SSL Launches New C200 Digital Production Console

Solid State Logic introduces versatile digital production console incorporating latest generation 96kHz digital processing technology

1-Apr-03

Solid State Logic launched the C200 Digital Production Console, a compact in-line digital mixing console designed for multi-bus production for surround television and DVD-Audio music applications. The C200 provides the latest adaptation of SSL's popular in-line console heritage with a dedicated 'knob per function' control surface. The C200 is suitable for creative mixing applications, such as music or entertainment, where 'hands on' access to a large numbers of controls is essential. A special Mobile configuration also makes the C200 ideal for compact studio or remote installations. Based on entirely new Centuri processing technology, the C200 operates at 48kHz, or 96kHz for exceptional audio quality. Unlike some consoles, the C200 retains all of its bussing capability at both sample frequencies. The C200's new processing also provides security benefits, such as self-healing DSP, specifically designed for challenging live environments. For demanding mix sessions, the C200 incorporates all the automation benefits of the popular MT and MT Plus consoles, with new capabilities such as integrated DAW control, scalable DSP and complete layer and signal path metering. Powerful automation includes features such as totally automated processing, off-line mix editing and on-line mix compare. In broadcast production, features including Status Lock, Backstop PFL and self-healing DSP provide all the tools necessary for a demanding live production. ""The C200 console represents the latest evolution of SSL's 'knob per function' digital console design."" comments SSL Director of Product Marketing, Niall Feldman. ""The versatility of the control surface, combined with scaleable processing and layout allow the console to be tailored to fit the demands of a wide variety of audio production applications and budgets."" Dedicated Control SurfaceThe C200's dedicated channel strips provide a familiar operational interface to both in-house and freelance audio engineers. The mixer has immediate access and an excellent overview of all console settings, with the ability to mix as on an analogue console. The console emulates an in-line approach, with two banks of dedicated small and large faders providing simultaneous access to large amounts of mix inputs. On the C200, the Centuri processor provides options for 64, 128 or 192 signal paths, with up to 12 programmable Main and Group outputs, 48 utility buses, 96 direct outputs, 12 auxiliary buses and 12 stereo direct injects. The C200's 12 main mix buses can provide multiple 5.1 and/or Stereo groups, and full Stereo or 5.1 monitoring facilities are also included. Combined with the ability to configure channel strips for mono or stereo operation at any physical position, the console provides impressive mono, stereo and 5.1 flexibility. Centuri Processor, 96kHz and beyondAs with all Solid State Logic consoles, audio quality is a primary consideration. The C200 benefits from SSL's proprietary Centuri processing platform which is optimised for DVD Audio performance. The C200's Centuri processing technology is also 192kHz enabled. SSL's unique design delivers superior audio performance at 48kHz and 96kHz operation, in addition great sounding audio tools such as the SSL 'E' and 'G' Series EQ emulation add to the impressive mix tools available to the engineer. Incorporating all of the automation features of SSL's previous generations of music consoles and more, the C200 is the new high benchmark in mix production. Several of the top-selling albums of recent years have been produced on SSL digital mixing consoles, which boast owners such as Mutt Lange, Enya and Van Morrison. C200 MobileThe unique challenges of restricted space, weight and the peace of mind required on the road, are addressed by the special C200 Mobile configuration. Up to 48 in-line channel strips (105 faders) may be fitted across the width of any standard mobile by fitting a single bay centre section. Many SSL digital consoles are in daily use within a mobile recording environments, including installations at NMT, Corplex, Turner Broadcasting and Le Voyageur. C-SB Fibre-Connected StageboxesOn C200, Mic sources are handled by separate purpose designed C-SB Stagebox units using multimode fibre connections up to 500m from the processor core. Up to 48 remote controlled mic inputs fit into a single fan-less 14U high chassis. Features include a low-level buffered output per channel, over 90dB of gain with 'click' free gain steps, and 4 DACs and GPIOs for communication feeds and signalling back to the stage or studio floor.