Adding to the pile of audio products named Matrix, Solid State Logic debuts their own Matrix -- a "SuperAnalogue" 16 channel, 40 input mixing console -- at Musikmesse. In lieu of some Keanu Reeves joke, here are the five main elements of SSL's Matrix:

• 16 Channel Console with Dual Summing Inputs, Aux Sends and additional returns, providing more than 40 summed inputs to Mix output
• 16+1 Fader, four Layer DAW Controller using Ethernet connection. This provides single cable, high speed workstation control for most popular DAWs including Pro Tools, Logic, Live and Reason
• Integrated, recallable, software controlled 32x16x16 analogue routing matrix. Eliminates the need for external patchbays, bringing outboard analogue processing into DAW workflow
• Powerful monitoring with independent Main & Mini monitor outputs, Artist Monitor output with independent EQ & source selection, three External Monitor inputs with source summing and front panel iJack input
• A Mac and Windows compatible application that provides platform independent project management and routing control, this includes FX chains and routing set-ups to simplify patching outboard units through the router

The Matrix name was luckily inspired from the software controlled SuperAnalogue router integrated within the console. It manages sends and returns of up to 16 outboard processor units with channel strip input and insert point assignments. The Matrix Jave control panel software allows you to quickly insert combinations of outboard gear into your console channels. It's basically a way to run outboard gear like analog DAW plug-ins.

The Matrix has advanced workstation control abilities including an ethernet connection, which untangles crowded cabling by providing control of up to four workstations from a single surface. If you're using a suite of Rewired applications like Logic and Reason, switching control is as easy as pressing one button.