Audio Precision has announced its support for audio performance testing of Dante-enabled devices, with its APx500 Series analysers and software.

This latest test capability aids engineers in verifying the audio performance of designs as they address the growing demand for networked pro audio components, products and systems equipped with Dante networking. Dante is an uncompressed, multichannel technology that provides near-zero latency and synchronisation for digital media networks ranging from live sound and recording studios to public address and broadcast. Additionally, the technology enables the replacement of traditional analog or multicore cabling with low-cost, lightweight Cat5e, Cat6 or fibre-optic cables.

Dante-enabled devices present some unique testing challenges. Many of these products also contain traditional analogue and/or digital audio interfaces, as well as AD and DA converters, or powered loudspeakers that need to be tested through their Dante interface. With either Dante Virtual Soundcard or Focusrite’s RedNet PCIe Dante soundcard installed in the APx host PC, engineers can use APx’s ASIO client interface and analog or digital I/O to stream test signals to the DUT (device under test) and measure its response. The converse is equally applicable, with the stimulus applied to the DUT’s audio inputs and the analyser measuring the response contained within a stream supplied by the Dante interface.

Additionally, APx500 series analysers support multichannel testing of Dante-enabled products, with the ability to measure as many as 16 analogue channels simultaneously in the APx586. With AP’s latest software release, v4.1, digital error rate test capability is also available.

‘The rapid growth of audio networking is a direct reflection of the great value it provides to a variety of professional audio applications,’ says Audio Precision CEO,’ Dave Schmoldt.

More: www.ap.com