SPG Studios in Burbank, California has recently completed a two-stage upgrade of their Stage 5 room.

The System 5-MC, Avid MTRX and Eucon Integration

The first stage of this upgrade was installing an AVID MTRX interface and integrating it with their Dual Operator Euphonix System 5-MC, including reconfiguring the Monitoring and routing of their Pro Tools HDX systems to be handled through the new Avid MTRX I/O and monitor matrix. SPG’s President Greg Stone told us...

When we saw the amazing architecture and flexibility that the Avid MTRX offered, we felt the need to integrate the system into our main stage with the System 5MC. Having used the Euphonix Studio Pro for monitor control since our original purchase, discovering that the Avid MTRX would provide revitalized and more efficient monitor control really opened our eyes to how Avid has continued development for Eucon despite the System 5MC no longer being available for purchase.

It would seem that not many people know that recent EUCON updates have incorporated MTRX into System 5-MC’s platform. Until recently, Stage 5 with the System 5-MC at SPG Studios was the mixing epicentre for nearly all of SPG’s projects.

With some development on Eucon and a little guidance from Avid, the engineering staff fully integrated the Avid MTRX into the System 5-MC and Pro Tools HDX systems. The Avid MTRX replaces the Euphonix Studio Monitor Pro with a modernised and super high fidelity system monitor controller that is fully controlled with the S5-MC Touch Screen. This is what you need:

• Avid MTRX Monitor and Converter Frame

• Eucon 3.6.1 (or better)

• DADman software version 5.1.1

• Avid ProTools 12HD with HDX Card

• Avid Sync HD

Although reluctant to say goodbye to their Dual Operator Euphonix System 5-MC, the team at SPG was excited to add new functionality and sophistication to its main stage. Greg Stone reflected...

The System 5-MC served us well, but the S6 is quite compelling. It offers a smoother and faster workflow and integrates seamlessly with our Avid MTRX. It was the obvious choice to move us into the future.

Changing the System 5 For An Avid S6

Consequently, the second part of this two-stage upgrade was to install a new 12-foot Avid Pro Tools S6 M40 provided and integrated by RSPE Audio Solutions and because they already had an Avid MTRX embedded in their studio SPG’s transition to the S6 was a snap. The new, state-of-the-art Pro Tools system is being welcomed by existing clients and will open doors to new clients looking for the most efficient and user-friendly mix stage. 

We raced out of the gate with the new system, our mixers love the configurability and streamlined workflows. As a boutique dub, mix, and ADR facility, SPG’s mission is to equip our staff and clients with cutting edge tools. Whether we’re 4-walling or delivering post-audio services, our systems, support, and infrastructure have to exceed client expectations. The S6 reinforces the critical message that we are client friendly and state-of-the-art.

In the future SPG plans to add a second S6 into the desk, creating a dual operator console, which explains why the desk is so large and currently has a lot of blanking panels!

For SPG, the S6 builds on their 35-year legacy of delivering post-production, localisation and voice over services in Burbank. Projects such as Game of Thrones, Westworld, The Sopranos, Argo, and the Harry Potter franchise have turned to SPG Studios for the best technology and staffing. 

Want a System 5 Console? We Know Where There Is One!

If you’re interested in a Dual Operator Euphonix System 5-MC that can integrate with the Avid MTRX, we know where you can find one. For more information contact RSPE Audio.