DiGiCo released a software expansion to increase channel count on S series consoles from 48 to 60 flexi channels and 24 flexi busses and turn them into an S21+ or an S31+.
The optional expansion comes with version 3.0 of DiGiCo’s software for S-Series consoles. V3.0 includes two new Master Buss configurations: LCR (Left Centre Right) or LRM (Left Right Mono), providing additional control on the channels over the LCR blend or the LRM Mono Gain. LCR or LRM are suitable for running an expanded speaker setup or sending out a mono mix alongside a stereo mix.
Software version 2.2 introduced OSC Control of Snapshots. Version 3.0 extends the OSC control capabilities to channel processing controls. With the ability to control many aspects of channel and buss processing including EQ and dynamics, this update adds flexibility when integrating an S series console with external remote control systems.
Version 3.0 now adds compatibility for MADI Sample Rate Conversion on the DMI-MADI-B and DMI-MADI-C. SRC allows the S21 or S31 to run at a different sample rate to connected MADI devices, providing flexibility when connecting to external MADI devices. This is commonly used for recording and virtual soundchecks, and for maximum compatibility, both Hi-Speed and SMUX 96k MADI modes are supported.
Compatibility for DiGiCo’s Dante based DQ Rack, a 48 in, 24 out stage rack, is also included. When connected to an S series console via a Dante64@96 DMI Card, this provides cost effective expansion, which is suited to touring and installation applications.
The S series now makes use of GPIO (General Purpose Inputs and Outputs), with both the S21 and S31 featuring a ¼-in GPI and ¼-in GPO on the back for connection to external devices. GPI can be used to fire a specific Snapshot, or to trigger the previous or next Snapshot.
GPOs are commonly used to trigger external devices with a simple contact closure. Adding a GPO message to an S series Snapshots provides simple integration options as the contacts can be programmed to either open or close with each Snapshot. With a Snapshot being fired you could use GPO to trigger a projector being lowered, or dim or brighten the house lights.
Dynamic EQ is a processing feature built into the channels and provides the ability to control the amount of EQ being applied to a signal, based on the level of the signal. This is often used to solve audio problems like the proximity effect, or to de-ess a signal. Version 3.0 software adds ganging of this function across multiple channels.
When mixing, it is useful to have a single tap control that sets the delay time across all your delays. With version 3.0, the Ten Tap Delay effect can now be added to the Global Tap Delay, so no matter which internal delay effect you are using, you always have access to the control you need.
Finally, since all channels on the S21 and S31 are flexi channels (meaning they can be either mono or stereo), the optional software expansion allows up to 120 inputs to be processed across the 60 stereo channels, and 48 output processing paths across the 24 stereo groups or auxes. It also includes the previously mentioned Master buss (including the new LCR and LRM configurations) and standard 10 x 8 Matrix.