Audio Network Protocols for Conference Rooms: AVB or Dante?
Comparing Dante & AVB Network Solutions
Until recently, if you wanted to distribute real-time audio over long distances or to different locations, you’d need long cable runs. Long wires can degrade signal quality and create noise and interference.
Luckily, there’s a better way to distribute audio in the conference room: networked audio. New audio networks can send hundreds of high-resolution audio files to multiple destinations, all over standard Ethernet cables. Audio network systems like Dante and AVB make this possible. But which is best for your business?
In this blog post, we'll guide you through AVB and Dante network protocols, helping you make the right choice for your conference room AV.
If you’re ready to upgrade your conferencing systems in the Dallas, TX, area, contact Texadia Systems today.
SEE ALSO: Maximizing Collaboration: Why Your Office Needs An AV Specialist
The Basics: Dante and AVB
Dante and AVB are two popular digital audio networking solutions. But it's crucial to understand that they are not compatible with each other. Let's start by exploring the fundamental differences between these two protocols.
Dante
Developed by Audinate, Dante audio networking has gained widespread popularity among most audio manufacturers. Dante networks can route up to 512 channels of audio inputs and outputs. It supports resolutions ranging from 24-bit/48kHz up to 32-bit/192kHz. Key features of Dante include the following:
- Low Latency: Dante networks typically offer low latency, with a 1-millisecond delay for setups using standard Gigabit Ethernet hardware.
- Compatibility: Dante-enabled devices from different manufacturers can seamlessly communicate, making it versatile for diverse setups.
- Ease of Expansion: Many products are compatible with Dante, while expansion cards are available for others.
AVB (Audio Video Bridging)
AVB is a set of networking protocols developed by the IEEE. AVB allows routing of audio, video, and control data using Gigabit or 100BASE-T Ethernet hardware with AVB-compatible switches. AVB arranges audio channels into "streams," with each stream carrying a specific number of channels. Key features of AVB include:
- Low Latency: AVB networks offer a maximum latency of 2 milliseconds on a 100BASE-T network. We can even reduce latency to as low as 250 microseconds with Gigabit switches.
- Open Standard: AVB is an open standard, so manufacturers do not need to pay licensing fees. This potentially makes AVB-compatible hardware more cost-effective.
- Audio Streams: AVB organizes audio into different streams, each of which carries a distinct number of channels.
Dante vs. AVB
Both Dante and AVB offer advantages and considerations that can impact your choice. Here's a comparison:
Dante
Pros:
- Widely adopted by numerous major manufacturers.
- Low latency and high channel count.
- Supports multiple sample rates.
- Certified switches not required.
- Can run over any Ethernet cable.
Cons:
- Licensing fees may increase the cost of hardware.
- Setting up a Dante system is generally quite complex.
AVB
Pros:
- Open standard, potentially leading to cost savings.
- Low latency with support for multiple sample rates.
- AVB networks are more straightforward to set up.
Cons:
- Not as widely adopted as Dante by manufacturers.
- Requires AVB-certified switches.
Conclusion
Both Dante and AVB are powerful audio over IP systems with their unique strengths. Your choice depends on your budget and specific studio requirements.
- If you're building or expanding your space with high-end gear from multiple manufacturers, opt for Dante.
- If you have a more modest budget and a preference for brands like PreSonus or MOTU, AVB can be a cost-effective solution.
Let Us Find the Perfect Solution for Your Business
For personalized assistance in selecting the right networked-audio interface, reach out to Texadia Systems. We can answer your networking questions and ensure you acquire the system that best suits your business’s needs.
