As a result of the recent explosion of "500 Series modules", Tree Audio (a division of Inward Connections) has developed the world's first fully customizable "500 Series" recording console, the Tree 500.
The idea was to provide a frame for the various 500 series modules available, allowing a virtually endless combination of flavors. Three tiers of 500 series slots can be used for any 500 series modules. One idea was to use the top tier for mic pre/line input, the middle tier for EQ and the bottom tier for compressor/limiters. Each channel would have all the necessary features of a world class console but with the ability to sculpt the sound you are looking for on a channel to channel basis.
Key Features
12 or 24 channel
All discrete Inward Connections SPA690 amp blocksTree 500 Audio Console
Custom wound output transformers
4 groups (busses)
1 stereo buss
4 mono aux sends (pre/post)
1 stereo aux send (pre/post)
Inserts on stereo buss and groups
Stereo in place solo and channel mute
6 Master aux level controls
Source select : stereo buss - 2 track 1 - 2 track 2
3 speaker select options plus sub
Master Mute, Left mute, Right mute
Mono, Dim with dim level control
Headphone amp selectable to stereo buss or aux 5L/R
Built in oscillator with +4 alignment and external output
100 mm faders
Slots above the center section can be used for EQ/COMP modules for the 4 groups and Stereo Buss
Aux stereo input on back panel
Remote talkback
Two heavy duty power supplies with double the required current for the input modules and 500 series buckets.
Dimensions: 50" wide, 35" deep, 20 1/2" tall
Optional Features
Meter module - shows VU with an analog meter, Peak Program with a LED bargraph (-30 to +18) can look at the input or output of each channel
Input Modules
The channel input modules are full featured. From the mute and solo buttons to the 6 sends (4 mono, 1 stereo) with pre/post switches, these are sonic masterpieces featuring the Inward Connections SPA690 all discrete amp blocks with custom wound direct out transformers. The modules also contain 4 groups, stereo buss and pan in/out switch. The channel level fader is a 100 mm type with excellent feel.
Master Section
6 aux masters, 4 group master sends with mute, and a stereo buss master. Four groups and stereo buss have easily accessible external trim controls. You can select between stereo buss or 2 track 1 and 2 track 2 return. Talkback can be assigned to any of the aux sends for complete communication. Large premium quality monitor level control, 3 speaker selects and additional sub select add to your monitoring choices. Monitor master mute as well as individual left, right mute and a mono sum and dim control with level complete the master monitor module. The last module in the master section contains a headphone amp, again using the Inward Connections SPA690 for an unparalleled headphone experience. You can listen to either the stereo buss or assign it to aux 5L/5R to set up a headphone mix. This module also contains a switch that defeats the solo in place for the external stereo aux 1 and 2 returns.
Also included is a unique oscillator section which has a 3 frequency select switch with level control that can be assigned to the 4 groups and the stereo buss. One unique feature is a switch that bypasses the oscillator level control that sends a fixed +4db oscillator signal that can be used to align the 4 groups and stereo buss.
All master modules use the Inward Connections SPA690 blocks and custom wound transformers on all outputs.
Rear Panels
The rear panels have been designed like a traditional patchbay, the console can be used right out of the box. All XLRs are gold plated. Each of the tiers is normalled to the one below providing seamless integration of all 500 series modules. The top-tier has a female XLR for microphone input and the jacks below are all TRS except for the direct output at the bottom which is male XLR. The console can also be used as a full-featured summing mixer with no 500 series modules fitted.
The center rear panel has all of the features one would expect, stereo buss and group outputs are on male XLRs. All of which have TRS inserts for outboard gear or 500 series modules that can be used in the 2 center section tiers. All speaker outputs and aux master outputs are male XLRs. 2 track 1 and 2 are female XLRs. Additional features include talkback remote, oscillator out as well as 2 external aux inputs on the back panel for bringing in additional mixers etc. 2 military grade power supply connectors complete the center back panel. These rear panels are all hinged for easy maintenance.
Master Meter Panel
The master meter panel in the center section contains large vintage style meters for the stereo buss and mid-sized meters for the groups.
Tree Audio will be offering individual meter modules that can be plugged into the top tier that will be comprised of an analog VU, and an LED bargraph for Peak Program
(-30db to +18 db). Switches on these modules will allow the user to look at the input or output of each channel as well as an off switch for the LED bargraph.
Aux Returns
There are 4 modules for aux returns in the 2 tiers above the center section These will consist of 2 returns per module (total of 8 returns) with level and pan as well as solo and mute for each return.
Chassis
The Tree 500 chassis is constructed of high grade 1/8th inch aluminum. Steel cross members tie the whole chassis together. The bottom of the frame has three 3/4" by 3/4" by 1/8 " thick aluminum square tubing for additional stability. All panels are finished with a process called anofaxing, a cross between anodizing and screening, which means the writing will never rub off. The side wood panels and arm rest are high quality oak with a black satin finish. The top and side beauty panels are polished aluminum giving the overall console a unique elegant look.
The Evolution of Tree Audio
In the late 1990s, Steve Firlotte of Inward Connections and Ian Gardiner of Boutique Audio and Design began working together. They soon discovered Steve's expertise in electronic design complemented Ian's mechanical design and fabrication skills. Their first major recording console project was for Danny White of Sixteen Ton Recording in Nashville, Tennessee. This hybrid tube/transistor console was such a success they then built other custom consoles for clients such as Flea of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Weezer, Daniel Lanois and other major artists.
Over the next few years, Steve and Ian discussed starting a console design company together. Late in 2007, the two began Tree Audio as division of Inward Connections.
