AVB-D16 vs NSB 8.8: Which Networked Audio Solution Fits Your Rig

Quick answer

Choose the NSB 8.8 if you need remote-controlled mic inputs at the stage; choose the AVB-D16 if you need to connect your StudioLive AVB network to Dante-equipped gear.

Tradeoffs at a glance

• Inputs vs. connectivity: The NSB 8.8 gives you 8 remote-controlled inputs; the AVB-D16 gives you 16 channels of format conversion. Pick the one that addresses your immediate gap.
• Control vs. compatibility: NSB 8.8 preamps are controlled from the console; AVB-D16 focuses on bridging to Dante gear. If you need both, you may need both devices. Consider whether your Dante devices are essential; if not, the NSB 8.8 alone may suffice.
• Price vs. function: The NSB 8.8 is priced lower than the AVB-D16, but the AVB-D16 adds unique AVB-to-Dante capability. Evaluate whether the bridge function justifies the extra cost. If you already own Dante gear, the AVB-D16 is likely worth the investment.

Product facts

• NSB 8.8 Networked Stage Box: The NSB 8.8 offers 8 locking combo mic/line inputs with remote-controlled XMAX preamps and gain compensation for shared input scenarios, all controllable from a StudioLive Series III console. You can place inputs at the stage and adjust preamps from the console, which is ideal for live setups where you need to tweak gain without walking to the stage.

  

• AVB-D16 16x16 AVB-to-Dante Bridge: The AVB-D16 bridges AVB and Dante networks, sending and receiving up to 16 channels with built-in asynchronous sample-rate conversion. It lets you integrate Dante-equipped devices into your StudioLive AVB ecosystem without manual clock setup, simplifying hybrid network installations.

  

Which should you choose?

Best for

• Live sound engineers who need remote-controlled stage inputs with gain compensation
• StudioLive Series III users who want to expand input count at the stage

Not for

• Users who already have a Dante network and need to connect it to AVB — that's the AVB-D16's job