GEAR HEADS
RIEDEL 1200 SERIES SMARTPANEL
During this year’s NAB show, Riedel was proud to announce its latest 1200 Series SmartPanel. Featuring multiple full-colour multi-touch displays, 32 innovative hybrid-lever keys, the ability to leverage apps for multi-functionality, this new panel is poised to allow users to work the way they always have while opening up entirely new possibilities. TPi spoke to Riedel’s Marco Muckenhaupt about the company’s latest offering to the market…
What were the initial design goals for the 1200 Series SmartPanel? The 1200 series SmartPanel was designed to solve 3 issues. First was to create a Riedel intercom interface that satisfied users who were used to a lever key operation of an intercom system, while simulations innovating what a lever is. Second was to make users understand what is currently happening on the panel much easier. Finally we wanted to create an evolutionary stage in our SmartPanel product family, which provided more hardware based potentials for future apps such as NFC, Bluetooth, touch screens an stereo speakers. How does the latest system fit into the range of Riedel products? The 1200 Series SmartPanel is the latest addition to the Riedel SmartPanel family and sits alongside its smaller brother, the 2300 Series SmartPanel, which brings smart features to an push button-based intercom panel. Together with the 1000 series and 1100 series panel families, customers may select from a variety of intercom panels suited to different applications. For example, if you prefer the ergonomics of a big push key with an integrated sunlight-readable OLED display, the 1100 series would be your ideal choice. However, is you’re used to the workflow of levering down for talking and levering up for listening, you will love the hybrid lever key of the 1200 series SmartPanel. What feature do you believe will benefit the live touring industry? There are a bunch of features that will bring significant value for live touring. The first is Logical Groups which enables users to assign custom colours for either key labels or LED rings. It’s a great way to show importance in certain keys at a quick glance. The inclusion of stereo speakers is also great in any situation where stereo material is used. The panel’s rich connection options - fibre or copper, AES3 or AES67 - means it will fit well with any touring specification. Not forgetting the robust 104
