SSOUNDS System Networking: How Our Amplifiers Connect
Modern professional audio demands more than just great sound — it requires a robust, flexible network that carries audio, control, and monitoring over a single infrastructure. SSOUNDS amplifiers are engineered to integrate seamlessly into Dante/AES67 ecosystems, providing low-latency transport, redundant paths, and deep integration with our System Designer software for real-time control and optimisation.
Key takeaways
- SSOUNDS amplifiers support both Dante and AES67 for universal audio transport.
- System Designer provides full control, monitoring, and DSP configuration over the network.
- Redundant network paths and power supplies ensure reliability for critical events.
- Integration with consoles and external control systems is straightforward via Dante, analog, or OSC.
- Best practices include managed switches, IGMP snooping, and separate VLANs for audio.
The Networked Amplifier Core
Every SSOUNDS powered loudspeaker and amplifier module is built around a high-performance network interface that supports both Dante and AES67 audio transport. This dual-protocol capability ensures compatibility with a wide range of digital consoles, DSPs, and other networked audio devices, whether in a touring rig or a fixed installation.
The amplifier's onboard network switch handles audio, control (via TCP/IP), and monitoring data on a single cable, simplifying cabling and reducing failure points. SSOUNDS amplifiers also feature Gigabit Ethernet ports, allowing daisy-chaining or star-topology connections without compromising bandwidth.
Dante and AES67: Universal Audio Transport
Dante is the de facto standard for live sound and installed audio networking, offering sub-millisecond latency, sample-accurate synchronisation, and automatic device discovery. SSOUNDS amplifiers fully support Dante, allowing engineers to route audio from any Dante-enabled console or stagebox directly to individual amplifier channels with just a few clicks in Dante Controller.
For environments requiring AES67 compliance — such as broadcast or large-scale AV-over-IP installations — SSOUNDS amplifiers also support AES67, ensuring interoperability with other AES67-compliant devices. This dual-protocol approach future-proofs your system and simplifies integration into existing networks.
Control and Monitoring via System Designer
SSOUNDS System Designer is the central software platform for configuring, controlling, and monitoring every amplifier and loudspeaker in the network. The software discovers all SSOUNDS devices on the subnet, allowing engineers to assign audio channels, set DSP parameters, and monitor amplifier status — all from a single interface.
Real-time telemetry includes output power, impedance, temperature, and signal levels, with alerts for any anomalies. System Designer also supports array compensation, delay alignment, and EQ presets tailored to specific SSOUNDS loudspeaker models. Changes can be made live during a show or stored in show files for recall.
Redundancy and Reliability
For mission-critical events, SSOUNDS amplifiers offer redundant network paths. With dual Ethernet ports, engineers can configure a primary and secondary network, using Dante's redundant mode to maintain audio flow even if a cable or switch fails. The amplifiers automatically switch between streams with no audible dropout.
Additionally, power supply redundancy is built into select amplifier models, with hot-swappable modules that keep the system running during a power supply failure. This level of redundancy is essential for festivals, broadcast events, and permanent installations where downtime is not an option.
Integration with Consoles and External Systems
SSOUNDS amplifiers integrate directly with leading digital consoles via Dante, AES67, or analog inputs. For consoles without native Dante, a simple Dante-to-analog converter or a console with a Dante card provides seamless connectivity. The amplifiers also accept analog inputs as a fallback or for legacy systems.
For larger systems, SSOUNDS amplifiers can be controlled via third-party protocols such as OSC or MIDI, allowing integration with lighting consoles, show control systems, or custom automation. This flexibility makes SSOUNDS suitable for everything from small corporate events to large-scale theatrical productions.
Network Topology Best Practices
SSOUNDS recommends using managed Gigabit switches with IGMP snooping and QoS settings to prioritise audio traffic. For Dante networks, a dedicated VLAN is advised to separate audio from other data traffic. Redundant networks should use physically separate switches and cabling paths.
When deploying large arrays, daisy-chaining amplifiers in a line is efficient, but star topology with a central switch offers better fault isolation. SSOUNDS System Designer includes a network topology view to help engineers visualise and troubleshoot connections.
Frequently asked
Can I use SSOUNDS amplifiers with a non-Dante console?
Yes. SSOUNDS amplifiers accept analog inputs as well. You can connect a console's analog outputs directly, or use a Dante-to-analog converter if you need to integrate with a Dante network.
How many amplifiers can I daisy-chain on a single network cable?
The number depends on cable length and switch capabilities, but typically up to 10 amplifiers can be daisy-chained without issues. For larger systems, use a star topology with a central switch.
Does System Designer require a license?
No, System Designer is free to download and use with any SSOUNDS networked amplifier. It runs on Windows and macOS.
What happens if the primary network fails during a show?
If you have configured Dante redundancy, the amplifiers will automatically switch to the secondary network stream with no audible dropout. The transition is seamless.
Can I control SSOUNDS amplifiers from a lighting console?
Yes, via OSC or MIDI commands. You can map parameters like mute, volume, or preset recall to lighting console cues.
Building or upgrading a system?
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