TASCAM announced the new MZ-123BT commercial-grade multi-zone audio mixer to be released on Sept. 25. The compact, single rack space MZ-123BT builds on the feature-set of its big brother, the 2U MZ-223, adding Bluetooth-functionality and a front panel control design and layout that makes it easy to operate.
Three music playback input channels, including one AUX/Bluetooth input, as well as two mic input channels, allow for a wide range of background music and announcement routing possibilities. This enables discrete mixes of background music and announcements to be routed to individual zones in a wide range of commercial applications, including retail, restaurants, bars, cafes, and hotels to name a few.
Stereo LINE inputs 1 and 2 (RCA, Unbalanced) allow connection of source components such as CD players for distributing music or ambient sound playback. The Channel 3 AUX/Bluetooth input enables an additional audio source, such as a tablet, smartphone or other devices, to be connected via Bluetooth or 3.5mm mini plug.
Three pairs of stereo-balanced Euroblock output connectors are provided on the back panel, along with a MONO/STEREO configuration switch for each output.
Each audio program input channel features a front-panel selectable zone routing button (1,2 or 3) with volume control. Channels 1 and 2 also feature PEAK and SIGNAL level indicators. When selected, the zone routing button assigns the selected output and/or MIC signal to the desired zone.
A dedicated front-panel Bluetooth antenna helps ensure stable connectivity when streaming content, even in commercial environments where wireless connectivity can become problematic due to interference and bandwidth limitations.
Two MIC inputs, both with back-panel Euroblock connections, facilitate announcing or talk over functionality. Additionally, Mic 1 offers a front-panel XLR-TRS combo jack for easy connectivity. Both MIC 1 and 2 support +48V phantom power connectivity.
Input signal for both MIC 1 and 2 can be assigned to any of the three individual zones for announcement or talkover functionality in that particular zone. An intelligent Talkover feature automatically recognizes MIC signal level and attenuates background music levels in the targeted zone during announcements. Back panel control of Threshold and Time can be adjusted to set the point of attenuation and restoration of background audio post-announcement.
Additional back panel installation settings and controls include a 3 Band EQ with Low, Mid and High adjustments, Gain level setting for Euroblock MIC inputs, and PAD, High Pass, and Talkover ON/OFF switches.
For more information visit their website.
