5.15: Digital Audio Networking
- Page ID
- 387967
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Digital Audio Networking
Digital audio networking allows multiple channels of audio to be transmitted over computer networks. Standards include:
- Dante (widely used, Ethernet-based)
- AVB (Audio Video Bridging)
- AES67 (open interoperability standard)
These systems simplify routing, reduce cabling, and allow for large-scale integration in studios, broadcast facilities, and live sound environments.
Older Systems: ISDN
Before modern IP-based networks became widespread, ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network) was used in broadcast and remote audio links.
- ISDN offered relatively low-latency digital audio links over telephone lines, allowing broadcasters to connect remote studios or reporters with decent audio quality.
- Many ISDN codecs could carry stereo or multiple mono channels with compression, error correction, and synchronization.
- ISDN’s bandwidth was limited compared to modern networks, so it typically used audio compression (e.g. ISDN codecs like Comrex, Tieline).
- ISDN has largely been supplanted by IP-based solutions (audio over Ethernet, streaming over the internet), but its legacy remains in broadcast infrastructure and transitional systems.
Streaming Audio and Over-IP Audio
Modern digital audio networking increasingly uses streaming audio over IP (Internet Protocol).
- Protocols and Formats: RTP, RTSP, HTTP Live Streaming, or proprietary systems (e.g. Dante over IP).
- Codecs & Bitrates: Compression (AAC, Opus) or uncompressed “studio” formats (AES67, WAV over IP).
- Latency: Must be minimized for live audio; influenced by network quality, buffering, and chosen protocol.
- Quality & Reliability: Requires error correction, packet recovery, and network prioritization (QoS).
- Scalability: A single source can feed multiple destinations; ideal for studios, live events, or cloud streaming.
Applications:
- Live broadcasting (concerts, talk shows, radio)
- Remote collaboration (distributed musicians and studios)
- Large installations (houses of worship, corporate AV, stadiums)
- Cloud streaming services (Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, etc.)