Housed in a 2U rackmount package, the Galileo 616 processor can be used as a standalone device operated directly from its front panel, or in conjunction with a laptop or other personal computer via Ethernet. The Ethernet connection presents a broad variety of control possibilities, such as the use of wireless laptop computers and tablets to control the device, enabling the user to walk around a venue while adjusting parameters on one or more Galileo 616 units. Full bidirectional communication insures that the user is always able to instantly view current settings, whether operating the Galileo 616 from the front panel or a laptop computer (Windows or Macintosh).
The device's six analogue inputs are on balanced XLR connectors feeding state-of-the-art A/D converters operating at 24-bit resolution and sample rates up to 96 kHz. Three of the inputs can be switched to operate as standard stereo AES/EBU digital audio inputs, also capable of operating at sample rates up to 96 kHz (using double speed mode). Simultaneous use of analogue and digital inputs is supported up to a total of six input channels. Full matrix operation allows any combination of mixing and routing from inputs to outputs.
The 16 outputs offer the same robust line driving capabilities as those of Meyer's analogue line driver products, allowing the Galileo 616 to easily drive Meyer self-powered loudspeakers to full output. Other features provided for optimizing the performance of Meyer loudspeakers include the M Series array compensation functions of the LD-3 and a library of presets for configurations of both line array and point-source array products.
The Galileo 616 is designed to afford a broad upgrade path for future interfacing options. The Galileo 616 will provide direct interfacing to Meyer's SIM 3 audio analyzer system, such as the ability for the SIM 3 analyzer to treat the Galileo 616 as a switcher, automatically selecting source signals for the analyzer. Interfacing through popular existing or future digital audio networking schemes will also be possible.
A carefully crafted user interface gives the unit the quick, intuitive operation required for live use. Each input sports a 26 LED ladder meter, plus mute and select buttons/indicators, while each output has a bi-color level LED and mute and select buttons. Three high-resolution encoder knobs are used to make parameter adjustments, which are shown on the 128x64 pixel liquid crystal display.
(Lee Baldock)
