Lawo and Optocore cooperate

First project for Mozarteum University in Salzburg, Austria

For this project Optocore developed a ‘Lawo Emulation Mode’, which enables a Lawo console to communicate with Optocore I/O units. These are mainly used in the fields of sound reinforcement, fixed installations and broadcast. This new development allows the Lawo console to receive audio signals and control Optocore preamps.

The installation of a Lawo mc²66 console, and its accompanying transition from analogue to digital mixing console technology, was the focus of modernisation at Mozarteum University last year. This will enable faster workflow and digital networking of the complete building. “The mc²66 is a reliable console and provides excellent audio quality. It’s success in radio stations, theatres and concert houses certainly tipped the balance in favour of Lawo,” explains Dipl. Ing. Peter Schmidt, head of the audio and video technology department at the university, when asked what made them choose Lawo.

mc²66 controls 96 Optocore Mic/Line inputs and 96 Line outputs

Mozarteum University already had an Optocore installation for the transfer of control data and audio and video signals. The installation is used for tapping signals from the various concert halls and studios in the university, and mixing them in the studio control room. Following a proposal from the university, the companies involved worked on a solution to enable communication between the Lawo console and the Optocore network. The console now controls 96 Optocore Mic/Line inputs and 96 Line outputs that are distributed throughout the building. Selection of which of the 200 available Mic/Line preamps are controlled can be modified on demand in groups of 8.

The collaboration in this initial project included implementation of the control protocol used by Lawo’s DALLIS stage boxes. Based on this, the LEM (Lawo Emulation Mode) was created. Following a successful start, everything is now in place for further cooperation between Lawo and Optocore.

About Lawo AG

Lawo, headquartered in Rastatt/Germany, specialises in developing, designing and manufacturing mixing consoles and matrix systems for radio and TV broadcasters, as well as for use in live events. Standards of high quality and innovative technology are supported by nearly forty years experience in the field of professional audio technology. Lawo’s product range covers digital audio mixing consoles for use in radio, broadcast, production and live applications, including the required software. In addition to the provision of matrix systems and audio networks, Lawo also carries out project engineering tasks and acts as a main contractor for radio OB trucks; these services include user training and maintenance. This high level of expertise results in a comprehensive support service for Lawo customers.

About Optocore

Optocore, based in Munich, Germany, manufactures audio network systems. The global market leader in fibre optical networks for the last 17 years sets new standards with digital network technology in the field of audio communication. Optocore builds and develops synchronous optical fibre and copper networks for broadcast professionals, for fixed installations and live applications. The use of cutting edge technology and high-quality components guarantees durability and therefore long-term market placement. As an open platform, Optocore also offers other manufacturers the option to transfer conventional standard formats, used in the pro audio industry, via an Optocore network. Technical expertise and an extensive support structure are guaranteed to all customers, together with a high level of quality.