Routers- what's the best for digital PA usage?

[svl]

Recently got a Behringer X-32 rack, looking for the best router to use with it. Will have about 5 devices (iPad, iPhones, etc) connecting at once for FOH & monitor mixes, need something that will hold connectivity to all reliably.

Looking at ASUS RT-AC3200 tri-band, TP-Link C-3200 tri-band, etc, but wondering if the AC1900 models would work as well.

Appreciate any and all opinions/recommendations, thanks in advance.

[scottcald]

The Asus AC3200 is good, but it's pretty large and I think overkill unless you're going to be really far away from the router. I'd go for an Airport Express. Range is good and it doesn't have a large footprint.

[svl]

Thanks, Scott. Problem is AE doesn't play well with the Behringer. Tried two and the connectivity with devices is terrible (I'm a looooong time Apple devotee, BTW).

My main concern is connectivity, that's why I'm looking at the tri-band models. They seem to get good ratings across the board for maintaining multiple connections.

[scottcald]

How is it set up with the x-32? Did you try manually assigning an IP address to the X-32?

I've used one with my Mackie DL-1602 without problem. Is it a new one with the power cord or the plug right on it?

[svl]

The AEs I used were older models- the new AE (gen 6) won't connect to the X-32 without a network switch. It's a well known and documented issue.

I don't have a problem getting the AE to connect to the X-32, the problem is keeping multiple connections from assorted devices (iPhone, iPad, Android, etc) to the AE. They all connect, but drop connection every 30 seconds or so. This is in part due to the fact that the older AEs only run on the 2.4ghz band which is extremely overcrowded.

Just want something reliable from venue to venue, that holds multiple connections solidly. Decent range for the FOH iPad would be great, but it doesn't have to be 1000 feet. I'd be pleased with 100.

[scottcald]

The AEs I used were older models- the new AE (gen 6) won't connect to the X-32 without a network switch. It's a well known and documented issue.

I don't have a problem getting the AE to connect to the X-32, the problem is keeping multiple connections from assorted devices (iPhone, iPad, Android, etc) to the AE. They all connect, but drop connection every 30 seconds or so. This is in part due to the fact that the older AEs only run on the 2.4ghz band which is extremely overcrowded.

Just want something reliable from venue to venue, that holds multiple connections solidly. Decent range for the FOH iPad would be great, but it doesn't have to be 1000 feet. I'd be pleased with 100.

Hmm, I wonder if the X-32 radiates some 2.4 on its own. Odd the new one wouldn't work with it. I recently put an ASUS in a client house and it covers about 2/3 of it. It was around 4000 Sq, ft. Since the

X-32 is the rack model, you can just sit the Asus on top of the rack or get a larger rack and velcro it to the top of the X-32. I'm always just looking for less things to get out and plug in.

So, since you've already tried the Airport stuff, I'd say jump on the Asus, it's good.

[svl]

Totally with you on less to set up. Only prob with this is the rack is already max size for me, 10 space- holds the X-32, four IEMs, 2 Art S8 splitters, a two space drawer for laptop/iPad/assorteds (was holding the AE as well but the ASUS ain't gonna fit) and Furman.

Thinking I may use Scotch Dual lock to attach it to the rear lid of the rack with all connections made from the X-32 and power, then just have to set that on top of the rack.

Any opinions on the connectivity of the Asus AC1900 range stuff?

[scottcald]

Haven't used it specifically, but the ASUS stuff all gets good reviews. I'd say with 802.11ac you'll get good range just because of antenna improvements. That's a great idea to attach to the rear rack lid. And of course, if your iPads etc. can all use 5GHz, then just shut off 2.4 if you can.

[gtone]

Ryobi router and a quarter-round bit ought to take the sharp edges off that digital PA unit.