Dante Audio Over IP | AoIP Systems
Dante audio over IP combines software, hardware, and network protocols to deliver uncompressed, multi-channel, low-latency digital audio across standard Ethernet networks.
This technology enables seamless transmission of audio and video between devices using a single Ethernet cable, eliminating the complexities and limitations of older solutions like analogue and AES/EBU.
Dante excels in professional audio and installed sound applications due to its low latency and precise playback synchronisation. It leverages off-the-shelf IT equipment, making setup, configuration, and management straightforward. Dante-enabled devices automatically discover each other on the network and learn each other’s capabilities, such as input and output channels, sample rates, and bit depths. Friendly names can be assigned to devices and channels, simplifying audio routing without needing to reference technical specifications.
Why Use Dante Audio over IP Over Traditional Audio Distribution?
Josh Rush, Vice President of Marketing at Audinate in Portland, Oregon, highlights a significant advantage of IP audio: substantial reductions in cabling and labour costs.
“What once took weeks now takes hours,” Rush said. “Also, there’s the ability to route and reroute audio streams with software, rather than running new cables. Finally, high-quality, multichannel audio can be delivered over long distances with near-zero latency and no signal degradation.”
Although audio over IP has been more widely used in installations such as stadiums, convention centres, and universities, its adoption is expanding into smaller environments like K–12 schools, houses of worship, and residential spaces.
“Legacy installations will be a big category for contractors with edge devices helping to network much of the existing hardware in place,” Rush said. “True IP audio can run on the network with common, off-the-shelf equipment. This is a huge benefit for both the installer and customer, as they can route audio over existing cabling and switches from their data network; or if one doesn’t exist, they can buy off-the-shelf, standard equipment.”
Optimising existing cabling infrastructure represents a strategic approach for contractors. Electrical contractors (ECs) will be able to achieve installation and cost savings for customers who want the power of the network but may not have the budget for a total rip and replace.