For Sale - D&R Orion Studio Mixing Console 24x16x2

Features include:

• 24 modular channels w/4-band parametric EQ (the 2 mid bands can be switched to the tape return faders)
• 24 inline tape returns w/ faders, 2-band EQ
• 16 sub groups
• 8 aux sends
• 8 stereo returns
• 3 stereo 2-track send/returns (can be set to +4 or -10 via jumper)
• selectable outs for 2 sets of control room monitors
• 2 stereo amps each w/ selectable input source and 2 output jacks
• L-C-R mode for surround mixing
• built-in talk back system and tone oscillator
• fully integrated TT patch bay
• all ins and outs are standard connectors (1/4" phone plugs, XLR and D-25)
• manuals included
• SMPTE-based VCA fader and mute automation*

Purchased new in 1993, this versatile, high quality studio mixing desk has clean preamps and a responsive, musical EQ. Even at the highest gain settings, the pre amps are quiet. Ribbon mics are no problem. The overall design of the Orion makes it perfect for a 16, 24 track or production studio - analog or digital. The 24 modular channels have selectable mic and line inputs, plus a mix mode that routes the multi-track tape returns to the main faders. (During tracking, those multi-track tape returns show up at the smaller, inline tape return faders.) Each tape return fader has 2 bands of EQ and a dedicated stereo aux send. Some of the other aux sends can be switched between the tape return section and master fader.

One of the first things we liked was the musical character of the Orion's EQ. You don't have to use much EQ to get a good result. If you do need to go heavy on the EQ, you can do it. It's suitable for tracking and mixing. The two mid bands of the 4-band parametric can be switched into the tape return path. There are individual, source-selectable meters for each of the 24 channels plus a master L-R meter and a L-R phase meter. All the meters are LED bar graph type. The channel meters can be switched to show channel input, tape input or subgroup output level.

The Orion uses a "floating" subgroup design. There are 16 internal subgroups or busses. You would set these up to feed your first 16 tracks of tape, DAW, etc. Then you can use the assignment buttons and pan pot to assign any input channel to any of the 16 groups. Typically, this is done without a master group fader but if you need one, the tape return faders will double as subgroup master faders. If you have 24 inputs on your DAW or multi track, tape/DAW inputs 17-24 are fed directly from channels 17-24. In addition, there are other buttons that allow you to "pick up" the signal from selected groups and route it to any tape track. All of this without a single patch.

The Orion has a useful, built-in TT patch bay, built-in oscillator and built-in talk back system for communication within the studio. Each input channel has a corresponding strip on the patch bay where you can access the line in, channel insert, tape monitor in, tape mon insert and group out. There is a master L-R insert, points for all 3 mastering deck ins and outs, the 8 stereo returns, the 8 aux sends and numerous additional points to tie in outboard gear. Ins and outs on the channel modules are XLR (mics) and 1/4" (line, insert, tape). The master section has mostly 1/4" ins and outs. The patchbay i/o is all D-25. Two custom-built cables which enhance the functionality of the master section and patchbay are included. The power supply is a separate 4-space rack mountable unit that plugs into a standard North American 3-prong grounded 120V AC outlet and powers the Orion via 10-foot cable. This console has been well treated and well maintained. It has many good years ahead.

*The automation requires a PC running MS-DOS. It's been several years since I used the automation but it should still work. You would need to supply the PC. There may be a newer version of the automation software available by now. The automation uses VCA's to control fader level. The faders don't actually move. The automation will also control the mutes on both the main channel faders and the tape return faders.

Asking Price: $7,500.00 USD

Shipping is the responsibility of the buyer.

Price does not include cables, except where noted.

Related Links

• D&R Netherlands
• Orion review from Mix Magazine