M-480: 48-Channel Live Digital Mixing Console
The Flagship Console of the V-Mixing System
Features
With superb sound quality, powerful functions, expandability and intuitive operation; the V-Mixing System continues to introduce new possibilities to the live mixing market. Now after its 2007 debut and as a direct response to actively listening to our users, the next generation V-Mixer has arrived. Equipped with a newly developed mixing engine, the M-480 provides an enhanced level of powerful and flexible audio processing.
The M-480 is the first V-Mixer to support a cascade connection that enables 96 channels of mixing by connecting a second unit – all via one simple Cat5e/6 cable. Supporting live events, mobile production, broadcasting, and sound installation the V-Mixing System with the M-480 V-Mixer at its heart provides a premium level of innovation for any live mixing venue.
M-480 Main Features
- 48 mixing channels plus 6 stereo returns for a total of 60 channels
- Main (LCR) outputs, 16 AUX buses, 8 matrices
- Configurable to 90 inputs and 90 outputs depending on Digital Snake configuration
- 4-band advanced parametric EQ, and delays on all inputs and outputs
- Compressors and Gates on all mixing channels
- Six built-in stereo (dual-mono) multi-effects and twelve graphic EQs
- Supports integration with Personal Mixing System and Multi-Channel Live Recording and Playback
- Cascade connection supports large format applications for 96 mixing channels
M-480: 48-Channel Live Digital Mixing Console
The Flagship Console of the V-Mixing System
Features
With superb sound quality, powerful functions, expandability and intuitive operation; the V-Mixing System continues to introduce new possibilities to the live mixing market. Now after its 2007 debut and as a direct response to actively listening to our users, the next generation V-Mixer has arrived. Equipped with a newly developed mixing engine, the M-480 provides an enhanced level of powerful and flexible audio processing.
The M-480 is the first V-Mixer to support a cascade connection that enables 96 channels of mixing by connecting a second unit – all via one simple Cat5e/6 cable. Supporting live events, mobile production, broadcasting, and sound installation the V-Mixing System with the M-480 V-Mixer at its heart provides a premium level of innovation for any live mixing venue.
M-480 Main Features
- 48 mixing channels plus 6 stereo returns for a total of 60 channels
- Main (LCR) outputs, 16 AUX buses, 8 matrices
- Configurable to 90 inputs and 90 outputs depending on Digital Snake configuration
- 4-band advanced parametric EQ, and delays on all inputs and outputs
- Compressors and Gates on all mixing channels
- Six built-in stereo (dual-mono) multi-effects and twelve graphic EQs
- Supports integration with Personal Mixing System and Multi-Channel Live Recording and Playback
- Cascade connection supports large format applications for 96 mixing channels
More Info
Advanced Processing Power
The processing power of the M-480 supports the widest range of venues and applications. The newly developed mixing engine provides a 4-band fully parametric EQ, gate, compressor, and delay on each input channel. 214 possible patch points with 90 discreet outputs.
Easy, intuitive and award-winning interface design
The large color display and dedicated knobs and buttons in the channel edit section offers intuitive operation. The user interface is designed to be easy to learn and easy to use. Combining the cursor buttons around the value dial provides optimized and efficient operation.
All input and output channels equipped with delay
In large format venues such as a concert halls and stadiums as well in broadcast applications, audio time alignment settings are critical. The M-480 is equipped with delays on all mixing channels and outputs buses. High quality and precise sound adjustments can be accomplished by using the built-in real time analyzer.
The cascade capability enables a solution for high channel counts
The M-480 supports a cascade connection requested by many live sound engineers. Connecting two M-480s with one REAC cable enables the mixing of up to 96 channels as well as advanced synchronization of internal buses. A mixing environment equivalent to a large format console can be created within a minimal footprint and budget.
Powerful mixing capacity
The capacity of 48 mixing channels, 6 stereo returns, main LCR outputs, 16 AUX buses, and 8 matrices supports any venue or application. The fully assignable REAC A and B patchbays allows for very flexible internal routing. A post preamp patchpoint allows direct routing from inputs to outputs without having to route through the console.
Newly developed mixing engine with powerful signal processing
All inputs and outputs are equipped with a 4-band fully parametric EQ. A gate, compressor and delay is also available on all mixing channels. Channel parameters are controlled using the dedicated knobs and buttons.
With a high resolution crystal clear color display, the M-480 provides an unprecedented audio mixing experience.
Rich effects along with Twelve GEQs/PEQs
The M-480 is equipped with six dual-mono, multi-effects processors that are available as AUX or insert effects. Each multi-effects processor has 18 algorithms of various types such as reverb, delay, chorus, pitch shift and advanced channel strip. Six types of precisely emulated legendary vintage Roland effects such as the RE-201, SDE-3000, and SRV-2000 are included. In addition, twelve 31-band graphic EQs or 8-band fully parametric EQs are included for sound adjustment. The six multi-effects and twelve GEQs/PEQs can be used simultaneously.
All inputs and outputs are equipped with delay
The M-480 is equipped with delay on all input channels and output busses. Problems with sound delay in a concert venue or broadcast application can be solved using the internal processor. Delay time is adjustable up to 400msec, and is selectable in both time and distance units between msec/feet/meters / frames. It also features a high performance graphical real time analyzer for precise and focused sound adjustment.
Remote control and offline setup using a PC
The M-480 can be controlled remotely by connecting an PC via USB. The M-480RCS control software has the same user interface as the built-in display. The M-480RCS can also be used when the M-480 is not connected allowing offline setup and configuring of the system before an event. Setup data can then be copied to a USB flash drive ready to load into the console at the venue. Using a connected PC and a wireless LAN, a tablet device can control the M-480 from a remote location like the stage or a seat in the audience.
Three live recording options
The M-480 supports live multi-channel recording. Simply connect the R-1000 with Cat5e/6 cables to easily record (or playback) up to 48 channels of 24 bit audio.
Uncompressed BWF file data is stored on a removable SSD or HDD where it can be edited later in the studio with a DAW of choice. By using Cakewalk SONAR Producer software*, up to 40 channels can be recorded directly by simply connecting a single REAC cable to a PC. In addition, the built-in USB memory recorder can record a stereo output signal from the M-480 as an
uncompressed WAV file. The USB memory recorder also supports WAV file playback for convenient playback of music and announcements.
* REAC driver kit is required to record using Cakewalk SONAR directly.
Support and management of multiple M-48 Live Personal Mixers for the ultimate in monitoring environments
For the performing musician wanting the best possible sound quality and flexibility in their individual stage mix, the M-48 Live Personal Mixer offers control over 40 audio sources that can be easily managed in 16 assignable stereo groups. Configurations are straightforward with the ability to control, save and recall all connected M-48s from an M-480, M-400, M-380 or M-300 V-Mixer allowing the FOH engineer to assist in setup and mixing. The use of IEMs (In-Ear Monitors) dramatically reduces the amount of sound picked up by stage microphones. It also eliminates feedback while providing superb sound quality for both live performance and recording.
Basic System
The basic system supports typical mid-sized live event applications.
Two S-1608 for I/O enable a total of 32 inputs and 16 outputs on the stage with 10 inputs and 10 outputs at the console.
Live Monitoring System
Expanded system for mixing live stage. Flexible I/O setup is possible by using four S-0808s. Using four M-48 and M-480, the V-Mixing System can be used as a monitoring system for any live application.
Broadcasting System
Use the M-480 for mixing TV/radio broadcasts along with recording direct preamp splits via a parallel connection using the R-1000 and SONAR REAC Recording System. Using the Roland S-MADI bridge, the sound is sent to an OB van using MADI format. The S-4000D enables easy splitting and distribution of the audio.
Audio Installation for Hall/Church
A setup of two S-0808s on the stage and an S-4000S on the side of the stage can support a variety of events. An M-480 at the FOH (front of house) position connected to a PC can be remotely controlled through a wireless LAN using a tablet PC.
48 input channels must be selected from 106 physical inputs via M-480 patchbay. *1 Wireless LAN equipment and setup are required. *2 Using S-4000M patchbay, 40 input channels must be selected from 80 physical inputs.
Multi-Channel Recording/Playback System
The R-1000 not only records multi-channel audio but can also play back 48 channels in combination with a V-Mixing System or other digital consoles using MADI. This enables playing backing track and rehearsing/training without theband present. The SONAR REAC Recording System enables multi-channel recording simultaneously.
Cascade System
Cascade connection enables up to 96 mixing channels by connecting two M-480s via a single Cat5e/6 cable. Master console shares Main/AUX/Matrix/Solo buses of Slave Console. A large format mixing system can be configured with minimum footprint.
 LCR Sound Systems The LCR (Left-Center-Right) mode is supported natively. |  Support for Personal Mixing and Monitoring The M-480 V-Mixer can be used to setup, configure and control multiple REAC-enabled M-48 Live Personal Mixers. The M-48 represents a breakthrough in professional personal monitoring and mixing. |
 Vintage Effects Access some of Roland’s legendary vintage effects within the M-480. Original sounds used by engineers the world-over extends the range of live expression. |  12 GEQs Can be Switched to PEQs Any of the twelve 31-band Graphic EQs can be switched to an 8-band Parametric EQ. The Real Time Analyzer enables a quick look and instant adjustment of the acoustic characteristics of a venue. |
Vintage Effects
Roland has been a leader in creating some of the world’s most popular effect processors. Included in the M-480 are six perfectly emulated popular and classic vintage effects.
Space Echo – RE-201 The world’s standard in tape echo effect. Spring Echo is also emulated perfectly. |  Stereo Flange – SBF-325 Employs 3 Flangers and 1 Chorus. Supports Stereo Inputs. |
 Dimension D – SDD-320 The studio standard – Dimension. Also supports multi-button mode. |  Digital Delay – SDE-3000 The standard Digital Delay of sound reinforcement and recording. Can be used by two channels for dual mono effect. |
 Phase Shifter – SPH-323 Dual channel Phaser employs LFO. Also possible to link two units modulation. |  Digital Reverb – SRV-2000 The standard in Digital Reverb with a accurately modelled EQ character. |
Optional Accessories
Note: The accessories listed below are not available through Roland Systems Group and are provided for informational purposes only. Please contact the respective manufacture for ordering details.
 M-400/480 Labeling Template Use this PDF label template to print labels for your M-400 or M-480 unit onto standard 8.5″x11″ sticker or magnetic laser/inkjet paper. One page contains enough for one unit. |
 The backbone of the V-Mixing System is based on REAC – Roland’s Ethernet Audio Communication transmission protocol for low latency, high quality digital audio transfer. Products using REAC technology are installed today in many venues and have been used for high profile events worldwide. REAC’s 24-bit, 40×40 channel protocol delivers pristine digital audio via lightweight, inexpensive and easy to install cable (Cat5e/6). REAC technology is immune to externally induced signal quality degradation or hums and buzzes typically found in analog systems. You have more freedom in cable placement resulting in lower cost and better sounding. Learn more about the power and benefits of REAC. |
Configuration Examples
Backing track Playback/Sound Check System
The R-1000 can be used as a 48Ch multi-track playback system for live concerts and productions. Utilizing the benefit of bi-directional audio with REAC, the R-1000 can be connected between the V-Mixer and the Digital Snake for virtual sound checks, rehearsals and training exercises.
Large Event Mixing and Recording
96 channels of mixing with compatibility with over 20 other REAC components including digital snakes, personal mixing, multi-channel recording/playback and MADI bridge.
More Configuration Examples
Although numerous configurations are possible, here are a few of the more popular ones. Click on a thumbnail to see the corresponding diagram.
 Standard M480 V-Mixing System (42×26)View PDF |  Expanded M-480 V-Mixing System (58×26)View PDF |  Standard M-480 V-Mixing System with Expanded Outputs (50×34)View PDF |
Example Split Configurations
 Standard M-480 V-Mixing System with Analog BreakoutView PDF |  Standard M-480 V-Mixing System with Personal MixingView PDF |  M-480 V-Mixing System with M-380 Monitor/Broadcast PositionView PDF |
 Standard M-480 V-Mixing System with SONAR V-Studio 700 REAC RecordingView PDF |