We have become aware of an interesting project on Kickstarter. Mana Modular is the first in a series of small format mixers which have been designed to enable you to build and configure your own console using 500 Series modules.
Mana Modular 510
500 series modules have become a very popular way to present both analogue and digital audio hardware. Their low up-front cost and small footprint made them extremely popular among audio professionals.
The modular nature of the 500 series is at the heart of Mana. You get 10 slots for 500 modules allowing you, the user, to tailor Mana to your needs choosing from any microphone pre-amps, equalizers, compressors and other modules available on the market.
There is also a high quality Penny & Giles fader in every channel, dual bus summing and mastering grade center section. You then have the freedom of 500 series modules to create bespoke configurations for analogue gear in your studio, in a device that can fit onto your desk.
Features
- 10 slots housing any 500 series modules
- Dual mix bus design
- 8 channel, field scale-able, analogue desktop audio console
- PPM meter in every channel
- Mastering grade master section
- Easily expandable in multiples of 8 channels
- High quality Penny and Gilles faders
- Up to 16 channel analogue summing
- Channels cascade & channel controls
Mana 508 and Mana Rack
Mana 510 is the first in a series of Mana Modular small format mixers. They are also planning to release the Mana 508 8 channel companion chassis channel expansion and the Mana Rack frame that accommodates a 3U patch bay or a DIY Euro Synth Rack and an Avid Artist Mix enabling Pro Tools control with the Avid control surface.
Where Are They With Mana Modular?
They tell us that the Mana 510 is a real product. As you can see in the video they have a working prototype, with many of their milestones reached and exciting plans they wish to develop. Now, they need your support to finalize this project.
Still To Do List
- Mana is a complex device. Although most of the design work is done there are still areas that require attention to make the challenge of manufacturing and delivery of the finished product.
- The key to Mana's unique shape is an extruded aluminium piece. To get it made, they need to commit to ordering a huge volume and invest significantly up front.
- The unique design allows affordable, easy assembling and allows them to build other units, like the 508 or Rack with very little additional cost.
- To ensure highest quality of every Mana they ship, they need to finalize their Audio Precision based test systems and integrate the last feature: a usb control application.
- Keeping the price of Mana at a reasonable level and maintaining good relationships with their suppliers means they will need to order large quantities of parts. This again is a significant up front cost.
Interested?
If you are interested in know more about the Mana Modular project then pop over the the Mana Modular Kickstarter campaign and see what they have to offer and see if you would like to support this product.