What happen if multiple devices are set as "Preferred Master" in a Dante network?

When multiple devices are set as "Preferred Master" in a Dante network, synchronization issues can occur. In a Dante system, the "Master" device coordinates the timing and synchronization of audio streams among all devices in the network. If more than one device is designated as "Preferred Master," there can be conflicts as each tries to assert itself as the authority on timing. This leads to discrepancies in the timing signals sent to the other devices, potentially resulting in audio dropouts, latency problems, or artifacts like clicks and pops in the audio output.

This situation emphasizes the need for a single source of truth within the network to maintain proper synchronization and avoid disturbances that could impact audio quality and system reliability. Thus, ensuring that only one device holds the "Master" designation at any given time is crucial for maintaining network integrity and performance.