Billed as “the most flexible four-channel preamp in history”, Focusrite’s new Liquid 4 Pre might at first seem more at home in the studio, but it does have potential for live use, the manufacturers say — and they probably have a point, particularly for use with artists who demand esoteric mics for live performance duties.
The idea behind the Liquid 4 Pre has been to marry a flexible analogue front end with a dynamic convolution DSP to deliver the sounds of 40 vintage and classic microphone preamplifiers across all four channels. Augmented by fully digital controls and remote software control over Ethernet, Focusrite say it “provides the ultimate fluid multi-channel front end”. 99 Unit Setup Memories provide total recall of every parameter across all four channels, delivering instant multiple-user presets and a comprehensive backup of session settings. These memories can be managed either via the hardware, or via Liquid 4 Pre’s dedicated control software, Liquid 4 Control. This software application places comprehensive preamp control inside the DAW.
Communication between Liquid 4 Pre and the DAW flows via Ethernet, with
Liquid 4 Control providing comprehensive management of multiple Liquid 4 Pres. A similar Pro Tools TDM/RTAS plug-in allows integrated remote control via Pro Tools hardware and software, including Icon and Venue systems, providing all the benefits of a Pro Tools TDM/RTAS plug-in, such as comprehensive automation and session integration.
The unique Harmonics and Session Saver features from the Liquid Channel are also provided across all four channels. The adjustable harmonic distortion circuit accounts for variance in the vintage originals, but can also be used creatively to vary the sound of each preamp. Session Saver is a unique automatic gain-control circuit that intelligently reduces the input level to help avoid critical overs. Each channel also features a classic Focusrite high-pass filter, phantom power and phase reverse, available directly from the fascia independently for every channel. These controls sit alongside the four large information display screens which, as well as providing in-depth information of settings, also display digital VU meters, providing accurate, responsive and easy-to-read metering. A further feature essential for live use is Operator Lock, which guarantees secure use in public arenas by locking the front panel controls to help avoid any unwanted alteration of preamp settings, including gain.
AES/EBU and ADAT Lightpipe digital inputs and outputs are provided to integrate with a variety of digital I/O setups. However, an optional EtherSound eight-channel card is also available, providing connectivity for large studios, post-production installations and live sound engineers using EtherSound.
Focusrite +44 (0)1494 462246
