Using the Stealth FPGA technology from DiGiCo’s SD digital mixing consoles, the SD Rack claims to be the first I/O system for any mixing console that offers multiple format sample-rate conversion and up to 448 I/O connections, in any combination at 96kHz across multiple racks.
Launched at Plasa, the SD Rack converters operates at 192kHz, but will support simultaneous use of other sample rate options for specific outputs (for example, Made at 48kHz for broadcast or recording feeds, or 96kHz) making it a multi-sample rate signal splitter.
The system delay is ‘minimal’ – at 96kHz, the measured delay from the stage rack A-D, through a full channel with processing via the bussing with processing, back to the stage rack D-A is around 1mS.
Also integrated with the Madi split is Gain Tracking, which allows another console or a broadcaster to take any of an SD Rack’s AES, analogue or Madi outputs at a stable level, irrespective of the microphone preamp settings on the SD7, covering a signal level range of ±40dB. This can be turned on at any time, so the one preamp for each physical input can have four independently controlled levels.
The SD Rack has a 56-input/56-output arrangement, in blocks of eight, and can accommodate multiple digital formats, including:
All card formats are independently hot-swappable and auto-detecting using Micro Blaze technology. The mic card user feedback is provided by multiple LEDs and any input can be split internally to any opposing output on the rack.
Power supplies are also hot-swappable, with the additional feature that all main connections are at the top of the rack, making for exceptionally easy access.
Finally, there is a full RGB backlit display that can also be used to control and programme the unit.
More: www.digico.org
