With an extensive range of features, the mc256 enhances workflow efficiency, increases productivity, and provides intuitive operation.
Media Mania, a UAE-based production company specialising in OB van construction and broadcast services, has integrated the Lawo mc²56 MkIII audio production console, accompanied by Lawo stageboxes, into its ultra-high-definition (UHD) outside broadcast (OB) truck.
Under the leadership of Roland Daou, Founder and CEO of Media Mania, the company is reportedly one of the few entities in the MENA and Gulf states region that possesses the capabilities to design, coach build, install, and operate their own OB vans. “We are committed to serving the broadcast and streaming sectors in the Gulf and MENA region, be it TV stations or private clients,” said Daou.
In anticipation of the imminent transition to 4K high dynamic range (HDR) standards in the production world, they have developed and deployed 4K HDR OB vans and 4K portable production units (PPU). Emphasising the essential attributes of stability, redundancy, and reliability in OB van equipment, Daou emphasised the criticality of selecting reputable equipment manufacturers. For the audio component, Lawo, for him, was an obvious and ideal choice.
Waddah Thabit, Chief Technology Officer at Media Mania, said: “The mc²56 boasts an extensive array of features meticulously designed to enhance workflow efficiency, increase productivity, and provide ergonomic and intuitive operation. Users can confidently operate the console even in high-pressure situations. The Lawo mc²56 MkIII console provides sound engineers with the option for two-person operation, featuring decentralised control of all parameters, including bank and layer selection, EQ operation, and dynamics control. Moreover, the console’s touch operation optimises operating sequences for VCA and bus assignment, meter pickup/mode selection, and N-1 configuration. Advanced functionality is further exemplified by the “Button Glow” feature, facilitating channel strip colour coding, and backlit rotary encoders, ensuring enhanced visibility and user guidance even in low-light environments.”
To further enhance workflow efficiency, users can seamlessly connect required third-party devices directly to the console whenever monitoring, metering, headphones, or command inputs are necessary. Additionally, the newly integrated Reveal Panel within the console’s overbridge streamlines tasks such as identifying surround channels assigned to a fader in a 5.1 surround mix.
For optimised performance within IP video production environments, there is full support for native ST2110, AES67, RAVENNA and DANTE, while Lawo’s LiveView feature enables thumbnail previews of video streams directly in the fader labelling displays.
Daou added: “Best-in-class performance in networking applications has been taken to the next level with the addition of unique capabilities such as IP Easy simplified network setup and DSCA Dynamic Surface to Core Allocation. All of this and more, simply reinforces this console’s place as the number one choice within complex IP-based production infrastructures.”
Daou noted: “With our advanced technology, we not only cater to the discerning local market that demands top-notch quality but also provide flagship results for clients worldwide in their production endeavours. Based on their experience with mc2 audio systems, AV devices and VSM broadcast control, Media Mania’s loyalty to Lawo over the years is a testament to their shared pursuit of excellence.”
