Slated for a Spring 2002 release, the new Yamaha DM2000 digital console certainly packs quite a punch. Based on the family tradition of the popular ProMix 01, 02R, 01V, and PM1D boards, the DM2000 takes the lineage to a whole new level. With full 24-bit/96 kHz performance, 96 input channels, integrated workstation control, and extensive surround features, this board is sure to open up a few eyes and ears.
While operating at 96 kHz, the console features no loss of inputs or outputs, i.e., 96 channels of true 96 kHz audio. Almost every parameter is automatable, and the control surface features 24 touch-sensitive 100 mm motorized faders. These can be layer switched to access all 96 channels, but can also be switched (via Fader Mode keys) to control aux/matrix functions as well. Each of the channels includes a fader and rotary encoder, On/Off key, Solo key, an Auto key for automation, and a SEL key to assign the channel as the active “Selected Channel.” EQ, compression/gating, and I/O patching can also be accessed on every channel across the board.
Each channel also features switchable 48-volt phantom power, pad switches, trim control, and switchable inserts for pre-A/D analog processing. The Master section features a stereo master fader, keys to choose the channel layers (1-24, 25-48, 49-72, 73-96), and selectors for four remote control layers.
There are 16 user-definable keys for assignable functions such as surround speaker muting/selection. Also, all inputs, outputs effects, and channel inserts can be assigned to any console channel or output via the flexible internal digital patchbay. An additional direct out function allows for signal from any of the 96 input channels to be routed directly to any other analog or digital output. As for multichannel use, there is an onboard panning joystick, surround monitoring, and bass management capabilities, as well as a useful downmix matrix. Graphic displays allow visual positioning, and the joystick features 128- x 128-step resolution. Full divergence access is included. The monitor processing section includes individual speaker muting and attenuation, as well as independent delays for speaker calibration.
The onboard effects feature 32-bit/96 kHz resolution, and the eight multieffect processors can be patched into any input, stereo, mix, or matrix channel, or returned to any channel. The DM2000 provides new multiband dynamic processors, reverbs, delays, etc., and reportedly some new surround specific effects. Up to eight stereo or surround effects can be used simultaneously, depending on individual output requirements.
Interestingly, the DM2000 provides new integrated DAW control for such systems as Pro Tools and Nuendo (other systems can be accessed via MIDI parameters). The console’s faders, encoders, and other controllers can be used to control the DAW parameters and plug-in effects. Taking computer control a step further, Yamaha provides Studio Manager software with this package, allowing complete access to all parameters for both Mac and PC platforms. The Peak Meter Bridge includes 48 12-segment level meters for monitoring (busses, aux sends, channel levels, matrix busses), timecode display, and a separate 32-segment stereo meter for the main out. For a different kind of metering, each channel also features a useful 4-character name display, which can be stretched to 16 characters via the SEL key.
As for the rear panel, it features 24 balanced XLR and TRS for mic or line input, which are routed directly to the 24-bit/96 kHz A/D converters. Analog I/O includes balanced monitor, stereo, control room, and studio outputs, as well as eight balanced “omni” bus outputs. Also included are AES/EBU and coaxial 2-track digital I/O, SMPTE and MTC inputs, MIDI connectors, keyboard connectors, serial and USB “host” connectors, and word clock I/O. The console handles external machine control via Sony 9-pin (P2) and MMC, which are divided into transport controls, location controls, and track arming (24 tracks on/off).
Adding to the console’s flexibility, six Mini-YGDAI expansion slots are included. Fully 24-bit/96 kHz capable, they can handle ADAT, TASCAM, and AES/EBU formats, or can be used for extra analog I/O (a.k.a. surround outputs for us!). The board also supports Apogee’s high-performance A/D and D/A cards and the Waves Y56K effects plug-in card. Users can also use SmartMedia memory cards to store scene and Automix data for transfer to another console. The Cascade I/O connections allow two DM2000’s to be cascaded, providing up to a whopping 192 channels. Also note that the Internal sample rate conversion allows digital sources to be routed to an input or monitored without sync to the system clock. The board will operate at 44.1, 48, 88.2, and 96 kHz sampling frequencies.
With its expected April delivery, the DM2000 is reported to feature a target price of under $20,000 MSRP. Once again, Yamaha seems to have broken new ground!
For more information, contact Yamaha at 714-522-9011 or visit them on the Web at www.yamaha.com/proaudio.
