Digital Mixing Console Yamaha QL1

Yamaha's QL series mixing consoles combine several features of the CL series and compactly package them into a more user-friendly mixing option. These features include the best of what the CL series has to offer: sound processing with audio benefits, an operating system that adapts to the demands of multiple working environments, and built-in Dante networking that facilitates flexible system configuration. These are just a few of the features that allow any QL console to provide all-in-one mixing, processing and routing for small to mid-scale live sound, conferences and more.

The Yamaha QL1 is a digital mixing console that offers 32 mono and 8 stereo channels for connecting a variety of audio sources. With its compact size and powerful features, the QL1 is ideal for use in live performances, studio recordings and other professional audio projects. It has built-in effects processors and is expandable with built-in card reader slots.

Design and functionality

When working with live sound, it is important to be able to quickly and conveniently adjust the sound and apply audio effects. The design of the Yamaha QL1 is designed in such a way that working behind the mixer is a pleasure. Engineers tried to create a convenient and compact user interface to improve the efficiency of working with sound. Much attention is paid to elements such as interaction with faders and the display of channel names, which contributes to the creation of a modern and stylish working environment. The possibility of remote control and offline configuration from an iPad or computer expands the possibilities of this high-tech system even more.

Connections and extensions

All major inputs and outputs are located on the back of the Yamaha QL1, allowing you to hide the switching behind and keep your work environment organized. The mixer has 16 analog inputs (XLR) for microphones, each of which has a +48 V phantom power function. The mixer has 8 analog outputs. Also among the connectors there is a 5-pin MIDI input and output. Next to them is the Word Clock input and output for synchronization with other network devices.

For networking, the QL1 features two Dante connectors, each providing up to 64 channels of input and output. These channels can feed a signal from a recorder or computer, another QL mixer, or feed a signal to a multichannel recorder. There is virtually no limit to what can be done when audio data is on a digital network.

When connected via a Dante network to a computer, the mixing console can perform multi-channel recording (up to 32 channels).

Processing effects

The Yamaha QL1 digital mixer is equipped with an effects processor that reproduces the sound quality and character of famous analog devices, such as the Neve Portico 5033 five-band equalizer and the 5043 compressor, the U76 compressor, the Opt-2A optical compressor, the EQ-1A tube passive equalizer.

Each input has a full suite of processing, including a high-pass filter (HPF), two dynamics processors, a four-band EQ, delay and effects links. You can create up to 16 groups of Digital Amplifier Controls (DCAs) to provide equal gain changes and eight mute groups.

The virtual rack can accommodate up to 8 VCM processors, including those developed in collaboration with Rupert Neve Designs, such as Portico processors, which have become standard in leading recording studios around the world. The use of these processors allows you to achieve quality that previously could only be provided with the help of high-end external analog processors.

Premium Rack effects

• Portico 5033/5043
• U76
• Opt-2A
• EQ-1A
• Dynamic EQ

Among others, we should also highlight the Comp 276 (a mix of several compressors popular in the 1970s), the Open Deck (models the analog circuit of a popular professional reel-to-reel deck), the Comp 260 (the compressor/limiter modeled in this model was extremely popular in the late 70s. It had an RMS level detection circuit on transistors and voltage controlled amplifiers (VCAs) for level control. The sound palette of this model is unmistakably recognizable) and EQ 601.

VCM technology

Virtual Circuitry Modeling (VCM) technology in Yamaha mixers is an innovative analog circuit modeling system that allows you to accurately reproduce the sound of classic analog instruments and effects. The basic idea is to emulate the response and characteristics of analog elements in a digital environment.

VCM technology takes into account the nuances of operation of each analog component, from transistors and capacitors to tube elements, and reproduces their properties in digital form. This includes the sonic distortion characteristics, tonal warmth, dynamics, and other aspects that make analog devices so desirable among audio engineers and musicians.

Using VCM technology, Yamaha mixers provide a high level of sound quality and flexibility, making them popular with professional sound engineers and musicians in studio and live environments.

Dan Dugan Automatic Mixer

Thanks to a deep collaboration with Dan Dugan Sound Design, the QL series mixing consoles incorporate Dan Dugan's famous automatic microphone mixing with his advanced algorithms. Setup is easy: simply insert a processor for up to 16 channels for automatic, optimized distribution of microphone gain. Gain control is smooth and natural, just like experienced mixing operators. The system also effectively reduces feedback and combined filter issues. For broadcast use, especially in unscripted situations, this allows the operator to focus on non-fader details while ensuring high-quality audio stability.

Management and touch display

Control elements are located on the front panel. Thanks to the unique shape of the fader sliders, inherited from the CL series, a comfortable and reliable operation is ensured, regardless of where exactly the finger is located on the slider. The material from which the sliders are made is optimally selected for comfortable control. In addition, the side edges of the sliders are specially designed so that the scale markings are easily viewed from any angle.

The QL1 mixer has 16 faders automatically locked to a single bank. Access to other channels is carried out when switching banks. Above each fader is a small display that shows the name of the channel, as well as a signal level indicator.

Above is a touchscreen display with a multi-touch function for multiple touches at the same time, as well as keys and rotary knobs for quick access to functions, gain settings, panoramas, and more. There are 12 keys on the panel that can be assigned by the user at his discretion.

Dimensions

The dimensions of the Yamaha QL1 digital mixing console are 468 mm in width, 272 mm in height and 562 mm in depth. The weight of the remote control is 14.7 kg. These dimensions and weight allow the console to be conveniently carried and placed in various musical and event environments, ensuring its effective use during live performances, studio sessions and other events.

Features

• Convenient and efficient design
• Emulation of analog effects thanks to VCM (Virtual Circuit Modeling) technology
• A wide selection of effects: up to 8 channels with a choice of up to 54 effect programs
• The possibility of expansion and integration into the system thanks to the Dante network
• 16 analog inputs with phantom power
• 8 analog outputs
• USB Type A connector for recording or playback from a flash drive
• Touch display with "multitouch" function
• High-quality audio processing
• Dan Dugan Automatic Mixer
• Premium Rack Effects: Portico 5033/5043, U76, Opt-2A, EQ-1A, Dynamic EQ

User manual