AES50, implemented by Sony as SuperMAC, can carry up to 48 bi-directional audio channels plus 5Mbps of generic Ethernet control data on a single CAT5 cable. HyperMAC can carry up to 384 bi-directional audio channels plus 100Mbps Ethernet on CAT6 cable or fibre.
Despite the current availability of many different proprietary methods for transmitting audio over Ethernet hardware, Midas believes that the AES50 approach has some key advantages - especially in live sound applications. Extremely low latency (less than 70 microseconds) allows multiple links to be used without unacceptable delay build-up, and robust error correction allows data integrity to be checked before problems become audible. The format also provides comprehensive clock distribution features, which allow flexible system clocking - essential when live events involve broadcast feeds.
Midas prefers open standards wherever possible and views the publication of the AES50 standard as an important step towards the easier interconnection of large-scale digital audio systems.
"In live sound applications, we are confident that the open standard AES50 approach has significant advantages over other technologies - in particular the exceptionally low latency and error correction, says Midas' research and development director Simon Harrison. "We are delighted to be working with Sony Pro-Audio Labs to bring this exciting technology to our customers."
Adds John Richards, Sony Pro-Audio lab's general manager: "We are very enthusiastic about working with Midas - an outstanding company in the live sound area. AES50/SuperMAC and HyperMAC have excellent latency and jitter performance which combined with error correction, AES3 transparency and the ability to handle Ethernet compatible Auxiliary and Control Data make them ideally suited to live sound applications. I'm sure that today's announcement will add a lot of momentum to promotion and adoption of the AES50 standard."
(Sarah Rushton-Read)
