The Reincarnation of the D5 Live: DiGiCo SD5

Over the last ten years the British audio console manufacturer DiGiCo has made huge advancements in technology. The D5 Live series was discontinued, but a praised live audio console. DiGiCo decided due to the advancements made, they would be re-releasing the D5 Live as a new addition to their SD line, as the SD5. With the release of their Stealth Digital Processing, the SD5 comes with the same state of the art proprietary mixing technology included in all the new SD model consoles. The progression of Stealth, and DiGiCo’s “green” mentality, SD5 is setting the standards for high-end console applications. The SD5 incorporates the Hidden-Til-Lit or HTL technology, which by use of sensors can determine usage, and make the control surface lit, and active upon touch. Three TFT LCD screens occupy the surface, while the two outer are for monitoring channels, auxes, matrixes, etc. The inner screen is for utilizing the home menu page that can navigate you to effects, graphic equalizers, and other essential plug-ins.

In my personal opinion I feel like it’s the SD line’s processing capabilities is what makes it so special, it is quite appealing aesthetically, but it’s quintessential speed and power is what makes it shine. Running 2 GB fiber optic lines internally, with the capability to service 448 channel in and outs that processes at 96kHz its functionality is unsurpassed. MADI controlled proprietary SD Rack allows for greater I/O usage. SD5 comes with 124 input channels, 56 buses, and the ability to mix in full 5.1 surround sound. The SD5 has 24 assignable dynamic effects, stereo time based effects, and 32 graphic EQ’s assignable to any channel.  With the new merger of Waves, DiGiCo now offers all Waves effects packages in their consoles.

During my time as a Full Sail student in Show Production and Touring I ran what was called “Open Digital Labs.” These were labs available to students Tuesdays and Thursdays welcome to all Show Production students. The digital labs offered you the chance to mix on all the digital consoles available in Live 1 at Full Sail Campus. These consoles included the Avid Venue series, and the DiGiCo SD7, as well as the SD8. Becoming quite familiar with the integration and configuration of the DiGiCo SD line I’m quite interested in seeing more information released on the SD line. The seamless mixing, and lightning fast speeds makes DiGiCo the leading name in digital consoles. 

References:

http://www.prosoundweb.com/article/digico_unveils_the_new_sd5_live_audio_mixing_desk_at_prolightsound_2012/?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter#When:13:09:13Z

http://www.digico.biz/index.shtml

Shure Axient Wireless Systems: Achieving New Ground In RF System Management

The new Shure Axient line of wireless microphone systems is a groundbreaking addition to the arsenal of Shure Wireless.  The Axient system is utilized using the Axient Spectrum Manager, the software Wireless Workbench, Showlink Remote Control, and the Rack Mount Charging Station. With the combination of these individual systems, Axient is a powerhouse in RF management.

The Axient's application is best used in situations where wireless failure is not an option. Such examples would be in a Theatre, Large Scale Concert, or even in a Political application. When a radio frequency is compromised by interference most systems will fail, in the case of Axient it's Spectrum Manager pairs two frequencies to a channel. So when interference is met, Axient seamlessly transitions between the two, with no audible drop out. The software component is where Axient is most user friendly. Workbench allows you to remotely view the wireless receivers to monitor battery life, the real time frequency bands, as well as giving you full control over module changes. In addition the Showlink Remote control uses a wireless transmitter/receiver to output a larger spectrum of control. Thus allowing you to cover more space with your system. Showlink is also how you can make real time wireless adjustments to your transmitters such as mute, RF output, and power. Power is a huge obstacle to tackle with wireless microphones. Most companies run off of a higher grade alkaline battery, which are often unreliable since wireless systems eat up battery life. Rechargeable batteries are also as unreliable leaving your choices slim, so stocking up on batteries and making constant replacements is the decision of many. Axient offers a new lithium ion rechargeable battery that used in correlation to it's rack mountable recharging station allows you to monitor your batteries life cycles, and status at all times.

The Shure Axient system is a new triumph in wireless technology, and RF management. Shure is one of the biggest names in professional audio, and they are clearly now the frontrunner in the wireless realm.

To learn more about the Shure Axient Wireless System go to www.axient.net for more details.



References:
http://www.shure.com/americas/news-events/press-releases/shure-axient-wireless-now-shipping

http://www.axient.net/en/

To me keeping up to date with all that is changing in your industry is of the utmost importance. For any aspect of the entertainment industry, this is true. So keeping yourself current is a sure way to keep knowledgeable of your trade.

In my industry doing so is simple:

Live Sound International is a monthly magazine that is free of charge. Covers all aspect of Audio be it Concert, Installation, Gear, or Editorials.
http://www.livesoundint.com/

PSLN is another great monthly subscription that has great editorials, gear reviews, and news about the lighting and projection world. They also have an app, so if you have a smartphone this is a great way to keep updated while mobile.
http://www.plsn.com/