The new Aurora line of digital audio converters from Lynx Studio Technology offers audio quality and control in single-rack space 8- and 16-channel models. The Aurora 8 and Aurora 16 feature 192 kHz analog to digital and digital to analog conversion with front panel control of all routing and sample rate options.
Extended functions in Aurora are accessible via computer with the Lynx AES16 or by infrared using compatible laptops and handheld Pocket PCs. The rear panel has MIDI In and Out connectors and an LSlot bay, for the use of optional ADAT, Firewire, and other audio interface cards. All primary functions are controlled from Aurora's front panel, with extended and remote control available via computer and Pocket PC.
"Aurora was designed with the Lynx AES16 interface in mind. In addition to giving access to all of the front panel's controls, the AES16 in a PC or Macintosh allows more … control at levels not previously available on D/A and A/D converters," explains David Hoatson, cofounder of Lynx. "Remote control allows the converters to be installed away from the primary production center without losing access or visual monitoring."
The on-board 32-channel digital mixer provides routing and mixing options. Acting as its own powerful patch bay style digital router, Aurora can route signals between analog and digital inputs on a channel-by-channel basis. Mixing capability on each output also provides flexible zero latency monitoring. The AES16 also provides much more detailed metering of all channels. In addition, the AES16 allows complete Aurora scenes to be saved and recalled.
Another exclusive for Aurora is its ability to be controlled via Infrared by a desktop, laptop, or Pocket PC computer. Models with IrDA capabilities can control Aurora functions using the detector on Aurora's front panel, so users can set up and monitor Aurora while moving around the control room. Aurora provides professional I/O interfaces for ease of installation in most studios and live sound applications. The analog I/O is electronically balanced and supports both +4dBu and -10dBV nominal levels. The AES digital I/O is transformer coupled and is capable of driving 500’ of cable at 192kHz. Both dual and single wire AES channel modes are supported. All analog and digital connections use DB25 connectors with industry standard pinouts, which are compatible with off-the-shelf cables from manufacturers such as Mogami, ProCo, Hosa and others.
