Each input channel has a direct output that can be sourced pre or post equaliser. Routing can be accessed directly via the front panel or via the on-board automation system. Any channel can be routed to any combination of 42 audio busses comprising 16 mono aux sends, 4 stereo aux sends, 16 audio sub groups and 1 stereo master. A separate high impedance input, with level control, is provided for the connection of playback machines and other general-purpose linelevel sources and every channel is equipped with a half-normalised, fully balanced, insert send and return (switchable pre or post equaliser) that can be switched in and out from the front panel. Its EQ section is closely based on that of the acclaimed X元, though the treble and bass sections have been given extended frequency ranges and may be switched to fully parametric operation. This design retains the constant bandwidth topology of the X元 to ensure amplifier stability along with optimum RF rejection and noise performance at all gain settings. A newly designed mic preamp has been used that further improves on the X元 circuit to provide increased gain range and lower distortion. It is designed to offer an uncluttered control surface with the two groups of 24 channels split either side of the central master section, yet it makes effective use of space to offer a reasonably compact footprint.

The XL4 is a 48 channel, 45-buss console that also incorporates an 18 x 8 matrix and eight mute busses. The mixing environment was designed to enhance the creativity of the mixing engineer, specifically by automating repetitive tasks allowing the engineer to concentrate on the artistic aspect of the performance. The design brief for the console was to match or exceed the audio performance of the highly acclaimed X元 and to combine that with a powerful, user-friendly automation system to deliver a nocompromise live performance console ideally suited to the needs of rental companies, touring system operators and high-end theatre installations. This close involvement of end users enabled Midas to develop a console that would meet the 'real world' needs of the most sophisticated customer, right across the live sound spectrum. To achieve this, the company has always worked closely with leading professional in the field, and in the case of the XL4, Managing Director, Bob Doyle, spent 10 painstaking months finalising the specifications of the console while discussing its concept and aims with world class sound engineers, rental company heads, theatrical production designers and artists.

2 HISTORY During its 30 year history, Midas has been producing live sound consoles for the world's most demanding sound engineers and maintains a policy of sonic excellence combined with usability and reliability.

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