The sound revolution: Navigating the new era of cloud-based audio production with Lama
By Ewan Cameron, Lama chief commercial officer.
As we stand at the beginning of a significant paradigm shift in the audio production industry, it’s time to embrace the inevitable: the transition from bulky hardware to versatile, (cloud-based) software solutions. This transformation is not just a technical evolution; it’s a fundamental change in the way we perceive and interact with audio production. The move towards software-centric systems presents an exciting, albeit challenging, frontier – especially when considering the critical issue of latency in cloud audio transmission.
The tectonic shift from hardware to software
The audio production landscape has traditionally been dominated by extensive hardware setups, each piece of equipment serving a singular, unchangeable purpose. This rigidity is now being challenged by the emergence of software-based solutions, heralding a new era of flexibility and innovation.
Imagine the possibilities: a single software licence now has the capability to replicate what used to require multiple hardware mixers. This flexibility extends beyond mere functionality; it encompasses where and how we produce audio, from on-premise setups to cloud environments, edge computing and even mobile laptops. It is also easier to upgrade software solutions with new functionality, ensuring that audio solutions remain fit-for-purpose and futureproof.
Overcoming the latency hurdle
However, this shift isn’t without its challenges. Chief among them is the issue of latency, particularly when transmitting audio to and from the cloud. Traditional standards, such as SRT, have provided stability but fall short of meeting the low-latency demands of professional audio production. Here, technologies like NDI with NDI Bridge and Dante Connect are proving to be game changers, enabling the transmission of audio into the cloud with minimal latency, comparable to about two video frames. This advancement isn’t just a technical improvement; it’s a necessity for maintaining the integrity and immediacy of live audio production in a cloud-based realm.
What about in-ear monitoring?
Cloud audio latency poses a significant challenge, especially in scenarios requiring low latency for in-ear monitoring, where a presenter or performer needs to hear themselves with minimal delay. In these situations, latencies above 5-10ms can become noticeably uncomfortable for the listener. The solution to this problem is adopting a hybrid approach. This involves using an on-premise instance of the audio software to achieve latencies below the crucial 5ms threshold for local loops. Such an approach ensures that in-ear monitoring remains effective and comfortable, even in cloud-based production settings.
However, this hybrid solution raises a question: How do we ensure seamless control of these systems from any location? This brings us to the issue of control in cloud-based audio environments.
What about control?
Control in cloud-based audio systems is a critical aspect, particularly when integrating on premise and cloud workflows. Traditionally hardware mixing solutions have had specialised hardware controllers, designed for perfect integration with their respective mixing engines. These controllers provide a tactile and intuitive experience for audio engineers and technicians.
Yet, the landscape is evolving. We’re now seeing brands that are offering innovative controllers for software solutions. On the lower end, Icon and Elgato are introducing increasingly sophisticated controllers, while on the higher end, MakePro X is setting new standards. The future holds a need for purpose-built controllers that can effortlessly interface with multiple software applications. In this scenario, universal standards such as Midi 2.0, along with standard web technologies like REST APIs, will play a pivotal role. They enable standardised hardware to seamlessly control a diverse range of software applications, possibly running at different locations.
Embracing the pop-up control room
The concept of pop-up control rooms exemplifies the transformative power of software-based audio production. These virtual environments, springing to life as needed, are a testament to the agility and resource efficiency of modern production methods. Gone are the days of static, physical control rooms; in their place are dynamic, scalable and remotely accessible virtual spaces that can be activated with a few clicks. This innovation is not just a logistical triumph; it fundamentally changes the way we think about audio production.
Why this matters
Let’s be clear: this shift isn’t just about keeping up with technological trends; it’s about redefining the essence of audio production. We’re witnessing a revolution where flexibility, efficiency and creativity are not just enhanced; they’re given a whole new playground. As an industry, we need to not only embrace this change but also actively participate in shaping it. The transition to cloud-based, software-centric audio production isn’t just inevitable; it’s essential.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the journey towards cloud-based audio production is paved with both challenges and immense opportunities. As we navigate this new landscape, our focus should not only be on overcoming technical hurdles like latency but also on leveraging the unparalleled flexibility and innovation that software-based solutions offer. This shift represents more than just a technological change; it’s a fundamental transformation in the world of audio production. One that demands our enthusiasm, adaptability and visionary approach.