Seven reasons why V4.8 DSP enhancements make Soundcraft Vi Series consoles the number one choice for mixing large monitor applications
With its intuitive Vistonics operator interface, pristine sound quality and flexible features, the Soundcraft Vi Series is already established as the first-choice live sound mixing console for touring and installed applications worldwide. The result of Soundcraft's continuing commitment to developing the Vi Series in direct response to user feedback, new V4.8 operating software delivers powerful new features, particularly in stage monitoring applications.
Please note that additional DSP cards may be required to benefit from all available upgrades (see table at the bottom of the page for full details).
1. All Busses To Stereo
Turn all busses to stereo without tying up two busses
The single most significant upgrade within V4.8 is the option to turn all of the busses on a Vi2, Vi4 or Vi6 console to stereo, without tying up two busses. With the stereo mix capability doubled to 32, no other console delivers greater flexibility in mixing large monitor applications (please note that the maximum capacity of mono mixes remains 32).
Compatibility: Vi2/4/6 (YES) Vi1 (NO)
2. Stereo Matrix Busses
Up to 16 stereo matrix busses for increased flexibility
The new stereo facility for Matrix busses makes it possible to have up to 16 Stereo Matrix busses (8 on Vi1), using the new 'All Busses to Stereo' feature. A new 'Contribution Pan' function allows each of the Matrix contribution signals - selectable from a multitude of sources including channel direct outs, bus master outs and direct IO patches - to be positioned within the matrix bus's stereo field.
Compatibility: Vi2/4/6 (YES) Vi1 (YES)
3. Four Aux Sends Points
Tailor monitor mixes more closely to the performers' requirements
The provision of two extra send points provides monitor mix engineers with a lot more flexibility and the option to send pre-Dynamics/post-EQ, and pre-EQ and Dynamics on a per channel/ per bus basis empowers the operator to tailor monitor mixes more precisely to the performers' requirements and reduces the compromises necessitated by mixing for FOH and monitors.
Compatibility: Vi2/4/6 (YES) Vi1 (NO)
4. Post Fade Insert Points
Enhancing integration with auto-mixing systems
Implemented primarily for use with external auto-mixing systems, this feature provides an extra access point for inserts on every channel in the form of a Post fade insert point. Fader control of the send level gives the operator some control over the main level of the component parts of the 'auto-mix', allowing manual override if a problem occurs with the auto mixer's response to the incoming audio.
Compatibility: Vi2/4/6 (YES) Vi1 (NO)
5. Aux VCA Mode
Choose whether to use VCA groups to control sources within monitor mixes
The Vi's Aux VCA mode is now a whole lot more powerful. VCA master faders can now control the aux sends of their member channels on a 'per mix' basis, with a new FaderGlow colour to indicate the VCA's operation. Monitor engineers can now retain control of important global elements such as ambient mics while also having a monitor mix selected and adjusting groups of sources within the current mix using the Aux-VCAs
Compatibility: Vi2/4/6 (YES) Vi1 (YES)
6. Gate/Duck External Source
Auto-increase of ambient mic levels in monitor mixes between songs
V4.8 software brings with it the facility to externally control the Gate or Ducking processing from a bus in the console. We all know that performers using in-ear monitors want to hear the audience between songs. Now it's as easy as inserting a ducker on an ambient mic with an external source of the LR bus or a spare bus, and the audience level increases automatically when the performers stop playing.
Compatibility: Vi2/4/6 (YES) Vi1 (YES)
7. Colour Label Displays
Clearer indication of grouping makes for more efficient workflow
A great new feature for show management and instrument grouping, the facility to choose 6 different label colours makes it easy to manage contributing channels by instrument group, key channels or any other grouping that will improve workflow.
Compatibility: Vi2/4/6 (YES) Vi1 (YES)
DSP Requirements
Because V4.8 software delivers significant upgrades in processing options, it may be necessary to add more DSP cards to Vi2, Vi4 and Vi6 consoles to achieve maximum benefit. Please consult the table below. Please note that it is not possible to add DSP cards to the Vi1.
For further information please contact Soundcraft’s UK distributor Sound Technology Ltd on 01462 480000 or email info@soundtech.co.uk
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