Analog summing with the SPL MixDream brings intense depth, precise localisation and impressive spatiality. Individual instruments mix with smooth transitions.
Insert of each channel
Each of the 16 input channels has a switchable insert for inserting EQs, compressors, Transient Designer, etc. Reverb and multi-effect devices can of course also be connected to the inserts. In the DAW, the aux send is then routed to the corresponding output.
Master Insert
In the Master Insert, a combination of compressor and equalizer is usually recommended. The insert send level determines the level at which the insert device is controlled.
Stereo Expander
The Stereo Expander can add more width and depth to a mix so that the stereo width gained from analog summing can be increased even further.
No Mix
With the No Mix switch position, the channel is muted for summing, but is retained at the Direct Out output and can thus be recorded again. The No Mix function is especially useful when, for example, a compressor is inserted: the compressed signal can be recorded again and assigned a level automation.
Without this function, also known as “bounce back”, signals with level automation could not be compressed, because the compressor is looped in behind the post fader control and therefore the compressor threshold could not be adjusted during level runs.
Direct Outputs
Each channel has an active Direct Out, which allows individual channels to be recorded back into the DAW after insert editing.
Peak Limiter
The limiter can provide good protection for subsequent A/D converters. On the one hand, it can be used to intercept individual peaks that are too loud, and on the other hand it can also be used to increase loudness when used more intensively. How much loudness is possible with the limiter depends strongly on the nature of the music. With larger dynamic peaks, such as those coming from drums, loudness of up to 6dB can be obtained.
Master Insert
In the Master Insert, a combination of compressor and equalizer is usually recommended. The insert send level determines the drive level to the inserted device.
Stereo Expander
The Stereo Expander can add more width and depth to a mix so that the stereo width gained from analog summing can be increased even further.
Output & Transformers
The output has a level switch, which can be used to optimize the level to subsequent A/D converters. In addition, the SPL MixDream is equipped with two Lundahl LL1539 output transformers, whose special sound gives the master a final polish.
Expansion
If 16 channels are not enough when summing, the expansion input can be used as another stereo input. The output of another SPL MixDream or MixDream XP can also be connected here.
Mono 1 – 6
The channels 1/2, 3/4 as well as 5/6 can be switched mono, so that two signals can be converted by one D/A chip. For this purpose, the signals that are placed in the phantom center of the stereo mix (e.g. kick, snare, lead vocal, bass) are panned hard left/right in the DAW.
Inserts On
This allows all inserts to be switched on and off together.
