the signal chain . In comparison , CAT5e / 6 / 6a are designed for 1GB traffic and filter out overshoot / ringing occurring at connection points from appearing at the receiving ends . As such , Waves recommends using CAT5e / 6 whenever possible . If your system works , don ’ t change cabling . If you are experiencing network / dropout issues using CAT7 , consider switching to CAT5e / 6 .
MADI MADI is an industry-standard multi-channel digital audio protocol specified by the Audio Engineering Society as AES10 . A MADI option card is available for Allen & Heath consoles , providing a convenient interface for recording and integration with third-party systems .
Typically , two coaxial cables are required for each link , one for each direction . The MADI standard supports up to 50 meters ( 165 feet ) but if audio is being transmitted from a thirdparty device to an Allen & Heath MADI card , with no audio being returned or being transmitted both ways between two A & H cards , then the cable length may be extended . For example , an RME MADI card transmitting audio to an Allen & Heath MADI card can work up to 150 meters ( 500 feet ). Longer lengths may be achieved but this requires the use of a mains filter for each device if the link is to remain error-free during high-voltage mains interference .
Note that it is important that good quality BNC connectors are used and that they are correctly crimped to the cable . For this reason , it is best to buy pre-assembled cables rather than attempt to make your own . Note also that you should avoid kinking these cables or coiling them with tight loops as this may cause damage .
Final thoughts So let ’ s jot down a ‘ check audio and control cables !’ reminder in the calendar before the next service comes up and make sure to treat the IT team to a pizza lunch sometime soon . Remember that as church audio systems grow , they almost always grow closer and more tightly integrated with what used to be only IT and ‘ facilities ’ land . We ’ re going to need to be pals with IT for sure . Many of these cables will need to be installed professionally and maintained in collaboration with the facilities and tech teams . Let ’ s play nicely .
Good luck out there !
Jeff Hawley A 20-year music industry veteran — equally at ease behind the console , playing bass guitar , leading marketing teams or designing award-winning audio products . He currently heads up the marketing for Allen & Heath in the US .
108 October 2023 Subscribe for Free ...