The platform is known as O.H.R.C.A, which stands for three key concepts: Open; High Resolution; and Configurable Architecture. This combination adapts to the needs both of the application and the operator by delivering 128 freely definable audio paths, an extremely flexible user interface, expandable protocols and multiple-format I/O choices. All paths are delivered at a pristine 24-bit/96kHz sound quality.
The key to the Roland M-5000 Live Mixing Console's internal architecture is that it is not fixed to any configuration. It can be freely defined within a range of up to 128 input or output channels or busses, allowing the operator essentially to 'build' a console to suit the application. Each path can be used as a mixing channel, AUX, matrix, subgroup buss or MIX-MINUS buss in any input/output configuration. One primary application might be for the monitor position, where a high number of auxiliary busses are needed. But the M-5000 is equally at home at the FOH position for live music in touring, theatre, broadcast and more.
The network options are equally versatile. In addition to two REAC (Roland Ethernet Audio Communication) ports, the M-5000 has two expansion card slots to support a range of system configurations and audio transport protocols such as Dante™, MADI, Waves SoundGrid and other formats of the future. The back panel includes 16x16 analogue I/Os; 4x4 AES/EBUs; a 16x16 USB audio interface; connection for control via an iPad, connected or wireless; and control ports including footswitches, GP I/O, RS-232C and MIDI - enabling the console to see up to 300 inputs and 296 outputs, all at 96kHz. Furthermore, inputs can be patched to outputs independently of mixing channel resources.
The pliancy continues on the control surface. Workflow is above all user assignable, exploiting a 12-inch colour touchscreen, 28 channel faders in four groups, multifunction knobs and buttons, 'selected knob' functions and an entire user assignable section. Displays are bright, colour-coded and highly visible in any light. The built-in GUI is expandable via Mac and Windows remote control software to any portable device.
Naturally, the extensive family of existing Roland products integrates seamlessly with the new platform - knitting the M-5000 into thousands of systems already running worldwide. Scores of digital snake options already exist for I/O, but the Roland M-48 Personal Mixer offers a particularly powerful solution. Hybrid monitoring takes the lead performers' mixes off the console busses in the traditional way, while the rest of the musicians use M-48 Personal Mixers. Connecting M-48 and M-5000 via the powered REAC port on the console, the engineer can seamlessly mix between those artists on aux busses and those musicians on personal mixers. Finally, the R-1000 48-channel Player/Recorder completes the family of devices fully integral with the M-5000.
In the rapidly changing world of live sound, the ability to adapt on the fly is sometimes the difference between a good show and a great show. The new M-5000, on the O.H.R.C.A platform, meets the demand for compliancy that professionals now expect.
(Lee Baldock)
