RSS Digital Snake S-4000D Specifications

A New Age in

Live Digital Audio Production

An Introduction to the V-Mixing System

Part1

Why do you need a digital audio production system?

This handbook is intended to explain why people have turned to digital audio solutions for live sound and to specifically show the system that

RSS by Roland delivers.

Benefits of a Digital Sound System

The V-Mixing System from RSS has been designed to improve sound quality, r e d u c e c o n f i g u r a t i o n c o m p l e x i t y, add breakthrough capabilit ies and reduce costs - all while making the j o b o f m i x i n g l i v e s o u n d e a s i e r .

A System Concept

The V-Mixing System uses REAC (Roland

E thernet Audio Communicat ion) to connect all components with lightweight and affordable Cat5e Ethernet cables.

T h e i n d i v i d u a l c o m p o n e n t s i n t h e

V-Mixing System are some of the best in the industry on their own but they are designed to work even better as part of a system, communicating with each other via REAC.

This system connection approach brings superior sound quality, is easy to learn, easy to use and brings all the powerful benefits of a digital solution.

Superior Sound Quality

The V-Mixing System delivers superior sound quality starting right at the source.

The RSS Digital Snake puts pristine Mic/

Line preamps on the stage, close to the original sound source. Then the true sound of the source is carried by REAC to other parts of the V-Mixing System at a full 24bit digital audio depth.

In a typical analog sound system audio is sent over cables that are susceptible to sound quality degradation including loss of high frequencies. There is also the possibility of ground loop hums and other electronic interference that comes from outside sources such as lighting systems. The longer the run and the more connections made, the higher the chance of sound quality issues.

The digital audio signal sent by REAC over Cat5e Ethernet cables avoids signal quality losses, ground hum, or other interference common on analog snake connections.

The RSS V-Mixer has a complete set of built-in effects processors, further avoiding analog connections to other outboard devices.

Sometimes sound sources need to be split and sent to multiple locations in addition to the Main speakers - to monitors, to a recording system, to a broadcast feed or to a webcast. In the analog world this requires large, bulky transformer-based splitters that are expensive. By using a simple Ethernet switch, REAC delivers the full digital sound to all splits, including the REAC

Recording System, the RSS Personal

Mixing System or other monitor positions.

The result of all these benefits is a noticeable improvement in sound quality over other systems. That superior sound quality can be heard at any output from the system: on the main speakers, in monitors, in recordings or in a broadcast signal.

Easy to Use, Easy to Learn

Connecting all devices in an integrated system makes the V-Mixing System easier to use. Devices are automatically r e c o g n i z e d b y t h e s y s t e m a n d t h e appropriate menus present themselves.

Dedicated knobs and buttons eliminate any confusion when having to make quick adjustments. Full recall makes sound more consistent from week to week or from one event to another. Factory libraries make it easy to set EQ, compressors and other dynamics for every channel.

A dedicated Help button on the V-Mixer is ready to give you answers on each part of the system. No other system brings all this flexibility and power in an easy to use manner.

Powerful Digital Benefits

One of the most exciting functions driving sound operators to step up to digital mixing is the ability to store and recall settings. When you rehearse with a band, simply store the settings from rehearsal and recall them from digital memory for the performance.

This valuable recall function is now common on digital mixers, however, the

V-Mixing System extends digital recall beyond just the mixer to the entire system via REAC.

An RSS V-Mixer has an extensive array of effects processors. Multiple racks of outboard processing devices are eliminated because ‒ the mixer has them built right in. This reduces learning complexity by putting all effects into the same user interface as the mixer. It also puts effects under reliable systemwide recall as well as providing some significant cost savings.

The REAC system delivers easy and affordable multichannel recording ‒ simply connect a Cat5e cable from the

V-Mixer to the gigabit ethernet port on a PC and capture up to 40 channels of live audio at any event. Use Cakewalk's

SONAR recording software for full editing, post-production, publishing and delivery to DVD, CD or the web.

Analog multi-cable

CAT5e cable

Roland Etherhet

Audio Communication

R E A C t r a n s f e r s 40

Channels of Audio in each direction at 24-bit up to 96KHz including control messages all over a single Cat5e

E t h e r n e t C a b l e o r

Optical link.

Standard mic cable 100m

If you compare the long distance transmission of signals with REAC versus analog cables, REAC can transmit much greater quantities of data without a significant loss of high end frequencies.

■Comparison of cable cross sections

CAT5e cable

(80 channel)

Analog multi-cable

(32 channel)

Approx 5mm

Approx 20mm

O n e C AT5e c a b l e e n a b l e s t r a n s m i s s i o n o f 80 channels (40 in / 40 out). Compare that to a single analog multi-cable and you can appreciate the ease of set up. The substantial savings on cable and conduit costs alone is very attractive.

2

The RSS V-Mixing System

A powerful live audio production solution built on four components.

Digital Consoles

The cornerstone of the V-Mixing System is the M-400 V-Mixer

- a live digital mixing console. This compact/lightweight unit provides 48 channels of mixing, 16 AUX buses plus Main L/R/

C outputs and 8 matrices. This is an all-in-one design featuring digital effects processors, on-board recording via USB memory drive and instant recall with motorized faders all with easy and intuitive operation.

Digital Snakes

Digital snakes couple high quality preamps with REAC technology enabling source signals to maintain pristine sound through the entire V-Mixing System. RSS Digital Snakes are immune to hums, buzzes and general impedance and capacitive losses that plague analog snakes and systems.

Enjoy superior clear sound, great intelligibility with minimum latency and the freedom to split or extend your audio sources anywhere.

Personal Mixers

The M-48 is the next generation live personal mixer that offers each musician the flexibly to control exactly what they want to listen to during their performances. It provides the highest level of sound monitoring quality for both headphones and IEMs (In-Ear Monitors) as well as for wedge and powered monitors. The superb sound quality creates the ideal monitoring environment for live performance and recording as well as studio applications.

Recording

Cakewalk's SONAR, when used in conjunction with REAC, provides the most comprehensive blend of live multi-channel recording with post-production functions such as mixing, mastering and delivery. Capture up to 40 channels of audio directly into SONAR all via a simple Cat5e cable connected to the network port on a PC.

Typical Sound System

Stage

Inputs

Mic and

Instruments

Input Box

Main Amp

+

Speakers

Monitor Mixer

Monitor Speakers

FOH

Analog

Splitter

Bulky Analog Cable

V-Mixing System

Stage

Inputs

Mic and

Instruments

S-4000S-3208

Digital Snake

Digital

M-48

Personal Monitor

FOH

S-4000SP

REAC Splitter

Main Amp

+

Speakers

S-4000D

REAC Splitter

REAC (cat5e) Cable

M-400

Live Mixing Console

Recording

Broadcast

Mixer

Effects/ Processor

REAC

Analog

Broadcast

Recording

*Built-in Effects

3

Part2

RSS Digital Snake -

Flexible Audio Transmission & High Sound Quality

The RSS Digital Snake improves sound quality and adds convenience in various audio environments, including fixed installations and portable applications.

Perfect for Your Environment

The Digital Snake is perfect for all live sound venues including performance theatres, churches, conference halls, school auditoriums, and large stadiums.

The convenience and professional sound quality of the Digital Snake also make it popular for use in many TV and radio production studios, remote sporting broadcasts, and film sets.

REAC Technology

of sound quality problems on any analog connection.

The digital audio signal sent by REAC over Cat5 Ethernet cables avoids signal quality losses, ground hum, or other interference common on analog snake connections. REAC delivers clean sound, either at the FOH position or even when the audio is split to multiple locations.

This improvement in audio quality is significant, especially when the distances are over 200 feet (60m).

Remote Preamps with High Quality Sound

The Digital Snake uses REAC (Roland

Ethernet Audio Communication) to send audio over a Cat5e Ethernet cable. Since

Cat5e cable is very lightweight and inexpensive it is much easier and more cost effective to place in permanent installations. For staging/rental and touring sound companies, the advantages of carrying a 7lb (3kg) 80-channel snake over the typical weight of an analog snake are easy to imagine!

Improvements in Intelligibility and Sound Quality

The superior sound quality of RSS Digital

Snake starts by capturing the sound right from the source. The RSS Digital Snake puts pristine Mic/Line preamps on the stage, close to the original sound source.

The sound is immediately converted to a

24bit/96KHz signal to be sent by REAC.

The preamps gain, PAD and phantom power can be controlled from either end of the snake using an S-4000 Remote

Controller, a PC/Mac, or an RSS V-Mixer.

Expansion, Splits, & Recording

In a typical analog sound system audio is sent over cables that are susceptible to sound quality degradation including loss of high frequencies. There is also the possibility of ground loop hums and other electrical interference.

T h e l o n g e r t h e w i r e o r t h e m o r e connections made, the higher the chance

Sometimes sound sources are split - sent to multiple locations besides just the Front of House Mixer - to a monitor position, a recording system, a personal mixing system, a webcast and/or a broadcast system. The Digital Snake system inputs can be split using standard Ethernet hardware switches providing for multiple transformerless audio splits to multiple positions. Since the audio is in the digital domain there is no loss of audio quality when creating a split.

O n e p o p u l a r S p l i t i s t o t h e R E A C

Recording System, to enable multi-channel recording. Simply connect a Cat5e cable as a split from the Digital Snake to the

Ethernet port on a PC and capture 40 channels of live audio anywhere the

Digital Snake is used.

If you need to send audio over a long distance, the RSS S-OPT converts the

REAC signal to a fiber optical link for a

REAC connection up to 1.2 miles (2km).

Flexibility to Match Your Requirements

The Digital Snake is perfectly matched to the RSS V-Mixing System, RSS V-Mixer

Digital Consoles, and the RSS Personal

Mixing System. But it also brings great sound improvements and convenience when used with other sound systems.

RSS offers a full line of Digital Snake components to build a system that is customized to your needs. See the equipment details in the mini catalog on the facing page.

SPLIT

I /O

MASTER

One-way communication

(100m)

SLAVE

Splitter

I /O

I /O

Two-way communication

（100m）

Two-way communication

(100m) SPLIT

I /O

One-way communication (100m)

A basic network setup consists of one MASTER and one SLAVE I/O unit, between which two-way communication is possible. If you want to split the signal, connect a splitter to the MASTER unit and then connect the additional I/O units to the splitter and set their mode switch to SPLIT. The MASTER to SPLIT transmission is one way.

Each I/O unit has a switch for setting the mode. With

REAC, there is no need to set an IP address. Simply set the mode switch to construct the network.

4

I/O units and peripheral equipment

【I/O modular rack】

S-4000S-3208

Configurable up to 40 input and 40 output channels


S-4000S-0832

【FOH unit】

S-4000H

32 in/8 out for stage use. All inputs have remote preamp/

PAD/phantom power. 24-bit/96kHz AD/DA converters.

Audio transmission and power supply redundancy.

8 in/32 out for FOH I/O unit which is the companion to the

S-4000S-3208. All the specifications are the same as the

S-4000S-3208, except for the inverted I/O.

8 in/32 out FOH I/O unit that uses D-Sub connectors.

Specs including the AD/DA converters are the same as the

S-4000S-0832, but without preamps.


S-4000S-MR SI-AD4 SO-DA4 SI-AES4 SO-AES4

This rack can be customized in blocks of 8 channels when combined with the modules from the SI/SO series, which have both analog and digital I/O. Audio transmission and power supply redundancy is possible.

【Stage unit】

S-1608

4ch analog input module

【FOH unit】

S-0816

4ch analog output module 4ch AES/EBU input module.

Supports 96/48/44.1kHz

4ch AES/EBU output module.

Supports 96/48/44.1kHz with clocking options.

【Remote controller】

S-4000R

16 in/8 out multi-box type stage unit. All inputs have remote preamp/PAD/phantom power. 24-bit/96kHz AD/DA converters.

【Remote control software】

S-4000RCS

8 in/16 out multi-box type stage unit. All inputs have remote preamp/PAD/phantom power. 24-bit/96kHz AD/DA converters.

【Splitter】

S-4000-SP

Remote controller to control the built-in preamps in the I/O units. Provides gain control setting for each channel and ON/

OFF switching of PAD and phantom power. Up to ten setups can be stored in the on-board memory.

【Optical converter】

S-OPT

Remote control software for the S-4000 and S-1608 systems, providing the same functionality as the S-4000R. Free download available from the Roland Systems Group website.

【Redundant External power supply unit】

S-240P

REAC splitter to split and extend the network. It has five main and five backup ports supporting audio transmission redundancy. Ethercon design with separate independent power supplies for main and back-up ports.

【REAC cable】

W100S-R

Crossover CAT5e cable. Uses

Neutrik® EtherCon connectors.

The W100S-R is a reel-mounted

100 meter cable. The SC-W100S is the same length without a reel. The SC-W20F is a 20 meter premium "lay-flat" cable.

SC-W100S SC-W20F

Converter for transmitting REAC through optical cable.

Maximum transmittable distance is 2km. Uses Neutrik®

OpticalCon Dual LC optical connectors allowing you to connect standard optical cables.

【Analog multi-cables】

SC-A41C

SC-A0805DF

These multi-cables are convenient for connection to the S-4000H, analog c o n s o l e s , a n d o t h e r e q u i p m e n t . T h e S C -

A0805DF has eight female

XLR connectors and a 25pin D-Sub connector. The

SC-A0805DM has eight male XLR connectors and a 25-pin D-Sub connector.

Each cable is 4.5 meters long.

Power supply unit for the S-4000S and S-4000H. Connects to the DC socket of each I/O modular rack. By using AC power, you can achieve power source redundancy.

SC-A0805DM

5

Part3

RSS M-400 V-Mixer - Live Digital Mixer

By adding an M-400 to the Digital Snakes of your choice, you get a V-Mixing

System with full digital capabilities and total recall. Let's take a look.

A Breakthrough Live Mixing System

The M-400 is a complete digital mixing system that provides the purest sound possible. The system incorporates a digital snake(s) and mixing console in one integrated package.

Main Features

48 mixing channels with 16 Aux buses plus Main L/R/C, channel and bus DSP,

4 dual-mono FX processors, 4 graphic

EQs/PEQ, built-in stereo recording and playback, and built in multi-channel split port;

It has a configurable number of Inputs and Outputs based on Digital Snake configurations.

Easy to Use

The V-Mixer is designed to be fast and intuitive to use for the beginner or the experienced professional. It features dedicated knobs and buttons for all console functions, 24 touch-sensitive moving faders, onboard help, large, bright

TFT LCD display and Cat5e connectivity f o r l o w c o s t i n s t a l l a t i o n a n d t r u e portability.

Outstanding Sound Quality

The M-400 is a complete digital solution maintaining 24-bit audio from the stage to the splits and back to the stage. Preamps on stage provide the highest possible sound quality and intelligibility. Cat5e snake eliminates the high frequency l o s s e s i n h e r e n t i n a n a l o g s n a k e s .

Onboard digital processing, channel DSP and routing eliminate any chance for buzzes from extra cabling and analog to digital conversion losses. Built-in 24-bit recording provides lossless capture of live events. The Digital Split allows lossless transmission to monitoring, recording or broadcast positions. Bus and Main LR or

LRC return over Cat5e enables a complete digital signal path back to the stage.

Powerful Digital Benefits

Instantly change from event to event with

300 Scenes for total recall of all mixer, effect and routing parameters. Password level access provides only the relevant controls for any particular type of user.

PC software allows loading/saving setups as well as real-time control. Libraries provide the ability for storing custom channel, patchbay and effect settings.

Direct to PC recording over Cat5e enables up to 40 channels of direct digital recording.

M-400 Specifications

PROCESSING

Mixing Channels

Output Mix Busses

Number of Channels

Signal Processing

Effects

48 Channels

Main L/R or LCR

16 Aux, 8 Matrix

48 Inputs

58 Outputs

56-bit

4 Output EQ 31GEQ/8PEQ

18 Output 4 Band PEQ

18 Output Limiters

48 Input Channel EQ

24 Gates

24 Compressors

4 Stereo MultiFX or 8 Mono

Real Time Analyzer

CONNECTORS

XLR Inputs

Talkback Mic Input

RCA Inputs

XLR Outputs

HeadPhone Output

Digital Output

REAC Ports

USB Ports

Remote Connectors

Other

8 Balanced w. Phantom

1 Balanced w. Phantom

1 Stereo Pair L/R

8 Balanced

Stereo 1/4 inch phone

1 Optical, 1 Coaxial

3 RJ-45 Ethercon

REAC A

REAC B

REAC BACKUP/SPLIT

1 A Type, 1 B Type

RS-232C D-Sub 9 Pin

MIDI In, MIDI Out/Thru

Lamp

OTHER

Recording

Help System

Remote Control

Support Personal Mixing

Scene Recall

Libraries

System Updates

Stereo Wave to USB Key

40 Channel REAC Option

Front Panel Help Button

PC, RS-232, MIDI, V-Link

Control over M-48 Mixers

Full Recall Whole System

Channel, Gate, Compressor,

EQ/Filter, Effects, Patchbay

Via USB Key

6

Monitor section

M-400

S-0816

Stage

Monitor speaker

S-1608

Main speaker

Mic and instruments

Main speaker

Mic and instruments

S-1608

FOH

M-400

REAC

Analog

If you take advantage of the three REAC ports and the flexible REAC network, you create a large scale FOH and monitoring system with simple wiring using two M-400s.

M-400RCS remote control software. You can setup configurations and channels ahead of time, save existing projects and adjust any type of mixer setting, recall scenes, load presets, etc.

Display

The high-quality

800 480 p i x e l s

TFT color screen i s d e t a i l e d a n d c a n b e e a s i l y viewed outdoors e v e n o n b r i g h t days.

M-400

Equipped with 48 mixing channels/18 buses/

8 matrices/56-bit processing

USB Memory Recorder section

Record from two sources directly to a USB memory key inserted in the M-400.

Setup section

Displays the patchbay for assigning input/output or system settings.

Administration

When there are multiple users for t h e M -400, y o u c a n l i m i t t h e controls available depending on their expertise and customize settings to suit each user.

Talkback/Oscillator

Control the ON/OFF and l e v e l a d j u s t m e n t f o r talkback, and oscillator settings.

Channel Edit section

D e d i c a t e d c o n t r o l s f o r preamp, EQ, filter, gate, compression, AUX, and o t h e r s e t t i n g s f o r t h e selected channel strip. With the press of a button you c a n i n s t a n t l y d i s p l a y detailed settings on the

LCD. The built-in preamps o n t h e I / O u n i t s a r e remotely controlled.

Monitor section

Adjust monitor levels and s e t t i n g s a s w e l l a s p r o v i d e a c c e s s t o m a n a g e m e n t o f t h e

P e r s o n a l M i x i n g component.

Group section

Displays DCA group and mute group settings.

Fader Module section

Using the layer buttons, switch the 24 faders from channels

1 24 to channels 25 48, and 16-AUX Bus/8-DCA/Matrix

Masters. Each channel has SOLO/MUTE and level meters.

Screen Control section

Used for screen navigation.

Scene Memory section

Stores and recalls scenes. 300 scenes can be stored in the internal memory.

Channel Display Meter Vintage Effects

Patchbay 8-band PEQ and RTA Support for Personal Mixing

7

Part4

RSS Personal Mixing System ‒ The Ideal Monitoring Solution

The M-48 Live Personal Mixer is the mixer that performers can use on stage or in the studio to personally mix the monitor balance they like. REAC plays an important role where 40 sources can be assigned to 16 sixteen stereo groups.

Powerful and Personal

The M-48 is a powerful 16 stereo group m i x e r a n d i s w h a t l i ve p e r f o r m e r s have been dreaming for in an ultimate monitoring solution. Instead of having to share the same channels on each controller, now each musician can individually decide what sources they want to listen to, how those sources are grouped and in what order. Choosing from 40 sources, each musician can decide what each stereo group will listen to - one source only (mono), a stereo signal or a combination of multiple sources.

T h e f l e x i b i l i t y c o n t i n u e s w i t h t h e ability to adjust source levels, panning,

3-band EQ and built-in reverb sends for a more appealing sound ‒ especially for vocalists. Enjoy numerous outputs including two headphones, balanced lines for powered wedges and tactile transducers for drummers and bassists, as well as recording to MP3 player.

Built-in Ambient Mic

Crystal clear sound quality is ensured by using the REAC Cat5e proto col, now including REAC Embedded Power, eliminating the need for external wall

-wart power at each controller unit.

Configurations are straightforward with the ability to control, save and recall all connected M-48s from an M-400 V-Mixer or PC. This allows the FOH engineer or other technical operator to assist in setup and mixing if desired.

Enhance a V-Mixing System by adding

M-48 Live Personal Mixers to complement the M-400 V-Mixer Digital Console or use it in conjunction with other digital or analog consoles using RSS Digital Snakes.

Unprecedented Personalization

The M-48 is essentially a 40 channel digital mixer that enables control of those

40 audio sources via 16 stereo groups.

No longer do you have to share the same sources in the same order as everyone else. Each musician can choose what he or she wants to listen to ‒ a truly personal mix.

Professional Sound Control and Quality

Unparalleled Usability

T h e c o n t r o l k n o b s w i t h t h e i r L E D indicators enable instant adjustment and visual confirmation at a glance, even on a dark stage. The built-in ambient mic aids in communicating with other musicians without having to remove your in-ear monitors or headphones as well as enabling a stage/room feel if desired. The

AUX input allows mixing in a metronome or other input with the primary sound.

Control, save and recall any connected

M-48s from an M-400 V-Mixer or PC allowing the FOH engineer or other technical operator to assist in setup and mixing if desired.

Unparalleled Usability

The newly developed REAC Embedded

Power transfers both power and 40 channels of audio to the M-48 via a single

CAT5e cable ‒ dramatically simplifying wiring and stage layouts. Mini jack and

1/4 inch phone jack headphone outputs are provided. Balanced TRS line outputs support wedges, wireless transmitters, or other types of powered monitors. An independent stereo output mini jack enables recording with superb sound quality.

The ambient mic is extremely convenient f o r m i x i n g i n r o o m s o u n d a n d f o r communicating with band members without having to remove headphones or in-ear monitors The built-in limiter p r o v i d e s p r o t e c t i o n f r o m t h o s e inadvertent and sudden spikes in volume.

The additional AUX input provides the ability to mix a metronome or rehearsal track into your mix.

Sweeten your monitor mix to your exact preferences with volume, pan, 3-band

EQ and built-in reverb per group ‒ all instantly adjustable via convenient encoder knobs. A Limiter can be engaged to protect your ears from sudden and dangerous volume spikes. Based on REAC, the all-digital connection results in a low noise floor, improved musicality and crystal clear sound.

The M-48 Live Personal Mixer is a breath of fresh air for live performers giving them full control over their personal monitor mix. Truly professional. Truly personal.

Stage

M-48

FOH or Monitor

M-400

8

S-4000D

The M-48 can be attached to a mic stand using a mounting bracket. LED equipped encoders are ideal for easy operation in darkened venues.

The diagram above shows an example of an M-400 setup with a Personal Mixing System. The S-4000D splitter can send power to the M-48s and is connected via a CAT5e cable. Up to eight units can be connected to a single

S-4000D.

M-48

Equipped with reverb and ambient mic

The innovative personal mixer

Memory section

Store and instantly recall 16 setups in the unit

AUX in/Ambient Mic section

Separately adjust an external input volume level and the ambient sound level picked up by the unit s built-in mic

Line Out section

Controls the volume level being sent out the separate balanced line out jacks.

Headphone section

Select REVERB ON/OFF, adjust headphone output EQ, control LIMITER and VOLUME level

Control

The Control buttons allow a d j u s t m e n t o f t h e

VOLUME, PAN, REVERB

SEND and 3-band EQ for e a c h o f t h e s i x t e e n stereo groups.

Rotary Encoders section

Equipped with eight rotary encoder knobs with LEDs. Use the layer buttons to switch between stereo groups 1 8 or 9 16.

Headphone jacks

M i n i a t u r e a n d s t a n d a r d p h o n e jacks are provided along with attenuation.

Line Out jacks

T h e s t e r e o l i n e o u t T R S balanced phone jacks can be connected to floor monitors, bass shakers or to a wireless transmitter.

Rec Out jack

The stereo miniature jack is p r o v i d e d f o r p o r t a b l e recorders.

S-4000D

Ambient mic

This built-in mic is extremely convenient f o r m i x i n g i n r o o m s o u n d a n d f o r communicating with band members without having to remove headphones or in-ear monitors.

AUX IN jack

This convenient external input can be used for a metronome etc.

A REAC Splitter that supplies audio and embedded power to each M-48 Live Personal Mixer

REAC connector

These are the standard REAC connectors to connect the M-400 and Digital Snake I/O units

REAC connector (REAC Embedded Power)

Power for up to eight devices. Connect any RSS snake or personal mixing product and automatic sensing detects if power is required.

9

Part5

Recording the Live Event

The advantages of REAC also extend to live recording. One REAC cable enables recording of up to 40 channels. Simply plug a CAT5e cable into a computer installed with Cakewalk SONAR PRODUCER and capture the live feed.

Producing live recordings

Many users need to record live material that is quickly turned around into CDs or uploaded to the Internet. Not long ago, recording at a live event commonly involved using a room or truck full of recording equipment. The configuration required using transformer-based splitters to split the audio cables leading from the multi-box stations by the stage in order to send the audio signals to the recording point. At that point, thick multi-core lines would be run to the record position, all of which involved a high cost in installations and a lot of manual labor in portable setups.

REAC offers the solution to produce live recordings easily and inexpensively.

Onboard Stereo Recording

The RSS V-Mixer has a built-in USB stereo recorder/player. Using a USB memory drive, linear WAV files can be recorded or played back. Effortlessly capture a live stereo mix from the MAINs or from an AUX bus. When completed, pull the memory drive out and simply plug it into a CD duplicator or compress/upload to a website.

Live Multi-channel Recording

If you want to go beyond stereo recording and production built into the V-Mixer or if you are using an RSS Digital Snake, the

V-Mixing System has two options for multichannel recording and production.

The SONAR REAC Recording System, when used in conjunction with the RSS V-Mixing

System or RSS Digital Snakes, provides the a comprehensive live recording, mixing, editing, mastering and delivery solution. Simply connect a REAC split from your system to the gigabit network port on an appropriately configured PC. The

REAC driver enables users to record 40 channels from their Digital Snake/V-Mixing

System directly into SONAR. Record 40 independent tracks of individual channels or sound sources. Edit that captured audio, mix down, and you have a final product ready for distribution. SONAR helps you distribute your recording with a full suite of tools for mastering to CD or direct delivery to your web site.

The SONAR REAC Recording System includes:

SONAR Producer

REAC Driver Kit

EDIROL FA-66 Monitoring Device

SONAR Templates

Users Guides

The SONAR V-Studio 700 REAC Edition is the ultimate recording solution for use with

REAC systems. Like the above configuration the SONAR V-Studio also consists of SONAR

Producer, but additionally the software is intelligently matched with state-of-theart hardware that meets Roland's high standards of quality and reliability. It includes the VS-700C V-STUDIO Console multifunction control surface and VS-700R

V-STUDIO I/O audio interface.

Taken as a whole, SONAR V-STUDIO

700 offers the tactile feel of working in a traditional studio, but in a way that takes advantage of everything modern technology has to offer. Striving to create the ideal music production environment,

Cakewalk and Roland have built the ultimate DAW Digital Audio Workstation integrated with high-end tools.

Used in conjunction with the RSS V-Mixing

System or RSS Digital Snakes the REAC

Edition of the SONAR V-STUDIO 700 provides the most comprehensive live recording, editing, mixing, mastering and delivery solution available. REAC driver technology enables users to record up to

40 channels of audio from an RSS V-Mixing

System or RSS Digital Snake directly into a

PC using a single Ethernet cable.

Cakewalk and Roland selected only the very best components in designing SONAR

V-STUDIO 700. At the heart of the system is SONAR Producer, the leading DAW in the market today. SONAR Producer gives you everything you need for recording, composing, editing, mixing, mastering, and delivery. Cakewalk's flagship instruments,

D i m e n s i o n P r o ( i n c l u d e d i n S O NA R

Producer) and Rapture, are also part of the software package.

The software is intelligently matched w i t h s t a t e - o f - t h e - a r t h a r d w a r e t h a t meets Roland's high standards of quality and reliability. It includes the VS-700C

V-STUDIO Console multifunction control surface and VS-700R V-STUDIO I/O audio interface which has an integrated Roland

Fantom VS hardware synthesizer based on the world-renowned Fantom synthesizer.

The system represents the best that software and hardware have to offer with amazing control, integration, and sound quality.

1 0

SONAR PRODUCER is the flagship Digital Audio

Workstation software from Cakewalk.

It includes a multitude of effects and is capable of professional-quality mixing, mastering, and delivery.

Installing the REAC driver allows SONAR PRODUCER to record up to 40 channels of audio over a gigibit ethernet port.

▲Photo 1: The EDIROL FA-66 Firewire audio interface allows you to monitor audio from the REAC network.

Recording with the Standard V-Mixing System

Stage FOH or Monitor

40-channel recording

S-1608

S-1608

M-400

S/P DIF optical

Synchronized

FA-66

Headphones

※

FireWire

Recording

24bit/

48kHz,

44.1kHz

Windows computer + SONAR

Monitor

※Windows gigabit network port

Recording with the S-1608 Digital Snake

Stage

S-1608


Analog

FOH or monitor

Analog console

S/P DIF optical

Synchronized

S-4000R

Headphones

S-0816

FA-66

S-4000-SP

※

FireWire

Recording

24bit/

96kHz

Monitor

Windows computer + SONAR

※Windows gigabit network port

Recording with the Expanded V-Mixing System

Stage

S/P DIF optical

FOH or Monitor

VS-700 I/O


Analog

M-400

S-1608

VS-700C Headphones

USB

S-4000S-3208

※

Windows computer + SONAR ※Windows gigabit network port

1 1

Part6

Installation report ❶

BBC Radi o Theatre

RSS M-400 DIGITAL MIXING SYSTEM PLAYS T O THE CROWD IN LEGENDARY RADIO STUDIO

1 2

Installed Products

M-400

S-4000S-3208 Digital Snake

Application

The Roland M-400 was chosen for its powerful features and high quality mic pres, explains Peter Knowles of Total Audio

Solutions, who started his career at Broadcasting house some

25 years ago. Digital consoles of this type are ever-flexible tool boxes that can recall complex setups in seconds. The Roland can distribute its remote mic pres many times over.

Introduction

One of the final components in an extensive technical refurbishment of the BBC's largest radio studio, the M-400

V-Mixing System from RSS by Roland has been installed in the broadcaster's famous Radio Theatre in London's Broadcasting

As part of a larger building programme, the Radio Theatre has been refurbished and fitted out for a wide range of audience shows, primarily but not exclusively output to radio, including light entertainment productions, comedy, Christmas specials and one-off events. The venue for many historic recordings since the

1930s when it was known as the BBC Concert Hall, today the theatre's 312-seat auditorium has been equipped with extensive

PA and lighting facilities, and includes an 80-track digital recording facility.

With the M-400 halving the physical footprint of the previous analogue console used in the Theatre, and the RSS Digital Snake

32x8 stage unit and 8x32 front-of-house unit fitting into a single

12U rack, the system is suitably compact and portable for an environment that has limited space. If necessary, we can strike the system really quickly, says Events Manager Mark Diamond.

With some Radio OB vehicles using the same Snakes and

M-400 consoles, we can turn up at very short notice and provide broadcast splits fast.

A contributor to Roland's customer research on feature upgrades, Diamond has recently loaded the new Version 1.5 software onto the M-400, and reports that the console is now more flexible, notably with the ability to move 24 gates and

24 compressors more freely. The free software upgrade also includes numerous user interface enhancements for accelerated workflow and ease of use.

The System

The RSS M-400 digital mixing system has the job of mixing the two PA systems in the theatre, a d&b compact line array and a distributed speech system. More than 100 mic inputs are sent from stage via MADI to the main control console for the on-air broadcast mix. From the stagebox, a smaller selection of 40 inputs is split to the RSS S-4000 Digital Snake stage unit, travelling up CAT5E digital multicore to the M-400 console, where these inputs are used for the front-of-house sound mix, and providing up to 8 foldback mixes if required. The system configuration permits the use of a second M-400 as a monitor console, currently seconded from a BBC multimedia events team.

The M-400 is a 48-channel M-400 Mixing Console with 16 buses, channel and bus DSP, 4 stereo FX processors, 4 graphic EQs, built-in stereo recording and playback, and built in multi-channel split port. It is supplied with configurable digital snakes using high quality, remotely controlled mic preamps on stage, and lowcost lightweight Cat5e distribution.

Installation report❷

Concerts Unlimited

Expanded System

Installed Products

M-400

S-1608 Stage Unit

S-4000S-3208 Stage Unit

▲V-Mixer at Corporate Event

The System

Below is a typical setup for the Concerts Unlimited crew on most shows and events. The two stage boxes sit on stage. The S-1608 goes near the drum riser, and the S- 4000 goes on stage left or right out of sight. The S-4000 is configured as 24 inputs, 12 analog outputs, and 4 AES digital outputs. The inputs get sent to the M-400 at FOH where they're mixed and sent back to the outputs on the S-4000. The AES digital outputs feed the AES inputs of a dbx® Driverack 4800, while the analog outs feed the mixes and fills. The Driverack feeds the I-Techs through AES digital cables, keeping the signal chain digital from preamp to amplifier, with no intermediate stages of AD or DA conversion.

If there's ever a need for a monitor console, another M-400 is brought in and split off the two stage boxes with network switches.

Introduction

Concerts Unlimited LLC, founded in 2005 is a provider of production services and equipment sales serving the New

England region in the US. They pride themselves in providing the highest quality of sound, lighting, and video service with the newest equipment and best crew possible. They stared out with an analog Mackie console with JBL speakers and some QSC series 3 amplifi ers from way back in the day.

System Integration

Silas Pradetto, principal and owner of Concerts Unlimited, overseas every project and ensures that the production quality is at the highest level. Pradetto explains, We are doing tons of shows per year, and the company is expanding at a breakneck pace . Due to the nature of the production company with lots of different type of needs from concert and corporate events to live TV broadcasts and recording sessions, they needed a system that was rugged, easy to use, and easy to setup.

Pradetto explains, The top three things that sold me on the

V-Mixing system versus any other digital mixing system were the sound quality, reliability, and the integrated digital snake. The

V-Mixing System is very unique to other consoles in that it offers an integrated digital snake system which provides exceptional sound quality and a cost effective way to get audio from the stage to the FOH position with simply two Cat5e cables.

Application

Pradetto loves his job, the V-Mixing System, and the service that

Roland Systems Group provides. Pradetto says, The system has made a vast improvement in the speed of system deployment and the sound quality of the setup. It also conserves a ton of space compared to our old analog setup. Roland Systems Group really cares about their users̶they listen to us to see what we want in the system and integrate it in new firmware. The service and support are excellent and most of all, the system sounds fantastic. Speed, reliability, and sound quality are at the heart of the V-Mixing System. The V-Mixing System has enabled Concerts

Unlimited to expand their services they provide, improve sound quality, and minimize the labor involved in setup and teardown.

S 1 6 0 8

Stage

S 4 0 0 0 S 3 2 0 8

REAC A REAC B

▲CU Crew at Outdoor Festival

Front of House

▲V-Mixer at Church Event ▲V-Mixer at Concert Event

1 3

Part6

1 4

Installation report ❸

The ease of use convinces a self-confessed old analog guy

Ford Field is a multipurpose stadium located in Detroit, Michigan, which is also the home of the NFL Detroit

Lions. Besides football games and other sporting events, this stadium has also hosted concerts by the

R o l l i n g S t o n e s , M a d o n n a , a n d

Eminem, etc. 150 power amps and

184 cluster speakers are permanently installed, and the V-Mixing System is at the heart of this audio system.

Installation report ❹

B e s t c h o i c e f o r a n o p e r a theater

The National Theater of Poland, Teatr

Wielki [Great Theater], was built in the nation's capital of Warsaw in 1910. It is the finest opera theater in Poland and now annually hosts 40 operas and 15 ballet performances. The world-renowned venue has featured many distinguished soloists and new projects are constantly being added.

The V-Mixing System installed in this theater includes the M-400, an

S-4000S-3208, and an S-1608.

Installation report❺

Flexibility to handle large scale events

More than a million people turned out to see Pope Benedict when he visited Spain. A PA system utilizing

950 speakers that were stretched out over a distance of 20km was installed to handle this huge event.

This complex venue covering such a long distance required a system that could provide clear sound. The

Digital Snake provided the solution.

Oscar Fragio of Apogee-Telecom was in charge of managing the PA for

Ford Field

The system includes the S-4000S-

3208 and S-1608 stage units along with two M-400 consoles, one of which serves as a backup unit. The reasons for installing this system were the ease of use and excellent cost performance. Mark Simoni, the mixing engineer for Lions games, a d m i t s t o b e i n g a n o l d a n a l o g g u y . A f t e r t e s t i n g t h e M - 4 0 0 alongside other digital consoles, he and the staff concluded that they could operate the M-400 with confidence. Improved sound quality and the power to control a variety of situations are among the many advantages of this system. Simoni also points out the ease of use, and added, Everything is just a button push away. The V-Mixing System is not intimidating and it invites you to put your hands on it.

T h e V - M i x i n g S y s t e m w a s a c o m p e l l i n g c h o i c e t h a t e v e n convinced a self-confessed old analog guy, with its ease of use.

▶ T h e s t a d i u m hosts a variety of events from sports to concerts

Polish National Opera

It also support REAC recording with

SONAR by Cakewalk. 24 microphones are connected to the S-4000S-3208, which is also used for output to the speakers. The S-1608 is used for wireless system input, and the analog inputs and outputs of the M-400 are connected to a CD player and external gear, etc.

We selected the V-Mixing System because we wanted to consolidate several different consoles into one system. As a result, we were able to install a high quality audio mixing s y s t e m a t a n a f f o r d a b l e p r i c e .

Another advantage was REAC, which enables high quality multi-track recording with this system.

◀Ford Field is the home of the NFL

Detroit Lions

Krystian Kołakowski explained the reasons for and benefits of installing the system:

T h e h i g h - q u a l i t y s o u n d o f t h e

V-Mixing System made it the optimum choice for the dignified stage of this opera theater.

▲The National Theater of Poland Teatr Wielki features two auditoriums and a museum

The 5th World Meeting of Families

this event. He told us why they chose the V-Mixing System. We selected this system for its flexibility, ease of operation and system security. The fact that the system is simple and provides a high quality stable sound, matched the fundamental philosophy of our company.

With such a large scale installation, the advantage of using the Digital

Snake is unlimited. It completely satisfied all of our requirements and expectations.

◀A picture of the customized setup u s i n g a r a c k mounted S-4000S

I/O module

Albert Naranjo, also with Apogee-

Telecom, spoke highly of the Digital

Snake. Setup was very easy thanks to the flexibility of the Digital Snake.

If we had used another system, it would have been more complicated.

High quality sound is a must, but having quick and flexible response f r o m s e t u p t o t r o u b l e s h o o t i n g is required to meet the needs of any complex and large scale audio s y s t e m . T h e R E A C c o n c e p t i s both simple and powerful, and this installation demonstrates how REAC can meet these needs.

※T h e s a m e s y s t e m w a s u s e d f o r a similar event held in Brazil.

1 5

Part7

System Configuration Examples

16x8 Digital Snake System

16 Inputs (Digital Snake)

8 Outputs (Digital Snake)

S-1608 S-0816

S-4000R

OR

Mixer

Stage

S-4000RCS

Remote Control Software

Front of House

32x8 Digital Snake System

32 Inputs (Digital Snake)

8 Outputs (Digital Snake)

S-4000S-3208 S-4000H

Inputs : 32 ch

Outputs : 8 ch

Stage

Analog Audio

Inputs : 8 ch

Outputs : 32 ch

Mixer

S-4000R

OR

S-4000RCS

Remote Control Software

Front of House

1 6

Standard V-Mixing System

42 Inputs : 32 ch (Digital Snake) + 10 ch (M-400)

26 Outputs : 16 ch (Digital Snake) + 10 ch (M-400)

S-1608

S-1608

Stage

Inputs : 32 ch

Outputs : 16 ch

Expanded V-Mixing System



S-4000S-3208

S-1608

Stage

M-400

Inputs : 10 ch

Outputs : 10 ch

Front of House

M-400

Inputs : 10 ch

Outputs : 10 ch

Front of House

1 7

Part7

Standard V-Mixing System with Personal Mixing



Personal Mixers : Up to 8 x M-48 per S-4000D (Connect multiple S-4000Ds inline to enable more M-48s)

M-48

1

EMBEDDED POWER

S-1608

8

EMBEDDED POWER

S-1608

REAC A

S-4000D

Inputs : 32 ch

Outputs : 16 ch

Stage

REAC B

M-400

Inputs : 10 ch

Outputs : 10 ch

Front of House

1 8

Standard V-Mixing System with REAC Recording



Record Split : 40 ch

M-400

S-1608

REAC A

S-1608

Stage

Inputs : 32 ch

Outputs : 16 ch

REAC B

SPLIT/ BACKUP

Inputs : 10 ch

Outputs : 10 ch

Front of House

Optional Word Clock

VS-700C

PC with SONAR producer

USB

VS-700 I/O

Recording & Post Production

1 9

Part 1 Why do you need a digital audio production system?

Part 2 RSS Digital Snake - Flexible Audio Transmission & High Sound Quality

Part 3 RSS M-400 V-Mixer - Live Digital Mixer

Part 4 RSS Personal Mixing System ‒ The Ideal Monitoring Solution

Part 5 Recording the Live Event

Part 6 Installation Report

BBC Radio Theatre

Concerts Unlimited

Ford Field

Polish National Opera

The 5th World Meeting of Families

Part7 System Configuration Examples

The original Japanese edition was issued as a supplement of "Sound and Recording Magazine - April 2009 edition".

www.rolandsystemsgroup.net

Sep, 2009 RAM-7030 KS

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