Allen & Heath has added two new models to the iLive digital mixing series, the iDR-16 3U MixRack and iLive-R72 rackmountable control surface, which together provide a space saving, lightweight digital live mixing system, bringing the same power, sonic performance and flexibility of the larger touring iLive systems to a significantly lower price point.
With these additions, the iLive Series now includes a total of six Surface and five MixRack variants, which can be mixed and matched in any combination, and share the same firmware, so that show files are transferable between systems via a USB key.
The iDR-16 MixRack and iLive-R72 control surface connect using Allen & Heath’s proprietary ACE (Audio Control Ethernet) link, which allows cost effective long distance point to point control and audio communication over a single CAT5 cable up to 120m in length.
The fixed I/O iDR-16 MixRack provides 16 mic/line inputs and 8 XLR outputs in a compact 3U frame, with a further 8in/8out available locally at the iLive-R72 surface. All MixRacks, including the new iDR-16, feature the same 64×32 RackExtra DSP mix engine, providing processing for 64 channels, 32 mixes, and 8 stereo FX processors.
The latest dualcore DSP technology handles all the FX and mixing along with the full dynamics, EQ and delay for all inputs and outputs simultaneously.
The Port B option slot allows further audio networking possibilities, for example digital mic splitting and multi-track recording, with ACE, EtherSound, MADI, ADAT and Aviom interfaces available, while a built-in network switch and MIDI ports at each end allow remote control using laptops, touch tablets and MIDI devices.
The iDR-16 is also compatible with the Allen & Heath PL Series remote controllers and iLive Editor software, a user-friendly JAVA-based program that enables both offline set up and online real time operation of the system with or without a Surface connected.
The compact iLive-R72 surface can be fitted in a universal 19” rack, and features a similar iLive fader strip layout with 12 faders in 2 banks and 6 layers, providing a total of 72 colour assignable channel ID control strips. A built-in touch screen provides swift access to the processing, memories and system configuration.
“This latest incarnation of the iLive digital series is truly a breakthrough. We’ve packaged the same iLive technology in an ultra compact rackmount solution,” explains Allen & Heath’s MD, Glenn Rogers. “It’s incredible to think that you can easily walk into a gig with the system under your arms and your settings on a USB key in your pocket, and run a 64 into 32 mix with full processing from a small rack mountable surface at FOH, with the mixer on stage.”
The iDR-16 and iLive-R72 will be available in February, 2010. See it at the upcoming Winter NAMM show in Anaheim at booth 6474.
