Lawo transforms the recording studio of the Stuttgart Media University

This Stuttgart teaching center has modernized its central recording studio with a system Theirs IP-based including a mc²56 MkIII production console, an A__UHD Core, un stagebox A__stage64, a Power Core with interface Dante and the Home management platform, which serves as the operational backbone of an IP system.

Configured with 32 faders, un core A__UHD (licensed to 256 DSP channels), an A__stage64 stage box and a Power Core with Dante interface, the installation, based on Lawo, which has been carried out at the Stuttgart Media University (University of Media – HdM) offers maximum flexibility for a wide range of production formats. Signal routing, Device management and configuration are managed through the Lawo HOME management platform, which acts as the operational backbone of the system.

HdM's audio production training ranges from classical chamber music, jazz y big band, even movie soundtracks, radio works and sound design for animation and games.

For this reason, as the teacher explains Oliver Curdt, who oversees audio productions within the audiovisual media program, A solution was needed that would cover the entire workflow, “from recording to mixing and post-production. The mc²56 console not only meets these technical requirements, but also allows configuration adjustments to be made in real time, “How to adapt to more auxiliary shipments and fewer groups in a short period of time”.

The surface is complemented by the A__UHD Core, solution that provides dynamic DSP capabilities that can be assigned per project, and the Home platform, enabling centralized device management, audio streams and users. In addition to functions such as user authorization, security zones and automatic device detection, offers quick access to all I/O, regardless of your location on the network, what “significantly our daily work, especially in an environment with constantly changing student teams”, Curdt points out..

Lawo supported the project throughout all stages, starting with the joint development of the system design and specifications during the planning phase. Installation was preceded by a multi-day factory acceptance test in January 2025, which included detailed setup and testing procedures. Next, Three days of training were given for teachers and students.

Comprehensive connectivity

The integration of Lawo solutions with the Dante infrastructure existing was another key requirement. He Power Core Rev3, equipped with a Dante interface, was responsible for guaranteeing this integration, offering a wide range of connectivity options on the road, including analog mic/line inputs and outputs, AES of the MAD.

HdM's audio over IP infrastructure is based on Ravenna/AES67 and is also compatible with SMPTE ST2110-30/31 through the stagebox A__stage64, that provides 32 High-quality microphone preamps along with AES and MADI interfaces.

To make workflows with the Lawo mc256 intuitive, Stuttgart Media University decided to implement specific settings for each user. “I can adapt the console precisely to my needs, from color coding and encoder assignment to freely assignable user buttons. This is incredibly useful in a dynamic production environment.", explica Curdt, who also ordered the deployment of an external Skaarhoj control surface that serves as a fully programmable command center for headphone routing and in-studio communication.

Another important selection criterion was the ability to manage automation precisely., especially for musical productions: “If I want to do A/B comparisons, I need a full console with storable automation and instantly accessible snapshots for direct reference. That's not something a DAW can offer in the same way.. It is also vital that students learn what professional signal flow means., although later they end up working “in the box”.