Nautilus Commander Discrete Mixer at AES
 |
|
(Click for a close-up) |
November 1, 2004
Nautilus Master Technology was showing their discrete stereo mixer -- the COMMANDER -- at the AES Show. Twelve channels are summed to stereo using all-Discrete Class-A circuitry that enhances fullness and detail in mixes. Now available, this is the perfect solution for DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) users who want to integrating their prized analog gear into mixes and perform summing in the analog domain.
Mastering-style functions in the COMMANDER include separate L-R mutes (followed by the mono feature to maintain better sonic orientation) and VU meters with range control - making the unit a more capable and revealing tool for mixing. Equally at home as a back-end mixer, front-end sidecar summing module or high quality live remote mixer, the unit boasts eight analog pan and mute controls plus four dedicated L-R inputs. The unit facilitates "live-on-the-fly" interaction for mixing or tracking in progress - returning spontaneity to the once-set/always-set world of computers.
Along with versatile 4-way stereo insert functions, the COMMANDER has a unique stereo buss feature - the ability to switch from the 8 channel mixing section to an auxiliary "Stereo B" source. This can serve as an aux buss-to-mix function for special creative effects as well as precise A-B comparisons with previous mixes or other CD/SACD stereo sources. Use of the dedicated level control ensures that comparisons are tone and balance-based, not volume driven. This feature solves the problems presented by widely varying levels on commercial productions.
Nautilus Master Technology is founded by mastering engineer, John Vestman whose philosophy is to integrate mastering technology into recording studio equipment. Hearing the concerns of mixing engineers, John recommends A-B techniques as a way to gain valuable mixing insights. He states, "The COMMANDER lets you immediately compare any artist's best sounding production to yours, right on the mixer. The key is to level-match and switch the sources so you retain the immediate sonic 'imprint' of each source. This enhances your orientation with the sonic competition that's already a hit on consumer systems. It's also great to compare with your previous mixes to see if vocals are consistent from song-to-song."
While the fusion of concepts in the NEMO DMC-8 and the COMMANDER are distinctly Vestman's, the electronic/mechanical design is by Inward Connections. Steve Firlotte's precision electronics are coupled with the SPA690 discrete amp block circuitry of John Hall, renowned designer of early Langevin products.
The COMMANDER has a stereo insert send and return (front-panel switchable for the mixer and/or Source B) and two stereo buss outputs. All pan pots are precision tracking as well as the stereo buss pot which is continuous (non-detented) for smooth analog-feel end fades. Elegant VU meters compliment the blended hi-tech/retro look. The highest quality components are utilized throughout (no surface-mount components, no VCAs), in a rock-solid 2-space rack enclosure.
A stand-alone classic, the COMMANDER retails at $3995.00 and is available now. It can also be used in combination with the extended monitoring features in the Nautilus NEMO DMC-8 - giving you the foundation of a world class discrete console that can be purchased in affordable increments. More upcoming Nautilus products will include units to expand the COMMANDERs inputs to 32 - further refining this modular architecture.
For more information, visit their web site at www.nautilusmastertechnology.com. | 
