1. Dante: The Dominant Standard in Audio over IP

 

Definition

 

Dante (Digital Audio Network Through Ethernet) is a protocol developed by Audinate that uses standard Ethernet networks (IEEE 802.3) to transmit multichannel audio with extremely low latency.

 

Advantages

 

• Adjustable latency (down to sub-milliseconds).

• Scalability: Supports up to 1,024 channels on Gigabit networks.

• AES67 compatibility for interoperability with other systems.

• Easy configuration via dedicated software (Dante Controller).

 

Primary Applications

 

• Recording studios.

• Live broadcasting.

• Fixed installations (theaters, stadiums).

 

2. AVB (Audio Video Bridging): The IEEE Standard Protocol

 

Definition

 

AVB (Audio Video Bridging) is a set of IEEE 802.1 standards designed to ensure synchronized audio and video transmission over Ethernet networks.

 

Key Features

 

• Precise time synchronization (IEEE 802.1AS).

• Bandwidth reservation (Quality of Service – QoS).

• Requires AVB/TSN-compatible switches (Time-Sensitive Networking).

 

Limitations

 

• Lower adoption compared to Dante.

• More restrictive infrastructure (specific hardware required).

 

Use Cases

 

• Integrated AV productions (with video).

• Professional audio systems requiring strict synchronization.

 

3. MADI: The Traditional Multichannel Audio Protocol

 

Definition

 

MADI (Multichannel Audio Digital Interface) is a point-to-point protocol that transmits digital audio via coaxial or fiber optic cables.

 

Technical Specifications

 

• Up to 64 audio channels (at 48 kHz) per link.

• Low latency but lacks IP network flexibility.

• Supports distances up to 3,000 meters with fiber optics.

 

Typical Applications

 

• Connections between digital mixing consoles.

• Studio-to-studio links.

• Fixed broadcast signal routing.

 

4. AES67: The Interoperability Standard

 

Definition

 

AES67 is a standard by the Audio Engineering Society (AES) that enables interoperability between different audio-over-IP systems.

 

How It Works

 

• Uses RTP/UDP for audio transport.

• Implements PTPv2 (Precision Time Protocol) for synchronization.

• Compatible with Dante, Ravenna, and Livewire.

 

Advantages

 

• Bridges heterogeneous networks (e.g., Dante with Ravenna devices).

• Open and standardized solution.

 

Conclusion: Selection Criteria

 

Protocol	Key Advantages	Recommended Use
Dante	Low latency, easy setup	Studios, live events
AVB	Precise synchronization	Integrated AV systems
MADI	Stability, high capacity	Broadcast, fixed links
AES67	Interoperability	Multi-platform environments

 

The future of professional audio lies in standardized IP networks (TSN/AES67), where interoperability and flexibility will be critical.