The
latest in what seems a never-ending stream of new products from
Soundcraft this year is the GB4 console, which carries the GB30
Mic preamps and EQ, designed by Graham Blyth for the company’s
30th anniversary last year.
The new desks carry the high quality hallmark
with which Soundcraft is synonymous, with engineering and design
as you’d expect
from this high-end manufacturer. Careful attention has been given
to the mechanical construction, to ensure reliability under strenuous
conditions, with all input modules being constructed with individual
vertically-mounted pcb’s, fitted to the steel chassis front
panel with individually-nutted potentiometers.
The GB Series also shares the stylish looks of the MH4, MH3
and LX7ii consoles, continuing a strong family look and feel
across the range.
Available in frame sizes from 12 to 40 channels, the GB4 is
designed for installations such as churches and performance venues,
or for small touring sound systems. The dual-mode topology implemented
to such success on the MH3 and MH4 desks allows the GB4 to be
used on FOH or monitor duties, with fader control of group or
aux outputs.
Although largely conventional in layout, the GB4 does have some
unique mechanical features. The rugged steel chassis has a sloping
rear connector panel so that it is easier to configure from the
front of the desk, while the integral power supply has a link
option for an external back-up PSU.
Four mute groups allow several channels to be muted simultaneously,
while another unique facility is the limiter on a set of dedicated
record outputs that makes it easier to create a stereo recording
of the mix.
The console also features an output matrix with seven feeds
to four outputs, being fed from the group busses and main L,
R and C (mono) outputs.
The GB4 offers a comprehensive set of functions and facilities
in a small and cost-effective footprint, and delivers the high
performance and reliability you would expect from a Soundcraft
product.
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