Click Grafix

Features Audio Mixer
Audio control, an integral part of any video production, is presented with an interface and flexibility not seen before the launch of Video Toaster [2]. That flexibility is evident when using Video Toaster [2] with the optional SX-8 Switcher Expansion module, which provides not only multiple video inputs, but also balanced and unbalanced mic and line level inputs as well as balanced and unbalanced line level outputs.

There are different possible audio configurations, based on whether Video Toaster [2] is equipped with the optional SX-8 Switcher Expansion module. As a base unit, Video Toaster [2] offers a stereo pair of inputs and outputs, which is great for hooking up with an external audio mixer, or if you only have a play and record deck and no other equipment to connect. Even with a minimum of external gear, you have access to audio mixing tools. Fire up as many Digital Disk Recorders (DDR’s) as you need for playback of captured media, and assign each of them their own controls.

With the SX-8, you have access to 8 live audio inputs, 8 internal audio sources, such as DDR’s and ToasterEdit, and to a PA Mix out for either control room monitoring or live audio reinforcement at an event.

Audio In
Each of Video Toaster’s SX-8 live audio inputs provide treble, bass and pan controls, with the ability to mute any channel from the mix. The 2 microphone level inputs offer phantom power, for high-end sensitive microphones. All signals arrive as a stereo pair, but Toaster’s audio mixer allows you to sum that source down to a mono mix. An additional 8 internal sources can be added to the mix as well by inserting them into the audio patch row. There is also an Auxiliary Return channel to receive modified signals back into Toaster.

Fast modification eases audio controls, so Video Toaster gives you the ability to set levels on every input, and then remember that as a preset by clicking the set preset bar. Up to 24 unique presets can be remembered by this software-based audio mixer. Should you realize later that something wasn’t adjusted properly, you can activate manual control by clicking the MAN light for that input, and that slider can be manually adjusted and left where you put it, even when you advance to the next preset.

Audio Out
There are several outputs available through the SX-8. The Auxiliary Send channel (AUX SEND) is designed to route any incoming sounds to an external device, such as a parametric equalizer reverb unit, or outboard audio mixer.

At the end of the line is the master Toast OUT, sending the master stereo pair back to the SX-8 or the Record deck. NewTek wants to present production tools to people that are instantly useable, without diving for a manual, and audio mixer certainly rings true in that regard.

Once audio tones are set and levels are tweaked, a lot of the audio mixer’s interface can be dispensed with, and our skins-based interface gives you that ability. Lose everything but the individual level controls and the ever-important Vu meters, and be able to concentrate on the show. Only Video Toaster gives you this common-sense approach to real-world production. This audio mixer is just one of many major components NewTek gives production professionals at no additional cost. The advent of Video Toaster [2] means you can crank up the production quality for clients without having to have a room full of extra equipment.

<< BACK

Best viewed using MS Explorer 5 or above.