Published 14/3/08
Mixing console, router & workstation controller
New from UK hardware experts Solid State Logic (SSL) at Frankfurt is the Matrix, a mixer with DAW control and extensive routing capabilities.
The Matrix is essentially a 16-channel, 40-input mixing console that has an incredibly flexible 16x16 matrix built in (hence the name). Each channel has two inputs, from which signals can be routed to different places using a piece of computer software.
The Matrix has no on-board EQ or dynamics, and therefore relies on the user having a decent amount of outboard processing equipment. But assuming the console is in a relatively well-equipped studio, outboard hardware can be plugged in to the Matrix, then routed to different channels using the accompanying software. This process is similar to inserting plug-ins on a DAW channel, only these plug-ins are hardware processors that are being patched by the Matrix.
The console has four layers of DAW control, and four sets of controller assignments (for example, one for Logic, one for Reason, and so on) can be called up at the touch of a button.
Four sets of hot keys, which have their own electronic scribble-strip display, can be assigned using the control software, reducing the requirement to use a mouse and memorise keyboard shortcuts.
In true SSL style, the Matrix has an incredibly flexible monitoring section, which gives control over two independent monitor outputs and a dedicated artist section, which includes talkback and monitoring.
The Matrix uses the Mackie Control Universal or HUI protocols to communicate with a Mac or PC, and physical connections between it and the computer are made using Ethernet. A range of D-Sub connectors handle the analogue inputs and outputs.
For futher information, check out our video below:
Solid State Logic +44 (0)1865 842300
www.solid-state-logic.com
New from UK hardware experts Solid State Logic (SSL) at Frankfurt is the Matrix, a mixer with DAW control and extensive routing capabilities.The Matrix is essentially a 16-channel, 40-input mixing console that has an incredibly flexible 16x16 matrix built in (hence the name). Each channel has two inputs, from which signals can be routed to different places using a piece of computer software.
The Matrix has no on-board EQ or dynamics, and therefore relies on the user having a decent amount of outboard processing equipment. But assuming the console is in a relatively well-equipped studio, outboard hardware can be plugged in to the Matrix, then routed to different channels using the accompanying software. This process is similar to inserting plug-ins on a DAW channel, only these plug-ins are hardware processors that are being patched by the Matrix.
The console has four layers of DAW control, and four sets of controller assignments (for example, one for Logic, one for Reason, and so on) can be called up at the touch of a button.
Four sets of hot keys, which have their own electronic scribble-strip display, can be assigned using the control software, reducing the requirement to use a mouse and memorise keyboard shortcuts.
In true SSL style, the Matrix has an incredibly flexible monitoring section, which gives control over two independent monitor outputs and a dedicated artist section, which includes talkback and monitoring.
The Matrix uses the Mackie Control Universal or HUI protocols to communicate with a Mac or PC, and physical connections between it and the computer are made using Ethernet. A range of D-Sub connectors handle the analogue inputs and outputs.
For futher information, check out our video below:
Solid State Logic +44 (0)1865 842300
www.solid-state-logic.com
