Q2 OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL 9601 18
THE MATRIXSECTION
Nowadays, any console destined for theatre or similar live
performance use must have a matrix. This matrix takes the group
signals, and probably other signals, and allows different sub mixes
to be created for many uses.
Traditionally, matrices have been used to provide backstage mixes,
dressing room and foyer feeds where some elements of the mix are
not required. For example, you may want to send a different mix of
an opera or stage show to the dressing rooms to acentuate certain
points in the peformance.
Now, with demands for sound level control increasing, a matrix is
mandatory for distributing sound throughout an auditorium. Using
the normal front of house stacks, people at the rear of a hall may
need the system power increased for suitable listening levels, while
those at the front will no doubt then be deafened. The answer is to
provide arrays of loudspeakers, with mixes of suitably delayed
signals, stretching from the front of the hall to the back, to provide
more comfortable localised levels for better audience reception.
Here, the matrix increases the potential of creativity of the
performance, as by utilising the mixing facilities of the matrix, a
more surround sound effect may be created by perhaps focusing
vocals to the front, and mixing effects and music around the hall.
Q2's matrix offers all the flexibility that you need. In addition to a
feed from all the group outputs each matrix output may be fed from
the main stereo and mono (or LCR) buses, and any 2 of the four
foldnack mixes. This latter facility is extremely useful when you
consider that you can now set up one mix on a foldback bus, and
feed portions of that mix to any or all of the matrix outputs.
With fader control, CUE and ON/OFF facilities, Q2's matrix is
peraps one of the most powerful systems available on a console.