RCF enters mixer market with the creation of the RCF Mixer Division
Published: ASIA
WORLD: Having been established as a manufacturer of compression drivers and woofers since 1949 before evolving into a manufacturer of complete speaker systems in the 1990s, RCF has now moved into the mixer market with the creation of a new dedicated division. The establishment of the RCF Mixer Division represents an important strategic move for the Italian company, and follows considerable investment in R&D. According to RCF chairman, Arturo Vicari, new models introduced at the recent Pro Light & Sound exhibition represent just the first step in a much wider development plan, while 2015, he promised, will herald the arrival of several digital models.
‘To successfully enter a crowded market requires us to be able to offer advantages and a different approach,’ announced Mr Vicari. ‘RCF will bring together all its extensive audio experience to create this new line, applying its own philosophy and optimising performance throughout the entire signal chain.'
The additional R&D resource is situated in Rome, where a dedicated team of engineers, with wide experience in digital audio networks, digital signal processing, voice processing, DSP projects and several design activities related to digital mixer projects, is based. The team is led by engineer Umberto Zanghieri, founder of the design house, which has now become part of the RCF Group. A musician, Mr Zanghieri has broad experience in audio projects and has also held several positions in the AES organisation.
‘We are very excited to have joined RCF in order to start this new mixer division,’ he commented. ‘We have already been working together on projects for some years and can appreciate the company’s progressive attitude in the way it continuously invests in R&D. RCF is one of the most active companies in our industry and keeps growing year on year by extending its solid technological product base. When we discussed this new project with Mr Vicari, it was a natural decision to become part of the team and actively contribute to the next phase in the company’s development, taking advantage of our extensive background in digital audio design and digital mixer technology.’
The first nine-strong series of compact mixers has been created for live applications. Included is the L-PAD, which comes both with and without effects.