Calrec Assist is a browser-based web application that transforms a computer into a virtual control surface for Calrec broadcast audio consoles. Its primary purpose is to enable full control of a broadcast mixing console from any location, without needing to be physically in front of the hardware.
Primary Use Cases
Full Remote Production
The main purpose of Calrec Assist is to allow broadcast engineers and operators to mix live audio from anywhere with an internet connection. This is crucial for distributed production workflows where team members work from home or different locations, as well as for reducing onsite staff at venues while maintaining production quality at a central facility.
Virtual Console Operation ("Headless" Mixing)
Assist can serve as the complete interface for Calrec's "headless" consoles—systems that have no physical control surface at all. Products like the VP2 virtual production engine and Type R IP core are controlled entirely through Assist. Operators see a virtual fader bed and processing interface on their laptop screen and mix directly from there.
Offline Show Preparation
Engineers can use Assist to set up entire shows in advance while traveling or working remotely. You can configure:
-
Show files and memories
-
Fader layouts and bus setup
-
Input/output patching and labeling
-
Channel parameters (including mic gains)
-
Routing configurations
Once at the studio, the prepared show file can be loaded onto the physical console and be ready to air immediately.
Secondary Control Surface & Backup
When used alongside a physical Calrec console (such as Apollo, Artemis, or Argo series), Assist provides an additional access point. It can distribute the workload among multiple operators—for example, one engineer handles faders while another manages routing—or serve as a secure backup if the physical surface encounters issues.
How It Works
- Accessible via Standard Web Browser – Runs on Mac, Windows, and Linux devices using Chrome, with no specialized hardware required.
- Multi-User & Permission-Based – Multiple operators can access the same console simultaneously, with different permission levels (e.g., an operator gets basic controls, an engineer gets full setup access).
- Real-Time Interactive Control – Provides full interactive control of faders, routing, metering, aux sends, Automix, monitor feeds, and more, with low latency over IP networks.
Compatible Calrec Systems
| Physical Consoles | Virtual/Headless Systems |
| Apollo & Artemis series | VP2 virtual production engine |
| Argo Q, S, and M | Type R IP core (radio & TV) |
| RP1 remote production core |
Key Advantages
Cost Efficiency – Reduces the need for multiple physical control surfaces; a single core can support multiple virtual mixers.
Space Saving – Headless operation eliminates the physical footprint of a large console.
Workflow Flexibility – Enables distributed production teams and integrates with automation systems like Ross Overdrive and GV Ignite via Calrec Serial Control Protocol (CSCP).
In short, Calrec Assist is the tool that decouples broadcast mixing from the physical studio, giving engineers the freedom to control high-quality live audio production from virtually anywhere.
