Bussing and monitoring up to 8 channels wide including Dolby Surround/Pro Logic (LCRS), Dolby Digital, DTS (5.1), Dolby Surround EX, DTS-ES (6.1), SDDS, IMAX/Iwerks (7.1), in addition to stereo and mono. Each mono input module can pan up to 5.1. The optional joystick provides panning up to full 7.1 format.

The M1RN mono input channel includes new mic amp and EQ stages by Mr. Rupert Neve. True to his tradition, Mr. Neve makes no compromise in his choice of components. The mic amp is as transparent as they come with a very high specification and extremely precise control of gain settings. Mr. Rupert Neve's EQ is world renowned for its fat, punchy low end, clean transparent highs and accurate, detailed midrange.

Every Media 51 also includes four M2 Stereo Return modules controlling four stereo line inputs and four stereo effects returns.

Master control is via the M3 Master Module, which offers comprehensive surround monitoring facilities, including multiple solo, cut and metering modes, easy insertion of encode and decode processors, extensive downmixing and stem monitoring capabilities, master Playback/Direct (PEC/Direct) switching, and comprehensive speaker control.

Equipped as standard is AMEK's Supertrue™ v3.7 fader, switch, and event automation, with synchronisation through SMPTE and MIDI, plus Virtual Dynamics™ and recall of all mono and stereo input channel parameters. A cue list function allows the triggering of internal and external events against timecode with quarter-frame accuracy.

Media 51 can be optionally supplied with a motorised joystick, offering a full range of panning modes up to 7.1. Other options include a floorstand and a frame extension to accommodate a jackbay.