Specifications

RAVENNA ASIO & Core Audio Guide
RAVENNA ASIO & Core Audio : Introduction to RAVENNA Technology
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2 Introduction to RAVENNA Technology
Scope
The information in this chapter is provided as background of the philosophy and technology behind RAVENNA.
Overview
RAVENNA is a technology for real-time distribution of audio and other media content in IP-based network environ-
ments. Utilizing standardized network protocols and technologies, RAVENNA can operate on existing network
infrastructures. RAVENNA is designed to meet the strict requirements of the pro audio market featuring low
latency, full signal transparency and high reliability.
RAVENNA is suitable for deployment in many pro audio market segments including broadcast, live sound, studios
the install market and location music recording. Possible fields of application include (but are not limited to) in-
house signal distribution in broadcasting houses, theaters, concert halls and other fixed installations, flexible set-
ups at venues and live events, OB van support, interfacility links across WAN connections and in production &
recording applications.
In short, it represents a new take on the third generation form of audio interconnect, where the first generation of
interconnect is analogue point-to point copper, the second generation uses digital codes representing the ana-
logue signal, conveyed point to point over copper or fibre-optic cabling and the third generation also employs
digital codes representing the analogue audio but transported as packets over network infrastructure.
RAVENNA is very well suited to areas where complex audio routing / mixing systems are deployed. For example;
in-house distribution in broadcasting centres and WAN connections to satellite studios, OB vans, where hook up
to venues with the same infra-structure becomes simple, in venues themselves for local signal distribution and
connection to just such OB vehicles when required. For live events and concerts it offers highly flexible temporary
installation possibilities and in theatres, opera houses and houses of worship it can provide low cost local signal
distribution. Notwithstanding all of the above, RAVENNA is also an excellent candidate for relatively simple point
to point interconnects such as computer to audio interface.
However, RAVENNA, leaving aside the other advantages touted, is an open standard based on the ubiquitous IP
protocol. Specifically, protocol levels on or above layer 3 of the OSI reference model. Since RAVENNA is purely
based on layer 3 protocols, it can operate in most existing network environments. Unlike layer 1 or layer 2 solu-
tions, it does not, in principle, require its own network infrastructure. IP can be therefore be transported on virtu-
ally any LAN and is used as the base layer for communication across WAN connections (including the internet).
Although in most cases Ethernet will be deployed as the underlying data link layer, IP is in general infrastructure-
agnostic and can be used on virtually any network technology and topology. All the protocols and mechanisms
used in RAVENNA are based on well established and commonly used methods from the IT and audio industries
and comply with various standards defined and maintained by the international standards bodies.