STAGETEC has introduced NEX:T axio, a solution designed to bring intelligence, flexibility, and scalability to the modern production workflows. NEX:T axio integrates premium audio conversion, onboard processing, logic control, embedded STAGENET system, and network management—all within a compact, modular form factor. Available in 8, 16, and 32-channel configurations, it empowers production teams to deploy high-performance audio wherever it’s needed most—in the studio, in the field, or on stage—without compromising quality or control.

[The Power of Predictable Audio Performance]

NEX:T axio enables a smooth, step-by-step integration to AoIP I/O Networks. Existing systems, whether STAGETEC or third-party, integrate effortlessly, preserving workflows and investments. With intuitive web-based control and a familiar STAGETEC GUI, users gain centralized management, full system visibility, and maximum future readiness.

The NEX:T axio was designed for organizations modernizing their audio infrastructure, especially where there is a mix of legacy and IP audio, and where flexibility, scalability, and hybrid workflows matter. It ticks many of the “modern audio network” boxes: multiple formats, IP compatibility, centralized control, and scalable architecture where you want to invest in something that can grow rather than rebuild.

Built in embedded STAGENET browser, the NEX:T axio delivers instant, unified control through the same intuitive, browser-based interface used across all STAGETEC products. No applications, multiple GUIs, or complex setup—just seamless device discovery, routing, monitoring, and GPIO management in one system. Users can save on costs and scale precisely with the right size (8/16/32) while gaining processing and logic in one device and potentially reducing the amounts of additional devices required.  And NEX: T axio is fully compatible with NEXUS and AVATUS, while opening the path to future hybrid IP workflows. 

From broadcast studios to live stages and remote setups, NEX:T axio delivers enhanced sound quality and seamless adaptability across any workflow. The mixture of legacy plus IP formats in one box is a strong feature for organizations that are not ready to rip and replace. Supported formats include analog, AES3, MADI, and IP-audio protocols such as Dante, AES67, and ST 2110-30.

The four-stage operation of TrueMatch converters removes the necessity for analog preamplification, effectively eliminating analog overload and component noise for a pristine audio experience, achieving a previously unobtainable, unmatched dynamic range of 164dB. With integrated four-way microphone audio split and integrated processing and logic providing onboard DSP and GPIO capabilities, NEX:T axio goes beyond a standard I/O box, enabling local signal processing, routing, and automation directly within the unit for smarter, more efficient workflows.

Audinate is expanding support for SMPTE ST 2110-30 and AES67, further strengthening Dante’s integration with broadcast networks. Building on a foundation of interoperability and high-performance audio transport, the latest updates equip broadcasters with new tools to meet the demands of modern production workflows.

[AES70 in Control]

Dante is already widely used as the backbone for audio over IP in broadcast environments, powering everything from comms to remote production and studio infrastructure. As video workflows continue their shift from SDI to IP, most notably with the adoption of ST 2110, there is a growing need for convergence with established Dante audio networks. These updates help ensure compatibility and interoperability between Dante and ST 2110-based video systems and networks without sacrificing performance and ease of use.

“These enhancements strengthen Dante’s role in bridging audio and video workflows across modern broadcast networks,” said Mark Gerrard, group product manager at Audinate. “Interoperability has always been central to our approach, and as broadcast networks and production needs continue to evolve, we remain focused on extending Dante’s capabilities to meet real-world demands.”

The latest updates give broadcast teams more flexibility in how they manage ST 2110-30 and AES67 audio flows, whether working in a mobile unit or across a multi-facility operation. Core configuration tasks, such as defining flow parameters and adjusting PTPv2 clock settings, can now be completed directly in Dante Controller without the need for Dante Domain Manager. This simplifies setup for smaller or fast-paced environments where cloud or server-based tools may not be practical. For larger or more complex systems, broadcasters can continue using Dante Domain Manager to automate configuration, apply global policies, and coordinate settings across subnets, while also taking advantage of expanded device-level control.

Added support for 96 kHz audio enables broadcasters to meet the demands of high-fidelity production workflows, including music programming, immersive audio, and live event capture. To enable this, Dante now supports ST 2110-30 AX, BX, and CX conformance levels, ensuring interoperability with systems and equipment operating at higher sample rates.

New device-level configuration capabilities further extend Dante’s utility in broadcast environments. Features such as the ability to assign flows within a broader multicast address range, define custom RTP payload IDs, and specify PTPv2 clock DSCP values are among several enhancements designed to improve compatibility with third-party devices, support a wider variety of network designs, and provide long-term flexibility as systems scale and evolve.

Games Done Quick (GDQ) operates semiannual “speedrunning” marathons for gaming competitors that raise millions for causes like the Prevent Cancer Foundation and Doctors Without Borders. GDQ has honed its events to a well-oiled logistic and technical machine, combining live performances in hotel ballrooms with real-time Twitch streams viewed by millions. With each of these marathons running 24 hours a day—for an entire week straight, Dante AV has helped simplify and elevate their workflows.

[Historic Style, Modern Tech]

However, managing this intricate setup has not always been seamless. “Our primary show is unique in that we have to serve both an online audience, streamed on Twitch.tv, and an in-person audience at a hotel ballroom," Jason Deng, director of technology at GDQ explained. "We also provide CCTV so that anyone staying at the hotel can watch the event on their in-room TVs.”

This dual-delivery setup, coupled with GDQ’s reliance on volunteers to manage critical AV workflows, created challenges that their prior solutions weren’t designed to address. That’s when GDQ turned to Dante AV.

Challenges Solved

Before adopting Dante AV, GDQ relied on a mix of video specifications and connectivity technologies that demanded significant resources and effort to manage. For video transmission, their go-to solution came with notable limitations. “With NDI, we needed to set up a PC in the ballroom and another PC to capture the signal at the hotel’s CCTV location,” Deng said. This configuration required multiple machines and technicians, and it was prone to signal degradation and artifacting if there were any network disruptions.

GDQ also experimented with connectivity technologies such as HDBaseT, but as Deng noted, “We had problems if the signal had to hop through network switches.” The complexity of laying out SDI cabling further compounded the challenges in physical setups, particularly in tight or difficult-to-access areas.

These limitations, combined with the need for user-friendly, reliable systems that volunteers could easily manage, highlighted the need for a more robust, streamlined solution.

A Familiar Face

GDQ’s previous experience with Dante for its audio networking made the transition to Dante AV remarkably smooth. “Most of our audio flow already ran through the Dante platform, so we were quite used to that system,” Deng said. When the opportunity arose to incorporate Dante AV, GDQ deployed a solution that drastically simplified their video workflow: a single AJA Dante AV 4K-T transmitter in the ballroom, and a Dante AV 4K-R receiver at the hotel’s consumption area.

This combination proved to be a match for the fast-paced, visually demanding content of GDQ’s gaming marathons. Based on the Dante AV Ultra codec, these devices deliver 4K60 4:4:4 HDR video with ultra-low latency and visually lossless quality over standard 1GbE networks. They support SDI and HDMI inputs and outputs, which helped GDQ streamline their SDI cabling. Dante AV Ultra audio and video streams are fully time-aligned and individually routable, ensuring flawless synchronization across displays.

“With AJA’s Dante AV-enabled gear, we deployed a single hardware solution—a source in the ballroom and a receiver at the hotel’s consumption area. It was essentially plug-and-play,” Deng said. “We tested it first to make sure it worked, but we didn’t need to set up multiple machines or deal with four or five different pieces of hardware.” The result was a reliable, low-maintenance setup that eliminated the switch-hopping issues and frequent troubleshooting required by their previous workflows. “With Dante AV, when you’re using an unmanaged switch like ours, there are no such issues.”

Volunteer-Friendly and Built for Success

GDQ’s reliance on volunteers to operate its AV systems made ease of use a critical factor in technology selection. “Since this is a charity fundraiser, we rely heavily on volunteers to manage audio and video,” Deng said. “It’s important that we use software and equipment that are volunteer-friendly.”

For that, the team used Dante Controller, a centralized management platform that provides a clear visual interface for routing AV signals. “Dante equipment has been great because Dante Controller provides a one-stop shop where you can see exactly where the signals are going,” Deng said. “It can also be managed remotely by those who know the system, and we can write training documentation for volunteers.” This user-friendly approach not only made the system accessible to volunteers but also reduced GDQ’s reliance on external contractors, helping to keep costs down.

Championship Results: Reliability, Scalability, and Quality

The impact of Dante AV on GDQ’s events has been transformative. One of the most notable outcomes is the reduction in technical overhead. “Before Dante AV, we needed two technicians and three machines to get a signal from the ballroom to the hotel CCTV,” Deng said. “Now, with Dante AV, we only need one technician and a plug-and-play AJA Dante receiver and transceiver.”

In addition to streamlining operations, Dante AV provided 24/7 reliability for the seven-day event. “The image quality was excellent, and it worked 24/7 for the entire event without any signal degradation,” Deng said.

Dante AV’s interoperability and scalability also stood out. The platform integrates seamlessly into the larger Dante ecosystem, enabling GDQ to manage both audio and video signals through the same interface. “Adding Dante AV is a smooth transition whether you’re already in the Dante ecosystem or new to the platform. And with Dante Controller, you can see the signals which makes laying out networking much easier than SDI,” Deng said.

As GDQ continues to refine its technical workflows, Dante AV is poised to play an even larger role. “I’ve been wanting to deploy more Dante AV to the rest of our stack,” Deng said. While bandwidth considerations remain a factor for future expansions, GDQ’s successful deployment of Dante AV for its flagship events demonstrates the platform’s ability to meet demanding professional AV requirements. “Dante AV works for us on many levels,” said Deng. “It’s reliable, easy to use, and eliminates many issues associated with other AV-over-IP technologies.”

Vizrt has unveiled its first dedicated audio connectivity and monitoring technology product. Viz Connect Audio adds, for the first time, a much-needed ability to manage any and all NDI sources on a network, both visually and aurally.

“Audio is just as important as video in any live production," said Steve Taylor, chief product and technology officer, Vizrt. By ensuring seamless and flexible audio connectivity using the same NDI network, with streaming infrastructure also widely used for video, Viz Connect Audio guarantees professional-quality, easy to configure live productions."

[AV for Broadcast: A New Ebook from the Publishers of SCN and TV Tech]

Viz Connect Audio makes it easy for users to connect analog audio sources, configure and convert them to NDI, enabling their use in a local or remote NDI ecosystem. At the same time, Viz Connect Audio allows visibility of all NDI audio sources on the NDI network.

“While TriCasters have long provided the ability to connect audio sources directly into the live production switcher, with Viz Connect Audio, the focus is firmly on enabling users to bring in analog audio sources, convert them to NDI, and connect them straight to the NDI network, strengthening the entire workflow and flexibility of the ecosystem," said Christopher McLendon, senior product manager, Vizrt.

[NAB Show Notebook: Leader Brings Clarity to NDI Troubleshooting]

Ideal for broadcast studios, event producers, corporate communications, educational institutions, content creators, and anyone doing a live production, Viz Connect Audio easily integrates, enabling the visibility, monitoring, and control of a production’s audio sources.

Wisycom recently launched its next-generation of its wireless RF solution. The BFL2 is comprised of the BFLR2 receiver and the BFLT2 transmitter. Designed for the growing needs in pro audio, the solution integrates laser technology with two RF channels that make it easy to deploy diversity microphone antennas or expand remote IEM/IFB systems. By combining portability with high performance, BFL2 sets a new standard for flexibility and reliability in wireless RF deployments.

[ISE 2025 Analysis: Trends from the Show Floor]

“Built to adapt to a wide range of applications, the possibilities are limitless with the BFL2, which delivers powerful, cutting-edge RF-over-fiber technology to applications where traditional, rack-mounted MFL systems are impractical,” said Massimo Polo, CEO, Wisycom SRL. “It also addresses one of the biggest challenges in wireless audio—maintaining consistent dynamic range as signal strength fluctuates with distance. This performance rivals traditional coaxial cable systems, offering unprecedented long-range wireless freedom without the worry of signal degradation.”

Wisycom’s laser technology delivers a Spurious-Free Dynamic Range (SFDR) of 116 dB/Hz²/³ and enhancing system Noise Figure (NF) to 10 dB. This ensures clear audio performance, even in the most demanding environments. Whether extending wireless coverage across multiple stages, running a 1,000-foot fiber link from a sound cart, or achieving flawless microphone integration in studios and arenas, the BFL2 offers flexibility and reliability for professionals who refuse to compromise.

[Let's Get Personal]

Switching between modes is seamless, whether via the intuitive onboard control panel or remote operation through Bluetooth, which supports both iOS and Android devices. Beyond the front panel and Wisycom app, it features gigabit Ethernet and SFP options for seamless network integration. Through Wisycom Manager software for PC, users can quickly switch between a variety of integrated filter settings, including low pass, high pass, region-specific Surface Acoustic Wave (SAW) and 40 MHz bandpass. These settings can be adjusted with a single click, offering full network control, including input gain adjustments when in antenna mode.

Audinate has released Dante Studio v2.6 software and Dante AV-H v1.5 technology. Both updates, now available for download, support multichannel video with up to four video Rx channels, delivering enhanced control and functionality to meet the growing demand for versatile AV solutions across industries.

Designed to support a range of applications—from unified communications and education to live events—these latest releases add multichannel functionality, enabling rich, multi-angle video experiences suited to corporate meetings, classrooms, and live streaming environments. Dante AV seamlessly integrates with existing Dante audio systems, while Dante Domain Manager or Dante Director can offer centralized control, robust monitoring, and user access management. These products empower decision-makers to deploy AV solutions with confidence, knowing they have secure, reliable, and scalable technology that easily adapts to growing demands—all within the trusted Dante platform.

[Doubling Down on Dante]

“We’re taking significant strides to simplify and enhance video workflows across a broad spectrum of industries," said Will Waters, principal product manager at Audinate. "By enabling multichannel video integration directly into applications on PCs and offering OEMs a seamless way to incorporate multi-angle video into their solutions, we’re delivering tools that empower operators to create richer, more dynamic AV experiences. Whether in corporate, educational, or live-event settings, these updates open new possibilities for effective communication, collaboration, and creative production."

Dante Studio v2.6 brings Dante video directly to PCs, eliminating the need for extra hardware like capture cards. This release allows operators, video producers, and AV managers to receive and manage up to four Dante AV-H video streams, providing new functionality for video conferencing, streaming, and recording.

[Intimacy and Connections: The Evolution of Audio]

For OEMs building products for professional AV applications, Dante AV-H technology delivers a rapid time to market and cost-effective solution for H.264/AVC and H.265/HEVC SoC-based video products. This latest release with 4 video Rx channels enables Dante AV-H to be built into new product categories like multichannel decoders, video switchers, vision mixers, and multi-viewers. This functionality enables seamless real-time video transitions, which are ideal for a variety of verticals within the Pro AV Industry. The firmware update is available to all Dante AV-H devices, new and in the field.

Studio Technologies unveiled its new Model 352A and Model 354A Talk Stations. The units support Dante audio-over-Ethernet digital media technology and are ideal for voice paging applications, including theater, live-event, and industrial applications. Broadcast applications can also be supported by using the products’ integral IFB (talent cue) capabilities. 

[What Happened to the AV Department?]

The units offer a complete solution for routing voice and background audio along with playback of pre-recorded audio files. The Model 352A unit supplies two independent “talk” channels, while the Model 354A unit supplies four independent “talk” channels with each channel able to be individually configured to match the needs of specific applications.

As part of the unit’s Dante capability, both models support AES67 as well as the Dante Domain Manager (DDM) software application. A monitor section allows one of the two Dante receiver (input) channels on the Model 352A and one of the four Dante receiver (input) channels on the Model 354A to be routed as desired to a connected amplifier or amplified speaker.

[Doubling Down on Dante]

Many general-purpose paging applications can be supported with the Model 352A and Model 354A Talk Stations. The range of configurable features ensures compatibility in many situations. As an example, for theatre or event-space applications, the units can be located in a box office or manager’s office location. Two pre-recorded messages can be stored and played as required. For broadcast applications, the Model 352A can serve as a stand-alone 2-channel IFB (talent cue) master station. The Model 354A can be utilized to create a 4-channelIFB (talent cue) master station. Personnel can use the Model 352A and Model 354A as a combination voice paging console and monitor resource.

Glensound is simplifying bridging in a Dante to Dante, Dante to Ravenna, or Ravenna to Ravenna network bridge with the new Vittoria 64 Network Bridge. Available as a Dante to Dante, Dante to Ravenna, or Ravenna to Ravenna network bridge. Designed to provide secure, isolated connections between Dante and Ravenna networks, along with the flexibility to handle asynchronous operations at varying sample rates, the Vittoria 64 Network Bridge addresses key challenges faced by audio professionals daily. 

[Giants-Sized Audio Makeover]

The unit, with a focus on network security, provides complete isolation between its Dante and Ravenna interfaces, ensuring that audio is passed only within the device’s DSP. This built-in firewall protects both networks from potential security breaches, making the Vittoria 64DR an indispensable tool for environments where security cannot be compromised.

Whether bridging between different network technologies or operating at different sample rates, the Vittoria 64 seamlessly manages it all. This is particularly beneficial in complex setups, such as outside broadcast (OB) trucks or studios, where different systems need to work together without compromising audio quality or network integrity.

[ST 2110: An Introduction]

Furthermore, the Vittoria 64’s compliance with industry standards such as SMPTE ST-2110-30 on the Ravenna/AES67 module ensures compatibility with the latest protocols without additional costs or complications. Additionally, the Glensound Vittoria 64DR’s Ravenna module can be accessed by the Merging Technologies Aneman control software—adding a powerful and easy to use control tool to the system.

Nixer Pro Audio has two new products to expand Nixer’s footprint in the broadcast, live, and installation markets by offering advanced monitoring capabilities across multiple Audio-over-IP (AoIP) standards, including Dante, RAVENNA, AES67, and SMPTE ST 2110. Introducing the PD Ravenna and the RL Series, both powered by Merging Technologies' ZMAN card. 

[ST 2110: An Introduction]

The PD Ravenna is a compact, portable audio monitoring unit designed specifically for demanding broadcast control rooms and outside broadcast (OB) production vehicles. Capable of monitoring up to 64 RAVENNA/AES67/ST 2110 channels, this device is tailored to meet the needs of professional sound engineers who require reliable and rapid audio confidence checking in fast-paced environments.

The new RL Series takes audio confidence monitoring to the next level, offering four base models with up to 256 channels of audio monitoring. What sets the RL Series apart is its ability to handle both Dante and RAVENNA/AES67/SMPTE ST 2110 networks from the same operator position, allowing engineers to monitor and switch between different network types seamlessly.

[A Night on the Town]

The integration of the ZMAN card from Merging Technologies has allowed Nixer to offer a seamless solution for engineers using RAVENNA and other AoIP standards. "Merging Technologies' ZMAN card has allowed us to broaden our product line beyond Dante and into the broadcast world, where RAVENNA and AES67 are more prominent," explained Nick Fletcher, CEO of Nixer.

Nixer also emphasized how the ZMAN card has enabled them to address the distinct needs of different market segments. "The broadcast market leans heavily towards RAVENNA and AES67, while the live and installation markets have a strong preference for Dante," Fletcher said. "By incorporating Merging’s ZMAN card, we’ve been able to cater to both sides of the industry, giving our customers the flexibility they need."

punQtum users can now directly connect to Riedel Communications' Bolero wireless intercom system. The new feature Bolero Connect works in tandem with punQtum’s Q210 P speaker station and offers a solution for deployment across large-scale events that require several channels of partyline.

The Q210 P is punQtum’s speaker station that gives users full control in an easy-to-use package. Riedel’s Bolero system is an intercom capable of supporting up to 250 beltpacks and 100 antennas in a single deployment.

Per the release, punQtum, "can now offer an integrated system on one network, which eradicates the need for a digital conversion box. This means that all channels—send and return—are going back and forth along one cable, which means that a project can have a combination of stationary, wired connections and mobile intercom."

[Evolution of a Sports Network]

The new Bolero Connect feature works as a single network connection between punQtum’s Q210 P and Bolero. Before now, if a project needed more than two channels, the system required a whole bunch of extra gear including three speaker stations and an NSA interface. Consequently, Bolero Connect makes the system not only slimmer but also more cost-effective while enhancing the workflow. With Bolero Connect, six partyline channels can seamlessly integrate from one punQtum Q210 P speaker station to Bolero, expanding the communication capabilities of large-scale events and productions.

Bolero Connect also has a time-saving channel name feature in which the software intuitively passes channel names between both systems. This eliminates the need for labelling, leading to a properly integrated, reliable communications system. Additionally, punQtum’s innovative array of features, including show relay, announce to PA and Logic automatically apply to the Bolero when the two systems are used together.

d&b audiotechnik and L-Acoustics are collaborating with the hopes of advancing technologies and tools for the benefit of the Pro Audio industry. The first result of this alliance is a project to jointly develop an innovative software platform designed to enhance the configuration and management of Milan AVB networks.

Born from the companies’ shared commitment within the Avnu Alliance, L-Acoustics and d&b audiotechnik are co-designing a new software platform that addresses some of the challenges which currently discourage widespread adoption of Milan AVB technology. The software will be a neutral and free-to-use solution that eliminates any branding affiliations to help further foster universal acceptance. 

[Better Sound for Joyful Noises]

“Our two companies each have individual value propositions for our customers, and we will continue to enjoy healthy competition. However, we are also excited to be cooperating on technical standards that will provide value to our industry,” said Amnon Harman, CEO at d&b audiotechnik. “This new form of competing on one side and cooperating on the other side results in higher quality products, faster development times, and better functionality for all of our customers.”

Both companies believe in the high-performance reliability of Milan AVB to enhance the artist’s art and the audience’s emotion. This project is a testament to their combined dedication to advancing technological standards in professional live events. While d&b audiotechnik and L-Acoustics lead the initial development, the project actively encourages additional contributors, emphasizing inclusivity and collective industry advancement.

[SCN Finally Goes Inside the Vegas Sphere ... and We Had a Ball]

“This groundbreaking collaboration underscores our shared commitment to advancing technology that improves workflow and delivers a memorable experience that connects artist and audience, and a safe and comfortable experience for crew and neighbors,” stated Hervé Guillaume, CEO at L-Acoustics Group. “Together, these projects will create benefit for the entire industry, reinforcing our collective strength.”

L-Acoustics and d&b audiotechnik are also collaborating with SoundPLAN on the key issue of noise impact, working to define an exchange format between professional audio manufacturers’ software and environmental noise simulation software.

Audinate has introduced its a compact system-on-a-chip (SoC), the Dante Pro S1. Crafted for Pro AV and audio equipment manufacturers, the Dante Pro S1  integrates Dante network functionality in low channel count devices. The latest generation Dante solution was particularly designed to meet the evolving security requirements for enterprise Internet-of-Things (IoT), Unified Communications (UC), and advanced audio system implementations.

[A Question of Wireless Connectivity: Bluetooth Vs. Wi-Fi]

The chip solution will be a focus of Audinate’s new innovations and provides a platform for new features such as media encryption. Dante Pro S1 offers an alternative to the Ultimo chip for OEMs building low channel count devices. New designs are encouraged to use Dante Pro S1 as it will provide future features and capabilities that may not be supported by Ultimo-based products.

Dante Pro S1 is designed for compact and power-efficient audio equipment solutions requiring Dante network interoperability. The chip is a versatile TFBGA100 package (8x8mm) and requires minimal external components to complete system integration. The underlying microcontroller is more power efficient than previous Dante solutions, resulting in low heat dissipation for space-constrained equipment designs.

[The Dante (R)evolution]

Dante Pro S1 is offered in multiple package configurations to support up to 2x2 channels at 96 kHz or up to 4x4 channels at 48 kHz audio encoding.

An evaluation kit is available for equipment manufacturers to prototype system designs using Dante Pro S1. The kit is based on the Dante Pro S1 reference design and includes XLR connectors for analog I/O and swappable network interface modules for a range of PHY and switch ICs. A full suite of technical documentation is also available.

Clear-Com is heading to the cloud as Pro AV moves towards a virtual world. Meet the Gen-IC Cloud Intercom system. Designed for scalability, the system is a secure and flexible virtual intercom solution that allows users to easily integrate on-premises hardware with virtual intercom clients. The Gen-IC Cloud Intercom system  can integrate with Clear-Com’s hardware infrastructure over LAN, WAN, and the Internet.

Clear-Com has developed a virtual intercom application that can be deployed on selectable regional targets. This minimizes the latency inherent when going virtual by giving administrators the ability to easily deploy Gen-IC Cloud Intercom closest to where teams are doing work. Moreover, Gen-IC Cloud Intercom instances from around the world can be linked, producing the ultimate communication and collaboration tool for mission-critical productions.

[Cloud Power: Predicting the Future]

“Gen-IC Cloud Intercom and SkyPort are the result of extensive development by our engineering teams and customer testing. Virtual intercom systems offer unique challenges, and we know our customers expect a reliable and well-designed solution from us," said product manager Kari Eythorsson. "We are proud to bring this Partner-serviced solution to market and are excited by the possibilities of what we can do in the virtual space moving forward.”

Antonio Barbosa, an engineer at TV Globo, and his team tested the product and stated that “TV Globo's test experience with Gen-IC Cloud Intercom was extraordinary. The system showcased seamless communication and exceptional audio quality, even in high data traffic event scenarios."

Designed for ease of use for all, customers can eliminate the need for extensive user training because it utilizes Clear-Com's Agent-IC mobile app and Station-IC virtual desktop client. Connections from the virtual clients to hardware ecosystems is achieved through the existing range of Clear-Com LQ Series of IP Interfaces, with no dedicated interfacing requirements.  

[Creating a Unified Communications Experience at Mattel]

The Clear-Com SkyPort provides workspace management for partners, making it easy to manage many different customer sites and events in one online application. Through SkyPort, partners are empowered to authorize local administrators to manage events and put the control in the users’ hands.

Genelec has further expanded its UNIO Audio Monitoring Service Platform with the introduction of the 9401A System Management Device for Audio-over-IP Networking, enabling AoIP connectivity to Genelec’s range of Smart Active Monitors and Subwoofers in ST2110, AES67, and Ravenna formats. With its 16 monitor outputs, the 9401A supports all formats from stereo to 9.1.6, and brings all the convenience and flexibility of multi-channel networked audio to the UNIO platform.

[Sound Advice for AoIP]

As a partner to Genelec’s Smart Active Monitors and Subwoofers, the 9401A provides 16 channels of digital connectivity, plus dedicated subwoofer and auxiliary stereo outputs, all via AES/EBU. The auxiliary output serves as an ideal feed for headphones, enabling binaural and secondary stereo loudspeaker monitoring, while the 9401A’s tight integration with Genelec Loudspeaker Manager (GLM) software allows entire system calibration, including subwoofer alignment and support for bass management. The 9401A’s separate subwoofer output enables Smart Active Subwoofers to be easily chained to increase the low frequency SPL output, and channel capacity can be quickly expanded with more 9401A devices, to provide compatibility with 22.2 and other high channel count immersive formats.

In addition to its AoIP networking capabilities, loudspeaker management and calibration is achieved via the proprietary GLM network connectivity of the 9401A. Tactile control of the entire monitoring system can then be achieved via the new 9320A Reference Controller, which acts as a bridge to the UNIO platform and provides instant one-click access to a vast number of monitor features built into the Smart Active Monitoring family.

[Everything We Know about the Vegas Sphere, So Far—A Running Blog]

Performance wise, the 1U rack-mounting 9401A is compatible with sample rates from 44.1 kHz to 192 kHz, using 16, 24 and 32 bit resolution per sample. Employing Gigabit Ethernet for low latency, the 9401A supports the ST2110 broadcast suite with ST2022-7 redundant network connectivity and NMOS integration to enterprise management and automation systems. Designed for decades of reliable service and built to the highest environmental standards at Genelec’s factory in Iisalmi, Finland, the 9401A also supports proprietary Intelligent Signal Sensing (ISS) technology, for lower power consumption.

L-Acoustics has released the LC16D network audio converter.

Why That's Good for You

The LC16D was designed to simplify the process of interfacing legacy digital formats with the Milan AVB time-sensitive network.

“The first ever network converter from L-Acoustics, LC16D bridges legacy formats to the future of networking,” said Scott Sugden, director of product management, electronics at L-Acoustics. “The powerful, feature-rich, and cost-effective LD16D will ease and accelerate the adoption of the Milan AVB protocol.”

[L-Acoustics Anti-Counterfeiting Judgment]

What to Know about the LC16D

LC16D is a high-capacity AES/EBU and MADI-to-Milan AVB audio network converter housed in a compact and rugged 1RU chassis. With up to 80 legacy format inputs and outputs, LC16D can interface with up to 128 channels to and from the network. It offers dynamic mapping of audio channels and comprehensive synchronization options, all controlled via an intuitive, embedded web interface. LC16D features flexible power options, with the innovative use of Power over Ethernet and seamless Milan AVB audio connections, providing robust redundancy features as standard.

LC16D is simple to use; the embedded web interface enables full control and monitoring from any device with a web browser and internet connection. The ten user configurations make storing and loading different channel mappings easy, while comprehensive clocking options make synchronization effortless and distribution of clock sources across connection formats possible.

LC16D acts as a bridge between legacy digital formats and a Milan AVB network, offering expanded connectivity and audio interfacing options in a budget-friendly format. It has a wide range of applications in the rental, corporate, and fixed installation markets, as well as for broadcast, residential, and recording studios.

At festivals, large-scale broadcasts, or other special event applications that use several interfaced digital consoles, LC16D's integrated asynchronous sample rate converters on each AES/EBU input eliminate the need for complex synchronization management, allowing digital consoles to continue using their independent clock domains. This simplifies the connection process and creates a plug-and-play AES/EBU-to-Milan AVB interface while also expanding the connectivity capacity of the drive system.

[SCN Installation Showcase 2023]

LC16D can be used as a floating converter for fixed installations deployed anywhere a legacy digital connection needs to interface with a Milan AVB network. The combination of AES/EBU and MADI inputs allows any digital console to be connected simply and efficiently, while the converter’s outputs can be utilized to generate and distribute additional feeds as required.

ClearOne is now providing integration partners and end-user customers with added flexibility in system connectivity with the introduction of its new Versa USB22D Dante adapter. 

Enabling users to directly connect any computer to a Dante network without first requiring software installation, the new Versa USB22D adapter can be used with any audio application for playback or capture and is thus ideal for a wide range of small to mid-sized meeting spaces including executive offices, conference rooms, classrooms and lecture halls for Bring Your Own Meeting (BYOM) audio and video conferencing and in-room presentations.

[16 Speakerphones and Expert Advice for Your Next Install]

“Fast, flexible and reliable connectivity is more important than ever before in today’s media centric world of presentations,” ClearOne CEO Derek Graham said. “The new Versa USB22D adapter makes it easier than ever for our partners to serve their customers with a solution that enables direct connectivity of their computers with any Dante enabled network.”

The Versa USB22D adapter supports two input and two output channels of audio, allowing PCs and mobile devices to play and capture audio with Dante-enabled devices over a standard IP network. Users can automatically discover and configure the new product using Audinate Dante Controller software.

Featuring built-in support for Dante Audio over IP and AES67 RTP transport formats, the adapter also includes cables to connect to a USB C host port and a USB Type A host port.

[The Integration Guide to Dante-Enabled AV 2023]

Power with the USB port on a computer or with a PoE (Power over Ethernet) switch — a separate power supply is not needed.

The USB22D delivers bit-perfect audio reproduction, super-low latency, and sample-accurate synchronization across the entire Dante network. What’s more, the Dante Domain Manager ready adapter works seamlessly with Dante-enabled devices including ClearOne DSP mixers, Wireless Microphones, and Beamforming Microphones. It connects any computer to the ClearOne BMA 360D through a Dante network.

Studio Technologies will introduce its Model 5312 Intercom Station at IBC 2023. The Model 5312 Intercom Station provides 12 independent talk and listen channels and supports the Dante audio-over-Ethernet network technology. 

The Model 5312 is a rack-mounted unit that is designed to serve as an audio control center for production and support personnel in numerous applications including on-air television sports and news broadcasting, live events, theater, industrial, aerospace, and corporate AV. Its range of resources makes it simple to use the Model 5312 locally, or as part of a REMI or “At-Home” geographically diverse implementation. In addition to intercom applications, the unit can create multiple independent IFB (talent cue) channels. The Model 5312 also has the ability to easily create monitor mixes from its 12 input audio channels, making the unit a viable choice for listen-only scenarios.

[Intercoms: A History of Distance]

“One of the great features of the Model 5312 is that over a standard Ethernet network, it can help create a wide range of party-line (PL) intercom applications," said Gordon Kapes, president of Studio Technologies. "It can be used with the many Studio Technologies’ PL and related devices and is directly compatible with the Model 5421 and Model 5422A Dante Intercom Audio Engine products. Model 5312 units can also be used ‘point-to-point’ or interfaced with Dante-compatible matrix intercom systems.”

A 5-pin female XLR connector, located on the unit’s front panel, allows traditional “pro” headsets with dynamic or electret (DC powered) microphones to be utilized. In addition, the Studio Technologies' GME-3-12 gooseneck microphone can be directly connected using the quarter-inch jack assembly that is also located on the front panel. A low-noise microphone preamplifier and associated voltage-controlled-amplifier (VCA) dynamics controller (compressor) circuit ensures excellent headset and gooseneck microphone audio quality while minimizing the chance of signal overload.

The Model 5312 includes 12 Dante transmitter (output) channels for “talk” and 12 receiver (input) channels for “listen.” In addition, the unit provides a “hot mic” transmitter (output) channel and four auxiliary receiver (input) channels, with one of these inputs able to be used as the talk audio source. These latter resources were specifically included to allow two Model 5312 units to “work” together to support more than 12 talk channels. A graphics display and five pushbutton switches on the unit's front panel allow users to select the active talk audio source, from sources that include the headset mic, the gooseneck mic, and one of the auxiliary Dante receiver (input) channels.

[There's a New Chipset for Dante AV—Here's What You Need to Know]

The Model 5312's front panel includes 13 rotary controls (encoders), 12 of which are used to adjust the level of the Dante receiver (input) signal sources and create a monitor “mix.” The 13th rotary encoder, located on the front panel, is used to control the overall audio level and on/off (mute) status of the signals being sent to the headset and front-panel speaker outputs. Using RGB (red-green-blue) LEDs, the knob of each encoder is illuminated and can display if a channel is muted, can indicate if a signal is present on its associated audio input, and can light when an in-band high-frequency tone call signal is detected. The graphics display and pushbutton switches on the unit’s front panel allows select operating features to be displayed and configured. 

The Model 5312 includes two “GigE” interfaces with associated RJ45 jacks, providing support for both single and redundant Dante applications. Two remote-control (GPI) inputs allow external contact closures to enable two talk channels. The unit features a “universal” mains input, allowing a source of 100-240 volts AC, 50/60 Hz to provide operating power.

The Model 5312’s extensive set of operating parameters are configured using the STcontroller software application. Available free of charge from Studio Technologies, STcontroller allows production personnel to quickly and easily configure the unit’s capabilities to meet an application’s exact needs. STcontroller is offered in versions that are compatible with the WinOS and macOS operating systems.

Over the past dozen years since its official roll-out, IEEE’s open-standard Audio Video Bridging (AVB) technology has grown into an industry-standard connectivity protocol adopted by numerous professional audio manufacturers, including d&b audiotechnik, L-Acoustics, and Meyer Sound. In response, DiGiCo is deepening its commitment to the Avnu Alliance with the introduction of its new Milan-certified DMI-AVB module bringing guaranteed interoperability between DiGiCo’s DMI card slot-equipped consoles and any amplifier, loudspeaker, or other system component on a shared Milan AVB network.

[A New FOH DiGiCo Console Is on Target for Minnesota Timberwolves Fans]

Showcased at InfoComm 2023, DiGiCo’s new digital 64x64 AVB card supplies eight streams of eight-channel audio with extremely low latency. Supporting both 48kHz and 96kHz formats, the DMI-AVB also supports Master/Slave clock mode. The new card is fully compatible with all Quantum range desks, the SD12, and any other console model via DiGiCo’s outboard Orange Box.

[3 Things Everyone Was Talking about on the InfoComm 2023 Show Floor]

“As pro audio’s only deterministic network protocol, Milan has unquestionably proven to be robustly stable and reliably high-quality,” said DiGiCo managing director Austin Freshwater. “As industry professionals increasingly turn to the protocol for its many advantages, we’re pleased to now natively bring our consoles into the Milan ecosystem. Offering truly plug-and-play interoperability, our new DMI-AVB surmounts the challenges and headaches of traditional network setups and allows our customers to fully focus on the joy of creating exceptional mixes.”

Audinate has partnered with ASPEED Technology to extend Dante AV to its popular AV-over-IP chipset. The new version, dubbed Dante AV-A, has been optimized to work on the ASPEED AST1530/1535 SoC (System on Chip) and is initially supported by 9 leading AV manufacturers.

Since 2004, ASPEED has designed AV-over-IP solutions to address the demands of video over distance and multimedia information delivery. The AST1530/1535 SoC is the next generation AV-over-IP chipset specifically designed for professional audio/video applications taking advantage of industry-standard IP networks.

[InfoComm 2023 Impulses: Audinate Talks Dante Connect and Supply Chain]

Dante AV-A delivers high-quality video up to 4Kp60 4:4:4 resolution and two channels of Dante audio that are instantly compatible with Dante audio products simplifying distributed AV system design. Independently routable audio and video flows means breaking out audio to installed DSPs, amps, or speakers is done with a single click. Its ultra-low video latency looks and feels natural for in room video distribution. As part of the Dante AV family of solutions, the familiar Dante Controller software handles all audio and video device routing while Dante Domain Manager provides IT-level management including continuous system monitoring, audit logs, and user access control.

"We are excited to partner with Audinate to bring Dante AV to the ASPEED platform,” stated Chris Lin, chairman and president of ASPEED.  “Our goal is to continue to add value to our manufacturing partners and their customers, and Dante AV is an increasingly requested feature.  This partnership allows us to prequalify Dante as part of the AST1530/1535 SoC and make it available to ASPEED customers through our SDK, making it as easy as possible for OEMs and ODMs to add Dante AV to their products.”

[Dante: An Oral History]

"As one of the most widely used SoC in the AV-over-IP market, ASPEED is an important strategic partner for Audinate,” stated Aidan Williams, CEO of Audinate. “This partnership and the introduction of Dante AV-A is an important additional to the Dante AV family, making it easy for manufacturers to integrate Dante AV and giving customers the greatest choice of hardware products that are all interoperable through the Dante control and management software.”

Nine manufacturing partners have licensed Dante AV-A including AMX by Harman, Aurora Multimedia, AVPro Global, Cypress, GoMax, HDCVT, ProAVIT, SY Electronics, and WyreStorm. Audinate is featuring a demo of Dante AV-A using the new WyreStorm encoders and decoders at Booth 2821 at InfoComm.

[Follow the ROAD TO INFOCOMM 2023 at AV Network] 

The addition of Dante AV-A and these Dante AV licensees continues the growing momentum with the Dante AV portfolio. Audinate’s Dante AV strategy is to provide integrators and end users with interoperability between manufacturers of AV-over-IP hardware. The different versions of Dante AV allow customers to solve for the right balance of video quality, bandwidth utilization and cost for their application, while still ensuring that products can be discovered, routed, and managed using Dante software tools like Dante Controller and Dante Domain Manager. The Dante AV family now includes:

• Dante AV Ultra, designed for the most demanding applications, bringing end-to-end clock synchronization, ultra-low latency and the highest quality video. 
• Dante AV-A, optimized for AV distribution for commercial installations. 
• Dante AV-H, designed for applications that incorporate video software such as conferencing, higher education, and small production environments. 

ALC NetworX, developer of the RAVENNA Audio-over-IP technology, is pleased to welcome Peavey to the RAVENNA community. Under its Commercial Audio brand, Peavey offers an entire range of products from the microphone to the loudspeaker, and every link in the signal chain in between.   

Under the RAVENNA partnership, Peavey has developed “sNET” - a single IP-based network infrastructure technology which will work at the core of their future MediaMatrix products. sNET is based on RAVENNA, the broadcast industry’s de-facto AoIP standard, featuring low latency, fully synchronized signal transparency and highest reliability – all while ensuring broad interoperability through its compatibility with AES67 and SMPTE ST 2110 standards. This will start to blur the boundaries between the commercial audio and broadcast worlds, paving the way towards seamless integration and interoperability between Peavey’s MediaMatrix solution and any IP-based broadcast application.

According to Peavey Commercial Audio General Manager, Shayne Thomas, joining the RAVENNA community was a natural move. “Adopting RAVENNA is part of our vision and roadmap to remain on the cutting edge of real-time network audio streaming ensuring the highest level of lossless audio quality within MediaMatrix and Crest Audio products,” he remarks. “With a proven track record of near on 30 years and industry-wide recognition as a pioneer in the development of cutting-edge digital signal processing technologies, it is only fitting that we integrate RAVENNA as part of the supported audio protocols in conjunction with MediaMatrix sNET™ - AES67 audio streaming, control and monitoring over Ethernet.”

Andreas Hildebrand, RAVENNA Evangelist at ALC NetworX, is very pleased to welcome Peavey to the RAVENNA community: “Peavey, with its Commercial Audio branch, is a world-leading manufacturer of network-based audio processing and distribution systems. Peavey’s decision to base their new sNET audio streaming protocol on RAVENNA technology demonstrates that RAVENNA’s core genes, originating from the most exacting demands of the broadcast industry, are a perfect match for the ever-growing requirements of the commercial audio industry. As an open technology standard without a proprietary licensing policy, RAVENNA is well positioned to provide system manufacturers like Peavey with the flexibility they need as IP-based technologies continue to infuse their core markets.

The list of original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) licensing Dante AV technology to build networked video devices continues to expand with the addition of top hardware brands. Recently, Marshall announced its Dante AV-H operability, and now AJA Video joins the Audinate and Dante family.

AJA Video introduced two transmitter/receiver converters for transporting low latency, professional quality Dante video and audio. The Dante AV 4K-T converts 4K, UHD, 2K, HD and VESA SDI, and HDMI to Dante AV Ultra signals while Dante AV 4K-R supports conversion of Dante AV Ultra signals to 4K, UHD, 2K, HD, VESA SDI, and HDMI. 

[The Ghost in the HDMI Machine] 

“We continue to see excellent demand from OEMs for Dante AV highlighted by the addition of new partners and products,” said Joshua Rush, chief marketing officer at Audinate. “AV interoperability is a complex issue, and Dante and Dante AV was purpose-built to make it easier for anyone installing and managing AV equipment to overcome this complexity. It’s motivating to know that we’re helping to make our customers’ lives easier with the arrival of every new Dante AV product to the market.”  

They join the 30-plus OEMs including AdTechno, AVer, AVONIC, Bolin, BZB Gear, Chingan Technology, Cypress, Lumens, Minrray, Patton, PTZ Optics, ProAVIT, Soundhouse, Televic, Telycam, Tenveo, ValueHD, Yamaha, and Yuan in the Dante AV product ecosystem to deliver cameras, encoders, and decoders.   

[Dante: An Oral History]

Dante AV is a family of hardware and software solutions that allow manufacturers and end users to add networked video to the industry-leading Dante platform. It guarantees interoperability between manufacturers while keeping discovery, configuration, and control to a single platform for all audio and video devices. The family includes Dante AV Ultra, a hardware-based solution offering 4K60 video encoding and decoding for high-quality, visually lossless video, and Dante AV-H, an embedded software solution that OEMs can add to their Ethernet-enabled H.264/H.265 cameras, encoders and decoders, turning them into Dante AV endpoints. Dante AV solutions are compatible with the thousands of Dante-enabled products available today.

Audinate Group, developer of Dante AV-over-IP solution, has updated the Dante Studio 2.0 software and announced new subscription pricing. Dante Studio is a suite of software tools comprised of Dante RX, Dante TX, and Dante Video Viewer that brings Dante AV video directly into a PC from Dante AV Ultra or Dante AV-H cameras, encoders, or other computers running Dante Studio on the network with no additional hardware needed.

Dante Studio is part of the Dante AV family of AV-over-IP solutions and shares the Dante control and management platform. Dante Controller handles all device routing, naming, and configuration for audio and video devices, allowing operators to control the entire AV network via a single interface. With Dante Domain Manager all audio and video endpoints can be secured with user access control, actively monitored, and remotely accessed to simplify system maintenance and support.

[Making Audio Movie Magic a Reality]

New features in Dante Studio 2.0 include:

• Added Dante AV-H (H.264/AVC codec) support in Dante Video RX and Dante Video Viewer
• Dante Video TX now supports sending video flows to Dante AV Ultra devices
• Dante Domain Manager support
• Ability to purchase Dante Studio with monthly subscription

Now Supporting Dante AV-H in Dante Video RX and Dante Video Viewer

With Dante Video RX, computers can receive a video signal directly from Dante AV Ultra or Dante AV-H transmitters, cameras, or other computers running Dante Studio on their network. Dante Video RX presents video streams as a webcam or video source to applications that support the DirectShow interface. Dante Video RX facilitates a wide variety of networked video use cases ranging from the video production and broadcast markets to corporate and higher education. 

[Dante Throughout History: Everything You Need to Know]

Dante Video Viewer is a standalone application that allows you to see and monitor a Dante video stream from any Dante AV Ultra or Dante AV-H-enabled device or computer sharing its screen with Dante Video TX on the Dante network in real time. 

Now Supporting Sending Video Flows from Dante Video TX to Dante AV Ultra Devices

Dante Video TX allows you to capture a display connected to your PC and transmit the captured video over the Dante Network. Users can then send this video stream to Dante AV Ultra receivers or another instance of Dante Studio using either Dante Video RX to bring the video into applications or Video Viewer to view the video in a standalone app.

[Dante Studio Focuses on Software Solutions]

Now Supporting Dante Domain Manager 

Dante Domain Manager lets you know exactly what your Dante system is doing at all times. Set up User Authentication and Role definitions for Dante Controller to ensure that no unauthorized changes are made to your system. See alerts and notifications that keep you updated on changes instantly, anywhere. Organize your system into controlled groups that are easy to understand. 

Studio Technologies is releasing new Model 545DC and Model 545DR Intercom Interfaces. The units allow users to utilize analog party-line (PL) intercom circuits with contemporary Dante Audio-over-Ethernet (AoE) applications.

“Analog party-line (PL) intercom remains a staple of broadcast, theater, and industrial workflows, creating a need for seamless integration into modern Dante applications,” said Gordon Kapes, president of Studio Technologies. “Our enhanced, intercom interfaces ensure that analog PL applications can become part of contemporary Dante-based applications. The supported audio quality is excellent, ensuring that all users are provided with effective intercommunications.”

[Intercoms: A History of Distance]

The Model 545DC supports two single-channel PL intercom circuits and is directly compatible with single-channel analog party-line (PL) products from Clear-Com. The Model 545DR offers one 2-channel interface and works directly with the RTS TW-series of 2-channel analog intercom circuits. Both can interconnect with Dante-supported devices such as matrix intercom systems, digital audio processors, and audio consoles. The interfaces are also compatible with Studio Technologies’ line of Dante-enabled user beltpack, intercom station, and intercom audio engine products.

The Model 545DC is designed for use with single-channel analog party-line (PL) intercom circuits that are commonly used in corporate, industrial, theater, entertainment, and education applications. These PL circuits utilize one 3-conductor cable to provide power and one channel of intercom audio. The audio path also includes a DC-based call function that the Model 545DC directly supports. The Model 545DR is intended for use in applications, typically broadcast, that provide two-channels of analog PL on a single 3-conductor cable. High-frequency call signals are combined with voice audio and are supported by the Model 545DR. Each interface is capable of providing DC power, allowing direct connection of a limited number of analog PL user devices.

[Streamlined Gameday Productions]

Both the Model 545DC and Model 545DR can be powered by a Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) connection or an external source of 12 volts DC. An etherCON RJ45 jack is used to interface the units with a 100 MB/sec Ethernet signal. Standard 3-conductor XLR connectors allow the analog party-line (PL) intercom circuits to be directly interconnected. For assistance during installation and troubleshooting, both the Model 545DC and Model 545DR contain two sets of 5-segment LED level meters. Each set of two meters displays the level of signals being sent to and received from their associated party-line interface channel. Each unit has two analog hybrid functions that separate the PL intercom circuits’ send and receive audio channels. The software-controlled hybrid circuits provide high return loss and excellent audio quality.

Both units are housed in durable, lightweight aluminum “1/2-rack” enclosures and are intended for desk or tabletop use. Optional mounting kits allow for one or two units to be installed in one space (1U) of a standard 19-inch rack enclosure. A PoE Ethernet connection is all that's required to make the Model 545DC and Model 545DR part of a sophisticated, networked audio system.

[Blueprint for Success: Learn from the Past, Shape Your Future] 

The Model 545DC and Model 545DR operating parameters are configured using the STcontroller software application. Available free of charge from Studio Technologies, STcontroller allows production personnel to quickly and easily configure the unit’s capabilities to meet an application’s exact needs. STcontroller is offered in versions that are compatible with the WinOS and macOS operating systems.

Studio Technologies introduces the Model 342 Intercom Station, a two-channel intercom user station that supports Dante Audio-over-Ethernet (AoE) workflows. The compact, desktop device integrates seamlessly with other Studio Technologies Dante-based intercom system products to create flexible and great-sounding intercom resources. The Model 342 can be used in a variety of broadcast and live events, including education, theater, sports, entertainment, house-of-worship, corporate, and aerospace applications.

“The Model 342 provides a desktop solution for intercom applications that can benefit from two channels of talk and listen,” said Gordon Kapes, president of Studio Technologies. “Directly compatible with other Studio Technologies Dante intercom products, the units seamlessly work together and benefit from advanced performance and flexibility. The Model 342’s range of capabilities and ease of deployment, along with excellent audio quality, offers users a unique experience.”

[Dante Studio Focuses on Software Solutions]

Data and power for the Model 342 requires only a standard Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) network connection. Hardware features include a dual-channel (stereo) headphone output, two headset connectors, integrated sidetone support, call signal receive display, and remote mic kill (“talk off”). With both 5-pin XLR and 3.5mm TRRS headset connectors, the Model 342 is compatible with professional broadcast headsets, gaming headsets, and mobile phone earbuds. The microphone input circuitry supports both dynamic or electret microphones. The unit’s two LED-illuminated talk pushbutton switches can be independently configured. Two "push-in/push-out" rotary controls are used to set and maintain the desired headphone output level.

Using a standard Ethernet LAN, users can easily connect multiple Model 342 units to establish a party-line intercom application with an external Dante-enabled audio matrix, such as the Studio Technologies Model 5421 or Model 5422A Dante Intercom Audio Engines. Alternatively, two Model 342 units can be used “point-to-point,” or multiple units can be interconnected with matrix intercom systems that offer Dante compatibility.

The Model 342 supports both Dante and AES67 operation and is compatible with the Dante Domain Manager (DDM) software application. Its Dante transmitter (output) and receiver (input) channels can be routed with other Dante-compatible devices using the Dante Controller software application. A call receive function allows Model 342 users to be alerted with a visual indication when a high-frequency audio call signal is active on a Dante receiver (input) channel. This can be useful in providing real-time cues to production and support personnel. Using the Dante Identify command, the Model 342 can be configured to turn off ("kill") active talk functions. This allows remote inactivation of unwanted microphone signals being presented to either or both intercom channels.

[Intercoms: A History of Distance]

The Model 342 offers pro audio performance that is not found in typical party-line intercom devices. A low-noise, wide dynamic-range microphone preamplifier and associated voltage-controlled-amplifier (VCA) dynamics controller (compressor) ensures that microphone audio quality is preserved while minimizing the chance of signal overload. The dual-channel (stereo) headphone output provides substantial drive capability along with minimal noise and distortion. All audio routing, level control, and muting is performed within the digital domain.

The Model 342’s extensive range of operating parameters are configured using the STcontroller software application. Available free of charge from Studio Technologies, STcontroller allows production personnel to quickly and easily configure the unit’s capabilities to meet an application’s exact needs. STcontroller is offered in versions that are compatible with the WinOS and macOS operating systems.

Audinate is now shipping the Dante Brooklyn 3 audio networking module to customers. Announced in June at InfoComm 22, the new module is a pin-compatible replacement for one of Audinate’s most popular products, Dante Brooklyn 2, which has been redesigned to ensure continuous availability while delivering support for current and future Dante features. 

[Dante Studio Focuses on Software Solutions]

The Dante Brooklyn module family is the most widely deployed implementation of Dante, and is used in hundreds of products including mixing consoles, DSPs, and amplifiers. The new Dante Brooklyn 3 audio module is available in 8x8 to 64x64 channel SKUs, delivering ultra-low latency networked audio in a complete module supporting the complete suite of Dante audio features. 

“With the arrival of Brooklyn 3, we’re delivering a new design that will help original design manufacturers address supply chain constraints and maintain production while delivering a product to customers that will support future Dante features,” said Chris Ware, Audinate’s senior vice president of product development. “Because this new module is a direct replacement for earlier versions, manufacturers can begin using them in production today.”

[AV Network's top stories, product news, and expert insights] 

Dante Brooklyn 3 is compatible with all other Dante devices and can be routed, managed, secured and monitored using Dante Controller and Dante Domain Manager.

Belfast-based Audio Codecs has collaborated with New Zealand-based RF consultancy Virscient and AntennaWare on the Skylark BLE. 

The new Bluetooth low energy digital wireless module is based around the Nordic nRF53 platform and boasts audio in/audio out latencies of less than 10ms, as well as a significantly more robust link. Available as a standalone and a licensed OEM product, Skylark BLE gives users the dual benefit of a popular platform and professional grade audio performance. Alongside established markets, it also has much to offer the emerging Vlogger market and is a suitable candidate for house of worship, gaming, and karaoke applications.

[Check Out the AV that Rocks Between the Dawn and the Dark of Night] 

"By leveraging the popular Nordic Bluetooth Low Energy platform and using the exceptional design skills of the Virscient team, we have been able to demonstrate the value and quality of both the Bodywave RF antenna and the Skylark audio codec," explained Jonny McClintock, spokesman for the consortium. "End users will enjoy a rock-solid link and incredible audio, all delivered at a previously impossible 10ms."

The launch of Skylark BLE is the result of a collaboration between Audio Codecs, which develops the low latency (under 2ms), high-quality (24 Bit, 48kHz) Skylark digital audio data compression algorithm, and Virscient, a consultancy with deep expertise in wireless and the Internet and an international reputation for developing products for leading semiconductor and manufacturing companies.

[AV Network's top stories, product news, and expert insights]

The Skylark BLE module runs on the application processor and incorporates Audio Codec's Skylark algorithm and Antennaware's Bodywave RF antenna—a versatile antenna that was specifically designed to address the effects of 'body blocking' and the highly annoying audio drop-outs this can cause. Virscient has added its own proprietary RF middleware, which combined with the inherent resilience in of Skylark and the additional 20dB of gain due to Bodywave ensures a rock-solid Bluetooth RF link. This solution of platform, antenna and codec offers performance figures that were considered almost impossible due to the vagaries of Bluetooth operating in the cluttered 2.4GHz spectrum.

McClintock added that the consortium is planning to reduce the latency even further and will also be supporting alternative RF frequencies such as UWB—a move that will perfectly address the rapidly emerging Headphone 3.0 market.

Audinate, developer of the Dante AV-over-IP solution, has released Dante Domain Manager v1.4 with support for Dante-enabled video products such as PTZ cameras, HDMI encoders and decoders, and the Dante Studio suite of video tools. The new version is available now. 

[SCN Inside Look: Dante Studio Focuses on Software Solutions]

“Dante Domain Manager has been a key component of scalable, modern AV-over-IP installations, and truly sets Dante apart from other technologies in AV,” said Laurence Crew, senior product manager at Audinate. “The inclusion of Dante Video products means that Dante Domain Manager can encompass complete systems with any mix of audio and video devices, giving AV and IT managers the information they need, exactly when they need it.”

With Dante Domain Manager, AV-over-IP systems get IT-level monitoring, security and control. Dante Domain Manager secures Dante networks by enforcing user authentication and roles to ensure that only trusted people can make changes to the system. It provides organizational tools that allow Dante devices to be split into functionally independent groups (domains) that correspond to rooms, spaces, buildings and more for easier routing and security. Dante Domain Manager coordinates clocking across the entire network, enabling routing of audio and video across IP subnet boundaries for large systems that must span large buildings, multiple studios, or campuses. The Dante Domain Manager dashboard and alerts provide instant status reports on any issues, anywhere on the network.\

[AV Network's top stories, product news, and expert insights] 

Dante Domain Manager v1.4 is a free update for existing users of Dante Domain Manager with active support agreements.

Synthax, U.S. distributor of RME, Ferrofish, Digigram, Appsys and myMix, will showcase the recently announced RME 12MIC -D at Booth W3010 at InfoComm 2022. The latest RME and Ferrofish solutions, including the A32 Pro Dante and A32 Pro, will also be on exhibit at the Synthax booth [#W3010] located in the West Hall.

RME’s 12Mic DANTE (12MIC-D) is the newest generation of RME’s Dante line-up. The 12MIC-D is a digitally controlled 12 channel mic pre-amp with no-compromise A/D conversion as well as a format converter between Analog, MADI, Dante, and ADAT. The 12MIC-D offers 64 channels of Dante I/O, 128 channels of MADI I/O, 24 channels of ADAT outputs, and a user assignable headphone monitoring output. Perfect for live sound, integration, and studios. The 12MIC-D is an ideal solution for audio networks where mic inputs are needed as well as digital format conversion between Dante, MADI, and ADAT.

 [The Inside Track—Straight from InfoComm Exhibitors] 

“The brands we distribute are leaders in their markets. In every new generation the technology becomes more dynamic to better future-proof solutions for integrators that can be shaped and modified according to their needs," said Derek Badala, director of sales for Synthax Americas. "Our recent releases of a new digitally controlled pre-amp the 12MIC Dante, from RME, and the Ferrofish converter, the A32 Pro Dante, support the vision of solving the technological boundaries between audio formats and interoperability.”

The new A32pro Series combines high analog channel-counts with extensive digital I/O and powerful signal routing with DANTE capabilities with the A32 Pro Dante, which provides 64x64 Dante I/O channels on dual Ethernet ports with redundant functionality. The new additions to the A32 Series set a new standard in high-quality with reliable signal conversation and distribution for modern recording studios, live audio playback systems and broadcast audio facilities.

Pliant Technologies will be presenting its new High Density mode for both its CrewCom and CrewCom CB2 wireless intercom systems at NAB 2022 (Booth C7118). High Density mode is a selectable mode of operation that greatly increases user densities.

For CrewCom, this new software-selectable mode supports up to 32 Radio Packs (RPs) on a single radio transceiver (RT) while dynamically allowing any four of the RPs to communicate in full-duplex across four available talk paths. For CB2, the High Density mode supports up to 16 radio packs (RPs) on a single base station. In addition, users of both systems will have the flexibility to simultaneously deploy “Normal” mode-enabled RPs and RTs (synced base stations for CB2) along with High Density mode-enabled hardware, providing adaptability for application-specific setups.

[SCN Exclusive: Expect Big Changes at 2022 NAB Show]

“We are excited to showcase High Density mode for both our CrewCom and CB2 intercom systems to those in attendance at NAB 2022,” said Gary Rosen, vice president of global sales for Pliant Technologies. “With this new firmware update that can be downloaded at no charge to all new and existing users, both the flagship CrewCom (firmware v1.10) and CrewCom CB2 (firmware v1.1) now offers our users a truly amazing value in professional wireless intercom.” 

The latest member of the CrewCom family, the new full-duplex, install-friendly, and feature-packed CrewCom CB2, is an ideal solution for small to mid-level applications requiring a reliable, great-sounding wireless intercom with excellent RF coverage and range. Available in both 900MHz and 2.4GHz frequency options as well as 900MHz Oceania and 2.4GHz CE compliant models, the system includes the CrewCom CB2 base station and up to six normal mode or 16 High Density mode CRP-12 radio packs to create a powerful but economical wireless intercom system. This latest solution from Pliant provides customers with two intercom channels as well as interconnectivity to all industry standard two and four-wire intercom systems.

[Pliant Technologies Updates MicroCom XR]

CrewCom is an innovative, professional wireless system featuring excellent 7KHz voice quality with 4-conference or 2-conference full-duplex radio packs, seamless roaming, the highest density of users in the industry, and a host of user features. CrewCom is based on a versatile decentralized, highly scalable network platform. CrewCom wireless products easily put dependable RF coverage where needed, all while employing a consistent user interface throughout the system.

Also at NAB 2022, Pliant will be showcasing its MicroCom line of intercoms (MicroCom M and MicroCom XR), including the new 4-Wire I/O Interface and Two-Way Radio Headset Adapter (PAC-MC4W-IO) for MicroCom XR. This small-but-mighty solution adds additional users by connecting a MicroCom XR system to a variety of wired and wireless intercom systems that use an industry-standard 4-wire connection. In addition, it also offers a direct intercom interface from the MicroCom XR to many two-way radio devices.

Studio Technologies, manufacturer of high-quality audio, video, and fiber-optic solutions, introduced the Dante-compatible Model 5304 intercom station at NAB 2022. The unit is designed to serve as a user interface for a variety of applications, including on-air and production television, live events, theater, industrial, aerospace, house of worship, and corporate AV.

[All Mobile Video Has a New Year's Rockin' Eve With Studio Technologies]

The Model 5304 allows the establishment of four independent talk and listen channels with just a headset and a Dante Audio-over-Ethernet connection. Partyline intercom applications can easily be created using standard IP networks along with a Dante-enabled audio processing device, such as the Studio Technologies Model 5421 or Model 5422A Dante intercom audio engine. A range of resources allows production personnel to incorporate the Model 5304 locally or as part of a remote application.

“With a wide range of capabilities and excellent audio quality, we’re confident that the Model 5304 can provide a powerful intercom resource for production and support personnel,” said Gordon Kapes, president of studio technologies. “It’s intended to work directly with our wide range of Dante intercom beltpack and related products, offering the form-factor needed for desk- and tabletop applications. When used with one of our Dante intercom audio engine units, technical personnel can quickly create high-performance, simple to use ‘virtual’ partyline intercom systems. We look forward to showcasing our latest solutions, including the Model 5304, at this year’s NAB show.”

[Studio Technologies Issues New Dante Intercom Kits]

The Model 5304 is supported by the STcontroller software application, allowing the unit’s extensive range of operating features to be quickly and intuitively configured. Versions of STcontroller are available, free of charge, for use with the Windows and macOS operating systems. Single- and dual-ear broadcast headsets are directly supported. A low-noise, wide dynamic-range microphone preamplifier supports both dynamic and electret microphones. An analog dynamics controller circuit ensure excellent microphone audio quality and minimizes the chance of signal overload. A single Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) connection supplies the Model 5304 with both power and network data. The Model 5304 is housed in a lightweight “1/2-rack” aluminum enclosure. Optional mounting kits allow one or two units to be mounted in one space (1U) of a standard 19-inch rack enclosure.

During a live virtual event on February 16th, QSC announced the QIO Series network I/O expanders for the Q-SYS cloud-manageable audio, video and control Platform. These new I/O expanders provide simple and scalable I/O customization for users who need to easily add non-networked audio and control connectivity to a Q-SYS system without complicated programming.

The QIO Series includes three Audio I/O models and three Control I/O models, each supporting a specific connectivity type. Designed to support distributed, centralized or hybrid networks and processing architectures, these I/O expanders enable designers to decouple the location of device I/O from the audio, video and control processing. This expands the I/O customization possibilities of the newer Q-SYS Core processors that have fewer onboard I/O options, including the Core Nano, Core 8 Flex and NV-32-H (Core Capable). All models feature a compact form factor that can be rack- or surface-mounted.

[ Exclusive Interview: QSC Creates Two Independent Divisions ]

Audio I/O models feature professional mic/line level inputs with +48 VDC phantom power and/or line outputs to ensure high performance and compatibility, along with microphone detection on inputs to enable monitoring, usage statistics and failure notifications.

·      QIO-ML4i: Four mic/line inputs

·      QIO-L4o: Four line outputs

·      QIO-ML2x2: Two mic/line inputs and two line outputs

Control I/O models add IR, serial or GPIO connectivity to integrate control over a wide variety of devices into any Q-SYS system.

·      QIO-IR1x4: For the first time on a native Q-SYS Product, integrators can add IR control connectivity. It includes one IR receiver input and four IR emitter outputs, enabling control for any number of professional/consumer devices including video displays, media players and more.

·      QIO-S4: Featuring four bi-directional RS232 serial ports (including on port with RS422 and RS485 compatibility), it enables control over lighting systems, video displays, conference systems, broadcast devices and more.

·      QIO-GP8x8: Provides eight logic inputs and eight logic outputs for systems needing to interface with occupancy sensors, push buttons, LED indicators, buzzers and more.

With the QIO Series, integrators can daisy-chain up to four Q-SYS QIO devices on a single network run (with local daisy-chained DC power) to consume fewer network ports, avoid rack clutter and easily expand I/O in the future, without pulling additional network cables. Alternatively, the QIO Series are also PoE capable providing simple, single cable connectivity when devices are not daisy-chained.

“The new Q-SYS QIO Series are an ideal extension of the Q-SYS Core processor capabilities and gives integrators the ability to add non-networked devices into any Q-SYS system quickly and easily using the familiar Q-SYS Designer Software,” said Trent Wagner, audio product manager, QSC. “Furthermore, integrators have the ability to tailor product placement to the specific needs of almost any installation expanding design options to serve the widest range of applications while simultaneously reducing system complexity and installation costs.”

 [ QSC Roadmap 2022 ]

[ QSC Names Jatan Shah President and Chief Operating Officer ]

Check out the opening remarks to the QSC’s virtual event, and all new product releases:

[ QSC's President and COO Opens Live Virtual Event Where 15 New Products Were Unveiled ]

[ First Network Microphone and Loudspeakers Native to Q-SYS ]

[ Q-SYS Scaling Licenses ]

[ QSC Premium Outdoor Landscape Loudspeaker System to its AcousticDesign Series ]

The What: Yamaha Unified Communications is enhancing meeting collaboration and hybrid learning with a touchless, easy-to-use Bring Your Own Meeting (BYOM) room solution that pairs Yamaha’s ADECIA ceiling microphone and speaker solution and Yamaha UC Strategic Partner Mersive Technologies’ Solstice wireless collaboration system. When enabled with Solstice Conference, Solstice enhances meeting collaboration by adding rich content sharing along with agnostic room support for any PC-based video conferencing application.

The What Else: Yamaha’s ADECIA ceiling solution family of communication products works seamlessly together to provide a complete and customizable audio solution for any meeting or learning space. It includes the new multi-beamforming RM-CG ceiling microphone and RM-CR audio processor, as well as Yamaha's PoE switches and VXL Series line array speakers. Yamaha’s ADECIA ceiling solution clearly picks up several people speaking at the same time and ensures that voices, not noises, are captured in enclosed or open conference spaces of varying sizes.

The complete solution immediately detects all components of the system and configures them to be optimized for the room environment, accounting for the location of speakers and microphones, reverberation and echo behavior. Setting up a room is done through the system's configurator in four effortless steps. With USB, Bluetooth, Dante and analog connections, this flexible system can fit a variety of meeting spaces.

Mersive Solstice is a software-based, cloud-enabled team space collaboration platform optimized for both onsite and remote participants. Multiple participants can share, control, and markup content from any device. It features agnostic room support for all major conferencing services with touchless, one-step start from the meeting host’s laptop. It seamlessly and wirelessly integrates Yamaha ADECIA audio solutions into a video conference. In addition, it is built with enterprise-grade security and is fully IT compliant.

The Bottom Line: This solution results in more collaborative meeting and learning experiences between onsite and remote participants. 

Audinate has made its Dante Embedded Platform available for ADI’s SHARC audio digital signal processors.

The collaboration is made possible by Audinate’s introduction of DEP, which offers Dante audio-over-IP as on-chip software. By adding DEP to a multi-core application processor such as the SHARC ADSP-SC5xx, manufacturers can deliver Dante connectivity with high performance, low latency, and deterministic audio processing. The result is a single-chip solution with greater system design versatility.

[Audinate Ships Dante AVIO USB-C Adapter]

“Audinate sees a shared opportunity as the AV industry migrates to products running on standard computing architectures,” said Bob Ehlers, vice president of product management at Audinate. “The Analog Devices ADSP-SC5xx processors extend the premium audio quality of professional AV systems by adding the industry-standard Dante connectivity to more workflows. The addition of the validated support for Dante-as-software is truly a win-win for developers and end customers alike.”

With minimal additional hardware and low marginal costs, Dante Embedded Platform provides flexible software-based solutions with Dante audio networking already on board. The result is interoperability with the thousands of Dante-enabled products from hundreds of OEMs already installed in countless installations.

The Dante Embedded Platform for Analog Devices’ ADSP-SC5xx DSPs is validated by Audinate for Dante performance and enable OEMs to design for Dante with confidence. The ADSP-SC5xx offers an ARM Cortex core, up to two high-performance SHARC audio DSPs with high on-chip RAM, and audio connectivity peripherals. This is well suited for AV-over-IP applications and provides a single-chip system solution.

Additionally, the SHARC DSPs provide a rich ecosystem of audio processing algorithms enabled by Analog Devices’ Sigma Studio graphical programming environment that shortens customer time to market.

“Analog Devices is pleased to work with Audinate to bring Dante software to the ADSP-SC5xx SHARC DSP processors,” said David Dashefsky, director consumer AV at Analog Devices. “We can now enable an ecosystem of SHARC DSPs with Dante connectivity, providing a powerful and compelling solution for the professional AV industry.”

The Dante Embedded Platform SDK for Analog Devices’ ADSP-SC5xx processors is expected to be available this month. 

The What: Studio Technologies is introducing two Dante Leader Clocks for supporting the timing needs of Dante-compliant devices: the updated Model 5401A Dante Leader Clock and the new Model 5402 Dante Leader Clocks with GNSS Synchronization. Both products deliver precise timing signals for use in Dante audio-over-IP applications. The synchronization needs of Dante devices connected to a local area network (LAN) can be seamlessly supported using the PTPv1 (IEEE 1588-2002) protocol. For Dante's implementation of AES67 and ST2110, both the Model 5401A and Model 5402 provide support for the PTPv2 (1588-2008) protocol.

[The Integration Guide to Dante-Enabled AV]

The What Else: Both the Model 5401A and Model 5402 can serve as the Dante Leader Clock for literally hundreds of Dante devices that can be simultaneously active on a LAN. Additional resources, including the units' ability to generate sine-wave audio tones, adds to their range of benefits. Any required configuration can be performed using the webpage interface or by way of the graphics display and controls provided on the front panel. Ethernet connections are made using standard RJ45 jacks and redundant powering is supported by way of AC Mains and 12 volts DC inputs. The lightweight units mount in one-space of a standard 19-inch equipment rack.

The Model 5402 offers all the capabilities of the Model 5401A with the additional timing precision provided by an integrated GNSS receiver. This allows the Leader Clock's timing reference to be derived from the four major satellite constellations: GPS (U.S.), Galileo (Europe), BeiDou (China) and GLONASS (Russia). In addition, GPS capability can be augmented with the unit's support of the QZSS (Japan) constellation. With satellite-based timing capability, multiple Model 5402 units can be utilized at geographically diverse locations and provide a common synchronization source for all associated Dante devices. A high-performance, weather-resistant GNSS antenna is included with each Model 5402, ensuring that full "out-of-the-box" functionality can be quickly achieved.

The Bottom Line: With Dante ubiquitous in fixed and mobile facilities of all sizes and types, a dedicated Leader Clock can enhance system performance. The Model 5402 and updated Model 5401A are designed to provide optimum performance, flexibility and system integrity. Utilizing a dedicated Leader Clock can help make system deployment and maintenance a much easier task.

The What: Yamaha Unified Communications has added Mersive Technologies to its Strategic Partner Program. Yamaha's YVC series of conference phones now fully integrate with Mersive's Solstice Pod to deliver a meeting and learning solution that creates engagement for a wide variety of spaces, from offices to boardrooms and training rooms, with touchless, one-step start and clear, natural audio.

The What Else: Yamaha's software-agnostic YVC series of conference phones features the company's sound technologies, including Human Voice Activity Detection, speaker tracking, and dynamic acoustic echo cancellation that make conversation stress-free and intuitive. Mersive's Solstice Pod combines Solstice Conference collaboration software with high-performance hardware and robust I/O capabilities to transform average meeting and learning spaces into powerful collaboration environments. Paired with a Yamaha YVC-200, YVC-330, or YVC-1000 conference phone and the option of a USB camera, users have a complete room system for the hybrid workplace. Solstice Conference bridges to remote participants using any major video conferencing service, including Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and Webex, while Yamaha provides high-quality audio for any space or environment.

Related: The Technology Manager's Guide to Audio in the New Era of UC

The YVC series offers scalable device configurations to suit the room size, group size, and collaboration needs. The YVC-200 USB & Bluetooth Speakerphone is well suited for small meeting rooms with up to four people. Meeting rooms with four to 10 people will benefit from the YVC-330 USB & Bluetooth Speakerphone, which features Yamaha's SoundCap technology to eliminate background noise. In addition, two YVC-330s can be daisy-chained to cover up to 16 participants. Large meeting spaces where up to 40 people can gather will require the YVC-1000's separate microphone and speaker system.

"Yamaha continually strives to create high-quality, easy-to-use collaboration solutions for today's meeting spaces,” said Michelle Baeza, director of strategic partnerships at Yamaha UC. “Partnering with Mersive Technologies ensures that users can effortlessly collaborate with professional audio that is vital to meeting productivity and efficiency. Together, our shared value of flexibility brings new capabilities to meetings."

"At a time when hybrid and remote communications are more important than ever, Mersive's partnership with Yamaha provides valuable solutions for the hybrid workplace," said Robert Balgley, CEO of Mersive. "Working together with Yamaha allows Mersive to expand our offerings to channel partners and end users, providing flexible room solutions that support all meeting room types—from private offices to large boardrooms—with best-in-class meeting collaboration, conferencing support, and audio clarity."

The Bottom Line: This new alliance brings Yamaha's audio and Mersive's Bring Your Own Meeting room system to hybrid workspaces, allowing onsite and remote workers to work together more easily without the stress of common collaboration challenges.

The What: ARISTA Corporation has announced the ARS-200-HD HDMI Audio to Dante Audio converter and the ARS-200-DH Dante Audio Stream to HDMI Audio converter.

The What Else: The ARS-200-HD extracts audio from devices like DVD players and converts the audio stream to Dante format. This enables the audio signals to be transmitted over long distance and used with public address (PA) systems—ensuring that everyone can hear the sound that accompanies the visuals. The converter/interface uses an HDMI Type A female connector for HDMI input and an HDMI Type A female connector for video loopback output. The HDMI input and loopback output maximum supported video resolution is 4096x2160 / 3840x2160 at 60Hz (4:4:4).

Related: The Integration Guide to Dante-Enabled AV

ARISTA’s ARS-200-DH Dante Audio Stream to HDMI converter is well suited for presentation environments where audio is being handled via Dante in order to cover long distances, such as in a large hall while audio and video is desired in the most outlying areas. In such cases, Dante audio is being received by the ARS-200-DH while it is also receiving video input via HDMI. In this case, the ARS-200-DH merges the audio with the HDMI signal so that it can feed external displays. The ARS-200-DH outputs stereo audio (20Hz–20kHz) with a frequency response of 20Hz–20kHz. Maximum video resolution is 4096 x 2160 / 3840 x 2160 at 60Hz (4:4:4) and both the video input and the video loopback ports are HDMI Type A female connectors.

Power for both the ARS-200-HD and the ARS-200-DH can be handled via either a DC 12V feed or PoE (Power over Ethernet). Both units are housed in a rugged metal housing, and the dimensions for both units are 3.3 x 3.9 x 1.1 inch.

“The ARS-200-HD and ARS-200-DH are two new building blocks adding to Arista’s Pro Audio products baseline and filling the products gap in the audio installation market,” said Paul Shu, ARISTA’s president of sales and marketing. “The ARS-200-HD enables the integrator to add HDMI audio into a Dante audio network and the ARS-200-HD enables integrators to add Dante audio to HDMI audio output in a very quick and easy installation. I believe these two new products can help integrators streamline their installations, saving time and effort in the process.”

The Bottom Line: The ARISTA ARS-200-HD and ARS-200-DH are designed for presentation environments where audio needs to be converted from one format to the other and where long-distance transmission is involved.

Yamaha Unified Communications (UC) has added Barco to its Strategic Partner Program to drive high-quality conferencing through the combination of solutions and API flexibilities. Through the partnership, Yamaha’s YVC-200 Portable USB and Bluetooth Speakerphone, YVC-330 USB and Bluetooth Speakerphone, and YVC-1000 Mic and Speaker System are certified to work with Barco ClickShare Wireless Conference devices for a seamless Bring Your Own Meeting (BYOM) room experience.

“The best digital collaboration tools are fluid and adaptable, bridging the gap between users so they can connect from anywhere and with any device,” said Michael Fitch, vice president of sales and marketing at Yamaha UC. “Yamaha UC’s growing list of partnerships ensures collaboration across all the major communication platforms is simple and effective. Barco's wireless conferencing solutions deliver a streamlined experience that brings teams together anywhere in the world. With this partnership, users can choose the solution they need, plug it in, and join the meeting with no fuss and audio that sounds as good as face to face.”

Related: The Technology Manager's Guide to Audio in the New Era of UC

Yamaha YVC Series speakerphones leverage Yamaha sound technologies to deliver full-range audio for smooth and clear conversations. Barco’s ClickShare Wireless Conference range of products work seamlessly with these conferencing solutions as well as the user’s display and camera setup without the hassle of physically connecting devices using cables and adapters. Both Yamaha UC solutions and Barco ClickShare operate with all current UC platforms.

“Our partnership with Yamaha brings customers unrivaled audio quality and unique simplicity in hybrid meetings,” said Dave Fitzgerald, vice president, Global Alliances at Barco. “Our easy-to-use, agnostic wireless conferencing solution was tested and confirmed to work seamlessly with the best-in-class audio solutions from Yamaha. Together, these solutions create an engaging meeting experience for in-room and remote participants that is just as natural as any face-to-face meeting.”

Yamaha UC and Barco ClickShare Conferencing offer device configurations to suit a customer’s room size, group size, and collaboration needs. For small meeting rooms with up to four people, the YVC-200 and ClickShare CX-20 enable natural and reliable communication. Meeting rooms with four to 10 people will benefit from the YVC-330, which features Yamaha’s SoundCap technology to eliminate background noise, and ClickShare CX-30 with touch back, annotation, and blackboarding capabilities. In addition, two YVC-330s can be daisy-chained to cover up to 16 participants. Large meeting spaces where up to 40 people can gather will require the YVC-1000’s separate microphone and speaker system along with ClickShare CX-50’s superior AV quality driving multi-content sharing. 

The What: Audix’s Dante | AES67 Integrated Microphone System includes a Dante | AES67 interface (two- or four-input), as well as a choice of flush-mount (M70WD) or hanging (M55WD, M3W, M3G) ceiling microphones, or a combination of the two.

The What Else: Either interface (DN4 and DN43) acts as the centerpiece of a microphone system that transmits over Ethernet networks. The interface provides microphone functions including on-off contact closure and LED status indicators for meeting rooms, convention centers, educational facilities, and houses of worship through a single Cat 5/7 cable with RJ45 connections at both interface and microphone. This simple configuration eliminates wiring errors, accelerates installation, and reduces cost. And the gain structures of all Audix RJ45-equipped analog microphones are optimized for their intended placement, providing quality audio at the DSP.

The Bottom Line: The two-input DN43 interface features one port for the Audix M3W or M3G tri-element microphone and one port for Audix RJ45-equipped single-element microphones. The four-input DN4 interface features four ports for Audix RJ45-equipped single-element microphones.

Quick Bio

Name: Roland Hemming
Title: Audio Consultant and Project Manager
Company: RH Consulting

For the second year, readers of SCN and its sister title in Europe Installation, along with publications in the Middle East and Asia, asked readers to complete an online survey about audio networking. With the ability to read year-on-year data, the trends for audio are really starting to appear.

The survey was open to all. In particular we wanted to hear from people that don’t use audio networking technology, and there was a good response from this section of the SCN readership.

Inevitably, though, the majority of responses came from people that already use this technology, so that needs to be taken into consideration when reviewing some of the answers.

The purpose of the survey was to try and find out how much audio networking is going on, and what choices people are making. We kept most of the questions the same as last year but added a couple of important new ones.

In general we were looking at the “big five” industry protocols, as well as seeing how much use there was of proprietary ones.

Project Trends

One of the significant trends is the sheer number of people using audio networking technology. With two years of survey, we now have three years of data.

First of all there is a 5 percent year-on-year decline in the number of people not using audio networking at all. Only 13 percent don’t expect to use it in the next 12 months. More startling is that 69 percent expect it to be more than half their work. Audio networking appears to be the predominant method of audio connectivity in the next 12 months.

Protocol Growth

We wanted to know about what protocols people plan to use and how many projects they would do using each protocol.

First of all, use of Cobranet has fallen of a cliff, with only 30 percent using it in the last 12 months. AVB use almost doubled and RAVENNA more than doubled, albeit from a much lower starting point. And then the leader for last year, Dante, growing nearly 400 percent to be used on more than three quarters of all networked audio projects.

For the moment it’s Dante’s game to lose.

Asking Why

We wanted to know what would make people switch from one protocol to another. Product choice is the key factor, but reliability and interoperability were important too. Out of the eight possible answers we gave, “based on standards” was sixth. While we like the idea of standards, it seems that just getting the job done reliably is more important.

Ease of Use

From their use of different protocols, we asked how easy each one was to use. Dante was the clear leader—the only one with more than 50 percent finding it easy or very easy.

And the Non-Networkers?

For the non-networkers, we asked them if they had to use the technology, which protocol would they use? Compared to last year, Dante has consolidated its position up from 38 percent to 80 percent. All other protocols showed a decline in interest except RAVENNA.

Are We Really Converging?

This was a new question for this year. We wanted to know whether people were trying to merge networked audio along with other IT services.

As we suspected, around 70 percent of projects are running audio as a separate network. It might be fair to say that most people are not converging; they are just using networking technology.

The question to ask here is why? Why are people not working with the IT teams to put the audio through the building IT network? I think this should be a point of industry discussion.

Are people afraid of trying to put the audio into the IT network? Is it an education issue for IT specialists? Are there technical reasons why it won’t work?

Looking to the Future

Finally, we asked people to peer into their crystal balls and to predict the future for each protocol. People expected AVB to increase a little, Dante to increase a lot, RAVENNA to stay the same, and the others to significantly decrease.

Summary Last year we predicted “a massive predicted increase in use” of digital audio networking. The figures show this to be true, and even with two or three years of figures, we can really start to see the direction things are going in.

Dante leads by every metric. Users want a variety of product, and currently Dante gives people that. Dante user satisfaction is higher, and this is a demonstration that Audinate has simply put more investment into digital audio networking than anyone else. That investment is clearly paying off.

Summing up, this is the year that Cobranet and EtherSound effectively died, and audio networking has overtaken analog as the standard approach for most our respondents’ projects.

Roland Hemming is an audio consultant with RH Consulting. His 25-year career in the industry has taken him to live events, construction sites, hotels, rail, cruise ships, theater, corporate AV, broadcast, education, and stadia.