WHAT IS NETWORK AUDIO?
Network Audio, also known as “Audio over IP” is, put simply, audio over an internet protocol or ethernet cable. These systems are bridged and connected by a standard internet network and are able to communicate with each other and the outside world (streaming services, etc.) by means of a network switch or router. Network audio systems are entirely scalable and being used in a variety of applications to improve security, make live and scheduled announcements, and to increase overall ambiance and customer experience. Audio networking is conducive to a wide series of scenarios and applications, including offices, schools, large campuses, houses of worship, malls, correctional facilities, and concert venues. In all of these cases, network audio can minimize setup times, streamline system management, provide the means for interconnecting different locations and hardware, while tying together the components of audio production – recorded and/or live – in a simple and streamlined way. In most cases audio network systems automatically recognize and configure with one another allowing for ease of use. These systems are intuitive and therefore do not require specialized expertise to use. Intelligent solutions that ride the network.
NETWORK AUDIO APPLICATIONS
Educational Institutions
Educational institutions and college campuses are now using network audio to broadcast messages to one or several areas. Audio over IP systems are through a single web based interface which allows for rapid reach through network connected devices within minutes. Network audio systems are rapidly becoming a necessity due to their incredible benefits in tackling crisis management and mass communication. When an emergency notification is essential for the safety and awareness of a community, these systems are a tremendous asset to any institution. Additionally, audio network systems reduce the spread of misinformation and minimize lagging response times, with instantaneous communication.
Concert Venues
The ability to run a single network cable is a tremendous asset in concert venues both large and small. Audio networking is ideal for connecting to stage boxes, remote preamps, and monitor rigs without the need of a cumbersome multi channel analogue audio snake. Typically all that is needed is a single cable to route audio from the stage boxes to the mixer.
Commercial Facilities
Presently, network audio is often paired with surveillance cameras for more efficient security. The addition of audio allows users to hear and speak to those on the camera, resulting in more effective security while also acting as a preventative tool. In the event of an emergency (evacuation, lock-down) pre-recorded announcements provide clear, calming instructions that prevent confusion and or panic. This allows for the most appropriate action in order to remain safe and secure.
Restaurants
These high quality audio systems are often integrated with customized playlists and easy music streaming, to create an atmosphere and enhance the experience. Restaurants greatly benefit from these tailored systems where businesses can set the mood, influence the tone and overall energy of those present. The accompaniment of acoustic treatments in these settings is also a value add, as they minimize echo and reverberation that create uncomfortable noise and sound. Easily integrated with streaming services like Spotify, Soundtrackyourbrand, TuneIn Radio, Apple Music and others, these systems provide an unlimited amount of music choice and flavour.
THE LEADERS IN NETWORK AUDIO
Sonos, one of the most well known “smart” speaker brands is the reason why network audio has become so popular in the commercial market. In 2002 the inspiration was fuelled by the challenge of inventing a multi-room wireless audio system. The set-up needed to be fast and intuitive, integrate well with any technology and or service while delivering superior sound quality. This design meant inventing a method to deliver audio instantaneously and wirelessly to multiple speakers | zones without any gaps. Ultimately this led the team at Sonos to have to reinvent how devices communicate, designing embedded systems with Wi-Fi.
Sonos has teamed up with Sonance to design a series of in-wall, in-ceiling and outdoor speaker systems – optimizing sound quality and aesthetics.
The Invisible Series is the ultimate expression in architectural audio. Installed into the wall or ceiling and then finished over with the surrounding surface, Invisible Series speakers deliver ambient music that emanates throughout the space with no visual footprint.
The Architectural Series delivers the ultimate blend of high performance and premium aesthetics. The totally flush and bezel-less grilles disappear into the surrounding ceiling surface while the state-of-the art driver materials and cutting-edge design sets a new standard in audiophile sound quality.
The Visual Performance Series features an award-winning low-profile grille that is paintable to blend into the wall or ceiling. With three shapes and sizes, several performance levels and a range of specialty application speakers, a consistent look can be achieved for any application in every space.
An all-in-one speaker system with quick installation, including just one network cable (PoE). Axis is designed for easy music streaming, scheduled and customized playlists, along with live and or scheduled voice announcements. A completely high quality audio system in a single unit.
There is no need for an amplifier, mixer, digital signal processor, streaming functionality, microphone or power supply because they’re all built-in. And because it’s preconfigured, you don’t have to be a sound expert to set it up.
Axis as a network solution can be combined into a flexible and scalable system, where it is easy to add or remove speakers instantaneously. By creating zones to address a number of speakers at the same time, it is possible to direct different background music, live or scheduled announcements, as well as control and change the volume for each unit individually and simultaneously. Resulting in efficient and streamlined music and messages.
Check out their free webinar where they go in-depth about how network audio solutions can improve a security system along with other business applications: AXIS | Free Webinar – Network Audio
Dante (Network Audio Protocol)
Dante is a combination of software, hardware, and network protocols that deliver uncompressed, multi-channel, low latency digital audio over a standard Ethernet network using Layer 3 IP packets.
Configuration with Dante is simple and incredibly flexible, while highly scalable. Dante is a complete media networking solution; a multi-channel digital media distribution via ethernet networks that supports a simple pairing between a console and computer- two complex networks running hundreds of channels.
The audio packets contain timing information and source | destination network addresses, allowing them to be efficiently routed through the stream where the audio is controlled and interfaced in a combinable and customizable manner. Add speakers and scale the solution. These network systems are ideal for shared meeting spaces and connective rooms, including: Hospitality, Concert Venues and Nightclubs.
Improve security on premises with event triggered announcements. Make live and scheduled announcements in different zones. Create ambiance with easy and flexible custom playlists, coupled with the ability to manage and control audio systems regardless of size and location. The future of AV clearly is creating a pathway for Network Audio solutions due to its many benefits.
At Limitless AV Inc. we are happy to assist in the design and development of your business’s audio systems, both networked and analog. To learn more about a detailed solution catered to the needs of your organization or business, contact us for a complimentary consultation.
