The most important and most recent development is the powerful FM-8VB 8-in/8-out plug-in effects module, which was demonstrated for the very first time at PLASA 07. Built on original algorithms from VB Audio, the FM8-VB features a powerful DSP engine, which enables you to run up to four digital effects per channel simultaneously. Users have access to a wide range of effects (reverb, delay, de-esser, limiter etc) including StripTool, a vintage design channel strip which offers fast and easy access to a full range of audio processing with a warm analogue feel.
Compatible with all Innovason audio racks and controlled via Sensoft, the new module ships in December and forms an integral part of the new Pro FX console packages on offer from the manufacturer.
Further processing capability comes in the form of the UM-8PO universal output module. Replacing all previous output modules from Innovason, the UM-8PO combines analogue and digital processed outputs for the first time ever in any digital mixing console, says the company. Equipped with eight XLR outputs that are configurable (in pairs) as analogue, AES or even ADAT, each output benefits from a powerful and comprehensive range of processing including 31-band graphic EQ. The unit is easily upgradeable via firmware updates.
Also shown in public for the first time at PLASA 2007 was Sensoft 11.1, the latest version of the operating software at the heart of all Innovason digital consoles. The release of Sensoft 11.1 coincides with the launch of the UM-8PO and enables full management of the UM-8PO's 31-band graphic EQs plus the management of up to four DioCores (Innovason's EtherSound-enabled stage box), thus enabling the dispatch of I/O resources over five remote audio racks (four DioCores plus a Stage Box).
Another key feature of Sensoft 11.1 is that the firmware allows you to connect a DioAV interface to the console, providing two A-Net 16-channel networks for direct connectivity to an Aviom personal monitor mixer. Finally, a new feature called Fader Free which was designed with festivals in mind, enables you to have a different fader configuration with regard to inputs, SmartFad and VCA functions, within a defined fader zone, for each page of a show, or each different artist.
(Jim Evans)
