MACKIE DL32R WITH IPAD CONTROL
By Mark Davie
16 October 2014
The new Mackie DL32R has just been launched and it’s looking like wireless control is the way of the future.
We’ve already taken a good look at Mackie’s previous wireless/iPad controlled mixers, last year our Editor Mark Davie gave the DL1608 a blast (you can read his review, here). But since then, as is the way of the world, technology has gained in leaps and bounds, much like Spinal Taps volume, Mackie’s new mixer, goes to eleven.
The DL32R is a 32-in, 14 (fully assignable) XLR outs, 3U rack mountable mixer/stage box which is wirelessly controlled via an iPad. This new bit of kit is designed for larger venues and allows the FOH engineers to move freely around the place, whilst maintaining complete control of the mix. Yea, we like that idea!
The mixer includes AES digital outs, a Dante expansion card (in case you need more outs) and 32 recallable Onyx+ mic preamps, described by Ben Olswang, Snr Mackie Product Manager, as the company’s “best pre ever”. The company says the Onyx+ allows for a better noise performance and a flatter frequency response, with no clicks or pops when changing the gain.
It can also record and playback multi-channel audio and will support 24-in/out to a USB 2 hard drive, which Mackie says will increase to 32- ins/outs after launch. There’s support for up to 10 simultaneous iOS devices, allowing musicians to trigger backing tracks along with engineers controlling FOH sound.
The DSP engine allows three stereo effects processors, along with 36 input channels (32 ins and four returns) with full channel processing, 28 output buses. The DSP also allows you to set A/B sources, which means if disaster strikes, you can switch to a backup instrument/mic on the same channel.
The DL32R was launched today in the US, so should be available to purchase/hire soon in Australia.
Australian Distributor: CMI (03) 9315 2244 or [email protected]
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