A networked, modular digital mixing system for professional live sound and studio applications is realized through the tight integration of technologies, including EUCON for networked control, AVB for networked audio, HDX floating-point processing, AAX plug-ins, and VENUE and Pro Tools software applications.
Following the Venue systems, which enabled Avid to get a strong foothold on the live sound market, the company has introduced a new compact modular system for that market built on audio video bridging (AVB) standards. Avid has always been part of the AVB efforts from its early beginnings and it is currently a promoter in the AVnu Alliance, an industry forum dedicated to the advancement of professional-quality audio/video by promoting the adoption of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.1 Audio Video Bridging (AVB) and the related IEEE 1722 and IEEE 1733 standards over various networking link layers.
The new modular Avid S3L System leverages the best technology from Avid’s successful recording technologies (Pro Tools) and combines it with the expertise gained in the industry with its Live solutions (e.g., the VENUE software that drives the system). The S3L System implements a modular system architecture comprising a high-performance HDX-powered processing engine running AAX plug-ins from its studio technology with the scalable remote I/O (up to 64 microphone inputs) that can work on stage or in a rack, and a clever compact control surface built for the road, which could be equally at home in the studio.
The system uses Dual Gigabit Ethernet ports with latching etherCON connectors, supporting both the Ethernet AVB and EUCON standards. Due to the accessible entry-level price (starting at $17,995), this is an interesting solution that helps bring more awareness to the full potential of networked audio solutions based on recent standards.
The S3L can be configured with up to four Stage 16 remote boxes, while the S3 compact 16-fader control surface can be easily transported as carry-on luggage. Direct recording/playback to Pro Tools (or other DAW) is possible through a laptop Ethernet port while direct stereo recording/playback can be achieved with any standard USB flash drive. Show files are compatible with all Avid Venue live systems.
Avid S3L is now shipping.
Avid Technology, Inc.
www.avid.com
