Focusrite unveiled the LIQUID4PRE 4-channel microphone preamp ($TBA) at the 123rd AES convention in New York City’s Javits Center (booth #136). The LIQUID4PRE uses the Liquid Channel’s Liquid technology, combining an analog front end with dynamic convolution DSP to deliver the sounds of 40 vintage and classic microphone preamps across all four channels.
Ninety-nine Unit Setup Memories provide total recall of every parameter across all four channels, delivering instant multiple user presets and a comprehensive backup of session settings. Unit Setup Memories can be managed either via the hardware or via LIQUID4PRE’s dedicated control software, LIQUID4CONTROL. LIQUID4PRE communicates with a DAW via Ethernet, with LIQUID4CONTROL providing comprehensive management of multiple LIQUID4PREs. A similar Pro Tools TDM/RTAS plug-in allows integrated remote control via Pro Tools hardware and software, including ICON and VENUE systems.
The Liquid Channel’s Harmonics and Session Saver features are provided across all four LIQUID4PRE channels. The adjustable harmonic distortion circuit accounts for variance in the vintage originals, but can also be used to vary the sound of each preamp. Session Saver is an automatic gain control circuit that intelligently reduces the input level to help avoid critical overs. Each channel also features a classic Focusrite highpass filter, phantom power and phase reverse, available directly from the front panel independently for every channel. The unit also has four large information display screens with digital VU meters. Operator Lock locks the front panel controls to help avoid unwanted alteration of preamp settings, including gain.
LIQUID4PRE includes AES and ADAT optical digital inputs and outputs; an optional EtherSound 8-channel card is also available. With a third ADAT input, audio from two LIQUID4PREs can be routed directly to a single optional EtherSound card, or at 48 kHz, all eight channels can be routed to a single ADAT Lightpipe output.
Focusrite’s Website features an online emulations library, Liquid Assets, which is continually updated with additional vintage emulations, available as free downloads.
Focusrite plans to ship LIQUID4PRE worldwide in November 2007.
For more information, visit Focusrite’s U.S. distributor, American Music and Sound, at www.americanmusicandsound.com and Focusrite at www.focusrite.com.
