Audio-Technica Introduces AT-MX381 SmartMixer

Mar 20, 2006

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Audio-Technica has introduced the AT-MX381 SmartMixer®, the latest addition to its family of automatic mixers. The AT-MX381 is a microprocessor-controlled, programmable, automatic-switching eight-channel mixer designed to provide automatic mixing functions for installed sound, house of worship, broadcast and conference applications. Designed for intuitive, easy-to-use operation, the new SmartMixer automatically keeps the number of open microphones to a minimum, bringing background noise and feedback under control and providing increased clarity and audio quality.

The AT-MX381 features eight balanced mic- or line-level inputs, each with individually selectable 48-Volt phantom power, individual gain and volume controls, adjustable gate attenuation, and a low-cut filter to minimize pickup of undesirable noise. The SmartMixer is equipped with NOMA (Number of Open Mics Attenuated) circuitry, which helps control feedback by compensating for increases in system gain; the AT-MX381 recognizes how many microphones are active and automatically adjusts system gain accordingly. To custom-tailor conferencing needs, the priority of each microphone channel can be independently assigned, with three different modes of priority selection/operation. All audio connections terminate in block screw connectors for ease of installation.

External control capability (via channel contact closures on DB25 connector) enables the SmartMixer to interface with other devices. Three different modes are provided: Force-On allows an external contact closure to turn on an input, Force-Off allows an external contact closure to turn an input off, and Control Voltage Out turns on a voltage when an input's gate is opened or activated.

Basic functions may be configured from the front panel. For more detailed configuration settings, the AT-MX381 can interface with a PC computer using its RS232 data port. SmartMixer Software can then be used to set up key operating functions. The AT-MX381 is also compatible with Crestron and AMX systems, using "open disclosure communication protocol" to control the SmartMixer.

Other features include a selectable manual mode for overriding automatic switching and mic attenuation functions, which allows the unit to behave like a conventional mixer. Up to 16 SmartMixers can be linked using the included Link Cable for large multi-mic installations with up to 128 channels. An output level meter and a headphone output with level control are provided for instant monitoring of system status by the user. A direct output connection is available for each input, for use with logging recorders and other devices. The compact AT-MX381 is rackmountable, occupying just a single rackspace.

The AT-MX381 SmartMixer will be available late Spring 2006 with a U.S. MSRP of $1,985.00.

For more information, visit their web site at www.audio-technica.com.