The BLACKBOX PLAYER is the first dedicated multi-channel playback device specifically designed to replay backing tracks or multiple surround stems for live shows and themed entertainment. Able to simultaneously replay 24 channels of high quality audio at up to 24bit / 96kHz, it is simple to operate and can be triggered via its intuitive front panel, a footswitch or QWERTY keyboard. It can also be triggered using timecode, or controlled via MIDI commands, giving the live engineer, installation sound designer, musical director or artist full control of the show at all times.
Based on the proven technology of the award-winning BlackBox Recorder, the BlackBox Player provides an innovative solution to live performance playback in a compact 1U rack-mounted package. Up to 24 tracks of audio can be simultaneously replayed in 24 Bit / 96kHz quality, without a computer. Multi-channel playback is important both for surround sound applications and because it allows the live engineer to compensate for the acoustics of the venue, or audience generated noise during the performance.
Playback material can be loaded from any Digital Audio Workstation capable of creating files in Broadcast WAV format. The audio files can be stored on a standard USB2 drive, or Flash RAM drive. A simple naming procedure ensures that the correct file is replayed through each output.
Set lists can be configured into simple XML format playlist files. Playlists automatically cue up the next song ready for instantaneous replay and multiple playlists can be stored ready for any quick changes or alternative show formats.
Separate foldback mixes can be configured using normal facilities on the console. An additional mix can be sent via the headphone output for the musical director. For playback applications requiring timecode synchronisation, the BlackBox Player can be configured to an incoming source of digital clock, or optionally word clock.
Integrated safety features ensure that the BlackBox Player can meet the all-important "show must go on" criteria. These include a unique automated fail-over mechanism that enables the BlackBox Player to automatically switch to a synchronous secondary system using its internal analogue relays in the event of a failure. (This would normally require a costly external switching matrix).
Who is the BLACKBOX PLAYER designed for?
- Solo artists and vocal groups using pre-recorded backing tracks.
- Bands requiring additional backing tracks (strings, horns, etc.).
- Themed Entertainment: Theatres, theme parks and cruise ships.
- Permanent installations that require reliable playback, such as museums, galleries and houses of worship.
- Broadcast applications for timed multi-language or multistation play-out.
- Playback applications that require timecode synchronisation.
