent with high-end audio design principles.

Capacitive Touch Control

Front touch interface — minimalist control, seamless response

eXpLoRer features an elegant capacitive touch interface.

Six touch buttons allow instant control over:

• Input selection (IN1 – IN4)
• Output selection (OUT1 – OUT2)

The interface is designed to be minimal, intuitive, and visually unobtrusive, complementing the clean front panel design.

Built with the Discipline of High-End Audio

Inside eXpLoRer — relay switching, integrated linear power supply, and carefully controlled signal paths

eXpLoRer is housed in a rigid steel chassis designed to minimize vibration and provide excellent electromagnetic shielding.

  • Chassis:precision laser-cut 1.5 mm steel, providing outstanding rigidity and shielding against vibration and electromagnetic interference ensuring stable performance in any setup

  • Finish: powder-coated surface for durability and a timeless aesthetic

  • High-quality XLR connectors

  • Form factor: identical footprint to Cassius (300 × 200 × 55 mm), ensuring a clean, uniform stack in your system

Integrated linear power supply and control electronics, carefully separated from the audio signal path.

eXpLoRer includes a fully integrated linear power supply designed for stable and reliable operation.

The transformer and control electronics are carefully positioned to remain physically separated from the audio signal path, minimizing the possibility of interference.

Once the switching state is set, the latching relay architecture maintains the selected signal path with absolute stability, requiring no continuous power to preserve the connection.

Machined aluminum isolation feet provide a stable mechanical interface between eXpLoRer and the supporting surface.

eXpLoRer rests on solid aluminum isolation feet, designed to provide mechanical stability and reduce the transmission of external vibrations.

Machined from solid aluminum and finished to match the aesthetic of the chassis, the feet provide a stable mechanical interface between the component and the supporting surface.

This approach contributes to the overall rigidity, stability, and long-term durability of the unit while maintaining the refined visual identity of the product

Designed for Balanced Systems

Rear panel of eXpLoRer showing the balanced inputs and balanced outputs using professional XLR connectors

eXpLoRer is optimized for fully balanced audio setups.

The rear panel provides:

• 4 × balanced XLR inputs
• 2 × balanced XLR outputs

This allows eXpLoRer to act as a central hub for complex audio systems, connecting multiple sources, DACs, tape machines, or preamplifiers.

The result is a stable and extremely short signal path.

True Power Control

A discreet power switch is located underneath the front-left corner of eXpLoRer...

A discreet power switch is located underneath the front-left corner of eXpLoRer, allowing the unit to be completely powered off rather than placed in standby.

The current switching state is stored in non-volatile memory (EEPROM), so when the unit is powered on again, eXpLoRer automatically restores the previously selected configuration.

Thanks to the latching relay architecture, power-up is completely silent, with no switching noise or audible clicks during startup.

  • Inputs
    4 × balanced XLR

    Outputs
    2 × balanced XLR

    Switching
    Latching relays

    Control
    Capacitive touch interface

    Power supply
    Internal transformer

    Chassis
    Powder-coated steel 1.5 mm steel chassis providing mechanical and EM shielding

    Ultra-flat enclosure

    Hand-assembled and individually tested in Romania

    Warranty: 2 years from the date of purchase (parts and labor)

  • Inputs: XLR, balanced
    Outputs: XLR, balanced

    Power: Standard IEC 60320 C8 inlet

  • Width: 301 mm

    Depth: 203 mm

    Height: 70 mm (with feet)
    55mm (without feet)

    Weight: 3.5 kg

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