Audio-over-IP? Learn how AltasIED is evolving

The evolution of the AtlasIED- Atmosphere digital audio systems: Now Dante- enabled

In the world of audio technology, staying ahead means adopting tools that improve efficiency and simplicity. AtlasIED has done just that by adding Dante to its Atmosphere platform.

But what is Dante and why does its integration into Atlas products matter?

Let’s break it down.

What is Dante? 

First things first, Dante is actually an acronym that stands for Digital Audio Network Through Ethernet.

In other words, it’s a system that allows audio signals to travel over standard Ethernet networks. Developed by Audinate, Dante replaces traditional analog cabling with a digital alternative, simplifying audio setups.

Instead of running separate audio cables for every audio signal, Dante uses existing network infrastructure to carry sound.

As they put it:

“All connections are now managed with software, making routes fast, readable and reliable.

Because all devices share the same network, signals can be sent between any devices no matter where they are located on a site, with no change to the wiring at all. Dante systems are easily expanded, exactly as one might add a printer to a network. Just connect additional devices to any available network jack and start using it.”

The benefits of going this route are big time:

• Reduced cabling: Simplifies installations by using existing network infrastructure
• Centralized management: All audio devices can be controlled from one central point
• Scalability: Easily expand your audio network as your needs grow

How Dante enhances Atlas Atmosphere: An Example

AtlasIED is known for its reliable commercial audio solutions. The Atmosphere platform, already popular for its user-friendly design, is now even more powerful with the addition of Dante.

Before Dante, for example, managing audio in a building with a lot of zones could be tricky.

Depending on how many zones you had to control, let’s say 10+, you would need more than one controller, each with its own login, making managing multiple zones difficult.

Dante changes this.

Now, you can stack Atmosphere controllers and manage them as a single system, no matter how many zones you have.

This means you can control all your audio zones from one place, making the entire system easier to use and more flexible.

Whether your facility has a few rooms or covers multiple floors, Dante allows for smooth, unified audio management.

Why Dante is a big deal for Atlas installers and users

Adding Dante to Atlas products isn’t just a technical upgrade—it’s a practical improvement for users and installers.

For installers, Dante simplifies setup.

You can use the building’s existing Ethernet network, avoiding the need for special cabling.

Dante-enabled devices are easy to find and connect, speeding up the installation process.

Key benefits for installers include:

• Quick Setup: Leverages existing Ethernet networks, reducing installation time
• Easy Configuration: Auto-discovery of Dante-enabled devices makes connecting straightforward
• Reliable Operation: Fewer cables mean fewer potential points of failure

For users, the benefits are clear.

Dante allows for better control of audio systems, straight up.

With everything managed from one interface, you can handle multiple zones and devices without switching between controllers. This is especially useful in places like schools, hospitals and offices, where reliable audio systems are essential.

Dante also ensures that audio quality stays high, even in complex setups.

Whether you’re playing background music, making announcements or handling emergency communications, Dante-equipped Atlas systems deliver clear, reliable sound.

The Future of Dante and Atlas

The shift towards IP-based audio systems – Audio-over-IP or AoIP – is well underway and the integration of Dante into Atlas Atmosphere shows AtlasIED is ready for what’s next.

As AtlasIED’s own Tad Heckaman, Sr. notes:

“Historically most digital audio networks were simply kept isolated from other networks in the customer's environment, which helped guarantee performance. Today, most customers will never consider having a physically separate network just for audio. As a result, the configuration of the network falls to the customer's IT/Network team, who rarely have any experience dealing with digital audio over a network.”

Dante resolves that by bringing a level of simplicity, reliability and efficiency that matches the needs of modern audio networks – plus easy installation. For any business or institution looking to improve its audio setup and reduce headaches, Dante-enabled Atlas products offer a practical solution that’s built to last.