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SoundCraft Vi Series - User Manual

SoundCraft Vi Series
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V4.5 Software Quick Start
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Summary

Introduction to V4.5 and VM 2 Software

VM 2 Concepts and HiQnet Integration

What is HiQnet?

Explains the HiQnet network communications protocol developed by Harman.

HiQnet on Vi-series Consoles

Details how HiQnet functionality is integrated into Soundcraft Vi consoles.

How VM 2 Works

Describes the operational flow of the VM 2 microphone monitoring system.

Setting Up a VM 2 Network

Basic Network Topology for VM 2

Illustrates a typical network setup for VM 2 with consoles and wireless receivers.

Identifying the HiQnet Network Connector

Vi1 HiQnet Port Details

Specifies the location and limitations of the HiQnet port on Vi1 consoles.

Vi2;4;6 HiQnet Port Details

Details the HiQnet port location and Ethernet capabilities on Vi2/4/6 consoles.

Detailed Console Operation of VM 2

Console HiQnet Setup and IP Configuration

Configuring the IP Address

Guides on setting up console IP addresses manually or via DHCP for HiQnet.

Setting the HiQnet Node Address

Using the Device List for VM 2

Device List Columns Explained

Details the DEVICE, NET, and SOURCE columns in the HiQnet Device List.

Associating Microphones with Audio Connectors

VM 2 Monitoring Indicators on Channel Strips

Channel Strip Monitoring Elements

Lists and describes icons for Mute, Clipping, RF, and Battery status.

Microphone Status and Network Error Indicators

Detailed Microphone Status Indicators

Explains Mute, Clipping, RF, and Battery level indicators for wireless mics.

Network Error Display Logic

Describes how network issues are visually indicated on the console.

Vistonics Detailed Monitoring Display

Detailed RF and Battery Information

Shows detailed RF level and battery life (bargraph/numerical) for mics.

Microphone Internal Gain Display

Explains the display of microphone internal gain and its relation to transmitter settings.

Troubleshooting VM 2 Setup Issues

Common VM 2 Setup Problems and Solutions

Addresses issues like HiQnet not turning on, no receivers detected, or greyed-out devices.

Other V4.5 Software Features

Switchable AutoCancel Mode for Solos

Adds a touchscreen button for flexible solo switching behavior.

Software Reconfig Button on Vi1

Allows IO configuration updates on Vi1 without restarting the console.

Fader Calibration and Bug Fixes in V4.5

Fader Calibration for Vi2;4;6

Introduces a new touchscreen button for easier fader recalibration.

Version 4.5 Bug Fixes List

Lists resolved issues for Vi1 and Vi1/2/4/6 consoles.

Fader Calibration Procedure on Vi2;4;6

When Fader Recalibration is Needed

Explains the conditions requiring fader recalibration for Vi2/4/6 consoles.

Fader Calibration Step-by-Step Instructions

Provides step-by-step guidance for recalibrating faders on Vi2/4/6.

Summary

Introduction to V4.5 and VM 2 Software

VM 2 Concepts and HiQnet Integration

What is HiQnet?

Explains the HiQnet network communications protocol developed by Harman.

HiQnet on Vi-series Consoles

Details how HiQnet functionality is integrated into Soundcraft Vi consoles.

How VM 2 Works

Describes the operational flow of the VM 2 microphone monitoring system.

Setting Up a VM 2 Network

Basic Network Topology for VM 2

Illustrates a typical network setup for VM 2 with consoles and wireless receivers.

Identifying the HiQnet Network Connector

Vi1 HiQnet Port Details

Specifies the location and limitations of the HiQnet port on Vi1 consoles.

Vi2;4;6 HiQnet Port Details

Details the HiQnet port location and Ethernet capabilities on Vi2/4/6 consoles.

Detailed Console Operation of VM 2

Console HiQnet Setup and IP Configuration

Configuring the IP Address

Guides on setting up console IP addresses manually or via DHCP for HiQnet.

Setting the HiQnet Node Address

Using the Device List for VM 2

Device List Columns Explained

Details the DEVICE, NET, and SOURCE columns in the HiQnet Device List.

Associating Microphones with Audio Connectors

VM 2 Monitoring Indicators on Channel Strips

Channel Strip Monitoring Elements

Lists and describes icons for Mute, Clipping, RF, and Battery status.

Microphone Status and Network Error Indicators

Detailed Microphone Status Indicators

Explains Mute, Clipping, RF, and Battery level indicators for wireless mics.

Network Error Display Logic

Describes how network issues are visually indicated on the console.

Vistonics Detailed Monitoring Display

Detailed RF and Battery Information

Shows detailed RF level and battery life (bargraph/numerical) for mics.

Microphone Internal Gain Display

Explains the display of microphone internal gain and its relation to transmitter settings.

Troubleshooting VM 2 Setup Issues

Common VM 2 Setup Problems and Solutions

Addresses issues like HiQnet not turning on, no receivers detected, or greyed-out devices.

Other V4.5 Software Features

Switchable AutoCancel Mode for Solos

Adds a touchscreen button for flexible solo switching behavior.

Software Reconfig Button on Vi1

Allows IO configuration updates on Vi1 without restarting the console.

Fader Calibration and Bug Fixes in V4.5

Fader Calibration for Vi2;4;6

Introduces a new touchscreen button for easier fader recalibration.

Version 4.5 Bug Fixes List

Lists resolved issues for Vi1 and Vi1/2/4/6 consoles.

Fader Calibration Procedure on Vi2;4;6

When Fader Recalibration is Needed

Explains the conditions requiring fader recalibration for Vi2/4/6 consoles.

Fader Calibration Step-by-Step Instructions

Provides step-by-step guidance for recalibrating faders on Vi2/4/6.

Overview

This document describes the V4.5 software release for Soundcraft Vi Series consoles, focusing on the new VM² (Vistonics Microphone Monitoring) feature. VM² integrates AKG wireless microphone status information directly into the console's channel strips, streamlining workflow and improving problem diagnosis. The V4.5 release also unifies the operating software for all Vi console models (Vi1, Vi2, Vi4, Vi6) into a single update file, simplifying future updates and bug fixes.

VM² Function Description:

VM² leverages Harman's HiQnet network control protocol to display real-time status information from AKG wireless microphones within the Soundcraft Vi Series console's GUI. This includes details such as microphone mute status, audio clipping, RF signal strength, and battery levels. The system is designed to provide quick and easy access to critical microphone data, enhancing the operator's ability to monitor and troubleshoot wireless systems during live events.

Important Technical Specifications:

  • HiQnet Protocol: VM² utilizes HiQnet for network communication between AKG wireless systems and Vi consoles. HiQnet is an Ethernet-based protocol that allows remote control and monitoring of various Harman Pro-audio devices.
  • AKG Hub4000Q: This device acts as a central hub for AKG wireless receivers, consolidating data from up to 8 receiver units into a single HiQnet Ethernet connection.
  • Network Topology: A basic VM² network typically involves a Soundcraft Vi console, an AKG Hub4000Q, and AKG DMS or WMS receivers. An Ethernet switch is often used to connect multiple devices, including a computer running Harman's System Architect software and potentially a wireless router for the AKG wireless iPhone app.
  • IP Addressing: Consoles can be configured with either DHCP or a manually set static IP address within specific ranges (10.0.0.0 - 10.255.255.255, 172.16.0.0 - 172.31.255.255, 192.168.0.0 - 192.168.255.255).
  • HiQnet Node Address: Each device on the HiQnet network requires a unique node address (0 – 65,535) to prevent conflicts.
  • Vi1 HiQnet Port: Early Vi1 consoles (serial numbers lower than 30210956) have a HiQnet port capable of driving short cable lengths (max 1 meter/3 feet). A network switch positioned close to the console is recommended for extending cable length.
  • Vi2/4/6 HiQnet Port: The HiQnet port on Vi2/4/6 consoles is capable of driving standard Ethernet distances of up to 100m.

Usage Features:

  • Setup Procedure:
    1. Connect the HiQnet network and ensure correct IP address configuration on all devices.
    2. Connect audio outputs from AKG receivers to the console's inputs (Stagebox or local).
    3. Associate each AKG receiver with a console connector using the mapping table on the Vi's HiQnet Setup page.
    4. Microphone monitoring information will then automatically display on channel strips using the AKG-mapped physical input connector.
  • HiQnet Setup Page: Accessed via MENU > System > HiQnet. This page allows configuration of IP address, HiQnet node address, and displays the Device List.
  • Device List: Located in the center of the HiQnet Setup page, it automatically populates with discovered AKG microphones.
    • DEVICE column: Shows names of AKG microphones.
    • NET column: Displays the HiQnet node address of the connected AKG Hub4000Q.
    • SOURCE column: Indicates the console connector associated with each microphone, crucial for displaying VM² information on the correct channel strip.
  • Locate Function: The 'LOC' button on the HiQnet Setup page activates a flashing display on the selected AKG receiver, aiding in physical identification.
  • Audio Patching Matrix: Accessed via the AUDIO PATCH button, this matrix allows associating AKG microphones with physical input connectors. Chosen connectors are highlighted in bright blue; already associated connectors are greyed out.
  • Channel Strip Display:
    • Mini-icons (Input Section): Initial display of VM² elements: Microphone Mute indicator (red 'MUTE' icon), Microphone Audio clipping indicator (red 'C'), Microphone RF status indicator (red/green 'RF' icon), and Microphone Battery level indicator (battery icon with 7 segments).
    • Detailed Monitoring Display (Zoomed Input Section): Touching the Input touch field zooms the channel strip, revealing more detailed information:
      • RF Level: Bargraph and numerical signal strength in dB.
      • Battery Level: Bargraph icon and numerical readout of remaining battery life in hours.
      • Internal Gain: Displays the user-adjustable audio gain of WMS4500 transmitters or the output trim level of DMS700 receivers (display-only, not controllable from console).
  • Network Error Display: If a network error occurs, AKG elements on the input strip overview will appear greyed out. AKG devices in the Device List will also be greyed out, and the HiQnet icon in the main console diagnostic display will change from green to grey.

Maintenance Features:

  • Unified Software Update: V4.5 allows a single update file to be used for all Vi console models (Vi1, Vi2, Vi4, Vi6), simplifying future software maintenance and bug fixes.
  • Switchable AutoCancel Mode for Solos: A new 'AUTO CNCL' button on the Monitor Setup page allows operators to choose between additive or auto-cancelling Solo switches, providing flexibility for different monitoring workflows (e.g., leaving a talkback feed in Solo while soloing other channels).
  • Software Reconfig Button (Vi1 only): A 'RECONF' touchscreen button is added to the System Monitoring page for Local IO (Menu\System\Local). This allows updating the Vi1's IO configuration without restarting the console, useful when changing Stagebox usage or sharing a Stagebox with another console in 'synchronised' mode. (Vi2/4/6 have a hardware Reconfig button on the Local Rack front panel).
  • Fader Calibration Feature (Vi2/4/6): A new 'FADER CAL' touchscreen button is added to the Menu-System-Desk page, enabling direct recalibration of faders. This is particularly useful after fader PCB replacement or liquid spills to prevent issues like fader creep or incorrect positioning. The calibration procedure involves manual alignment of faders to minus infinity and +10 marks, guided by on-screen instructions. The calibration settings are permanently stored after the console is shut down.

SoundCraft Vi Series Specifications

General IconGeneral
CategoryDigital Mixer
Input ChannelsUp to 64
Output BussesUp to 32
EQ4-band parametric per channel
ConnectivityMADI, AES/EBU
Remote ControliPad app available
Digital I/OMADI, AES/EBU
DisplayTouchscreen
SeriesVi Series

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