Lawo unveils first universal console

Lawo has launched the latest addition to its line-up of audio mixing consoles. The MC²36 is the manufacturer’s first all-in-one console and aims to provide maximum ease-of-use in an even smaller footprint than the MC²56 for broadcast, theatre, house of worship, live and install applications.

Despite its small size the desk still packs quite the punch. A DSP micro-core processor provides an internal 512x512 audio matrix and the inclusion of Ravenna/AES67 technology allows the desk to be integrated into IP infrastructures. In terms of I/Os, the MC²36 interfaces include 32 mic/line inputs, 32 line outputs, eight AES3 inputs, eight AES3 outputs, eight GPIO ports, one Madi (SFP) port and a headphone jack. Natively equipped to interface with Ravenna-based systems, there is also a Madi tie-in line connection and three Ravenna AoIP ports providing future-proof connectivity for up to 384 external inputs and outputs. In total, that’s makes a maximum capacity of 496 physical inputs and outputs. If additional connections are required, the desk can be paired with an mc² Compact I/O stagebox. And for operational security, the console not only has redundant power-supplies but also DSP redundancy.

The control surface itself features a 21.5-inch full HD touchscreen along with touch-sensitive colour-illuminated rotary knobs designed to provide intuitive operation. The relevant option windows pop up on the touchscreen as a knob is touched, keeping the GUI free from unnecessary clutter.

The console has onboard loudness metering that was originally developed for broadcast purposes. In line with this release, metering functionality has now been developed into a more application specific tool for live, theatre and house of worship environments. The feature provides full loudness control in accordance with ITU 1770 (EBU/R128 or ATSC/A85) specifications and offers peak and loudness metering either separately or in combination. Lawo Loudness Metering can also measure individual channels for quick ‘visual’ mixing.

There are several additional and notable features present on the desk. These include Listen Sense for offline modification of channel parameters, automatic microphone mixing and full channel customisation. The integrated Audio-follow-Video feature also allows automated fades from one camera to another with synchronised audio.

With the specifications listed however, the manufacturer is keen to point out that the desk is not limited to a fixed configuration. Aspects of the console can be adapted to meet specific users’ needs.

Shipping: TBC
Web: www.lawo.com