Third-generation Lawo mc²56 console intros dual fader bay
Lawo showcased a new option for its third-generation mc²56 audio production console at BVE 2019: a dual-fader operating surface that increases fader count while keeping console size small.
With this new option, mc²56 becomes what is claimed to be the only audio mixing console in its category that can host up to 144 faders within the footprint of a much smaller console. The dual fader option also incorporates Lawo’s LiveView thumbnail previews of associated video streams directly in the fader strips, enhancing user accuracy in fast-paced production situations.
Known for its compact size and versatile design with capabilities drawn from Lawo’s flagship mc296, the third generation mc²56 is optimised for today’s complex IP-video production environment. It features native support for SMPTE 2110, AES67 / RAVENNA, DANTE and MADI audio streams. And because downtime isn’t an option, mc²56 has adopted the SMPTE 2022-7 standard for Seamless Protecting Switching (SPS), delivering dual-redundant IP-network links to its Nova73 routing engine.
The third-generation mc²56 is full of unique features, such as Lawo’s IP-Share Network Gain Compensation, which prevents unexpected gain changes during simultaneous use of up to eight networked consoles. Each of the console’s fader bays can either be equipped with the new dual-fader module or the standard fader module with an extended free control section giving direct access to as many as four global or individual parameter assignments on each channel strip. The mc²56’s color-coded Button-Glow controls, touch-sensitive encoders and color TFT displays provide clear color-coding of channel strips for enhanced visibility and fast access in low light.
Built-in loudness metering is standard, with full loudness control adhering to ITU 1770 (EBU/R128 or ATSC/A85) specifications. Peaks and loudness can be monitored together, or separately.
mc256 is ideal for broadcast applications, with multi-user operation, advanced mix assist systems (AutoMix, upmix, downmix and optional Lawo KICK), Audio-Follow-Video functionality, integrated 3D / immersive mixing tools and parallel compression.
For recording applications, mc256 provides dynamic time-code automation, Lawo-grade mic preamps and processing, DAW remote control and a customisable signal chain with four independent dynamic modules.