Digigram Unveils EtherSound ES8in/ES8out at AES
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October 5, 2002
Digigram unveiled the first off-the-shelf EtherSound enabled products, EtherSound ES8in and EtherSound ES8out. Functioning as Ethernet audio bridges, EtherSound ES8in/ES8out offer the easiest and most affordable way to install and distribute up to 64 channels of high-quality audio using standard Ethernet switches and CAT5 cabling.
"These two new products represent a milestone in the digitalization of audio installations, which have historically been built on traditional cabling, patch panels and matrices," said Digigram Managing Director Philippe Delacroix.
EtherSound ES8in injects eight analog balanced audio signals into an EtherSound network, while the EtherSound ES8out extracts eight analog audio signals out of an EtherSound network. The network set-up is as easy as plugging in an Ethernet cable. System set-up, control and re-configuration are operated remotely via straightforward PC software. No specific IT expertise is required. Applications include synchronous high-quality audio distribution in broadcast facilities, fixed installations and live sound.
EtherSound ES8in/8out allows audio distribution with a flexibility, going well beyond the possibilities of analog audio installations and their physically defined signal paths. The routing can be dynamically adapted to the changing needs of the audio installation using management software on a remote PC. Installation is easier than traditional audio installations, with Ethernet cabling standard in new buildings and easily installed in existing facilities by non-audio specialists.
Since reducing installation complexity means reducing installation time and costs, EtherSound ES8in/8out can help system integrators, VARs and consultants provide high end audio networks even when budgets are tight. EtherSound networks use standard Ethernet switches and CAT5 cabling, thus limiting the use of expensive audio cables which are only required for the short distance between an EtherSound ES8in/8out device and the analog audio source or endpoint.
Both EtherSound ES8in and EtherSound ES8out allow management of GPIO and RS232 for bi-directional control. Connection can be made by either XLR or Phoenix strips or blocks.
About EtherSound
Patent-pending EtherSound enhances established technologies to easily and economically create low-latency audio networks using standard Ethernet cabling and components. EtherSound is designed to connect digital audio sources to networked audio devices. Up to 64 channels of 24-bit digital audio at 48KHz, plus bi-directional control information, may be transported to a virtually infinite number of networked audio devices.
OEM licensing terms are available. Fostex Japan, Nexo and Bouyer were the first companies to license EtherSound. By the end of 2002 products by Digigram, Fostex, Nexo, Bouyer and other companies will form a portfolio of EtherSound compliant solutions for the public address and pro sound installation markets.
For more information, visit their web site at www.digigram.com. | 
