Spirit Shows LX7 Console for Live Applications
July 11, 1997
Spirit's new LX7 console is an affordable and flexible tool for a wide variety of
live mixing tasks.
Housed in a 24-channel frame, the LX7 offers a maximum of 32 inputs with no less than seven
separate bus outputs, including mix left and right, four groups and a dedicated mono bus for center
speaker clusters, side or rear fills. With the inclusion of direct outs on the first 16 mono inputs and
six auxiliary busses, the output count rises to 29.
The LX7's 24 balanced mic inputs all use Spirit's patented UltraMic preamps, which provide 60 dB of
gain range and 22 dBu of headroom. Each input also includes Graham Blyth's acclaimed four-band
EQ with two sweepable mid frequencies. In addition, EQ In/Out switches and steep 18 dB/Octave
High Pass Filters allow effective audio control in difficult venues, while the six auxiliary sends are
pre/post switchable in pairs from each channel, providing a maximum of four pre- and six
post-fader. This makes the LX7 perfect for foldback-heavy performances or in situations where more
effects are required.
Channel inserts on every channel and direct outs on the LX7's first 16 inputs provide a wide range of
options for the engineer. With each direct out individually pre/post-fader switchable, the LX7
becomes a useful tool for recording to multitrack and an ideal multipurpose mixer for bands. Levels
are controlled by 100 mm faders throughout, with PFL facilities and full routing to all busses
available from each channel.
The LX7's group section houses two additional stereo inputs, complete with EQ, auxiliaries for
keyboards or stereo recording devices, and two FX returns. All four groups are routable to mix and
include 12-segment bargraph metering for accurate monitoring and inserts. Six auxiliary masters on
rotary controls also include AFL soloing.
A talkback provision to all pre-fade auxiliaries and the mix is available in the master section. Global
phantom power and a two-track return for pre-show music are also featured. During stage setup, a
"two-track to mix" switch allows the engineer to play CDs over the main PA with the simple press
of a single button. The mix is also routable to the separate mono bus if mono PAs are required.
By utilizing the latest surface-mount manufacturing techniques, Spirit has managed to include all of
these professional front-of-house features in a small-footprint frame that is little more than a
one-man carry. Currently shipping, the ground-breaking Spirit LX7 features a suggested U.S. retail
price of $2499.95. For more information, visit their web site at www.spirit-by-soundcraft.co.uk. | 
