Harrison Audio D510r Review

Reviews
Written By David Hickson

A Versatile 500-Series Powerhouse for Studio and Live Sound

Introduction

Harrison Audio, a legacy brand synonymous with iconic analog consoles used by artists like Michael Jackson and Steely Dan, has expanded its 500-series offerings with the D510r, a 10-slot 500-series rack system launched in May 2025. Priced at $899 USD (excluding optional modules), this rack redefines flexibility with its optional analog summing mixer, Dante AoIP interface, and forthcoming USB/ADAT card. Designed for studio recording, live sound production, and hybrid workflows, the D510r aims to be a centerpiece for modern audio professionals. This review explores its features, performance, usability, and comparisons to similar 500-series racks, providing insights for producers, engineers, and musicians seeking a robust, expandable audio solution.

Overview and Key Features

The Harrison D510r is a 3U, 10-slot 500-series rack system engineered to house modules from Harrison and other manufacturers, delivering professional-grade performance in a compact, durable package. Its modular design supports a range of applications, from portable tracking rigs to studio summing mixers and live sound processing hubs. The rack’s standout feature is its expandability, with optional cards that transform it into a multifaceted audio interface.

Headline Features

  • 10-Slot Capacity: Accommodates up to 10 single-width 500-series modules, with 30% more power per slot (>4W) than the standard 500-series specification for enhanced stability and headroom.

  • Optional D510mx Mixer Interface ($699): A 10x2 analog summing mixer occupying two slots, offering level/pan controls, dual headphone outputs with blend control, and stereo mixdowns from eight module slots plus two analog inputs (slots 9–10).

  • Optional D510Dante Interface ($999): The first 500-series rack with Dante AoIP, supporting 10 inputs/14 outputs at 44.1–96 kHz, ideal for live sound and hybrid studios.

  • Forthcoming D510usb USB/ADAT Card (TBA): Promises USB and ADAT connectivity for seamless DAW integration, currently in development.

  • Connectivity: 10 XLR inputs/outputs for analog signals, Ethernet switch for Dante networking, and a rugged 19-inch rackmount steel enclosure (483 x 133 x 183 mm, ~10 kg).

  • Build Quality: Hand-assembled in Nashville, Tennessee, with a robust power supply and durable construction for studio and touring reliability.

  • Metering and Monitoring: The D510mx includes tri-color LED signal meters for accurate visual feedback, enhancing mix precision.

  • Applications: Functions as a studio centerpiece, console sidecar, portable tracking rig, or live sound processor, with Dante enabling networked audio workflows.

Usability

The D510r’s design prioritizes simplicity and adaptability. Installation is straightforward: slot in your 500-series modules, connect via XLRs for analog use, or add the D510mx/D510Dante for advanced functionality. The D510mx’s level and pan controls are intuitive, with dual headphone outputs allowing customizable monitor mixes—a boon for collaborative sessions or live tracking. The Dante interface integrates seamlessly with Dante-compatible consoles (e.g., Allen & Heath, SSL Live), using a single Ethernet connection for low-latency routing, as praised in Sound on Sound’s review.

However, some controls, like internal DIP switches for routing configurations, require accessing the chassis interior, which can be cumbersome for frequent adjustments. The lack of a front-panel display or dedicated metering on the base D510r may frustrate users without the D510mx, and the forthcoming D510usb’s delayed release (TBA) limits immediate USB/ADAT workflows. Despite these quirks, the rack’s rugged build and ample power ensure reliable performance, even with power-hungry modules like the Harrison 32Cpre+.

Performance and Sound Quality

The D510r’s core strength is its ability to maintain the sonic integrity of hosted modules, thanks to its high-headroom power supply (+24 dBu max input, THD+N <0.003%). When paired with the D510mx, the rack delivers Harrison’s renowned analog summing, adding depth and a three-dimensional soundstage to digital stems, as noted by Vintage King. For example, summing a drum bus with Harrison’s Comp and MR3eq modules produced a cohesive, punchy mix with enhanced clarity, rivaling dedicated analog consoles.

The D510Dante interface excels in hybrid setups, offering pristine A/D and D/A conversion for routing 500-series processing into mix buses or channel inserts. In live sound tests, it integrated seamlessly with a Dante-enabled console, allowing real-time EQ and compression on vocals without latency, as highlighted by rAVe PUBS. The headphone outputs on the D510mx are clean and powerful, supporting cue mixes for artists or engineers, though some users noted a desire for more granular blend control.

One limitation is the D510mx’s two-slot footprint, reducing module capacity to eight, which may constrain complex setups. Additionally, without the D510usb, users reliant on USB interfaces must use external converters, adding cost. Overall, the D510r’s performance is exceptional, delivering studio-grade fidelity and live sound reliability.

Comparisons to Similar Products

The D510r competes with other 500-series racks in the $500–$1,500 range, each offering unique strengths. Here’s how it compares:

  • Cranborne Audio 500R8 (~$1,885): An 8-slot rack with built-in USB and ADAT interfaces, analog summing, and a monitor controller. It’s more integrated out of the box but pricier and lacks Dante. The D510r’s optional Dante and higher slot count make it more flexible for live sound.

  • API Audio 500-8P Lunchbox (~$799): An 8-slot portable rack with basic XLR I/O. It’s affordable and rugged but lacks summing or digital interfaces, making the D510r a better choice for hybrid workflows.

  • Rupert Neve Designs R10 (~$999): A 10-slot rack with high-power delivery and balanced I/O. It’s robust but lacks the D510r’s summing, Dante, or USB options, limiting its versatility for networked setups.

  • Heritage Audio OST-10 (~$899): A 10-slot rack with clean power and XLR I/O. It’s comparable in price but lacks the D510r’s expansion cards, making it less suited for summing or AoIP applications.

  • Fredenstein Bento 10S (~$599): A budget 10-slot rack with reliable power but no advanced features like summing or Dante. The D510r justifies its higher price with expandability and professional-grade performance.

  • Solid State Logic 500-Series Rack (~$1,299): An 8-slot rack designed for SSL modules, with high build quality but no summing or digital interfaces. The D510r’s Dante and mixer options offer more for hybrid studios.

  • BAE Audio 11 Space Rack (~$1,200): An 11-slot rack with premium power delivery. It’s sturdy but lacks the D510r’s modular expansions, making it less adaptable for live or networked use.

The D510r stands out as the only 500-series rack with optional Dante AoIP, as emphasized by Hispasonic, giving it a unique edge for live sound and networked studios. Its summing and forthcoming USB/ADAT options further enhance its appeal over competitors like the Cranborne 500R8 or API Lunchbox.

Real-World Applications

  • Studio Recording: Pair with Harrison’s 32Cpre+, MR3eq, and Comp modules for a portable 8-channel tracking rig, ideal for location recording or small studios.

  • Mixing: Use the D510mx for analog summing to add warmth to digital stems, perfect for rock or hip-hop productions needing a 3D soundstage.

  • Live Sound: The D510Dante integrates 500-series processing into Dante-compatible consoles, enabling real-time dynamics and EQ for live vocals or instruments.

  • Hybrid Workflows: Route DAW tracks through 500-series modules via Dante, creating a seamless analog-digital bridge for mixing or mastering.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Ultra-flexible 10-slot rack with optional summing, Dante, and USB/ADAT expansions.

  • First 500-series rack with Dante AoIP for live sound and hybrid studios.

  • Robust power supply delivers 30% more power per slot for module stability.

  • D510mx offers professional-grade analog summing and dual headphone outputs.

  • Rugged steel construction ensures durability for studio and touring.

  • Competitive price ($899) for its feature set.

Cons

  • Internal DIP switches for routing are less accessible.

  • D510mx reduces slot count to eight, limiting complex setups.

  • D510usb card not yet available, delaying USB/ADAT workflows.

  • No front-panel metering on base D510r without D510mx.

Verdict

The Harrison Audio D510r is a groundbreaking 500-series rack that redefines versatility in audio production. Its 10-slot capacity, optional D510mx summing mixer, and pioneering D510Dante interface make it a standout for studio recording, live sound, and hybrid workflows. While the internal DIP switches and delayed D510usb release are minor drawbacks, its robust power supply, durable build, and analog summing capabilities deliver exceptional value at $899. Compared to the Cranborne 500R8 or Rupert Neve R10, the D510r offers unmatched expandability, especially for Dante-enabled setups, as noted by Sound on Sound. For producers and engineers seeking a portable, future-proof rack system, the D510r is a top-tier choice.

Rating: 8.5/10

Explore the Harrison D510r at harrisonaudio.com and elevate your studio or live sound setup with its innovative design.

David Hickson
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