For the Workhorse and other 500 Series racks, Radial Engineering introduced the Shuttle, a multi-function effects insert module.

Radial Engineering's sales manager Steve McKay explains why the Shuttle was developed: "As soon as our engineers started to integrate the Workhorse within the digital studio environment, they immediately noticed a need to simplify the process of patching effects in and out, following what studios would normally do using a patch bay. And as we delved further down the rabbit hole, we realized that the 500 Series was limited with respect to performing functions such as overdubbing. The Shuttle addresses these limitations while opening the door to creative new patching options."

The Shuttle features three insert loops. Loop-1 is a front-panel insert that employs 1/4-inch TRS connectors for fully balanced connectivity; Insert-2 is an unbalanced insert that is also front panel mounted and easily interfaces to standard effects devices. The third TRS insert is available on the Workhorse using the Omniport. According to the manufacturer, this part is wired following convention with tip-send, ring-return, making it ideal for interfacing with a remote patchbay.

All three loops are equipped with an insert switch that lets you compare the wet and dry signal paths. The insert points may also be used as inputs to feed a signal into the Workhorse mix buss, opening the door to using the Workhorse with source devices such as CD players and iPods, or with multi-channel fader packs and so forth.

In addition, the new Shuttle enables those who own a Workhorse to integrate older 500 Series modules into the Workhorse mix buss. To do so, you simply mount the non-Radial module next to the Shuttle and engage the feed function; the signal will automatically be routed.

For more information on the Radial Engineering Shuttle, please visit radialeng.com.