Real faders for Sound Devices' mixer/recorders - now with compatibility across the range

Sound Devices CL-12

Sound Devices' luxurious-feeling fader control surface now works with more products from the respected audio (and video!) company

We wrote about the Sound Devices CL-12 linear fader controller a few months back in RedShark News. It's a physical control surface with precision faders for the 688 recorder/mixer.

Now, Sound Devices has announced that they've added compatibility with their 633 and 664 devices too, with the release of the CL-12's version 2.11 firmware.

We love this product! There's something hugely satisfying about being able to control digital mixing devices with smooth, long faders, real knobs and switches, and clear metering.

Read the latest press release below and see our original report on the CL-12 here.

SOUND DEVICES’ CL-12 LINEAR FADER CONTROLLER
NOW AVAILABLE FOR THE ENTIRE LINE
OF 6-SERIES FIELD PRODUCTION MIXERS
Firmware v2.11 Provides CL-12 Support for the 664 and 633, As Well As Additional Features

REEDSBURG, WISCONSIN, FEBRUARY 15, 2016 — Sound Devices, LLC further expands support for its CL-12 Linear Fader Controller with the release of Firmware Version 2.11, which offers compatibility to both the 664 and 633 Field Production Mixers. Initially introduced only for the 688 mixer/recorder, the CL-12 is an optional accessory that features smooth-gliding 100 mm linear faders and is ideal for live mixing of multiple audio signals.

“We are excited to announce this update for our loyal 633 and 664 users,” says Matt Anderson, CEO of Sound Devices. “The CL-12 can now efficiently expand the audio mixing capabilities of all 6-Series mixer/recorders. The minimal cabling also makes transitions from over-the-shoulder to cart-based setups quick and easy.”

In addition to CL-12 support, Firmware v2.11 brings several new features to the 664 and 633 mixer/recorders, one of which is QR Codes for quick smartphone access to important online documentation, such as an Approved Media List and the User Guide for that product. It also offers a new User Bits mode that allows jamming of external timecode user bits.

With the CL-12, the 664 and 633 gain sunlight-viewable, 22-segment LED metering, plus 7-segment PFL metering with limiter activity. The CL-12 also offers three user-programmable buttons as well as numerous dedicated back-lit buttons for quick access to key functionalities, such as metadata entry, transport controls, track arming, routing, and much more.

When working with the CL-12, the 664 has a 54dB linear fader range across 12 linear faders, High Pass Filter control on channels 7-12, and Input Phase control on channels 2, 4, and 6. When attached to a CL-12, the 633 has a full 96dB linear fader range available across six linear faders, High Pass Filter control on all channels, and Input Phase control on channel 2.

The CL-12 also includes two additional USB ports — one for a USB keyboard connection for efficient metadata entry, and one for powering an optional USB lamp.

The CL-12 comes in two models: the standard CL-12, with aluminum sides, and the CL-12 Alaia™ (pronounced “ah-LIE-ah”). The CL-12 Alaia features smooth-gliding Penny & Giles faders and custom hardwood side panels in either Blonde Maple or Red Mahogany. The side panels are handmade by Amish craftsmen at the Wisconsin-based J&E Custom Woodworks, located near Sound Devices’ headquarters.

Founded in 1998, Sound Devices, LLC, designs both Sound Devices audio products and Video Devices video products. Sound Devices offers portable audio mixers, digital audio recorders and related equipment for feature film, episodic television, documentary, news gathering, live-event, and acoustical test and measurement applications. Video Devices offers digital video monitors, recorders and related products that address a range of video productions, including fast-paced studio applications, live sports and events, as well as mobile, TV, film and documentary productions.

The Sound Devices, LLC, headquarters is located in Reedsburg, Wisconsin. Additional offices are located in Madison, Wisconsin, Chicago, and Berlin. For more information, visit the Sound Devices and Video Devices websites: www.sounddevices.com and www.videodevices.com.