DiGiCo/Waves SoundGrid is geared for DiGiCo users, Waves enthusiasts and anyone else who wants the plug-ins fully integrated into a DiGiCo console, with easy access to the benefits of Waves technology.
DiGiCo's new SoundGrid provides up to 16 low-latency Waves stereo processor racks on the SD8 and SD9 – and up to 32 on the SD7, well-suited for Front of House or monitor use.
So, with this module added to the console – and linked to an external PC – users get all the multi-effect engines built into the SD7, SD8 and SD9, and, once registered, the ability to use all their Waves TDM plug-ins in the SoundGrid, with the same integrated benefits.
These plug-ins include Mercury, SSL 4000 Collection, GTR3, JJPAnalog Legends, Studio Classics Collection, The API Collection and Gold. Other options include L2 Ultramaximizer and C4 Multiband.
The DiGiCo SoundGrid is also designed for ease of use. Console-based MultiRack software lets users set up, control, recall, snapshot and save Waves plug-in configurations processed on the dedicated, rack-mounted external server over a Stealth-Waves Ethernet connection.
The SoundGrid module itself is fitted inside the console to a dedicated expansion port mounted directly on the console's FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) Stealth engine board, reducing the data path to a minimum for precise timing. It handles the Waves effects routing so the console's processing power remains dedicated to the task of driving the console and its worksurface.
The SoundGrid parameters are also duplicated on the console's touch screen via a dedicated Waves button, allowing users to assign particular plug-ins to the point in the console signal path where they want to use them. Then they can manipulate them using the touch-and-turn function on the desk.
When users decide to save their current configuration, they can hit ‘Save' once, thanks to the integration between the console and the MultiRack.
If they are transferring their session settings to another SD7, SD8 or SD9, they can save the console settings onto a memory stick as they normally would, then the console will automatically do the same for their personalized Waves settings.
For rental companies stocking DiGiCo SD7, SD8 and SD9 consoles, there is now a library of plug-ins. Monitor engineers can also benefit from the low latency of the FPGA-powered system.
DiGiCo also announced that those investing in a DiGiCo SD7 SD8 or SD9 with SoundGrid may benefit in the future from new developments planned for the DiGiCo SoundGrid package, including SoundGrid-exclusive live sound plug-ins and other unique effects, which will be made available as downloadable upgrades.
For more information, please visit www.digico.org.
