When there is no time to search for a file
In a live show, some elements must be available instantly: a jingle, a station ID, a short announcement, an effect or a drop-in. If the operator opens the library, searches for the name and adds the element to the playlist every time, that is no longer “instantly”. The cartwall solves exactly this problem.
How it works
The cartwall has 12 pads (slots) to which you assign audio files. Each pad has its own name and colour, and the layout is saved between application launches. You fire a pad with a double-click or the F1–F12 keys, and with a right-click you preview it in Cue, change its file or colour, or clear it.
When an element plays over music, the application temporarily ducks the music according to the configured speed and level, instead of both sources playing at full volume.
An example of use
A presenter has the show intro, the three most frequently used jingles, a few short effects and a promo. Instead of keeping them in a separate folder and inserting them by hand, the presenter assigns them to pads — while talking or during a transition, a single click is enough.
Why colours and names make sense
With functions that are used live, fast visual recognition matters more than detailed text. Colour separates jingles from effects, promos or station IDs, and a short name helps you recognise the content without reading the whole file name.
What you get
- instant access to frequently used audio content;
- fewer windows to open during a show;
- less risk of playing the wrong file;
- your own pad layout that stays saved;
- clearer control of live programming.
The cartwall and the playlist are not the same thing. A playlist is the order of content over time, while the cartwall is a set of elements that must be available “right now”. That is why both have their place in a live studio.