Understanding AES50 Output Routing on the Behringer WING Rack
The Behringer WING Rack provides three AES50 ports labeled A, B, and C, allowing you to route digital audio to compatible stage boxes, other mixers, and additional AES50 equipment. In this tutorial, we’ll explore how AES50 output routing works and demonstrate how to configure the WING Rack using two Behringer S16 digital stage boxes.
What Is AES50 Output Routing?
AES50 output routing determines which audio signals are transmitted from your WING Rack to connected AES50 devices. Unlike traditional analog connections, where each output requires its own audio cable, AES50 allows multiple digital audio channels to travel over a single compatible network cable. The WING Rack operates at 48 kHz, with each AES50 port supporting up to 48 channels in each direction when used with compatible equipment.
Understanding AES50 Ports A, B, and C
The WING Rack provides three separate AES50 ports. Each port has its own routing assignments, allowing you to send different audio signals to different connected devices. For example, you might use one port for stage boxes serving your main PA system and another for a separate mixer or monitoring system. The actual physical outputs available depend on the connected equipment and how its AES50 channels are mapped.
Routing Outputs to Behringer S16 Stage Boxes
The Behringer S16 provides 16 microphone inputs and eight analog XLR outputs. When connecting an S16 to the WING Rack, the AES50 output assignments determine which audio signals reach the stage box. For example, you can route your main left and right outputs, monitor mixes, or other signals to the appropriate AES50 channels.
The S16 must also be configured to receive the correct AES50 channel bank for its physical outputs. When using two S16 stage boxes, pay particular attention to the AES50 channel assignments and the connections between devices.
Important AES50 Routing Considerations
- Channel assignments: Verify which WING output signals are assigned to each AES50 channel.
- Stage box configuration: Confirm the S16 output bank matches the intended routing.
- Cable connections: Use suitable shielded network cabling for AES50 connections.
- Signal verification: Check that the expected audio reaches the correct physical outputs.
- System documentation: Save your routing configuration for future reference.
Watch the WING Rack AES50 Output Routing Tutorial
In the video below, I demonstrate AES50 output routing on the Behringer WING Rack using two S16 digital stage boxes. Follow along to see how the output assignments work and how audio is delivered to the connected equipment. Effective AES50 output routing is vital for achieving optimal audio performance in live sound, recording, and broadcast scenarios.
More Behringer WING Routing Tutorials
If you’re learning how to configure your WING Rack, visit my Behringer WING Rack AES50 Input Routing Tutorial to understand the other side of AES50 routing. You can also explore my Behringer WING Routing Guide or learn how to use AES50 Channels 33–48. For personalized assistance, visit my X/M32 & WING Routing Masterclass.
