Evolution and positioning within audio installations in commercial projects

Networks have become a fundamental part of the design of audiovisual systems, thanks to their low cost of implementation, high level of functionality, flexibility and programming.

Currently, control under IP protocols has been integrated into the vast majority of devices from hundreds of manufacturers. Having the possibility of transporting media (audio and video) through the network infrastructure has allowed audiovisual integrators to have a wide range of possibilities for expansion and scalability.

Network audio transmission has multiple fields of application (from multi-zone systems in corporate projects, theme parks and hotels, to sound reinforcement systems in theaters, auditoriums and concert halls). All this thanks to its stability, security (it is possible to establish redundant networks), high audio signal quality and flexibility in its configuration.

The following is a brief overview of the main components to consider when properly designing and implementing a network audio transmission system.

Network infrastructure

The minimum specifications to be met in order to implement a network transmission system are quite accessible to the average integrator. With a standard Gigabit speed network switch (without strict power-saving features) there is enough equipment to establish a flow of data packets containing multiple channels of digital audio with a virtually negligible level of latency.

Currently, no network infrastructure with special features or high-end/cost equipment is required to implement a network audio transmission system efficiently. All that is required is to select equipment from manufacturers with compatible cards (protocols can work to send audio between devices of multiple brands) and a host (PC) with the indicated software and operating system.

It is important to mention that network audio transmission involves (so far) a 100% wired infrastructure, because the transmission protocols have been developed under world Ethernet standards.

Digital processing and control

DSP digital processing can be linked to the audio transport of the system, since the same data network used to perform system programming by the host can be used to send audio signals to multiple points in the same project (this is one of the relevant advantages of AV implementations under IP). The same host that performs DSP processor programming can define.

Audio quality

Is the audio quality in a network transmission system really remarkable?
This factor (despite being subjective to the end user) is of paramount importance when it comes to ensuring the final performance and performance of the system. Some details should be considered when making this assessment:

• The audio transmitted over the network is digital.
• By means of digital protocols, it is possible to optimize the dynamic range of the audio signal
• It is possible to transport signals over long distances safely and with immunity to traditional interference found in analog systems
• Today's digital audio devices feature high-quality AD/DA converters, allowing signals to be encoded with a high level of accuracy and efficiency.

In conclusion, implementing an audio transmission system through the network, in digital format, will guarantee a high level of signal quality throughout the project, as well as being able to guarantee an excellent service in any business vertical.