What is Dante
Dante is an Ethernet-based network system, just one of several “Digital Audio Transfer Protocols.” Dante is a very popular protocol that can replace hundreds of audio cables using just a few Ethernet cables. And best of all – without losing speed and fidelity. Analog audio quality can quickly deteriorate as distances get longer and longer, but with Dante, this problem has been solved. All the devices on a Dante network share the same network. The signals can be sent between devices regardless of location. Dante has resolved the age-old problem of running audio over long distances without using expensive multi-channel cables. The Dante protocol exhibits low latency (delays) and works great for live performances, churches, large stadiums, etc. With this being said, Dante is also used in studios and smaller installations. Analog audio equipment can also work “digitally” on a Dante network when used with a Dante interface device (see example below).
For this example, let’s say that you have a Digital Mixing Board already living on a Dante network, but you need to add the line-level output of an Analog Mixer located in another room in the venue. Radial Engineering makes it easy – connect the Analog Mixer to the Dante Network Interface unit and connect the Interface to the closest Network Switch. Some Network Switch configurations will need to occur, but it’s a relatively easy set-up. That’s it, and the Digital Mixing Board can now utilize any outputs from the Analog Mixer.
Digital Mixing Boards (like the one shown below) will come standard with a Dante Interface installed or with “expansion” slots in the back of the mixing board that allows for external audio protocols (such as Dante) to be installed, configured, and functioning very quickly.
Dante Networks use Cat 5 / Cat 6 cabling and connect to a Network Switch and Computer using the “Free” Dante (Audinate) software to complete the set-up of a basic “Dante System.” This software provides a way to configure and discover devices, event logging, a routing matrix, etc. Also, when using a Dante Virtual Soundcard, you can interface with your computer and DAW (Digital Audio Workstation). Many Dante expandable option cards are available to plug into the expansion ports on your Digital Mixing Board. The Dante protocol is here to stay and not going away anytime soon. There’s also a good chance that most of the audio equipment you currently use has a built-in Dante card or “optional” expansion card slots.
Dante Certification! Audinate (creator of the Dante protocol) offers “In-Depth” AV Network training. Training is provided in three levels (Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3). This training offers valuable insights on Audio Networking and is a great way to assist with building a “Technicians” resume. Dante’s training is highly recommended.
