Avid Unveils VENUE 8.0 with New E6LX-256 Engine
With the release of VENUE 8.0 and the E6LX-256 engine, Avid delivers a comprehensive update catering
to new demands of live sound production
Avid has announced the release of VENUE 8.0, its latest update to the VENUE live sound
software
platform, alongside the introduction of a new flagship engine, the VENUE | E6LX-256. This
significant upgrade brings a suite of expanded features aimed at improving performance, flexibility,
and workflow for live sound engineers managing large and complex productions.
At the core of the VENUE 8.0 update is the debut of the new VENUE | E6LX-256 engine. This
high-performance engine pushes the boundaries of live sound processing with an expanded channel
count, offering up to 256 inputs and 192 output busses. Designed to handle the demands of the most
intricate live events, the E6LX-256 provides users with increased headroom for routing, mixing, and
creative application.
VENUE 8.0 also brings significant enhancements to Virtual Soundcheck (VSC) functionality.
Users can
now allocate all four MADI-192 expansion cards in their system for VSC, allowing a 256x256
channel
configuration at 96kHz, which comprehensively covers all physical inputs and beyond.
Additionally, a firmware update to the MLN-192 expansion card enables a new AVBHD mode,
supporting
up to 216x216 channels at 96kHz of AVB recording through a single Ethernet connection to a supported
computer.
The Event system within VENUE continues to evolve with version 8.0, offering expanded automation
through a broader array of Triggers and Actions, many derived from the Options tab. A particularly
noteworthy addition is the "VCAs Trim Aux Sends in SOF" feature, which allows engineers to toggle
the use of VCAs to trim mixes in Sends on Faders.
To improve workflow efficiency, the update introduces Smart Duplicate, a tool that simplifies the
creation of events. This function enables users to duplicate any Trigger, Action, or full Event,
while intelligently iterating variables. For example, duplicating a trigger that adjusts the colour
of Group 1 will automatically create a trigger for Group 2, streamlining setup during programming.
Avid has added the ability to assign any output as the Mix to Monitors for both Monitor A and B
buses. This update allows engineers to instantly solo a critical monitor mix, matrix, or subgroup.
Furthermore, this setting can now be automated using the Event system, enabling dynamic changes
during a performance.
VENUE 8.0 introduces AutoMix, a long-anticipated addition to the platform. Available on all groups,
AutoMix uses VENUE's internal bus-to-bus routing architecture to create weighted automixes. In
addition to the major features, VENUE 8.0 includes numerous other updates designed to enhance
control and visibility:
Metering for monitor buses and VCAs, providing better at-a-glance feedback during operation. Ability
to set all members of an Aux to Pre or Post, improving mix consistency. Colour-matching of output
members, aiding visual organisation of outputs. Expanded Group View, offering clearer insight into
group composition and structure. A restructured navigation system on CKMs, optimising access to
mixes and group members during shows.
As live productions continue to grow in complexity, VENUE 8.0 positions itself as a robust and
forward-looking solution for professional sound reinforcement.