Roland is now shipping the EDIROL M-16DX Digital Mixer. This two-module mixer has a mix controller and an I/O rack-mountable module, and there is an optional DXC-7 23-foot cable so you can move the console away from the processor.

Features include mic pres and phantom power on channels one through four. The first two channels have Hi-Z switches for guitars and bass. Channels 11 and 12 have digital ins with SPDIF or coax connections. A USB 2.0 port rounds out the package, making the M-16DX an 18-in/two-out 24-bit/96kHz audio interface for computer recording. The M-16DX has 18 discrete audio channels (16 inputs + Main Mix) recordable on individual tracks.

The M-16DX comes with a built-in DSP effects processor. There are insert effects like compressor, vocal enhancers, and voice change. Familiar echo, space echo, and reverb are included alongside mastering tools including noise supression, compression and limiting. Every channel strip on the M-16DX has a low-cut filter, three-band EQ, pan, aux 1&2, and other controls. Like other digital mixers, the M-16DX has a memory feature for instant parameter recall.

Roland is especially proud of the the intelligent Room Acoustic Control function; this is a feature that analyzes and compensates for the frequency response of your studio space. The Edirol M-16DX sports a handy backlit LCD screen for in-the-dark visibility so you can see the effects (and spectrum analysis!) at work.

Edirol gave buyers a sneak peek at the M-16DX at Winter NAMM 2007, along with its "little brother" mixer, the M-10DX. The M-10DX is based on the same processing engine, but in a more portable version. The M-10DX is also a 24-bit/96kHz digital mixer, with its features "condensed" into a "tabletop packatge" according to Edirol. The M-16DX retails for around $700.