Radial Engineering has introduced the Submix 4×1 mixer, the latest in the company’s growing family of 500 Series modules.
The ergonomically simple design begins with four front-mounted 1/4-inch input connectors with individual level controls.
Unlike a traditional mixer that requires a separate input pad and level control, the Submix employs Radial’s unique dual-gang Accustate input circuit that allows adjustment of sensitivity with gain. This enables the Submix to be used with low level instruments and high output line level sources without the need for a level reducing pad.
The mixer itself follows the same virtual-earth mix bus design as pioneered by classic console makers such as Neve and SSL, so the Submix can be cascaded without adding noise to create larger 8 x 1, 12 x 1 or even 40 x 1 mix formats—depending on the number of modules in play and the Workhorse power rack being used.
This, for instance, enables a 3-slot Radial Powerstrip to be converted into a 12 x 1 keyboard mixer for live use. Using two Submix modules side by side opens the door for stereo applications such as tape returns, digital samplers, stereo effects and analog summing.
As with all Radial products, the Submix is made in Canada using solid steel and finished in a baked enamel. The added shielding of the fully enclosed design helps reduce noise from outside electro-magnetic pollution.
Inside, steel potentiometers connect to a double sided military grade PCB with an RF resistant full-surface ground plane. Double sided gold contacts assure a positive connection inside the rack.
According to Radial sales manager Roc Bubel, “Since our initial foray into the 500 Series format, Radial has strategically developed the most comprehensive series of power-racks on the market. Another aspect to our long term plan is to produce the most expansive and interesting assortment of modules possible. Together we believe that these tools can open up creativity by providing the audio engineer with more options and less boundaries.
“In many ways, the 500 Series format parallels old-school synthesizers where patching between modules can lead to interesting results. The new Submix lets you patch in any four signals and then send the combined output to some other device. Who knows where this will take folks… At the end of the day, it’s all about unleashing creativity.”
The Radial Submix 4×1 module is backwards compatible with older 500 Series formats. It is now shipping, with an estimated retail price of $350 (USD).
