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Title: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: Maidson Pierre-Louis on January 24, 2014, 12:01:19 AM
Designing A Future Classic

"New console features Midas Pro Mic Preamps, 192 kHz converters, Midas Pro motorized faders, carbon fibre plus cutting-edge design by Bentley Industrial Designer."

Our goal for M32 was to combine the best of classic British console designs with advanced modern technology to completely redefine what a medium-format live console can offer.
We began the industrial design process by drawing inspiration from a somewhat unexpected source - the luxury and high-performance car industry.

Channel Strip
The M32 Channel Strip puts the most important channel processing parameters into one section so that no matter which channel you are working on, the controls are always the same.

This highly-efficient layout stems from MIDAS decades of console design and input from our users. Optimized control illumination ensures a clear indication of levels or status from any viewing angle.

Illuminated rotary encoders and switches give you control of preamp settings, frequency shelving, dual dynamics sections, as well as multi-mode fully parametric EQ, bus sends, main, mono and stereo panning.

7" Main Display
M32’s 7" day-viewable color TFT (Thin-Film Transistor) display shows the setting parameters you need when you need them.

Selected for its high-contrast performance and outdoor visibility, TFT is ideal for concert and open air festival venues. Flanked by high-precision, context-sensitive tactile encoders, the screen comes to life and immediately reports in high definition all adjustments applied to a wide range of parameters.

Intelligent design puts control of vital functions such as Effects, Metering, Routing and much more 1 or 2 button presses away.

Sends On Fader
M32 brings the convenience of digital mixing to your Aux and output bus mixes too, thanks to its integrated Sends on Fader feature. This incredible function allows you to build powerful, dedicated sub-mixes for monitor, secondary zone feeds, and much more—all without affecting the front of house mix or levels.

The M32 allows you to send your choice of signals to any Aux or output bus and then dial in the perfect mix via the channel faders.

The console remembers where you set the faders and instantly recalls them when you select a bus for quick adjustments.

DCA Groups
DCA (Digitally Controlled Amplifier) groups allow control over several signals at once without actually mixing them into a subgroup bus. M32’s 8 DCA groups let you control multiple signals via a single fader, such as the entire drum mix, the horn section, or the backup vocalists, etc.

DCA control affects the FOH mix, while allowing the individual buses to remain unchanged. The result is a customizable workflow that provides maximum flexibility, but still allows individual buses and subgroups to serve the purpose they were intended for, such as zone sends, broadcast feeds, etc.

View Function
Across the M32 you’ll find 11 strategically placed View buttons associated with various functions. These buttons enable immediate access to information about that specific function.

For instance, if you press the View button in the Equalizer section, information for that channel’s EQ is instantly shown on the main display, providing in-depth editing of all related parameters.

This direct access to visual fine-tuning gives the engineer a level of control previously available only on consoles costing exponentially more.

Assign Section
While some digital consoles offer a few user-definable controls, M32’s Assign section sets a new standard by providing a total of 36 fully customizable controls on three separate layers.

As with channels and buses, individual Scribble Strips are provided for immediate identification. Buttons can be defined to toggle parameters on/off, adjust timing of effects by tapping, or jump to specific screen views.

Rotary encoders with LED collars can be assigned to specific channel parameters, or to additional parameters in the Dynamics section relevant to the current channel selection.


"Acoustic Integration" – the Live Sound Revolution
Legendary 40-year old British company TURBOSOUND, famous for producing some of the world’s best speaker systems, have teamed up with MIDAS to seamlessly integrate mixer and speaker systems. We call it "Acoustic Integration".

The M32’s ULTRANET bus allows streaming up to 16-channels of pristine digital audio to an array of TURBOSOUND iQ speakers - all on a single CAT5 cable, along with control data to set sound presets remotely.


Furthermore, the iQ Series features "True Physical Modeling" of some of the most popular speakers which can be easily remote controlled via the M32, allowing the sound engineer to apply different speaker models in real time from the comfort of the mixing desk.

"Acoustic Integration" is the next live sound revolution.

100-Band RTA for all Channel/Bus EQ’s
The M32 now includes a high-resolution 100-band Real Time Analyzer (RTA), with full Bar and Spectrograph views. This high-resolution RTA displays the audio energy distribution in 100 frequency bands over time – capturing a sonogram window of a full 10 seconds.

Switch between the Large RTA view, displaying any available signal in full screen resolution, or the Combined view with the RTA view shown above each of the channel and bus EQ curves. See the results of your filtering choices in the audio spectrum directly. Additionally, the RTA can be displayed on top of the 31-band graphic EQs in the FX rack.

Monitoring and controlling frequencies has never been easier!


16 Breathtaking FX "Plug-Ins" Based on True Physical Modeling
We’ve added 16 new FX "Plug-Ins" to the M32, giving you access to a total of 50+ effects that would otherwise cost tens of thousands of dollars in hardware.

This new generation of high-end FX "Plug-Ins" is based on True Physical Modeling of classic audio hardware. We essentially "rebuilt" classic analog gear in the digital domain and included models of legendary processors such as Urei’s 1176*, Teletronix LA-2A* and Fairchild 670* compressors as well as the legendary Pultec* EQP-1a and EQ5 equalizers etc. We also added a cutting-edge 5-band multiband compressor.


Last but not least, the M32 can now run 4 studio-quality stereo reverbs together with 8 channels of 31-band graphic EQ. This allows you to replace your old outboard gear with a fully recallable onboard solution.

Gain Splitting and Remote Control for FOH and Monitoring
A new Gain Split mode separates channel gain (trim) from the head amp gain, allowing both the FOH and/or the monitor engineer to adjust local trim digitally – and independently of the preamp gain.

Additionally, the new HA Gain Remote option allows console gains to be remotely controlled by an external console, such as when using the M32 as a stage box.

More Routing and Processing Flexibility
The M32’s routing becomes even more flexible with this recent firmware upgrade. Output signals and XLR outputs are now treated separately, allowing signals from AES50 sources or expansion cards to be routed directly to the M32’s analog outputs.

For example, now you can use the outputs from an M32 for directly routing back PA or monitoring signals from a main or FOH console. New output tap points can be set as pre- or post-mute for greater usability with your P16 personal monitoring mixers. This is very useful in situations where you don’t want mute groups to interrupt your signal flow.

The Midas M32 is available at a suggested U.S. MAP of $4999.99 – and is covered by Music Group’s 3-Year Warranty Program.
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: Maidson Pierre-Louis on January 24, 2014, 12:02:43 AM
Do you guy think its a replacement of the X32 ... Just asking
I know its a new item ...
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: Maidson Pierre-Louis on January 24, 2014, 12:07:12 AM
Do you guy think its a replacement of the X32 ... Just asking
I know its a new item ...

http://midasconsoles.com/Products/M32.html
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: Michael Gorecki on January 24, 2014, 12:14:44 AM
Do you guy think its a replacement of the X32 ... Just asking
I know its a new item ...

I doubt they will replace the X32. I look at this as the top of the line X32. For all the guys that couldn't buy the X32 because it said behringer can now spend that little extra and get a slightly altered chassis with more Midas parts on it and feel better about the money you've spent.

It has definitely peaked my interest though at $5k with the promise of M16 stage boxes.
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: Steve M Smith on January 24, 2014, 01:49:54 AM
For all the guys that couldn't buy the X32 because it said behringer can now spend that little extra and get a slightly altered chassis with more Midas parts on it and feel better about the money you've spent.

I posted this a while ago - "There are lots of people who have never used an X32 who will tell us it's no good because it has a Behringer logo on it.  If it said Midas instead, lots of people who have never used one will tell us how great it is".

Now the second half can come true!


Steve.
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: Tim McCulloch on January 24, 2014, 07:10:41 AM
I posted this a while ago - "There are lots of people who have never used an X32 who will tell us it's no good because it has a Behringer logo on it.  If it said Midas instead, lots of people who have never used one will tell us how great it is".

Now the second half can come true!


Steve.

I'd say that's pretty much spot on.
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: Dave Bednarski on January 24, 2014, 07:51:06 AM
You'd almost think this was an internet April fools day spoof!
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: James Rowe on January 24, 2014, 07:55:06 AM
Midas powered by Behringer.
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: Thomas Le on January 24, 2014, 08:11:17 AM
Wow, this looks exactly like the X32, layout and everything.

Pass.

I can't justify paying more for a MIDAS logo on it when I could save thousands by getting an X32.
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: Mark McFarlane on January 24, 2014, 08:51:13 AM
Wow, this looks exactly like the X32, layout and everything.

Pass.

I can't justify paying more for a MIDAS logo on it when I could save thousands by getting an X32.

Midas Pro Faders, Midas Pro Preamps, Better ergonomics for the case (tilt), perhaps a better screen in daylight, perhaps better support/warranty,...  Useless higher sample rates implies more processing power for additional features/routing/busses/ for expandability, maybe better algorithms one day,...
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: Tim McCulloch on January 24, 2014, 10:16:05 AM
Midas Pro Faders, Midas Pro Preamps, Better ergonomics for the case (tilt), perhaps a better screen in daylight, perhaps better support/warranty,...  Useless higher sample rates implies more processing power for additional features/routing/busses/ for expandability, maybe better algorithms one day,...

Either the X32 is too good for the price or the M32 isn't different enough.  I sincerely doubt there is an audible difference in preamps when operated within their linear range.  The more robust fader and perhaps rotary controls/buttons are a longevity improvement, not necessarily a functional one.

The 96k operation and internal 192k processing may or may not be worth $2000 down the road, but it will ensure connectivity with the rest of the Midas/KT line.

The feature set, otherwise, appears to be largely identical to X32 v2.
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: John Roberts {JR} on January 24, 2014, 11:08:36 AM
  I sincerely doubt there is an audible difference in preamps when operated within their linear range. 
Yes, but IIRC Midas has a proprietary mic preamp overload (limiter) that encourages running the front end hotter and trades some relatively benign limiting for more apparent headroom/dynamic range. I am not a fan of the concept but some users appear to like it.
Quote
The more robust fader and perhaps rotary controls/buttons are a longevity improvement, not necessarily a functional one.
More expensive controls seems like an expected feature enhancement on a higher priced model.
Quote
The 96k operation and internal 192k processing may or may not be worth $2000 down the road, but it will ensure connectivity with the rest of the Midas/KT line.
Probably more perceived than real benefit, but the higher sample rate was apparently reserved for the Midas version to deliver some differentiation from the lower priced spread.
Quote
The feature set, otherwise, appears to be largely identical to X32 v2.
More expensive controls and voodoo preamps are actual features, while functionally the consoles may be similar.

JR
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: Jim McKeveny on January 24, 2014, 11:48:35 AM
Fader issues are a common X32 complaint, as there is no calibration protocol. Is this same situation with M32?

Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: Samuel Rees on January 24, 2014, 02:17:19 PM

Fader issues are a common X32 complaint, as there is no calibration protocol. Is this same situation with M32?

They talk about the faders a lot early in the brochure :) haha. They're implying better at least.

If it has similar I/O latency to the X32 (which is very low), but @ 96k, it could have REALLY low latency.

Imagining a bigger company with A bunch of Midas Pro1-9, it could totally be worth it to them having a few extra features plus "Midas" not Berry on the front, just for a few Gs. Not a significant price difference in a company with $200k worth of consoles. Very interesting though, just thinking aloud...
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: brian maddox on January 24, 2014, 02:26:25 PM
They talk about the faders a lot early in the brochure :) haha. They're implying better at least.

If it has similar I/O latency to the X32 (which is very low), but @ 96k, it could have REALLY low latency.

Imagining a bigger company with A bunch of Midas Pro1-9, it could totally be worth it to them having a few extra features plus "Midas" not Berry on the front, just for a few Gs. Not a significant price difference in a company with $200k worth of consoles. Very interesting though, just thinking aloud...

I've already shared this announcement with a few of my sound Co. owning brethren that i have spoken with in the past about the X32.  None of them could put a X32 out on a show simply because of Behringer's past reputation for low-end gear as it would reflect poorly on their company.  But to get an X32 with the Midas name on it at this price point will appeal to many of them.  The X32 has already proven to be a good performer with a good reliability track record at this point.  And most clients won't really know or care where the pedigree comes from.  They'll just see a familiar brand name on a nice looking desk and think 'awesome, my vendor is using the latest and greatest equipment on my show.  They really ARE worth what i pay them'.  :)
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: Tim McCulloch on January 24, 2014, 02:37:22 PM
I've already shared this announcement with a few of my sound Co. owning brethren that i have spoken with in the past about the X32.  None of them could put a X32 out on a show simply because of Behringer's past reputation for low-end gear as it would reflect poorly on their company.  But to get an X32 with the Midas name on it at this price point will appeal to many of them.  The X32 has already proven to be a good performer with a good reliability track record at this point.  And most clients won't really know or care where the pedigree comes from.  They'll just see a familiar brand name on a nice looking desk and think 'awesome, my vendor is using the latest and greatest equipment on my show.  They really ARE worth what i pay them'.  :)

I used a piece of purple gaff tape and a gold Sharpie to "midas-ize" my X32.  It's very handsome.  8)

This is a cynical (but expected and marginally brilliant) move by Behringer to utilize the X platform and use the brand differentiation to see exactly where brand loyalty/price points converge or diverge.

If one needs the 96k 'feature' then Midas is the brand.  If you can't have "Berry" on the badge, M32 is an answer.  If you need the utility of interfacing with your existing Midas/KT inventory, the M32 is the answer. If you don't have those issues, save $2k and get the X32 or a Soundcraft.

Really, though, I think we're seeing the continuation of the distributed i/o & non-mix processing that will further blur brand and market-position distinctions in mixers.

It's a great time to be in live audio. :)
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: John Chiara on January 24, 2014, 04:29:54 PM
Yes, but IIRC Midas has a proprietary mic preamp overload (limiter) that encourages running the front end hotter and trades some relatively benign limiting for more apparent headroom/dynamic range. I am not a fan of the concept but some users appear to like it. More expensive controls seems like an expected feature enhancement on a higher priced model. Probably more perceived than real benefit, but the higher sample rate was apparently reserved for the Midas version to deliver some differentiation from the lower priced spread. More expensive controls and voodoo preamps are actual features, while functionally the consoles may be similar.

JR

I know a local monitor desk...a Midas 200 series...and the techs regularly crank the preamps until the channel clip lights are flashing or on....and it does NOT make for any useful results...IMO.
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: Rob Spence on January 24, 2014, 06:21:26 PM
There have been a lot of posts in the various forums from recording folk complaining about the X32 only being 48k. The M32 may end up giving them something they can use while still being affordable though a bit more than the x32.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: Rob Spence on January 24, 2014, 06:22:57 PM
If the M32 was available when I was buying my GLD, I might have a different desk today. It will be interesting how this plays out.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: Kevin Maxwell on January 24, 2014, 08:01:31 PM
I really wanted the X32 to work for me for musical theater but the limited cue capabilities wouldn’t work for me. I haven’t been following the X32 software updates so I don’t know if it is only on the M32 but it looks like it handles 500 cues. It is worded a little bit interestingly it says it handles 100 scenes and 500 cues. So I am real interested in how they implement that.

Does anyone know when this is supposed to be available and who will be selling it? Will a dealer that currently sells the X32 be allowed to sell the M32?
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: Samuel Rees on January 24, 2014, 08:04:18 PM

I really wanted the X32 to work for me for musical theater but the limited cue capabilities wouldn’t work for me. I haven’t been following the X32 software updates so I don’t know if it is only on the M32 but it looks like it handles 500 cues. It is worded a little bit interestingly it says it handles 100 scenes and 500 cues. So I am real interested in how they implement that.

Does anyone know when this is supposed to be available and who will be selling it? Will a dealer that currently sells the X32 be allowed to sell the M32?

Major updates to the cue system in the X32 V2 software updates. I think they appear to now be the same on both desks - is that how you guys are reading it too?
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: Chris Clark on January 24, 2014, 09:54:00 PM
Yes, the cues are in 2.0, on both consoles.
Based on what I've read and watched in the NAMM video about 2.0, it seems like cues are a way to recall both snippets (which are essentially recallable settings without having to save a whole scene) and scenes, IMO it seems like this really takes the scene/cue system to a whole new level over what 1.x had.
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: Lee Richard on January 24, 2014, 10:09:15 PM
Now I wonder why they put an RTA inside? From the screenshot it looks like you just select a channel or a bus, but does that mean there is a transfer function?
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: Tim McCulloch on January 24, 2014, 11:17:45 PM
Now I wonder why they put an RTA inside? From the screenshot it looks like you just select a channel or a bus, but does that mean there is a transfer function?

There does not appear to be a transfer function.
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: Mark McFarlane on January 25, 2014, 04:48:14 AM
If the M32 was available when I was buying my GLD, I might have a different desk today. It will be interesting how this plays out.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD

+1, and I've only had my GLD for a few weeks....
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: Jason Lucas on January 25, 2014, 10:40:15 AM
Now I wonder why they put an RTA inside? From the screenshot it looks like you just select a channel or a bus, but does that mean there is a transfer function?

The RTA appears to be more functional than the one offered in Roland consoles, which only has the bar graph, and is only 31-band.
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: Samuel Rees on January 25, 2014, 11:00:31 AM

+1, and I've only had my GLD for a few weeks....

I don't know.... not dealing with national riders, the M32 doesn't seem very appealing at all. It looks like it will case really big because of that slant, and $5000 includes no digital snake, and it's essentially identical to the X32. What do you guys find so compelling compared to the GLD?
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: Bob Leonard on January 25, 2014, 12:45:49 PM
Probably the name Midas.

Not being an X32 or Midas owner I tend to think the board has to be more than an X32 in drag, and have said as much in the other threads. Only time will tell, but at first glance the board is designed by Midas, uses Midas pre amps, composite and aluminum chassis, and other Midas qualities / features.

I don't think the board has more to offer than the GLD or a Soundcraft Performer, but Midas had a hole in the lineup to fill, and they've filled it.
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: John Penkala on January 25, 2014, 01:43:54 PM
I don't know.... not dealing with national riders, the M32 doesn't seem very appealing at all. It looks like it will case really big because of that slant, and $5000 includes no digital snake, and it's essentially identical to the X32. What do you guys find so compelling compared to the GLD?

I can use an M32 on a corporate gig where I can't use Behringer or entry level A&H, as nice as the GLD may be.
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: Mark McFarlane on January 25, 2014, 02:27:49 PM
I don't know.... not dealing with national riders, the M32 doesn't seem very appealing at all. It looks like it will case really big because of that slant, and $5000 includes no digital snake, and it's essentially identical to the X32. What do you guys find so compelling compared to the GLD?

$5,000 is still cheaper than the GLD, but on par with recent free offers of the free AR2412.  However, I have a suspicion that the X32/M32 platform software and add-on hardware are going to be happen faster, with more features, and at lower prices. If you look at it as a platform instead of a 1-time console purchase, the X32/M32 is attractive.  Just one guys opinion. I'm very happy with my new GLD112. 

For the record, I bought an X32 rack last month also as my backup system, for rehearsal space, and for small events with no FOH space.  Replaced an A-H Zed.   Picked the X32 rack over the DL1608 due to the platform concept, and because of other poor design choices by Mackie like non-recallable headamps and the 1/4 TRS outputs.
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: Per Sovik on January 25, 2014, 10:51:59 PM
I really wanted the X32 to work for me for musical theater but the limited cue capabilities wouldn’t work for me. I haven’t been following the X32 software updates so I don’t know if it is only on the M32 but it looks like it handles 500 cues. It is worded a little bit interestingly it says it handles 100 scenes and 500 cues. So I am real interested in how they implement that.

Does anyone know when this is supposed to be available and who will be selling it? Will a dealer that currently sells the X32 be allowed to sell the M32?

You can have 100 snippets and 100 scenes. The 500 cues can be made up of any scene + any snippet, so you have a lot of flexibility to construct the 500 cues. Basically, you use the scenes for the big changes, and laying the foundations, and snippets for small changes, like an effect change, mute changes etc.
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: Kevin Maxwell on January 26, 2014, 12:23:53 AM
You can have 100 snippets and 100 scenes. The 500 cues can be made up of any scene + any snippet, so you have a lot of flexibility to construct the 500 cues. Basically, you use the scenes for the big changes, and laying the foundations, and snippets for small changes, like an effect change, mute changes etc.

Well it looks like the X32 version 2. beta does the exact same things. I am going to need to get my hands on that and see if it fits my needs.
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: Tim Padrick on January 26, 2014, 02:01:37 AM
I prefer the KISS principle - just give me 200 scenes.  Or give me a choice between methods.
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: Per Sovik on January 26, 2014, 05:54:41 AM
Well it looks like the X32 version 2. beta does the exact same things. I am going to need to get my hands on that and see if it fits my needs.

Yes, there is no firmware difference except the logo.
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: jason misterka on January 26, 2014, 07:57:19 AM
Yes, there is no firmware difference except the logo.

You all say that as a bad thing.

I've never used the x32 and so obviously not v2 software either.  So maybe it is a bad thing.  Lots of people seem to like the x32 software. Or maybe it's like it always is and people just like what they chose to buy.

But the thing that makes me wary of buying an M32 for this season is confirming that the software is stable right out of the box.

Midas had some serious issues with the PRO software for longer than I feel was acceptable.  They are mostly resolved now.  But I do not want to willingly put myself through that again.

That being said, the Midas PRO consoles are my current favorites, sound great, have a fairly spectacular feature set for the money.  I'm happy using  even a PRO 2c for FOH or monitors even at festivals or showcases.  There is a learning curve but it is worth it IMO.  Or maybe I am just liking it because I chose to buy it...

If the M32 sounds like a PRO desk, is stable, friendly to use, has a good screen, and integrates with our PRO stage boxes, for $5000 MAP I am stupid not to buy some even if it is just to limit the miles we put on our larger more expensive desks or to be an emergency spare.

But I may wait a bit to make sure they will actually be available and will operate as desired.

Jason
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: jason misterka on January 26, 2014, 08:15:34 AM
Ps I would love a Midas PRO version of the rack mounted x32.

That would be an incredible matrix mixer for console switching at festivals and arenas.  I would just worry about maintaining iPad control without glitches in the arena. 

But to have at least a16x8 matrixing box with enough inputs and mic preamps for several MCs, video, and playback as well as three band consoles.  To have AES50 from our other Midas consoles, AES3 from any band Avids and AES50 output to the network bridge for Dante to the amps.

Like an APB mix switch but with digital IO and many more ins and outs.  Sounds kinda like a Lab Gruppen LM 44 but with more IO and without Lake control.

Now I just need to get Dante working right between all my devices, that has only been a year long project.

Sorry for the topic swerve.

Jason
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: Stuart Miller on January 26, 2014, 09:03:44 AM
I was hoping the "Never in the History..." offering might be a rack-mount console, sort of equivalent to what Digico offers with their SD11 models. Oh well!

I recently ended up purchasing a Pro1 and am very happy with my purchase decision. I could be happier if a rack-mount version of a Pro1 would be available, for the smaller footprint, which is what I was hoping the M32 console would be.

I realize beauty is in the eye of the beholder but I don't care for the appearance of  the M32 so would not be something I'd want.
Not that looks are everything but one of the reasons I opted for the Pro1 (aside from the reputation for sound quality, robustness, etc) was the color-coding possibilities.

I'll keep my fingers crossed that a rack-mount Pro1 option will come down the pike at some point.

Stu
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: Alec Spence on January 26, 2014, 10:04:28 AM
Not that looks are everything but one of the reasons I opted for the Pro1 (aside from the reputation for sound quality, robustness, etc) was the color-coding possibilities.
If you mean colour coding of LCD scribble strips, then the X32/M32 has this.  Not as bright as the Pro series, granted, but there.
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: Stuart Miller on January 26, 2014, 11:33:02 AM
If you mean colour coding of LCD scribble strips, then the X32/M32 has this.  Not as bright as the Pro series, granted, but there.

Yes the X32 does. The M32 didn't exist when I bought the Pro1. There were two reasons I didn't consider the X32:
1. Behringer's reputation prior to the introduction of the X32. I have some Behringer products that are not very good. Fortunately they were'nt so expensive, though they turned out to be a waste of time and money because of their poor quality, etc.

Therefore, I couldn't bring myself to be one of the 'guinea pigs' for the X32. Maybe after a year or two, after seeing how the X32 holds up, but I wanted to get a digital console now, so the Behringer X32 wasn't a consideration.

2. The X32 footprint was too large for me. What I really wanted was the footprint of the Digico SD11, but I couldn't justify the cost of the SD11, so it was down to the Pro1 and a couple of others; with the Pro1 being more money that I really wanted to spend.

I was seriously looking at the Soundcraft Si Expression model that could be rack-mounted, and it was #1 on my list of four consoles I was considering, mostly because it was rack-mountable so fit my footprint preference; but I wasn't sure I would be able to deal with the lack of scribble strips with multiple layers, etc.

I ended up getting a Pro1, after getting a demo of it from a Midas rep.

I'm new to digital boards, so the Midas seemed overwhelming at first but after the demo I got I thought I'd be able to get my hands around it after some short time period. It was very frustrating at first (the user manual, IMHO, falls way short of what I believe a User manual should be - especially for a product of the Pro1's quality) but things are falling into place now and I'm really enjoying working with the Pro1 :)

Had the M32 been introduced earlier I wouldn't have considered it because its footprint is larger than I wanted.

Stu
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: David Sturzenbecher on January 26, 2014, 01:07:10 PM

I was seriously looking at the Soundcraft Si Expression model that could be rack-mounted, and it was #1 on my list of four consoles I was considering, mostly because it was rack-mountable so fit my footprint preference; but I wasn't sure I would be able to deal with the lack of scribble strips with multiple layers, etc.



Getting little attention this week is the Soundcraft Performer 1, which was also released at NAMM. Rack Mountable, has Scribble Strips, and two years late.
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: Bob Leonard on January 26, 2014, 04:41:13 PM
Are you not familiar with the Performer series from Soundcraft?
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: Stuart Miller on January 26, 2014, 05:46:18 PM
Are you not familiar with the Performer series from Soundcraft?

Bob, if you're referring to me, yes I am familiar with the Performer series. That was one of the ones on my shortlist, the 24-channel model, which is not rack-mounted.

During my research I could not find a 16-channel rack-mountable Performer model. Twenty-four channel was the smallest footprint model I could find and it doesn't fit in a standard rack case.

I notice that Soundcraft has a 16-channel Performer model on their website now but they didn't when I was doing my pre-purchase research. Every vendor I asked told me the Performer model was not available in a rack-mount size.

Stu
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: Samuel Rees on January 26, 2014, 06:34:59 PM
I believe it was a NAMM announcement.
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: Mike Sullivan on January 27, 2014, 03:59:19 AM
IMHO, being a person that has used the X32 a couple times, it looks and appears to operate exactly like the X32, give or take a few minor features.  Still too complicated to get to the processing and such quickly.  Only thing I can see is the new layout, and of course as been said numerous times supposedly better quality Midas equipment.  I think personally, it won't matter because they all come from the same factory, guaranteed.

Now, this is my personal opinion, take it with a grain or salt or don't bother saying anything at all.  This was just what I've gathered so far, and I may say different in a year or two, but that's how it looks to me right now, from the "average small town sound guy" point of view.
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: Bob Leonard on January 27, 2014, 06:59:55 AM
Bob, if you're referring to me, yes I am familiar with the Performer series. That was one of the ones on my shortlist, the 24-channel model, which is not rack-mounted.

During my research I could not find a 16-channel rack-mountable Performer model. Twenty-four channel was the smallest footprint model I could find and it doesn't fit in a standard rack case.

I notice that Soundcraft has a 16-channel Performer model on their website now but they didn't when I was doing my pre-purchase research. Every vendor I asked told me the Performer model was not available in a rack-mount size.

Stu

Stu,
I was replying to Dave, the post previous to mine. The rack mount Performer was announced at NAMM. I tend to wish I had waited, but I bought an Expression and have no buyers remorse. Both are truly great boards.
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: David Sturzenbecher on January 27, 2014, 07:23:52 AM

Stu,
I was replying to Dave, the post previous to mine. The rack mount Performer was announced at NAMM. I tend to wish I had waited, but I bought an Expression and have no buyers remorse. Both are truly great boards.

Bob, my post prior to yours also indicated that the Performer 1 was released at NAMM (which would have answered Stuart's quoted wish list if only a released a few years earlier). Yes, I am quite familiar with the line.
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: Bill Schnake on January 27, 2014, 09:44:08 AM
I prefer the KISS principle - just give me 200 scenes.  Or give me a choice between methods.

I agree with Tim on this.  Just give me 300 scenes like I have on the Yamaha LS9.  Using the USB stick I can load Act 2 at intermission if need be.  I did that with Fiddler on the Roof this past year and it worked out fine on the X32.

Bill  8)
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: Tim Padrick on February 03, 2014, 01:54:28 AM
IMHO, being a person that has used the X32 a couple times...... Still too complicated to get to the processing and such quickly..

The assignable controls won't get you where you need to go?
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: Jason Lucas on February 03, 2014, 02:12:02 AM
Honestly I find the X32 pretty quick to get around on.
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: Bob Kidd on February 13, 2014, 10:34:30 PM
Honestly I find the X32 pretty quick to get around on.

Agree, I have si compact which is very easy to navigate but have used x32 and seems to be user friendly as well. It basically comes down to setting it up to how you mix. Was looking to add x32 and noticed price drop. Not sure if it would be better to wait for m32. I mostly run small to medium shows not sure if m32 would make sense over x32 for what I do.
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: GregBass on February 14, 2014, 01:00:16 PM
Getting little attention this week is the Soundcraft Performer 1, which was also released at NAMM. Rack Mountable, has Scribble Strips, and two years late.

It looks like no multi-channel recording capability on the Soundcraft Performer 1 without paying for an expansion card.  A&H, Roland and Behringer models in the same price range include that capability at no extra charge.
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: Bob Kidd on February 14, 2014, 02:26:04 PM
Is the recent price drop on x32 due to upcoming release of m32?
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: Kevin Maxwell on February 15, 2014, 12:53:37 PM
I am wondering if they would ever come out with a theatrical version of the software for the M32. To make it more usable for amateur theater, like school plays.

How it handles scenes now would need a rework. I am real curious how the new ver 2.(?) Software works. It now handles 500 cues they say but I don’t know exactly how it works.

The way that the scenes now work where if you are recalling them in sequence where you are always at the next scene to be loaded, makes it really awkward. If you make changes where you are and you want to do a quick update it updates the next scene. On almost every other digital console I have worked on if you do a quick store it stores the scene you are in not the next one like the X32 does. And at the moment it looks like the M32 is going to be running X32 software.   
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: Jason Lucas on February 15, 2014, 03:28:37 PM
I am wondering if they would ever come out with a theatrical version of the software for the M32. To make it more usable for amateur theater, like school plays.

How it handles scenes now would need a rework. I am real curious how the new ver 2.(?) Software works. It now handles 500 cues they say but I don’t know exactly how it works.

The way that the scenes now work where if you are recalling them in sequence where you are always at the next scene to be loaded, makes it really awkward. If you make changes where you are and you want to do a quick update it updates the next scene. On almost every other digital console I have worked on if you do a quick store it stores the scene you are in not the next one like the X32 does. And at the moment it looks like the M32 is going to be running X32 software.

Feel free to correct me if I'm wrong but I believe that behavior is tied to the "scene go next" option under Setup. I don't have that option engaged so after I recall a scene it still has that scene selected.
Title: Re: Midas Unveils M32 Digital Mixing Console
Post by: Kevin Maxwell on February 15, 2014, 04:40:00 PM
Feel free to correct me if I'm wrong but I believe that behavior is tied to the "scene go next" option under Setup. I don't have that option engaged so after I recall a scene it still has that scene selected.

I am not sure how to phrase this. I would be using the console for theater and that means that I want it setup so I have a go button. I press the button and it goes to the next scene. But while I am in that scene if there is something that needs to be fixed or massaged I hit the store button. Usually it requires a double tap to store any changes I have just made. I don’t have a lot of rehearsal time so I find even thru the run of the show I am still making changes. The only time I don’t seem to be still making changes is the last performance. And even then I sometimes am still making changes that by habit I am still saving. If there is another way that I am missing that would accomplish this please let me know.

There also seems to be a bug in the software of the X32 if you safe the mute it also safes the fader. I have a tendency to safe everything but the fader. I safe the mute so that if I have a problem with a wireless, either the actor misses their entrance or the mic acts up in some way I can kill the mic and it won’t un-mute when the next scene is recalled. And then I can un-mute it when things are fixed.

At the price point of the M32 I could see the company I do these shows for possibly buying one. Even though 32 inputs is barely enough most of the time. We have been renting for these shows for years and probably could have paid for one with what we have spent, but it would have been the wrong one that long ago. Even now we keep wondering what makes sense to buy. I have been using Avid consoles for these shows lately.