02R96 V2 Upgrade Kit Announced

Yamaha Professional Audio introduced Version Two (V2) software and five add-on effects packages for the 02R96 digital mixing console. Compatible for both Mac OS X and Windows 2000/XP platforms, both V2 and the effects packages represent significant upgrades for the preconfigured internal and Studio Manager software of the 02R96. V2 software includes almost 50 new features, including Studio Manager V2, expanded DAW control, application-specific functions and the capability to run the new add-on effects packages.

The Version 2 Upgrade Kit (MSRP $300) will be available in March 2004, and provides improved editing, librarian and remote control functions for the Yamaha 02R96 while retaining the user's ability to control all console parameters from a computer via a graphic interface. Functions are displayed on-screen in logical, easy-to-understand pages. Studio Manager V2 provides a platform of total system recall where multiple, compatible-format products are being used (for example, multiple 02R96 or SPX2000 units).

Available in the first and second quarters of 2004 for the upgraded 02R96 (or 02R96V2, shipping in February), the five add-on effects packages are designed to be used separately or in combination. Each package has been produced with proprietary Virtual Circuitry Modeling (VCM), which physically models the analog circuitry down to the component level--including capacitors and resistors. Packages include Reverb, Vintage Stomp, Channel Strip, Master Strip and Surround Post.

The Reverb package, AE31 (MSRP $499), includes the advanced REV-X algorithm from the Yamaha SPX2000. Programs include REV-X HALL, REV-X ROOM and REV-X PLATE.

Channel Strip, AE11 (MSRP $499), includes two new mono/stereo compressors and a six-band parametric EQ, each modeled after a combination of popular devices. Master Strip, AE21 (MSRP $499) features OpenDeck, a tape deck emulator that allows the user to select the 'record' and 'reproduction' decks, plus tape speed and type, independently.

For musical instrument applications, the Vintage Stomp package features the sounds of phasing stomp boxes, including Max100, Vintage Phaser and Dual Phaser.

For audio post production or ADR applications, the Surround Post package includes Room ER, a surround room simulator for early reflections; Auto Doppler (Doppler effect); and Field Rotation, which will rotate the perspective of entire 5.1 fields.