BLACKBOX multi-track players

Based on the proven technology of the award-winning BLACKBOX Recorder, the BLACKBOX Multi-Channel Player provides an innovative solution to live performance playback in a compact 1U rack-mounted package. Player capability is available for JoeCo’s 24- and 64-channel BLACKBOX systems, enabling up to 64 channels of synchronous audio to be replayed in up to 24 Bit/96kHz quality, without a computer. Multi-channel audio 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 (DAW) capable of creating files in Broadcast WAV format. In addition to standard mono BWAV files, the Player also supports the replay of polyphonic wav files, from multiple stereo files up to 24 or even 64 channel PolyWAV files. Mono, stereo and multichannel files can even be used together in the same song, massively enhancing the system’s flexibility. 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 time code synchronisation, the BLACKBOX Multi-channel Player can be configured to an incoming source of digital clock, or optionally word clock. The implementation of a “Chase” mode enables the unit to commence playback in sync when it receives incoming time code. This option can either be controlled from the front panel or via extended SONY 9-pin support. The extended 9-pin commands also allow the user to rehearse shows that are normally locked to time code via remote control and are compatible with most edit suites and show controllers. Time code can be shown on the main time display in playback mode.

Integrated safety features ensure that the BLACKBOX Multi-Channel Player is unwavering in it’s reliability. 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).