Yamaha’s M7CL digital consoles have proved a tremendous success since their launch in 2005 and ISE2010 sees not only the introduction of a software upgrade for all existing M7CLs, but also the first show outing of a new model, the M7CL-48ES.
Developed partly in response to the uptake of Yamaha’s SB168-ES EtherSound stage box, the M7CL-48ES replaces the 48 internal mic pre-amps with two EtherSound ports. This keeps the three MY card slots free for other uses – for example allowing connection of multitrack recording equipment. Also included is a third port, which allows permanent connection of the console to a computer while using EtherSound in ‘ring’ mode.
To make setup quick and easy, the M7CL-48ES auto-configures its connection to the SB168-ES stage box, obviating the need to use ES Monitor software to establish the link.
The upgraded V3 software – which will be offered as a free upgrade to all existing M7CL users – provides a range of enhancements, including Sends On Fader for M7CL V3 Editor. Operated independently of the console, this allows, for example, a monitor engineer to use a tablet PC to remotely adjust the send level of a wedge monitor in front of an onstage performer. Direct access of Sends on Fader from the M7CL knobs is also now possible in Sends on Fader mode.
“The M7CL’s success has meant it has become a very familiar console to users around the globe and it has forged a very strong partnership with the SB168-ES EtherSound stage box in many rental inventories,” said Nick Cook, European marketing director for Yamaha Commercial Audio. “By introducing the M7CL-48ES, Yamaha is now offering another variant of the M7CL hardware which incorporates EtherSound as standard, but still maintains the intuitive operational platform which many engineers know instinctively and have come to rely on as their weapon of choice.”
