Direct Access: The cockpit for professionals. 

Nexus

The “engine” of all our mixing consoles for networking, routing and processing audio, control and additional data. The perfect integration between console, I/O network and control functions is the key to the excellent results typical of STAGETEC, from the input through all processing stages to the output.

Audio Network

Concept

PREMIUM IN THE COMPACT CLASS.

CRESCENDO platinum is the little brother of our AURUS platinum mixing console system, but is in no way inferior to it in terms of quality. The console is characterised above all by its shallow installation depth and a very clearly arranged central module. It shines with the highest audio quality and excellent workmanship of its mechanical and electronic components.

The ‘Direct Access’ operating concept enables direct access to all audio parameters in each channel strip. The various processing categories (EQ, dynamics, AUX, etc.) are easily accessible without any detours. The result? An extremely efficient working speed!

Depending on personal preferences and the requirements of the project, small operational steps quickly turn into a customised workflow, because the parameters can be adjusted both from the channel strip and from the central control unit. The simultaneous control of the console also offers a noticeable increase in convenience, as the modules’ functions are completely independent.

The clearly laid out operation of the channel strips with the typical STAGETEC double rotary encoders accommodates many functions in a small space, while remaining easy to handle. In addition, the structured array of easy-to-read displays provide a good overview even in conditions of poor visibility.

AT HOME WHEREVER THE DEMANDS ARE HIGH.

CRESCENDO platinum mixing consoles are the result of many years of development and project experience and therefore offer an extensive range of functions:

CRESCENDO - the centre of a large system

At STAGETEC, the mixing consoles are just one part of the overall system. The idea behind it: More flexibility. More freedom. And countless possibilities for the user.
The NEXUS audio routing system comprises 19’ card carriers, so-called Base Devices, which can be connected in any way to form large networks.
Plug-in cards with audio I/Os or other functions are installed in the base units. You can choose from any audio format with a wide variety of connections, including of course the latest AoIP formats. This creates a customised system within which all inputs and outputs are positioned exactly where needed.
All inputs and outputs of the network can be used independently from any mixing console in the network. This eliminates the need for separate, dedicated inputs in the console. All of the console’s buses and mixing outputs are also available for completely free routing within the network.

Scalability is another advantage: the number of channels that can be processed is independent of the size of the mixing console, but is determined by the ‘RMDQ’ DSP cards used. Processing power of the mixing console is controlled via the quantity of these cards. This enables you to upgrade your system in stages, as demands increase over time. All inputs and outputs can be freely routed to the mixing console via the NEXUS network. Therefore, the effective number of useable channels is unlimited. 

The extensive logic, monitoring and control functions of the NEXUS system complement the audio routing and processing. The former can interact with external systems in a wide variety of ways.
Why do so many experienced sound engineers rely on CRESCENDO? Because time-critical productions in particular are noticeably more relaxed. This is thanks to the numerous supporting, integrated audio editing functions, plus the perfect interaction between CRESCENDO platinum, the NEXUS network and the devices connected to it. Additionally, up to 47 user buttons fulfil all requirements, from the simplest routing changes in the NEXUS network to PTZ control of connected cameras. Such control actions may also be saved in scenes and can be executed automatically in live situations, as is also possible with MIDI commands or timecode cues. Any questions? 

Audio Quality

STAGETEC seal of quality.

The founders of STAGETEC have always aimed to offer digital signal processing with the highest, quasi analog quality and absolute neutrality. In the 1990s, when the computing power of integrated circuits was still far from as high as it is today, its engineers consistently focused on the use of FPGAs and, thus, on hardware-oriented programming. The unique algorithms developed in the process have shaped the quality of audio signal processing in the large mixing consoles from Berlin, which has been admired from the very beginning. They are partly fundamentally different from the "textbook algorithms" of other manufacturers and still form the basis of all signal processing functions in STAGETEC's DSP hardware today - naturally extended and further developed many times over.

Quality begins in the details.

Audio experts agree: The quality of every signal processing chain is decisively determined by the quality of the input amplifiers or converters. STAGETEC's TrueMatch® microphone inputs, with a dynamic range of 158 dB, are the absolute pinnacle of currently available technology. They do not require any analog preamplification, which contributes significantly to noise reduction, especially in the summation of many channels. Without analog signal amplification, every microphone becomes a digital microphone.
The patented TrueMatch inputs are an excellent example of STAGETEC's commitment to quality in signal processing. This continues throughout the entire signal processing chain and can be seen again and again, for example in many ingenious details.

Phasing? Not a chance.   

The TDM technology used in the NEXUS network guarantees consistently low latencies. The "genes" of every STAGETEC mixing console are already tuned for speed and maximum accuracy. For example, all channels are always summed to all buses simultaneously and with sample accuracy. Although this is technically complex, it avoids the phasing effects that occur when conventional, step-by-step addition methods are used. An uncompromising commitment to audio quality, due to corrective auxiliary functions, such as delay compensation, are no longer necessary in our mixing consoles.   

Algorithms against artifacts. 

To ensure the highest quality in every situation, we use fade algorithms even for simple processes, such as switching an EQ on or off or muting a channel. The old setting is faded into the new state within a few milliseconds using a specifically calculated fade. Level jumps, crackling, zipper noises or other artefacts are thus reliably eliminated. The same applies to rapid changes to the delay of the channel. These are also transferred to the new state with a fade, in order to avoid signal distortion.   

Uncompromising audio quality.   

As a pioneer in digital audio processing our innovations have inspired the entire industry and our eye for the big picture has taken audio quality to a new level. Key to this is: The all encompassing integration between mixing console, I/O network and control functions, for example between AURUS platinum and NEXUS. From input stage through all processing stages down to the output the results are brilliant: 

  • Unrivalled common mode rejection, thanks to patented TrueMatch® technology   
  • 158 dB(A) dynamic range on TrueMatch® microphone inputs   
  • No noise, as no analog pre-amplification is required   
  • Every microphone becomes a "digital" microphone 
  • No distortion in the conversion process thanks to intelligent inputs and maximum headroom in every signal processing stage 
  • Always guarantees the same, deterministic, lowest latencies throughout the entire system thanks to TDM technology   
  • Sample-accurate signal processing and summation in STAGETEC mixing consoles guarantee an absolutely phase-coherent addition to all buses   
  • All switching operations and delay settings are masked, guaranteeing no crackling noises 
  • All converters and filters optimised for the most neutral, sonic performance  
  • Synchronisation:   
    - Clock accuracy typically ±5 ppm (10 x better than AES 11-2003, Grade 2) 
    - Synchronisation to any digital source 
    - Dedicated sync inputs for a wide range of formats 
    - Definition of sync hierarchies   
    - Inaudible sync transitioning function when changing sync sources   
  • Highest computing accuracy with 40-bit floating point arithmetic  

Audio Network

An integrative concept.

Few systems from other manufacturers are as well integrated with each other and at the same time as flexible as the mixing consoles from STAGETEC with the NEXUS audio router. The reason for this is that STAGETEC has turned the typical way of thinking upside down: Unlike competing products, a STAGETEC mixing console does not have its own audio matrix, but the entire mixing console itself is part of the matrix. This fundamentally different way of thinking opens up much wider possibilities: If the mixer is located in the middle of all inputs and outputs of the entire system, the integration is logically many times better than if inputs and outputs from outside first have to be fed into the mixer. The same applies to all control options. STAGETEC has consciously overcome these self-imposed limitations of other systems since the beginning of the development of the NEXUS router.

From the mixing console everything under control.

The mixing console is the heart of the system, from which the engineer has all the functions in the network under control: from the integrated microphone splitter and the entire routing in the NEXUS network to the delays, EQs and limiters of the sound system. All messages from the entire system's permanent self-monitoring are signalled directly at the console. In the unlikely event of an accident, all components are hot-swappable and playable again within just 2-3 seconds. For communication, the console's talk microphone can be routed to any bus and integrated with intercom systems from other manufacturers. The mixing console can react automatically to external errors and conditions. Triggers can be remote or local, for example, the failure of the playback player or a key cue from wireless monitoring. The external functions to be controlled can be of any complexity. From the scene automation of the console, each snapshot can always create new settings, regardless of whether these are native parameters or are to be controlled via GPIO, serial protocols, Ethernet or MIDI devices from third-party manufacturers.

 

Clock, timecode, and control signals with ultimate precision

Due to its extremely accurate clock rate, NEXUS is often used as a clock master. Conversely, synchronization to any digital inputs including hierarchy definition and dropout-free sync transitioning is also possible. NEXUS has always offered the option of transparently transmitting time code, sync and serial protocols via the system and distributing or switching them to different taps. Of course, almost any serial signal can be used to control the entire system from base devices and consoles.
In a timecode environment, AURUS consoles can be both master and slave. NEXUS allows the time code to be distributed throughout the network with maximum precision and output to external systems. Parallel to the time code, STAGETEC's mixers generate MIDI, RS-232 and other signals to control external devices. This makes automation a breeze in larger shows.

Pure flexibility: Bidirectional control capabilities

Each base unit is equipped with the so-called NEXUS Logic Control. The powerful logic functions provided can be linked to macros and are able to evaluate all-important local audio parameters. This alone opens up possibilities that hardly any other system can offer. In addition, GPIOs can be interrogated and set, commands can be received and sent via serial interfaces or permanent communication can be established with an external control system via Ethernet. Since the functions are provided by different NEXUS board types, the choice is large. This is particularly evident with the serial interfaces: RS232, RS422, RS485 and MIDI are available. USB and Ethernet are already available on every CPU card.
NEXUS Logic Control is able to communicate system-wide with other base devices, and query and transmit states. This results in interaction within the NEXUS router and with external systems that go far beyond the options of an audio network and is partially able to completely replace external media controls. This not only enables an undreamt-of integration directly into individual buttons on the audio console but also opens up great savings potential by eliminating additional control systems and considerably simplifying work processes. In combination with the NEXUS Logic Control, a STAGETEC console offers a wide range of possibilities, the use of which sets almost no limits for the inventive user.
In straightforward, simple cases, the user keys of the console can be used, for example, to signal external states or to control them. This can simply be setting crosspoints or, in conjunction with NEXUS XRI boards, switching contacts to control lighting, light signals or other things. Warning states such as the absence of a signal level on the transmission lines or other error states inside or outside the NEXUS could also be indicated by flashing.

Possible applications

In addition to simply switching contacts, the NEXUS logic can also be used for more complex tasks, all of which can be controlled from the console. This can be done by calling up comprehensive system statuses, known as "NEXUS snapshots", or by implementing a pan-tilt-zoom camera control system. In a typical studio application, this could be used to switch different recording rooms between several control rooms at the push of a button. A PTZ camera could easily be used to capture not only the conductor's position but also changing soloists. Using additional video inputs, the image itself can even be displayed on the metering screens of the console. Once presets have been created, they can be saved with the scenes in the console and recalled fully automatically during the course of the show.

Scalable DSP

A modular DSP core with 128 busses and up to 800 channels provides extensive flexibility for daily work.

A consistent DSP concept - centralized and scalable

Just as innovative as in audio signal processing, STAGETEC is in the design and scalability of its DSP platform. A striking, useful feature is that all flexibly expandable mixing consoles from STAGETEC use the same DSP cards. All product families benefit from further developments in software and hardware - one of the most important criteria for the longevity of these consoles.

The NEXUS Star Router - Base device with special features

The NEXUS Star Router was developed in order to implement particularly high routing requirements in a NEXUS network. Compared to the classic NEXUS system base devices, which have a TDM bus for communication between the plug-in cards, this 6U device offers its own redundant matrix of 4,096 inputs and 4,096 outputs. Since a NEXUS network supports any topologies simultaneously and also several Star Routers simultaneously, enormously large audio networks can be created that meet all requirements.

The mixing console in the Star Router - it couldn't be more central

The control and DSP cards from STAGETECs audio consoles are logically located in the Star Router. Here they can directly access the huge amount of audio channels that are processed in a mixing console today. This direct connection to the matrix of a NEXUS Star Router not only enables the consoles to use every input of the entire system as an input and every output of the system as an output, but it also enables the uniquely flexible bus structure of Stage Tec's large mixers. This is also the most outstanding difference from other mixing console concepts:

Typical mixing consoles have a matrix inside them. STAGETEC's mixing consoles are in the matrix!

The RMDQ DSP cards - flexible redundancy

The actual DSP cards on which the audio signal processing is calculated are called "RMDQ" at STAGETEC. Their hardware architecture is optimized for low heat generation while the software is designed so that the user can configure flexible combinations of input channels and buses in a wide range. Two things are particularly noteworthy with this STAGETEC concept: First, the user can freely determine the number and use of the buses himself; sums, groups, AUX paths, N-1 buses as required. And secondly, each channel always has the full DSP resources available for calculating all intended audio editing functions. Depending on the configuration, up to 800 audio channels or 128 buses can be operated.

The RMDQ cards are now the fourth DSP generation and, as typical for STAGETEC, backwards compatible with the predecessor version under the name "RMD". Depending on resource requirements, up to 7 RMDQ cards can form the DSP of a mixing console together. If the user's requirements increase, additional RMDQ cards can be added at any time. The redundancy concept of the STAGETEC mixing consoles is also unique: Each NEXUS Star Router itself already has a fully redundant internal structure. If desired, the user can purchase a redundant control board for the router at any time.

Even more flexible is the redundancy of the DSPs solved. For each project, it can be decided to configure one RMDQ card as a redundant card or to use the full DSP resources for this project. The resulting flexibility offers both the highest performance and highest security, configurable according to project requirements. This also keeps the hardware effort and costs within reasonable limits.

The trend-setting concept of placing the mixing console directly within the Star Router and the scalability of the DSP resources themselves underline the uniqueness of the large mixing consoles from STAGETEC. Many helpful functions cannot be realized without such a sophisticated system concept. 

Areas of Application

When space is precious, performance must not be compromised.

Theater:

The comprehensive snapshot and scene automation offers freely configurable fade times and fade curves that can be selected user-specifically for each scene and channel. 39 user keys can be assigned with especially adaptable functions, such as GPIO control and the most complex logic functions. This allows extensive integration with components in the entire network that goes far beyond audio control.

Broadcast: 

The integrated loudness metering makes simplifies work just as much as the optional Automix and the intelligently manageable N-1 groups do. The low depth of the console saves space and the high-quality lightweight construction "Made in Germany" saves lots of weight, which is a great advantage in OB vans.

Live:

The spill function, which spreads all channels of a group on the user interface at the touch of a button, helps to keep track of live events. The highly praised direct access and the resulting efficient workflows save valuable time and allow you to focus on the moment.

Workflow

Direct Access: Faster workflows, reliable processes.

The design of the CRESCENDO platinum corresponds to the successful Direct Access concept of the AURUS platinum consoles and is equipped with carefully selected operating elements that enable a focussed, ergonomic way of working within all essential parameters.

High speed performance with precise control. 

The user interface is made up of clearly organised and structured channel strips and thus supports a high working speed. All other important functions are provided in the generously designed modules of the central control unit. The carefully selected positions of the many high-quality encoders and buttons, plus the efficient and ergonomic organisation of all necessary elements on the high-contrast displays, enable exceptional working speeds and a high level of clarity.
 

Intuitive interface for smooth workflows.

The design of the CRESCENDO platinum console follows the concept of an analogue console approach. Direct operation using dedicated buttons and rotary encoders with several function levels exist side by side and can be intuitively accessed at any time. As an alternative to in-channel operation, all parameters may also be operated from a clearly laid out control centre. Therefore, a large number of parameters can be made directly accessible in a very small space. Thanks to the clearly laid out surface, the controls are easy on the eye and are reachable with a quick flick of the wrist. Thus, the mixing console conveys an approachable impression for even the most inexperienced users and creates the feeling of familiarity right from the start.

Direct access even in the control centre.

The direct access philosophy is also reflected in the central modules of the CRESCENDO platinum interface. Thanks to their systematic structure, the central operating units are easy to understand and offer a vast range of functions for direct access. As well as important audio parameters, all general and special mixing console functions can be controlled from the control strip and are sensibly distributed over clearly labelled sections across the two central modules as well, easily accessible at any time.

The CRESCENDO platinum also proves its premium class with its exceptional choice of materials and workmanship: the high-quality feel of the mixing console surface, first-rate components, and the meticulous craftsmanship are unrivalled. Anyone who has ever worked with a CRESCENDO platinum appreciates the difference the outstanding mechanics of the faders and buttons make in everyday production.

Accessories

Challenge accepted.

The demands placed on mixing consoles change from production to production. Large mixing consoles in particular, which cover a wide range of different areas of application, need to fulfil the most diverse wishes and requirements, from theatre, opera plus broadcast to studio and live applications. The modular, highly customisable concept of the NEXUS audio matrix in conjunction with a STAGETEC console provides a solution for every requirement. Our claim: A system with maximum reliability, providing interfaces to any number of other systems.

Over the years, we have developed numerous independent products and solutions to skilfully address the most typical and more unusual challenges that were presented to us.

Brilliant and convenient: Automix.

We have further developed the algorithm of the legendary and popular Dan Dugan Automix: It offers an automix option as an additional function for all NEXUS Star router-based consoles with RMDQ DSP cards. This preserves the spectral and ambience impressions of the original mix while the system automatically shifts the gain focus to the active microphone. All other functions such as EQ and dynamics remain fully usable in each channel. STAGETEC's automix option can be active on all channels of a project simultaneously without loss of DSP resources. Up to eight automix groups are available, which can be used independently of each other. This clear advantage enables the sound engineer to work more efficiently, especially in live situations. For example, the microphones for the panel discussion can be combined in one group, while the lecterns of the delegates in the hall work in a second group. STAGETEC's Automix provides the sound engineer with a function that makes working with a large number of open microphones as comfortable as possible. 

Perfect DAW integration.

In all production scenarios where most work is done on audio workstations, the DAW integration is a useful addition, especially for CRESCENDO platinum mixing consoles. In conjunction with the machine control for two external tape machines or DAWs provided as standard in CRESCENDO platinum, DAW integration enables comprehensive operation of all parameters supported in the control protocol directly from the sweet spot on the console. The software supports both the HUI and OASIS protocols and can be connected to workstations from a wide range of manufacturers. The parameters of up to 32 channels simultaneously made available via the protocols can be mapped to the console's rotary encoders and faders during setup, while the screen content of the DAW can be displayed directly on one of the console's metering screens if desired. As the automated channels can also be switched via banks, all parameters changes are recorded in the dynamic automation system of CRESCENDO platinum, which results in a uniquely fluid way of working. No unnecessary back and forth between the mixing console and audio workstation. This can be further supplemented with additional automation in the external DAW software. The sensational feel of the double rotary encoders in CRESCENDO platinum and the smooth-running motorised faders place CRESCENDO platinum a hardware controller in a class of its own.

Open to all: 3rd party goniometers

The connection of correlation meters with AES/EBU input from other manufacturers is already provided for in STAGETEC's large mixing consoles. On request, the console can be rewired at no extra charge to allow the connection of external devices. STAGETEC also offers an in-console implementation of the RTW TM7 or TM9 for AURUS platinum and CRESCENDO platinum, for which all software options of the familiar RTW devices are available. The display and operation can be carried out directly on the screens of the consoles.

The control centre: the NEXUS Master Monitor

The Master Monitor software for NEXUS offers advanced metering within the NEXUS network. You can freely compile up to 256 preset screens according to your requirements. These are not limited to pure, multi-channel level monitoring, but also offer loudness metering in accordance with EBU R128 as well as parallel display of the short and momentary values, LUFS and LRA. A spectrum display ‘RTA-Analyzer’ with 1/3 and 1/12 octave resolution is also available. As the programme can run on any number of PCs simultaneously and be connected to the NEXUS network at different points, the most diverse metering requirements for complex installations can be realised. There are no limits to the access of channels within the matrix. The software also runs directly within consoles with an integrated PC.

For those who want more: NEXUS XDSP card

Our XDSP cards can be used in any number of NEXUS network Base Devices. They open up new freedoms for you, as they enable additional, local audio processing at any point in the system. The cards can be set up with a wide variety of audio modules. These range from simple delays, multi-channel summers and mono formers to parametric EQs with up to 30 bands, crossovers and dynamic units including de-essers. Level delay matrices for controlling large, distributed loudspeaker systems and matrix buses for conference circuits are also available. On request, we can also develop modules that are precisely customised to your requirements. As all DSP modules are available with their own inputs and outputs in the NEXUS crosspoint matrix, they can be combined with each other as required to create complex systems. For example, an XDSP card can function as a loudspeaker controller for controlling line arrays, as well as for signal processing and signal distribution to the sound system of a department store. It enables delays to be set up for monitoring loudspeakers, as well as extensive matrix buses for call-in games in broadcasting. NEXUS Logic Control and NEXUS Status can also be used to save and recall presets and set individual parameters. Configuration by STAGETEC ensures that all functions are available at all times.

Clever and flexible: ISOSTEM up/downmix

The patented ISOSTEM algorithm is a good example and further proof of how flexibly STAGETEC hardware and the NEXUS system can be utilised. ISOSTEM from DSPECIALISTS is the only 100 per cent mathematically reversible algorithm that enables the lossless conversion of stereo audio streams into 5.1 streams - or vice versa. ISOSTEM is therefore a particularly interesting option for broadcasters, e.g. for converting or playing out older archive material. STAGETEC offers ISOSTEM as an option for XDSP cards in NEXUS. This implementation allows highly flexible access to the module - without the need for additional hardware!

One more option: EmBER+ protocol for the NEXUS XACI card

The XACI card is an intelligent control card of the latest generation. It serves as an interface including command interpreter for external control systems and protocols. For example, cross points in the audio router can be set and deleted very easily via EmBER+ or the input parameters of the microphone inputs can be controlled.

No end in sight: further integrations.

All of our mixing consoles and the NEXUS audio routers are ‘living’ products that are constantly evolving with software updates. Based on industry standards that have been tried and tested millions of times, we are continually developing the NEXUS hardware architecture to include new interface cards. As the performance of existing products, such as the XACI card, has not yet been fully utilised, nothing stands in the way of implementing further connections.

STAGETEC has a long history of close co-operation with partners from industry, information and entertainment. These include many well-known radio and television companies worldwide, for whom we have realised complex control and monitoring solutions at the highest level. We are also happy to meet your challenges!