LAS VEGAS, Nevada---Soundcraft announces the NSCA Expo launch of its LX7ii live mixing console, an upgrade to the popular LX7 desk featuring recent enhancements in sonic performance and appearance.
Of particular note, the LX7ii gains improved mic preamp and EQ sections, both designed by Soundcraft founder and electronics guru Graham Blyth. Designated the GB30 Series, these new designs coincide with Soundcraft's 30th anniversary.
"The GB30 mic pre on the LX7ii brings together some of the quality and precision of the mic pres we use on our biggest touring desks while retaining the cost-sensitivity demanded at this point in the market," says Blyth. "We're conscious that we must provide the finest possible audio quality at the best price for the customer--we do not allow compromise--and it starts at the mic preamp."
The LX7ii's four-band EQ with sweepable mid sections is based on the highly-acclaimed circuitry of the successful MH3 and MH4 touring consoles. Blyth adds, "The GB30 EQ, owing its heritage to the work we did on the new MH range, gives a steeper than usual slope on the fixed LF and HF sections removing unwanted mid-frequency 'mush' and delivering a clearer sound. We've essentially created a unique, cost-effective design that brings high-end EQ into an affordable mixing console for the first time."
On the cosmetics side, the LX7ii also borrows its stylish new looks from the MH3 and MH4, and includes a new frame, end-cheeks, module ID graphics and colored pot caps that make the desk easier to use and much more visually striking.
Other standard features of the new model include frame sizes of up to 32 mono inputs and four stereo inputs/returns with four groups, main stereo output and a dedicated mono output for center clusters. There are direct outputs on the first 16 inputs suitable for multitrack recording and six auxes for flexibility for effects and foldback. The LX7ii mixes to seven outputs--four subgroups, plus the main Left, Right and Center (Mono) mix outputs.
The LX7ii continues in the tradition of the LX7 by being extremely well suited for both touring and installed systems for churches, theatres, nightclubs and other venues where a compact sized console needs to provide a large number of inputs and maximum output capability. Studio recording applications are also easily satisfied by the LX7ii.
US MSRPs and availability on the new LX7ii are as follows:
16-channel: $1,899.99 / available in late-April
24-channel: $2,349.99 / available in late-March
32-channel: $2,799.99 / available in late-April
Celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, Soundcraft is a leading British manufacturer of high-end mixing consoles serving live, broadcast, theatre and recording markets. The company's products are distributed in the US by Harman Pro North America (HPNA), which also distributes products for AMEK, BSS Audio and Studer. HPNA is a subsidiary of Harman International.