Allen & Heath has released a new version of its iLive firmware and Editor software, which includes a range of enhancements including support of the new iLive-R72 Control Surface, Dual-Rack input expansion, and "SuperStrip" user view in the Editor control software.
Introduced at NAMM 2010, the new iLive-R72 rack mountable Control Surface is the most compact iLive surface to date, providing 72 control strips, arranged in six layers of 12 faders across two banks. The latest software release supports the new hardware and is also compatible with the virtual control Editor software.
The most significant new feature in v1.6 is the Dual-Rack system expansion, allowing up to 128 input channels to be used simultaneously. Two MixRacks can now be linked together via the Port B sockets, expanding the number of channels feeding the 32 mix buses and enabling both racks to be controlled by one surface. The Master Rack is assigned to CH1-64 and the Slave Rack to CH65-128.
Among the developments in the offline/online Editor control software is the "SuperStrip" processing view, which combines live mixing parameters into a single window, allowing for a more comprehensive view of functions when configuring offline or mixing live.
Another key feature in v1.6 is the ability to set the redundancy socket on Allen & Heath's ACE (Audio and Control over Ethernet) option card as a breakout to split to other iLive systems, offering a cost effective alternative to audio networking.
There is an array of feature enhancements to improve flexibility, including a Range Select patch function for easier set up of FOH/Monitor/Recording applications, and Safe mode for DCA master levels and mutes when recalling Scenes, ideal for festivals or events involving multiple band set ups.
V1.6 can be downloaded from www.ilive-digital.com.
