MIDAS M32R VIRTUAL SOUNDCHECK

Using the Virtual Soundcheck feature on the Midas M32R digital mixer can be a game-changer for live sound engineers. It allows you to use recorded audio to simulate a live soundcheck, giving you more flexibility and time to fine-tune your mix before the actual performance. Here’s a step-by-step tutorial to help you get started:

1. Setup the Hardware:
Connect Your Gear: Ensure your Midas M32R is connected to your computer via USB. This is typically done through a USB-B port on the mixer.
Install Drivers: If you haven’t already, download and install the Midas USB drivers from the Midas website to ensure your computer and mixer communicate properly.
2. Prepare Your Audio Sources:
Record a Performance: You need a recorded multi-track performance. This could be from a DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) or a live recording session.
Save Tracks: Make sure your tracks are saved in a format compatible with your DAW or audio playback software.
3. Configure Audio Routing:
Set Up Your DAW: Open your DAW and set up the session with your recorded tracks. You should configure the DAW to output audio to the M32R via USB.
Assign Inputs/Outputs: In your DAW, ensure that the multi-track outputs are routed to the corresponding USB channels of the M32R.
4. Configure the M32R:
Open the M32R Console: Power up the M32R and access the console screen.
Access Routing: Navigate to the “Routing” tab on the M32R’s touchscreen.
Set Up USB Inputs: Assign the USB channels from your computer to the M32R’s input channels. Typically, you’ll map the USB inputs to the corresponding input channels (e.g., USB 1 to Input 1, USB 2 to Input 2, etc.).
5. Load and Configure Virtual Soundcheck:
Start Virtual Soundcheck: Go to the “Virtual Soundcheck” tab in the M32R’s menu.
Select Playback Source: Choose the USB audio source that corresponds to the tracks you want to use for soundcheck.
Monitor and Adjust: You should now hear the playback from your DAW through the M32R’s channels. Use this to monitor and adjust your EQ, effects, and levels as if it were a live performance.
6. Fine-Tune Your Mix:
Balance Levels: Adjust the fader levels and EQ settings for each channel to balance the mix.
Apply Effects: Apply any necessary effects such as reverb or delay, and adjust them to fit the mix.
Check Routing: Ensure that all channels are properly routed to the main mix or subgroups as required.
7. Save Your Settings:
Save Presets: Save your mix settings as a preset on the M32R for easy recall during the live performance.
Document Changes: Make note of any specific adjustments or settings for future reference.
8. Testing and Final Adjustments:
Run Additional Tests: Play through various tracks to ensure your settings work well across different types of audio.
Adjust as Needed: Make any final adjustments based on the results of your tests.
9. Prepare for Live Performance:
Switch to Live Mode: Before the show, switch from virtual soundcheck mode to live mode on the M32R.
Conduct a Live Soundcheck: Perform a quick live soundcheck with the actual performers to make any final adjustments.
By following these steps, you can effectively utilize the Virtual Soundcheck feature on the Midas M32R digital mixer to streamline your soundcheck process and ensure a polished mix for your live performance.