I would like to hear whether other users run into the same issue and whether Allen & Heath would consider adding an alternative behaviour for source/preamp switching. This one counts for all the digital A&H mixers, not only the Avantis which I own.
Currently, when changing preamp source assigned to a channel, the channel immediately recalls the gain and preamp settings associated with the newly selected preamp. While this behaviour is understandable and often desirable, it can be problematic in fast-paced live situations.
For me, a common scenario is when an input needs to be quickly repatched or switched to another stagebox, DX port, or preamp source. In these cases, I often want to preserve the existing gain structure and simply redirect the signal path. However, selecting a different source instantly recalls that source’s stored preamp settings, which results in unexpected gain changes.
When multiple channels need to be repatched, the only reliable workaround is to first note down all current gain values and then manually restore them afterwards. During a live show this can be time-consuming and introduces unnecessary risk.
Would it be possible to introduce two selectable modes for source switching?
Mode 1 (Current Behaviour):
- Changing source recalls the gain and settings stored with the selected preamp.
Mode 2 (Preserve Channel Settings):
- Changing source keeps the channel’s current gain/preamp values and applies them to the newly selected source, rather than recalling the stored values of that source.
I believe some other digital console platforms offer similar flexibility, and it could be very useful for engineers who frequently repatch inputs during live productions.
I’m interested to hear whether other users have experienced the same limitation and would find this feature useful.