Focusrite has announced Liquid Mix, a new mix processing engine with onboard DSP hosting 32 channels of classic EQs and vintage compressors simultaneously.
The really clever feature of the FireWire device is that each of its channels provides compressor and EQ emulations selected from a huge pool of vintage and modern day classics.
For instance, 40 compressors and 20 EQs are available straight out of the box, with an expanding library online. Furthermore, a unique hybrid 7-band ‘super EQ’ can be built out of separate classic EQ sections in every one of the 32 channels. Each channel appears as a separate VST/AU/RTAS effect within the sequencer and will work within all major applications, including Pro Tools.
Liquid Mix uses the same patented Dynamic Convolution process as Focusrite’s Liquid Channel. Unlike standard convolution techniques, Dynamic Convolution utilises ‘vast’ processing power to sample the effect of a classic processor on a series of audio pulses, at many different gain settings and frequencies. In Liquid Mix, all this processing is done using onboard DSP, so the processing has almost no effect on your computer’s own CPU.
Liquid Mix’s DSP is housed within a desktop control solution and connects to the computer via FireWire, which also provides bus-powering. The physical metering, screen, rotary controls and buttons on the hardware help to provide a tactile ergonomic solution, placing the sounds of an array of high quality vintage processors. You can choose to control each channel either from the desktop control unit, or from within the sequencer, using a simple GUI that functions exactly like a plug-in.
An optional expansion card is available for Liquid Mix, allowing you to increase the number of available channels at higher sample rates (sold separately). The card promises to be quick and easy to install and fits neatly into the underside of the unit. Liquid Mix complements the original Liquid Channel, delivering dynamic convolution for use in the mix.
And since the Liquid Channel’s analogue mic-pre section is not required at mix down, Focusrite has been able to bring Liquid Technology to the masses at a much more accessible price of under $1000 (£575). The Mac version of Liquid Mix is targeted to ship in Q2 of 2006. The PC version is expected to follow later in 2006.
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