Monitor Mixing
Aviom's Pro16® Monitor Mixing System guarantees perfect monitor and cue mixes every time.
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Personal Control
Aviom's Pro16® Monitor Mixing System gives each performer completely independent control over his or her monitor mix. Want a little more drums? Turn them up. Too much guitar? Turn it down. You can change your mix whenever you want, simply by punching a button and turning a knob. And because each Personal Mixer stores up to 16 personalized presets, you can get perfect monitors every time you play. Without a long and frustrating soundcheck.
The Pro16 Monitor Mixing System is designed to adapt to your needs and preferences. Whether you like a floor wedge, headphones, or an in-ear monitoring system, you can connect directly to a Pro16 Personal Mixer and get precise control over your mix.
Better Sound on Stage and FOH
Engineers benefit from an Aviom monitor mixing system as well. By giving performers the ability to dial in their own mixes, engineers have more time to focus on other things: mixing FOH, prepping monitor mix content and submixes, and fine tuning a few key monitor mixes. With Aviom, every performer can get a perfect customized monitor mix every time, whether or not there's an engineer available to run a monitor desk.
Setting Up a System
Typically, the audio in the system comes from your existing mixing console. Any combination of up to 16 inserts, direct outs, auxes, or groups can be patched to the monitor system. There's no better or more cost-effective way to add lots of power to a mixing board than connecting it to an Aviom monitor mixing system.
Audio is distributed digitally to each Personal Mixer using inexpensive Cat-5e cables running A- Net®, Aviom's revolutionary digital audio networking technology. Mixers can be daisy chained or connected in parallel in any combination, and setup and teardown are as simple as connecting the cables and powering up. And because there's no limit to the number of Personal Mixers that can be in a single system, your system can grow as your needs do.
Click image to enlarge Four performers have individual control of up to sixteen channels of audio drawn from the console. Performers can listen to their mixes with headphones, IEMs, or powered wedges. The A-16D Pro A-Net Distributor supplies digital audio data and DC power to the individual Personal Mixers.
Click image to enlarge The individual Personal Mixers in this system are connected in a daisy chain. The performers have individual control of up to sixteen channels of audio drawn from the console. Performers can listen to their mixes with headphones, IEMs, or powered wedges. The system can be expanded indefinitely.
The AN-16/i-M Mic Input Module or a compatible Pro16 console card can be substituted for the line-level AN-16/i shown in the diagram.
Click image to enlarge Two more Personal Mixers are added to the Basic Four-Mix System, giving individual control of up to sixteen channels of audio to six different performers. The A-16D Pro A-Net Distributor on stage supplies audio and power to six A-16II Personal Mixers. Additional Personal Mixers can be added as required.
Two performers monitor with wired earphones, one with headphones, one with a powered wedge speaker, and two use wireless IEMs. Up to eight Personal Mixers can be connected directly to this distributor.
A-16R Personal Mixers can be substituted for any of the A-16IIs shown here.
Click image to enlarge This system draws digital audio directly from a Yamaha digital console using the Y1 A-Net Card. The A-Net audio stream is transported to an A-Net Distributor, which supplies audio and power to six Personal Mixers. Two performers monitor with wired earphones, one with headphones, one with a powered wedge speaker, and two use wireless IEMs. Up to eight Personal Mixers can be connected directly to this distributor.
Click image to enlarge Using A-16R Rack-Mount Mixers allows all audio connections to transmitters for wireless in-ears and/or amps for wedges to be kept together in a single rack, while performers use A-16CS Control Surfaces to control their mixes remotely.
The A- 16CS gives the performer control of all mix functions of the A-16R from up to 200 feet (60m) away.
Click image to enlarge By adding a second input module and preparing submixes from a console, different sets of monitor channels can be sent to groups of performers, giving more precisely tailored control to the individual sections. In this example, the drummer uses four channels for drums and a stereo submix of background vocals, while the singers use a stereo submix of drums and individual vocal channels. This allows musicians to focus control on the channels most important to them.
There is no limit to the number of monitoring zones that can be used simultaneously.
Click image to enlarge This monitor system uses two Y1 console interface cards in a Yamaha console to provide two zones of monitor content for performers. The engineer can assign audio channels that are required in both monitoring zones to the same channels in each Y1 card from the console's user interface. At the same time, channels unique to each zone are assigned to a specific card.
Click image to enlarge This system adds a Pro16 Monitor Mixing System to the 32x16 Pro16 Digital Snake to combine plug-and-play signal transport with the industry standard for personal mixing, all onto a single Cat-5e cable.
The console in this example is fitted with two Y1 A-Net Cards, which send 16 channels of monitor content and up to 16 channels of returns back to the stage. AN-16/i Input Modules can be substituted for returns from an analog console.
Click image to enlarge This digital snake connects 32 channels of mic signals from four Yamaha® AD8HR preamps to a pair of 6416dio Digital I/O Modules. Pro64 A-Net connects the 6416dio modules to a Yamaha digital console fitted with two 6416Y2 cards. Content for return lines from FOH, as well as monitor content, is generated at the console and transmitted over the same Cat-5e cable back to the stage.
Alternatively, a digital split to a monitor desk can be added serially or with an MH10 Merger Hub. Monitor content can be returned to the stage over the same cable.
Monitor feeds are converted from Pro64 A-Net to the Pro16 format compatible with Pro16 Personal Mixers by the ASI.
Click image to enlarge One of the biggest challenges for musicians performing in an orchestra pit involves monitoring the other performers. The physical layout of a typical pit makes it difficult to see and hear the other players.
This diagram shows a monitor system that can be expanded to suit the needs of any size ensemble. The console feeds 16 channels to the input module which outputs an A-Net data stream, which is distributed to the Personal Mixers in the pit. Musicians can listen through headphones or earphones, according to their personal preference.
This system can be expanded to include additional musicians and remote locations within the theater by adding more distributors and personal mixers as needed.
Click image to enlarge This setup is an ideal design for a music teaching lab. Up to eight stereo or sixteen mono keyboards can be used. Combinations of students' and instructors' instruments can be saved to the memory location of the Personal Mixers for easy recall.
With each student performer wearing headphones or in-ear monitors connected to a Pro16 Personal Mixer, everyone can enjoy the feel of playing at full volume without actually making much audible sound.
Connect line-level signals from the keyboards to the A-Net input module. For mic-level signals, choose the AN-16/i-M which accepts both mic- and line-level audio.
The direct connection method is ideal for line-level instruments such as keyboards; no audio mixer is required. Simply patch the stereo outputs of your keyboard into the line- level inputs of the A-Net input module.
Click image to enlarge This system adds a Pro16 Monitor Mixing System to the basic 48x16 Pro64 digital snake. Audio content for the Personal Mixers is routed to the Pro64 network from the Yamaha console, through the second 6416Y2 A-Net Card. The ASI A-Net Systems Interface on stage translates the A-Net data from the Pro64 system to the Pro16 format used by the Personal Mixers.
A second zone of personal mixing content, for further customization of mixing, can be added with no additional hardware, using the remaining 6416Y2. The ASI supports up to four 16-channel Pro16 A-Net Outputs.
Click image to enlarge This system combines a 32x16 Pro64 digital snake with the flexibility and control of a Pro16 Monitor Mixing System.
Thirty-two inputs are provided on stage via two 6416m Mic Input Modules, remote controllable from FOH with the MCS Mic Control Surface. These signals are connected to the analog FOH via two 6416o Output Modules. Up to 16 return signals can be passed from the console back to processors on stage via a 6416i Input Module at FOH and a 6416o Output Module on stage.
Audio for the monitor system is supplied from the console to a second 6416i at FOH. The ASI A-Net Systems Interface module on stage passes this audio data to the A-16D Pro and the Pro16 Personal Mixers.
The MH10 Merger Hubs shown here allow devices in each rack to be connected in parallel and also provide a simple means for connecting backup cables between the stage and FOH racks.
A-16II
Personal Mixer
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A-16R
Rack-Mount Personal Mixer
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A-16CS
Control Surface
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AN-16/i
Input Module
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The AN-16/i provides 16 balanced line-level inputs to a Pro16® system.
Aviom16/o-Y1
A-Net Card for Yamaha®
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AN-16/i-M
Mic Input Module
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The AN-16/i-M provides 16 mic- or line-level analog inputs to a Pro16® system.
6416m
Mic Input Module
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Yamaha digital consoles.
ASI
A-Net Systems Interface
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A-16D Pro
A-Net Distributor
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A-16D
A-Net Distributor
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The A-16D distributes a 16-channel ® A-Net® stream to up to eight Pro16 devices.
AN-16SBR
System Bridge
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The AN-16SBR combines up to four Pro16® A-Net® streams onto a single Cat-5e cable.
MT-1
Mic Stand Mount
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EB-1
Extension Bracket
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6416Y2
A-Net Interface Card
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16x16 Pro64® A-Net I/O card for Yamaha® digital devices.
Yamaha digital consoles.
MT-X
Expansion Box
|
The MT-X provides protection to the Personal Mixer's case as well as additional audio connectivity options.
STEP 1: AUDIO IN, A-NET OUT
The input module or console card takes audio from an existing source (typically an analog or digital mixing console) and outputs an A-Net digital audio stream over a single Cat-5e cable. Input modules are available in a variety of configurations and formats, including digital cards from a host of leading console manufacturers. Refer to the Partners section for complete details.
STEP 2: A-NET IN, A-NET OUT
A Personal Mixer can be connected directly to the input module or console card, with additional mixers connected in a daisy chain. However, most users connect an A-Net Distributor, such as the A-16D Pro, to simplify wiring with the speed and convenience of parallel A-Net connections to Personal Mixers. A-Net Distributors may also be used to power Personal Mixers over the Cat-5 cable. Any number of A-Net Distributors may be used in a system.
STEP 3: A-NET IN, AUDIO OUT
Finally, the Cat-5e is connected to a Personal Mixer, which outputs the mix made by the performer. Typically, each performer is given his or her own Personal Mixer. An Aviom monitor mixing system can be used with any combination of headphones, wired or wireless in-ear phones, and floor wedges.
The A-16II is shown in the diagram, but the A-16R can be substituted.
Personal Mixers can be connected in any combination
of serial (daisy chain) and parallel (star) connections. Every Personal Mixer has both an A-Net In and A-Net Out jack, and mixers can be daisy-chained without limit. Every Personal
Mixer is truly plug-and-play: connect it and you're ready to go.
Most users, however, choose to use an A-Net Distributor, such as the A-16D Pro, and connect mixers in parallel. This offers several advantages. First, any time devices are daisy-chained, "downstream" devices depend on upstream devices for their data. If someone unplugs a mixer or knocks over a stand on stage, multiple users may be affected. Second, using a distributor delivers the added convenience of providing power for the mixer over the Cat-5 cable, eliminating the need for extension cords and external power supplies at the mixers. Thus, using parallel connections is both more secure and more convenient.
Distributors can be inserted into the A-Net stream at any point in the system, and there is no limit to the number of distributors in a system.
The diagrams show A-16II Personal Mixers, but any combination of Pro16 output devices can be used, including the A-16R and AV-P2.
Aviom Personal Mixers can be used with headphones, in-ears, or wedges, depending on a performer's personal preference. Before you select a Personal Mixer, consider what you'll be using to listen to the mix.
HEADPHONES & WIRED EARS
Both the A-16II and the A-16R include 1/4" headphone jacks which may be used for either headphones (1) or wired earphones (2). Because of the stand-mountable form factor, most users choose the A-16II for use with headphones or wired in-ears.
WIRELESS EARS & WEDGES
The A-16II output may be used as a line
out, connected to a wireless transmitter (3), amp, or powered speakers (4). To preserve
stereo operation, it's important to use a Y-cord to split left and right channels.
However, most wireless in-ear and wedge users choose the A-16R, which has left/right balanced line-level outputs (XLR and TRS jacks). This allows the A-16R and all the audio connections to be kept in a single rack with the transmitters and amps, while the A-16CS Control Surface is used by the performer for controlling the A-16R remotely. With separate left and right outputs, the A-16R does not require a Y cable or splitter.
The ASI A-Net Systems Interface can be used to connect select Pro16 Series devices to a Pro64 Series network, further enhancing the output options for a system or installation.
The ASI provides a link between Pro64 Series networking products and Pro16 Series output devices, such as the AV-P2 and AN-16/o Output Modules, and the A-16II and A- 16R Personal Mixers. The ASI features two Pro64 network ports and four Pro16 outputs, separated into 16-channel blocks and transmitted out the corresponding Pro16 ports.
The ASI is a plug-and-play module, requiring no configuration beyond selecting a Pro64 network port for Manual Mode systems. The number of available channels and Pro16 ports is determined by the sample rate of the Pro64 network (64 channels and four ports at 44.1/48kH±, 32 channels and two ports at 96kHz±, and 16 channels and one port at 192kHz±). Stereo link settings from the Pro64 network are passed to the Pro16 outputs.
Whenever possible, converting audio back and forth between analog and digital should be minimized. So if you're using a digital console, you should connect your Aviom monitor system digitally rather than using an analog input module such as the AN-16/i.
Aviom offers several options for direct digital connections to digital consoles. Aviom's Y1 and Y2 A-Net cards can be used to connect seamlessly to Yamaha® digital consoles. In addition, Aviom has partnered with leading digital console manufacturers to develop A-Net option cards for their consoles. Look for the A-Net Active™ logo and consult the Partners section for a complete list of available cards.
Finally, the 6416dio Digital I/O Module may be used to connect digitally to any console that supports AES3 format digital outputs. Aviom's ASI module must then be used to convert the Pro64 A-Net data to the Pro16 format compatible with Aviom's Personal Mixers and other Pro16 Series devices.
There are three ways to control the A-16R Rack-Mount Mixer. The most common is to use the wired A-16CS Control Surface, which has the same user interface as the iconic A-16II and can also use a standard footswitch for stepping through presets saved in the A-16R. A single Cat-5e cable (up to 200ft/60m) connects the A-16CS to the A-Control port on the rear panel of the A-16R.
Alternatively, the A-16R can be controlled via MIDI, using almost any MIDI controller. Details on MIDI commands can be found in the A-16R User Guide.
The simplest Pro16 digital snake or audio distribution system requires one A-Net input module and one A-Net output module, connected with up to 500 feet (150 meters) of Cat-5e cable.
Simply connect the A-Net Out of one device to the A-Net In of the next. For parallel connections, use the A-16D or A-16D Pro A-Net Distributor. There is no limit to the number of devices that can be connected serially or in parallel.
For higher channel-count runs, use the A-Net Expansion jacks (16x16 or 32x0) or the AN-16SBR System Bridge (up to 32x32, 48x16, or 64x0).
A-16II Guided Tour
This video explores many of the features and functions of Aviom's revolutionary A-16II Personal Mixer. Follow along to learn how to select channels, adjust volume and pan, save and recall Presets, and more.
Aviom & the House of Worship
It's more than just little blue mixers! Find out more about Aviom's proven solutions for mixing and moving audio in the House of Worship, with Monitor Mixing, Digital Snakes, and Audio Networking.
Pro16 in 2.5 Minutes
Well, our multimedia guys got into the Red Bull again, and the result is this fast paced overview of Aviom's Pro16™ Monitor Mixing and Audio Distribution systems. Fasten your seatbelt and enjoy the ride.
- 6416Y2 A-Net Interface Card Quick Start
This one-page document provides an overview of configuring a Pro64 6416Y2 A-Net card for use in a Yamaha digital console.
- Aviom Product Applications Book - Screen Version
Sample System Diagrams for: Commercial AV, Houses of Worship, Broadcast, Live Sound, and Studios. This book contains over 20 CAD drawings showing sample installations of Aviom audio networks, audio distribution and personal monitor systems in a variety applications.
- Networked Audio in Festival Production
Pro16® digital snake and monitor mixing products can help streamline and simplify production in a festival environment.
- Monitor Mixing in Rehearsal
Better Performance Through Better Monitoring - Learn how the Pro16 Monitor Mixing System can improve productivity at rehearsals and how this translates directly to improved on-stage performance.
- Improved Cue Mixing in the Studio
Musicians and engineers are both affected by the quality of the cue mixes during a session. The Pro16 Monitor Mixing System can improve workflow and cue mix quality.
- Monitor Mixing in Houses of Worship
Adding contemporary music to a worship service poses several problems related to high volume levels. Controlling excessive stage volume by using Personal Mixers, IEMs, and/or headphones can improve the experience for everyone involved.
- Personal Monitor Mixing with Engineer Control
This document covers issues related to monitoring on stage from both the performer's and the engineer's perspectives.
- Using Personal Mixers with Wireless Monitor Systems
More and more performers are turning to wireless in-ear systems for their stage monitoring needs. Learn how to integrate Aviom's Pro16® Personal Mixing System with your wireless in-ear (IEM) setup.
- Using Fiber Optics With Pro16 Systems
For applications requiring cable runs longer than 500ft (150 m), fiber optic media converters can be used to extend the distance between Pro16 devices to up to 50 miles (80 kilometers).
- A-Net v. Ethernet - Networking Designed for Audio
Streaming networking technology delivers greater power and performance than Ethernet.
- A Closer Look at A-Net
Comparing Pro16 and Pro64 - learn about the two versions of Aviom's exclusive A-Net audio transport technology, and find out which is best suited for your application.
- Calibration and Gain Staging with Digital Transport
Learn how to address the most common source of trouble for console users making the switch to digital transport - gain stage calibration.
- A-16II Personal Mixer Labels
Print channel strip labels for A-16II Personal Mixers from this template. (The scribble strip is in Microsoft Excel format in a zip file.)
- Pro16 Monitor Mixing Personalizer
This interactive form will guide you to determine the number of mixers, input and output devices needed for your church or band, and the tool will build a parts list for you as you go. You can then print the specs for your system, or even email it to yourself.
- Yamaha Console Configuration Info
This document covers signal routing to the Y1 card from the Yamaha user interface.
