New Cadac Compact Digital Console to Launch at Prolight+Sound

Cadac is launching a new compact digital console at this year's prolight+sound show in Frankfurt. The Cadac DM1600 is an all-new development based upon a proprietary DSP mix platform. The new mixer marks Cadac's continuing expansion into new market sectors with this its first budget, digital console. Designed primarily as a live mixing console, an optional Firewire interface additionally provides extensive recording capabilities, while 16-channel 19" rackmount expander modules provide for up to a 48-channel mix system. The console features include 16 motorized faders, high-resolution TFT color display, and scene recall of all functions.

Specially developed ultra-low distortion EQ filters and analog-sounding compressors, 24-bit / 96kHz Delta-Sigma AD/DA converters, and four 4th generation 32/40-bit floating-point SHARC processors ensure that sound quality is of the highest order, the company says. Advanced EQ algorithms, using proportional-Q techniques, produce smooth, musical adjustments that rival the best analog designs, the company added. Wide dynamic range, low-noise mic pre-amps feature premium input ICs with outstanding CMRR and capable of the theoretical maximum Equivalent Input Noise.

The central assignment module (CAM) controls all input signals, groups, VCA groups, effects and auxiliary sends. Each function has a discrete control with no doubling up or menu scrolling, enabling operation of the console to be as fast as an analog desk. Another unique feature is the stereo master output module, where resides EQ and dynamics controls assigned only to output duties, so always available to the operator. The central 7" high-res color TFT display shows detail views of all parameters along with scene numbers, on board effects editing and MIDI status. All rotary encoders can be interrogated simply by pushing the control with the value, mode or function immediately displayed. Complex bus routing, auxiliary pre/post assignment, and detailed dynamics settings are also shown on this display, leaving more front panel space for quick access to real time functions.

Also representing the company's expansion into new markets is the LIVE1 compact analog console series, with the full range of 16, 24, and 32 channel frame sizes being shown for the first time at prolight+sound. In developing the LIVE1, Cadac says it has employed the most up-to-date computer-aided design and manufacturing techniques to exploit its unique engineering heritage, producing a mid-price console series of unrivalled quality and performance.

Among the all UK designed console's features is a mic-amp design that delivers the famous "Cadac sound" that distinguishes the company's flagship theatre sound desks. Other features include field-proven proprietary Cadac 4-band EQ, with two swept mid sections, that delivers the responsive and musical articulation that characterizes the Cadac sound. Input channels also feature individual phantom power, PFL, and mute (AFL mode set from master section), 100mm faders with signal-present and overload indicators, six auxiliaries (switchable pre/post in pairs), 60mm aux master faders, and four subgroups. All frame sizes feature four stereo inputs as standard and six returns (four with sends to aux 5/6), as well as two returns on 100mm faders; with sends to subgroups and aux 5/6. The master output section features dual outputs and talkback section.

Representing Cadac's traditional high end market sector, the S-type live production console is being shown in 17- and 33-channel frame sizes. The S-type Shares the same channel circuitry, modular design, and uncompromising build and performance characteristics of the larger R-type, in a more compact frame size.