Solving the industry’s synchronization and latency challenges with cloud-friendly solutions.
By Roberto Musso, Technical Director at NDI.
In an industry where precision is key, audio transmission has long been a challenge. Currently, the industry relies on traditional audio-over-IP methods. However, these systems struggle to meet the demands of modern, cloud-based production environments. These systems often fail in terms of synchronization and low-latency requirements, making them ill-suited for live production setups where perfect timing is essential.
Breaking free from the past
Before the pandemic, digital audio was largely dependent on hardwired infrastructure— dedicated mixers, analog systems, and complex setups that came with hefty expenses. Audio-over-IP was a step forward, but it still fell short in critical areas like synchronization and latency, particularly in live production. These challenges became more evident during the pandemic as broadcasters moved towards remote and cloud-based workflows, exposing the limitations of traditional methods.
What the industry craves
What the industry is seeking now is clear: a flexible, cloud-compatible solution that addresses these synchronization and latency issues while delivering professional-grade results. NDI for Audio answers that call. Built on the same revolutionary technology that has transformed video production, NDI brings an innovative, software-driven approach to live audio. This allows users to create powerful audio systems without the need for costly hardware, while resolving key synchronization and latency challenges in real- time—whether for broadcast and livestreams, remote and cloud production, webinars and hybrid learning, public address systems, home entertainment, or podcasts.
NDI’s secret sauce
NDI’s real magic lies in its ability to address the two most significant challenges of live audio production— latency and synchronization. In environments where microphones and other inputs are scattered across multiple locations, keeping everything in sync is critical. NDI does this seamlessly, ensuring low latency and perfect synchronization across all audio channels. For the first time, live audio production can be managed over IP networks without the timing headaches that used to be a constant source of frustration.
Built to integrate, born to evolve
NDI has a system that effortlessly integrates into existing workflows while being compatible with virtually any device. Whether you’re working with traditional mixers or newer software-based systems, NDI fits right in without requiring massive overhauls. On top of that, NDI offers multi-channel audio transport at no additional cost, making it simple for production teams looking to scale.
The future of live audio
As NDI continues to evolve, it brings exciting possibilities to the table, particularly with upcoming developments in metadata integration and timecode support. These innovations promise to enhance synchronization and overall user experience even further. With NDI for Audio, the future of live production is not just more efficient and cost-effective, but also more scalable and flexible than ever before.
NDI for Audio isn’t just about catching up to industry needs—it’s about setting new standards. By offering a comprehensive, cloud-friendly, and affordable solution, NDI is revolutionizing live audio production and paving the way for future breakthroughs.