Console Audio BLADE-3s provide audio I/O and DSP mix engine functions for WheatNet-IP control surfaces through the network switch.
Unique to Wheatstone’s console engine approach is its true IP connectivity. The control surface connects directly into the network switch itself, giving it access to mix engine functions as well as direct access to automation systems, network applications and other control surfaces that make true system interoperability possible. Other IP audio systems tie the control surface and the console engine together using CAN bus, thereby filtering all outside communications through the console engine first and isolating the control surface from other elements and functions in the network.
The IP88CB Console Audio BLADE-3 comes standard with L-8, L-12, E-1, IP-12 and IP-16 control surfaces. A single Console Audio BLADE-3 is all that is needed for most studio operations, but busy studios often require an additional Console Audio BLADE-3 or update to Wheatstone’s newer 2RU model with double the I/O.
The Console Audio BLADE3 provides control room and studio stereo analog outputs on XLRs as well as cue and headphone outputs on both RJ45 and 1/4” TRS and 12 GPI logic ports on RJ45.
Paired with Wheatstone’s L-8, E-1 or Audioarts IP-12 control surface consoles, for example, the IP88CB provides an economical standalone/networkable solution.
With XLRs for mic inputs and monitor outputs, 1/4” TRS for sends to headphone and cue amps, and StudioHub+ compliant RJ-45’s for all the general purpose analog and digital I/O, the Console Audio BLADE-3 is essentially a plug-and-play console system in a box. Just plug the Console Audio BLADE-3 and the related WheatNet-IP control surface into an Ethernet switch and you’re ready to go.
All Console Audio BLADEs are AES67 compatible for use with other AES67-compatible devices and signals in the WheatNet-IP Intelligent Network.
There are three types of IP88 Console Audio BLADE-3s, which come in standard I/O or double I/O (CB32 version):
CB: Used with Audioarts IP-12 and IP-16 consoles
CBL: Used with the Wheatstone L-8 and L-12 consoles
CBE: Used with the E-1 console; includes DSP processing
