ISIS® Software for PHOENIX XT and MENTOR

Playbacks and Playback Configuration13 PLAYBACKS AND PLAYBACK CONFIGURATION13.1 IntroductionMemories can be recorded in the playbacks - but more importantly, they can be played back sequentially,or in any random order.Using the playbacks in conjunction with the Sequence manager, makes for flexible and structured lightingreplay. The Sequence Manager is described in detail in the chapter *SEQUENCE MANAGER ANDEVENTS*.ISIS ®has two independent playbacks, although on the smaller operating platforms (PHOENIX 2 andVISION 10 Compact) playback 2 is entirely virtual.This may seem a strange concept, but a virtual playback can be very useful - as it is safe from accidentalmanipulations.In complicated sequences involving events and motion control, the second playback can be used purelyfor the events, or moving light sequences.Although playback 2 is protected from accidental use in this way, it is not easy to regain control ofelements in virtual playbacks, so this method is best for shows that require a lot of automation and alwaysrun in strict time and sequence.The virtual playback is controlled by a series of key commands from the alphanumeric keypad.These keyboard operations are detailed in the chapter *USING THE ALPHANUMERIC KEYBOARD*.All other operating platforms feature physical controls for both playbacks, and can be used as required.13.2 Stage and Preset FieldsEach playback has two sides: S for Stage, which is effectively LIVE (seen at the output), and P for Preset,which is effectively BLIND (not seen at the output).The Stage and Preset halves of the playbacks are analogous with a two-preset manual desk:One preset is made live while the other is being pre-set with the next scene.In the case of a sequential playback, the Preset is automatically pre-set.Once there is a scene in both the Stage and Preset fields, a transition can be made between the twoscenes. This can be a straight crossfade, a split-time crossfade, or the second scene can be piled on topof the first one.Note: The following points are written on the basis that both playbacks have their fader pairs on the lower end-stop offader travel.Page:254Issue 1.01www.adblighting.com