AES: Desktop Recording Solution from Lexicon

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With the release of Omega Studio, Lexicon has taken a whole-system approach to desktop recording. Omega Studio is an integrated computer recording system that includes the Omega 8x4x2 USB I/O mixer, ProTracks Plus 32-track recording software and Pantheon Lexicon reverb plug-in. Omega Studio contains all of the components necessary to transform your computer into a professional 24-bit recording studio.

Differentiating itself from standard computer I/O boxes which are typically based on a patch-bay paradigm, the Omega 8x4x2 USB I/O is based on a mixer paradigm and includes input, output and mixing functions that support a variety of tracking/monitoring applications while requiring no additional mixing hardware.

The Omega I/O mixer provides 8 inputs which are assignable in pairs to any of 4 simultaneous record channels featuring high-resolution analog to digital converters to capture your performance with 24-bit quality. Two of the inputs feature low-noise dbx mic-preamps with 48 volt phantom power and TRS insert points. Four TRS active balanced line inputs accept up to +22dBu signals to allow interfacing to either unbalanced or professional high-output level balanced equipment. Included is an S/PDIF input combined with an additional DAC for zero-latency, direct monitoring of the S/PDIF source to allow simultaneous tracking of analog and digital sources. A high-impedance instrument input is conveniently accessible on the front panel. The Omega I/O mixer provides a peak indicator for each analog input as well as an assignable bargraph meter for signal level monitoring. By monitoring the signal at the A/D converters, it avoids the problems with software-only level monitoring that can miss clipping and ruin your track. The Omega I/O mixer also includes a fully opto-isolated MIDI input to ensure that there is no annoying ground loop hum or MIDI talk-through noise. MIDI output has synchronization to USB frame rate to support applications requiring critical sync.

ProTracks Plus is a 32-track recording suite that includes all the modules you need to track, edit, process, sequence and mix your masterpiece. Not only does it include non-linear editing, plug-in support, and acidized looping features, it contains a full featured MIDI sequencer with outstanding event editing and powerful automation features as well as soft synth support.

Designed entirely by Lexicon engineers, the Pantheon reverb plug-in offers 35 factory presets featuring 6 reverb types (hall, chamber, plate, room, ambience and custom) controlled by a user interface with 16 editable parameters.

Omega Studio (Estimated Street Price $349.99) will be available in November through your local Lexicon dealer.