Allen & Heath has introduced the dLive firmware V2.0 and the new RackUltraFX card, offering advanced effects processing and significant workflow improvements to the well-known mixing platform.
Jack Hughes, Head of Marketing at Allen & Heath, states, “dLive V2.0 introduces integrated creative FX and advanced workflow features, transforming the capabilities within the mixer.” This update, developed over four years, aims to enhance engineers’ workflow and improve the live sound mixing experience.
Improved Cue List System
A major workflow enhancement is the revamped Cue List system, which simplifies cue list creation with manual and automatic renumbering options, along with custom MIDI recall. This feature is tailored for fast-paced performances, automated shows, and theater applications.
Complex Automation with Actions
Complex Automation with ActionsThe new Actions feature simplifies complex automation, allowing functions across multiple channels, such as routing assignments and levels, ABCD inputs, processing, insert in/outs, and strip layout, to be triggered via a single SoftKey press.
Enhanced Channel Library
The Channel Library now includes Mix contributions, enabling channels to be saved with all sends, processing, and name/color data.
RackUltraFX Card Capabilities
The new RackUltraFX card, standard in all new MixRacks and available as an upgrade for existing MixRacks, adds 8 RackUltraFX engines to any dLive system without using any inputs, buses, or FX slots. It includes dedicated stereo send and return channels plus PEQ and dynamic processing.
Advanced FX Algorithms
Anthony Evans, R&D Software Manager at Allen & Heath, explains, “The RackUltraFX card’s custom FPGA FX core combined with ARM processing allows for low-latency effects previously impossible in a live console.” The RackUltraFX collection features 10 new algorithms, providing low-latency integration without licensing.
Professional Live Console Innovations
The update introduces studio-quality pitch correction, shifting, and gridding without external hardware or third-party software. Vocal Tuner provides natural-sounding pitch correction, while Vocal Gridder offers faster, less natural pitch correction. Vocal Shifter alters vocals with formant and pitch shifting.
Enhanced Vocal Processing
Enhanced Vocal ProcessingThree new harmonizers enhance dLive’s vocal processing capabilities:
- Quad Voice Harmoniser generates up to 4 voices of natural-sounding harmony.
- Dual Voice Auto Key Harmoniser adds up to 2 voices of harmony with real-time key detection.
- MIDI Harmoniser creates harmonies based on an external MIDI input.
Realistic Reverb Effects
Two new reverb effects utilize the full power of the RackUltraFX card:
- Spaces Reverb Designer recreates physical spaces with high-end realism.
- Plate Reverb Designer replicates the character of plate reverb with various material options.
Distortion Effects
Distortion EffectsThe update also includes two distortion effects:
- Saturation offers 5 analogue saturation models, from subtle tape drive to valve crunch.
- Amp+Cab Distortion models the characteristics of guitar and bass amplifiers, emulating classic speaker cabinets.
Jack Kenyon, Product Specialist at Allen & Heath, concludes, “This update solidifies dLive’s reputation for flexibility, sound quality, and onboard processing tools, designed to inspire creativity and streamline the mixing process for engineers, artists, and audiences.”
About Allen & Heath
Allen & Heath, founded in 1969, is based in Penryn, Cornwall, England. The company specializes in manufacturing audio mixing consoles for various applications, including live sound, studio recording, DJing, and industrial installations. Over the years, Allen & Heath has built a reputation for innovative and high-quality audio equipment.
