Design

Nova is a complete sound solution that combines a mixer, a recorder, ZaxNet remote control and wireless receivers into one compact and lightweight device.

Connectivity

Nova features 4 XLR mic/line NeverClip inputs with 48V phantom power and 2 line level balanced inputs. 4 external AES inputs and 6 analog/AES output buses. 2 AES42 microphones can connect to the AES inputs. 4 channels of AES sample rate converting inputs can connect to external wireless receivers.

Recording

Nova can record up to 16 channels of audio with 24 bit depth. Sample rates include 44.1, 47.952, 48, 48.048 and 96. Audio can be recorded individually or simultaneously two compact flash cards. Files are recorded as MARF II, a lossless fault tolerant recording format to the internal drive or as Broadcast Wave files (BWF).

Mixing (Patent Pending)

5 high resolution infinity encoders with led indicators to indicate fader position and can display precise input audio level metering. The faders are user organized into 4 banks of 5 sources. Fader control, trim control and ZaxNet transmitter preamp gain are all accessed with the touch of a single button.

Wireless

There are two receiver slots for optional module receivers – MRX414, MRX214 or QRX212. When installed, all connections are made without external cables. Each MRX414 receiver module can receive audio from up to 4 separate transmitters for a total of 8 channels of wireless from 8 separate transmitters. The MRX214 and QRX212 can receive audio from up to 2 separate transmitters in mono or stereo mode for up to 8 channels of wireless audio from 4 transmitters total. These module receivers are the same ones used with the RX-12 and RX-12R and are interchangeable back and forth with the Nova.

The module receivers are fully integrated into the Nova. When a frequency is changed, both the receiver channel and the transmitters on the talent are changed at the same time. When frequency scans are initiated, all transmitters on talent are put in non-transmission mode so an accurate scan can be done. Once the scan is complete all transmitters and receivers can be assigned to clean frequencies instantly with the touch of a single button. The transmitters will automatically be enabled on the new frequency.

Full integration of Zaxcom Digital Recording Wireless with the Nova makes for a unique and powerful system. Track names from the recorder can be automatically sent to the backup recordings on the wireless transmitters for easy identification in post. As an alternative, transmitter names can automatically rename the ISO tracks of the recorder. The Nova’s transport control can automatically control the recording on the bodypack transmitters so that there is a matching file on the transmitter for each recorded file on the Nova. Timecode is automatically jammed remotely on each recording transmitter without the need to jam with a hardwired cable.

Nova includes a 35 MHz tunable tracking front end filter for the wireless receivers. This filter allows for rejection of interfering sources like UHF walkie talkies.

Interface

Nova’s graphical user interface is intuitive and simple. All buttons and knobs are ergonomically spaced to eliminate accidental bumping of levels due to overcrowding of buttons and switches on the front panel. An LCD paired with 6 push buttons provides menu navigation.

Advanced Features

ZaxNet remote control gives the ability to adjust frequency, preamp gain and output power on Zaxcom transmitters eliminating the need to approach talent.

Audition and Re-record allows for instant remix and recovery of dropouts due to RF transmission interruption.

Power

Nova uses two power inputs for redundant operation. External power distribution is not necessary as no external hardware is needed when using the Nova.