Part of maintaining and developing its audio infrastructure,Düsseldorf Opera House recently add a Lawo crystal mixing console to its set-up. Used wirelessly, the new desk is primarily used to remotely control the Lawo mc²56 console in the sound control room, allowing flexible, location-independent sound adjustments to be made in the auditorium and other areas, such as the foyer, for smaller events.
In 2022, the venue installed a comprehensive Lawo Audio-over-IP infrastructure, featuring three IP-native mc²56 consoles with a redundant A__UHD Core as a shared audio engine. A__line stageboxes handle mic signals and playback effects for the stage over a Ravenna network. Since, the opera house has operated a 32-fader mc²56 in the sound control room and a 16-fader console in its production studio.
The third mc²56, also with 16 faders, is for mobile use, with a 16-fader extender available for expansion. Integration into existing Dante networks for sound reinforcement in the auditorium, stage monitoring and foyer was achieved using a Lawo Power Core with six Dante interfaces.
The new crystal console expands the possibilities of this infrastructure, similar to the previously installed Lawo MixKitchen. Integrated into the opera house’s existing Wi-Fi network and accessed via laptop, the crystal console can be operated wirelessly, simplifying sound control and offering greater mobility. With an intuitive user interface, it allows quick adjustments to audio settings for dynamic requirements. The crystal console’s six fader banks enable precise sound mixing control, adaptable to different room setups and event types.
‘The crystal console provides us with a flexible solution that optimizes our processes, particularly for smaller events,’ says, Head of Sound, Thomas Gabbert. ‘The intuitive interface of the crystal allows us to work quickly and efficiently, which is a huge advantage for last-minute adjustments, such as changing microphone settings.’
Seamlessly integrated into the existing Lawo audio landscape, the crystal console’s Controller Mode allows flexible control of the mc²56 console, which is responsible for primary sound reinforcement in the auditorium. The console allows Duesseldorf Opera House to deliver a highly immersive and detailed audio experience.
‘The sound quality of the mc²56 console is impressive,’ Gabbert says. ‘Being able to assess sound in the hall itself and make adjustments from there via the crystal lets us apply this quality even more precisely and efficiently.’
With the new crystal console, the proven mc²56 technology, and AoIP infrastructure,Düsseldorf Opera House is well-prepared to meet the demands of modern audio production. The combination of flexible control and top-tier sound quality ensures that the venue will continue to operate at the highest technical standard, assuring its audience of an unparalleled listening experience.
More: www.lawo.com
