MidasNET uses the physical connectivity of Ethernet (Ethercon connectors and Cat-5E cable), but NOT the data protocol, which is too slow for high-quality, low-latency real-time audio distribution.

MidasNET connections carry digital audio, control data, and standard Ethernet traffic, bi-directionally, down a single cable. Cat-5e for “local” (24 channel) connections, and a single Cat-5e (or fibre-optic) for the digital “snake”, which is the equivalent of a 384 channel analogue multicore!

All digital audio is transmitted using the AES50 protocol (implemented as SuperMAC) and the HyperMAC high-capacity system. AES50 is an open-architecture protocol and HyperMAC is a standards candidate. These protocols benefit from extremely low latency, robust feed-forward error correction, and advanced system clocking. The use of this AES standard means simple, straightforward interfacing with ANY 3rd party hardware which feature this connection. The benefit of combining audio, control, clock and third party Ethernet data into one single network means that all Midas digital network hardware interfaces on a single RJ45 connection.

MidasNET also runs self diagnostic software in the background in real time measuring important hardware performance such as processor temperatures, error correction rates and connection integrity. Any unusual variances are instantly notified to the user before any audible issues occur. MidasNET runs at 96kHz sample rate. Each network link has a latency of only 70μS. Comprehensive management of delays are provided, including automatic compensation for external analogue insert points.