Calrec Omega console with Bluefin set for NAB debut

Calrec Audio will unveil Omega, an entirely new audio console, at NAB2007. Omega uses Calrec’s award-winning Bluefin High Density Signal Processing technology, and features 160 mono DSP paths packaged as 48 stereo plus 64 mono channels, allowing up to 24 x full 5.1 surround channels.

“Omega is positioned between our Zeta and Sigma consoles, and provides considerable power in a very small frame,” said Calrec Sales and Marketing Director John Gluck. “Conditions in key markets encouraged the design of Omega as a smaller console than Sigma but with the same buss structure and delay facilities that Bluefin provides. However, it was clear that the demand for our Zeta desk remains high, and so it continues to be an important element of our product range.”

Omega with Bluefin is equipped with 160 mono DSP paths and, in keeping with previous Bluefin implementations, all this power is managed on just one DSP card.

Available in three frame sizes — 24, 40, and 56 faders — Omega with Bluefin has 8 x 5.1 surround, stereo, or mono audio groups, 20 auxiliary outputs (which can be 20 mono or 10 stereo), and 48 outputs for multitrack or general purpose feeds. The console also has two main stereo or 5.1 surround program outputs with full EQ and compressor/limiter facilities, with full control of the stereo downmix of the surround main outputs, often necessary when doing simultaneous HD and SD transmissions.

“The Omega provides greatly expanded monitoring options with full user configurability and features our unique TFT metering capabilities right across the upstand,” Gluck added. “Our hardware team has placed as much control onto the surface as possible and maintained the immediacy of our assignable system without compromising access.”

Omega with Bluefin will make its debut at NAB2007 alongside a new range of fixed-format remote wall-boxes.