Allen&Heath iDR10 - Manual (Page 6)

6 iDR10 User Guide
Welcome to the iDR10 MixRack
The iDR10 is the heart of the iLive mixing system. It is called the ‘MixRack’ as it houses the iDR-64
DSP mix engine, the CPU module which manages and allows remote control of the mix functions,
and the RAB (remote audio) module which provides up to two audio networking interfaces (currently
both EtherSound). It is the mixer itself, configurable and controllable via Ethernet using an iLive
Surface or PC. It is called the iDR10 because it includes 10 additional slot positions to fit the required
combination of audio input and output modules. This means the MixRack may be positioned on
stage near its sources and controlled remotely from up to 100 metres away using a control surface
connected via a CAT5 cable. Local audio required at the mix position can be transported to and from
the MixRack via a second CAT5 cable, therefore doing away with the need for a bulky traditional
copper multicore snake. Audio may be further distributed around the venue using the EtherSound
audio networks. Systems may be linked for split FOH/Monitor/Recording applications using
EtherSound as a digital mic splitter.
The iDR10 features a 64 input x 32 mix bus architecture with full processing on all input and mix
channels. You do not need to allocate or share processing. The iDR-64 ‘Rack Extra’ module
provides enough DSP for all the channel processing to be available all the time, together with 8
stereo internal effects devices. Input processing includes high-pass filter, noise gate, parametric EQ,
compressor, limiter/de-esser and delay. Mix processing includes both parametric and graphic EQ,
compressor, limiter and delay. The module is called ‘RackExtra’ because it includes a virtual 8 slot
rack which can be loaded with up to 8 additional processors from a library of many emulations of
high quality effects devices. The effects can add an extra 8 ‘short returns’ complete with parametric
EQ bringing the total number of sources feeding the mix to 72.
The user has a choice of input and output modules to fit into the 10 available MixRack card slots.
The same module types may be loaded into the 4 slots available at the rear of the iLive surface.
Unused slots may have blanking plates fitted. Each module handles 8 signals, either inputs or
outputs. These modules may be fitted anywhere within the available MixRack and Surface card slots.
Choices currently available include analogue mic/line inputs, XLR line out, and digital inputs and
outputs with a variety of optional formats including SPDIF, optical, AES, ADAT and more.
The iDR10 does away with the need for cumbersome outboard processing and I/O racks letting you
configure a full spec mix system in a compact footprint comprising just the MixRack and Surface. If,
however, you wish to insert favourite outboard devices you can do this by configuring any number of
channel and mix inserts patched to sockets anywhere in the system. Virtual patchbays are provided
too letting you map any input source to any channel, and any output signal to any socket.
The RAB module provides a local headphones output, the networked audio options and digital clock
source if synchronisation with external devices is required. Up to 2 EtherSound network card options
may be fitted to transport audio to and from locations remote from the MixRack. ESA replaces the
traditional analogue multicore providing audio at the surface and distributed to other EtherSound
equipped break in/out boxes. ESB provides a digital mic splitter for FOH/Monitor systems, multitrack
recording and system expansion.
The CPU module allows TCP/IP over Ethernet control from network devices such as the iLive Surface
or PC running iLive application software. A 3-port switcher is built in for control from multiple devices
accessing the same network, for example both a Surface and a laptop. The module also allows
control via MIDI and PL-Anet for the Allen & Heath PL Series remote controllers.
The iDR10 is well equipped for the stage environment with a lamp socket for low lighting conditions,
LED status indicators for phantom power, mute and PAFL active, ideal for helping the stage tech find
the right socket. The MixRack may be shipped in a touring grade, shock mounted flight case, and be
configured to include two internal universal voltage power supply modules, one for redundant supply
backup. Full protection and thermal management is provided.
Sound quality has been one of the key objectives behind the design of the iLive system. The
architectural design and choice of components ensure a high performance, very low latency system.
DSP algorithms developed by Allen & Heath over many years have been tailored for the demands of
live sound. The iDR10 uses a top of the range preamp design and features very high headroom
throughout the signal path to cope with the busiest and most dynamic live mix.
Please take the time to read through the rest of this guide before starting. Also refer to the iLive
System Reference Guide which has more information of configuring and using the iLive system.