Pro Convert AES67 for multi-format IP audio encoding, decoding and capture supports standards and protocols including AES67, NDI and SRT, and converts between IP systems.
Magewell has applied its media processing and IP workflow knowledge to audio production to develop the new Pro Convert AES67 multi-format IP audio encoder, decoder and capture device. Supporting standards and protocols including AES67, NDI and SRT, the device is flexible, converting between different IP media systems and also serving as a direct bridge between analogue audio, software and IP networks.
The main element of its audio-over-IP support is AES67. Able to send and receive multiple, eight-channel unicast or multicast AES67 streams, Pro Convert AES67 is interoperable with third-party AES67 audio equipment and also supports the SMPTE 2110-30 specification for delivery of PCM (Pulse-Code Modulation) digital audio over IP networks. The device can transport uncompressed audio using the NDI media-over-IP protocol, or compressed AAC (Advanced Audio Coding) audio using low-latency SRT.
Pro Convert AES67 can convert IP-based audio between AES67, NDI and SRT, contributing to mixed-technology local and remote production workflows that combine third-party products supporting different standards and formats. The device can also encode analogue audio into AES67, NDI or SRT streams as an on-ramp to IP networks, as well as decoding IP audio streams in any of these formats and protocols for analogue output. Its compact housing is built with unbalanced stereo 3.5mm input and output connections, plus 4.4mm balanced stereo input/output, with XLR connectivity available through included breakout cables.
Pro Convert AES67 also works as a plug-and-play audio capture device when connected via USB to a laptop or desktop computer. Standard UAC (USB Audio Class) compatibility means that setup is driver-free while affording instant compatibility with the most common video conferencing, streaming and production software. For audio streaming applications such as internet radio, the device also performs AAC stream encoding and transmission plus AAC and MP3 stream receiving and decoding with support for Icecast, the open source streaming media server software.
The device has a browser-based user interface used to access a flexible, virtual audio matrix that allows routing or mixing of any analogue or IP-based input channel to any analogue, IP or UAC output. Encoding and processing parameters are also configured through the web interface, with centralised configuration and control of multiple Pro Convert units available through the Magewell Cloud multi-device management software. The hardware can be powered via PoE (Power over Ethernet), the included power adapter, or a USB-connected computer.
"Audio-over-IP has become the norm for professional audio infrastructure, but a huge number and variety of analogue audio peripherals still exist that customers want to continue using," said Will Chen, Product Manager at Magewell. "Pro Convert AES67 creates a bridge between analogue audio devices, IP audio networks and software-based systems while supporting conversion between disparate IP media systems."
Pro Convert AES67 is expected to begin shipping befote mid-2022, and Magewell will be showing it at InfoComm 2022, taking place 8 to 10 June in Las Vegas. www.magewell.com
