Lawo diamond Broadcast Console

During a Special Launch Event on November 16, 2021, streamed live from its studio at the company’s headquarters in Rastatt/Germany, Lawo unveiled its all-new diamond broadcast console for radio and TV applications. This IP-native mixing system is based on the open AES67/RAVENNA Audio-over-IP networking standards and also complies with ST2110-30/-31 and ST2022-7. Powered by the Lawo Power Core Engine, diamond provides expandable I/O, accommodating AES67, MADI, analog, AES3 as well as Dante audio sources and destinations.

Modular by design, diamond is available in configurations from 2 to 60 physical faders, either as desktop or flush-mounted build. Fader-adjacent colour displays give extended source information, and two fader layers allow operators to instantly switch between multiple tasks. Silent, motorised faders and precise encoders inherited from Lawo’s mc² audio production consoles permit integration with program automation and playout systems — perfect for multiple-layer operations involving voice tracking, remote production, or DAW control. Programmable, colour-coded LED button and encoder lighting highlights common control functions.

Much more than helpful meter bridges, optional Virtual Extension modules feature HD colour TFT displays for extended information and touch control. Ember+ and HTML5 integration enables control of third-party hardware and software.

diamond is the first Lawo console for radio applications to feature Lawo’s Unified Experience user interface that puts users first thanks to a familiar and consistent interface across the entire Lawo product portfolio.

Based on a holistic concept, diamond is a completely modular production system that enables broadcasters to build exactly the console they envision, tailored to the specific requirements of users and workflows. Several module types are available for customer-specific arrangements of hardware controls and sections.

diamond employs smart algorithms that speed up production workflows. A host of assistive mixing technologies enable diamond operators to produce compelling, engaging programming. The AutoMix function automatically maintains the balance of multi-mic productions, and AutoMix Grouping allows this intelligent automatic mixing to be applied to multiple independent source groups. AutoGain, an automatic gain setting function, optimises guest and host mic levels with a single button press.

IP-based studio infrastructure makes it very easy to control devices remotely and share information between studios. The diamond display apps take maximum advantage of IP studio networking, giving users the ability to operate their console remotely with complete access to every function from a PC with a LAN / WAN connection.

Thanks to an unlimited number of snapshots and DSP profiles that can be stored and recalled from any networked console, individual talent profiles or customised show setups are available anywhere — even to operators working remotely from home studios, OB setups, etc.

A sophisticated rights-management system gives engineers the power to tailor access to console features based on multiple user groups, or on a user-by-user basis.

diamond furthermore integrates with HOME, Lawo’s management platform for today’s complex IP-based media infrastructures. HOME helps connect, manage and secure all aspects of live production environments, providing centralised microservices for swift, effective interaction of engineers with their tools. HOME turns an array of devices, setups, sites, hubs and data centers into a powerful, agile network — quickly and in a perfectly secure way.

“With diamond, Lawo is making a statement regarding the radio landscape of the future,” said Johan Boqvist, Lawo’s Senior Product Manager, Radio. “In addition to being entirely user configurable and flexible with respect to fader count, diamond sets a new standard for hardware and software integration on a true, native IP platform.”