Lawo debuts new production console

Lawo, the leading manufacturer of digital networking systems and consoles for audio production in television and radio, post production, and live sound, has used the recent IBC in Amsterdam to introduce the second generation mc²56 production console.

Featuring cross-platform compatibility with its two larger mc² series siblings — the flagship mc²90 and mc²66 — the brand new mc²56 introduces a wealth of new features aimed at streamlining workflow efficiencies and increasing productivity.

In the areas of monitor and metering, it has new permanent metering of the 16 central faders and local I/O’s that are newly integrated into the mixing console surface. Whenever monitoring or metering and headphones or talkback are required, operators can now connect one’s vital third party devices directly to the console for a streamlined workflow.

The Overbridge has an integrated Reveal Panel, which might make it easier, for instance, to identify the components of a 5.1 surround mix assigned to an individual fader. The mc²56 also has real, 2-man operation with fully decentralized control of all parameters including bank and layer selection; EQ; dynamics and bus assignment; due to the fully featured ISO bay access provisions.

Workflow has become more intuitive with the mc²56 providing expanded, simplified touch operation like VCA allocation; bus assignment; meter pickup/mode select and mix-minus configuration. This enhanced operation is further accentuated by the console’s new button-glow provisions for colour-coding the channel strips. Similarly, the new mc²56 provides Illuminated rotary knobs for an even better overview, making it simpler for the operator to visually keep track of one’s mix in low light conditions.lawodesk_575

If you’re looking for cost efficiencies and a space saving solution, the mc²56 has 256 I/O’s per CAT-5 line, conserving space in an OB van, for example. Providing full support of RAVENNA technology for real time processing of audio signals in IP-based networked environments, it also offers a wealth of DSP power with support for upwards of 888 channels.

Christian Struck, product manager mc² series and actively engaged in the design of the second generation mc²56 console, had this to say about it.  

“The new mc²56 represents a dramatic step forward in overall functionality and enables operations to accomplish more with even greater efficiency. With frames ranging from 16 – 80 faders, surround sound with hyper panning, and so much more, this desk represents an ideal mixing environment for a wide range of mission critical audio applications.”