The Focusrite Control 2802 is a small-format analogue recording console and a DAW control surface, and ‘forms both the digital control nerve centre and the analogue heart of the modern professional project studio’.
Dual Layer Technology supports its dual use, handling summing of 28 inputs, comprehensive monitoring, stereo master bus compression and sophisticated control over every major DAW. Eight class-A mic preamps and ultra low-noise analogue circuitry with high-frequency extension provide the audio path, while Ethernet enables control and console automation.
‘Dual Layer is the result of a lengthy development project aimed at redefining the analogue console and we’re very proud of the results,’ says Audient Technical Director, David Dearden. ‘Establishing this relationship with Focusrite means we can together deliver designs such as the 2802 to as many users as possible. Without question, Focusrite’s formidable strength in global sales and distribution will help ensure that we maximise the potential of this technology.’
‘Dave Dearden is a designer I have known and worked with since the 1970s and he is one of the few analogue mixer gurus still working, with a team around him young enough to embrace the challenges of DAW control,’ responds Phil Dudderidge, Focusrite Chairman and MD.
Under the agreement, Focusrite and Audient will work together to develop and deliver new designs, bringing Dual Layer and other new technologies to a wider audience than Audient could access on its own. This in turn allows Audient to strengthen its position in the studio market and develop key new products, such as the ASP8024DLC, that use this same technology.
‘Audient’s design values reflect our own,’ Dudderidge says. ‘We have been fortunate to build a head of steam over the past few years that enables us to address global demand levels. This agreement works well for both companies. We look forward to offering more products, co-developed by our respective engineering and product marketing teams.’
The Focusrite Control 2802 will be available from June 2011, and complements the RedNet range of networked audio interfaces available worldwide from Q4 2011.
More: www.focusrite.com
