Ready for another app? Yamaha has released M7CL StageMix, an iPad app that provides wireless control over the M7CL digital mixing console.

The M7CL StageMix app turns an Apple iPad into a specialized remote control for M7CL functions. It offers a simple graphical interface that makes it easy to adjust monitor mixes from the performers’ positions on stage, directly control mix parameters via the iPad rather than having to rely on verbal directions to a second engineer, and so forth.

According to Yamaha, the app will help you get better mixes in less time -- a huge advantage during high-pressure pre-show setup. Note that M7CL StageMix does not provide remote control of all M7CL parameters; instead, the app is focused on just the requirements for adjusting monitor mixes onstage.

The app's interface matches what one would see on the actual M7CL console, making it easy to go from mixer to app and vice versa. For example, the color of the Zoom button matches those used on the M7CL, and the same goes for the CUE and ON buttons.

The main page of the StageMix app, known as the Mixer window, shows the EQ curve, CUE and ON buttons, fader and level meters, and channel names for eight adjacent channels. Across the top of the screen, all Input, Mix, and Matrix level meters and faders are displayed in blocks of eight (the "Navigation / Meter Bridge"). Press any of these blocks to select which channels are viewed in the fader strips.

EQ editing functions are provided as well, and one band of EQ can be adjusted at a time. Press one of the green circles to select the band, and it will be highlighted in yellow. For a full list of M7CL StageMix features, visit Yamaha's Web site at yamahaproaudio.com.

The M7CL StageMix app for iPad is now available as a free download from the iTunes App Store.