Audinate has announced its Dante Via, which ‘transforms’ Macs and PCs into networked I/O devices. The software application allows a complete, standalone audio system of networked PCs to be constructed without the need for dedicated hardware.

Dante Via sidesteps the constraints of short reach point-to-point analogue and USB cables, providing a flexible audio bridge for a computer to connect to legacy USB, FireWire and Thunderbolt audio interfaces. Without the need for additional hardware, Dante Via transmits and receives professional quality audio via an Ethernet port. It allows distribute or loopback audio via the network from applications such as Cubase, Pro Tools, Nuendo, Logic, Reaper and Skype.

‘Audio from USB microphones, or any audio interface, can be routed to other rooms in a building. Dante Via extends networked audio from facilities like classrooms, houses of worship, conference rooms, to overflow rooms,’ says Audinate VP of Product Management, Gary Southwell. ‘You can even monitor individual streams from the network for music instruction and audio system setup applications.’

‘Audinate’s mission is to revolutionise the way A/V systems are connected to allow people to thrive in a networked world,’ adds Audinate CEO, Lee Ellison. ‘Dante Via is another example of Audinate pioneering innovation, driving the convergence of audio with an IT world. Dante Via naturally complements the vast ecosystem of Dante-enabled products developed by our 150 OEMs.’

Dante Via will be commercially available in Q4 2014.