System Structure
AirMax from D&R - Phone: +31 294 418014 - E-Mail:
- 6 -
3 System
Structure
The AirMax is a digitally controlled analogue desktop mixer using the latest, state of the art, digital and
analogue technology housed in an ‘easy to use’ and ‘versatile’ 19” rack chassis which can easily be
mounted drop through in a work surface left or right of your script space.
Purchasing choices are straightforward. There is one welded steel 19” frame with 12 module positions. In
total a maximum of 46 input channels and 1 double sized master module can loaded into 4 frames as a
maximum. This also includes a maximum of 4 stereo group modules and 8 studio modules. Frames
connect with each other by two D Sub connector cables located on the side panels of the frame.
The user interface provides direct intuitive access to all-important functions of the console.
The MIC/line modules come in three flavors so there’s no need for excessive complexity.
A hybrid and TELCO module are available for communication over a telephone line and bringing calls into
the program. Where the hybrid module can be connected directly to the telephone line, the TELCO module
has two stereo line in/outputs which can be connected to an external CODEC. As an option, the TELCO
module can be supplied to have digital in/outputs also making this module suited to act as a simple digital
input module.
The AirMax can be equipped with a maximum of 4 stereo group modules when sub grouping is needed.
The upper section lets you control the audio groups. The VCA groups are positioned in the lower section.
VCA groups can be used to control cue/on/fader of multiple channels with the touch of just one control. An
external fader can be connected to remote control the VCA-Master.
The audio groups have an extra external line input, which makes the AirMax suitable for recording/tape
monitoring if ever needed. Different assignments can be made for audio and VCA groups.
With a maximum of 8 studio modules, the AirMax can be deployed in both small and large setups.
All studio modules have two phones sections and of course a monitor output. Source selection is built in
and also talkback which can be routed to either one of the outputs or to a combination.
An extra meter output gives you the option to hook up your own meters instead of using the internal on
Screen meters.
Every AirMax system needs one double-sized master module. This module contains two sections.
The first section is the program section. This section houses overall gain controls for the two stereo aux
busses and the sub bus. Talkback can be switched on for any of these busses and there’s also a cue
speaker output with it’s own gain control. The COMM and CUE reset buttons allow you to instantly reset all
activated COMM/CUE switches throughout the console. A master fader is present but can be disabled to
suit your needs. The second section of the master module is the CRM section. This section is similar to the
studio module.
With the AirMax, we have incorporated a new way of interfacing with studio equipment by use of high
quality low cost readily available STP cable, also called shielded RJ45 Ethernet cable. In this way not only
a huge amount of inputs/outputs could be created but cabling costs are reduced significantly.
One side of the cable is connected to the back of the AirMax frame and the other end is connected to one
out of five different path panels. Doing it this way the connectors can be brought to the source resulting in
compact and neat cabling.
With a PC connected to the AirMax and using USB cable you can configure all internal settings, remote
control the AirMax and even visually monitor output levels on a meter application. Functionality of many
GPIO’s can be programmed and advanced setup for the communication buss can be made here.
The settings can be saved to and loaded from file. In this way, you have the advantage of instant recall of
all settings enabling you to customize program and user requirements.
