14 best mixing consoles

Review of the best according to the editorial board. On the selection criteria. This material is subjective and does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.

A mixing console is the basis of any conscious and any kind of high-quality sound recording, performance or TV broadcast. And the modern market allows anyone – from a beginner DJ to a professional sound engineer – to choose equipment for their taste, professional needs and an affordable budget. The editorial staff of the magazine has prepared for you an overview of the best, in the opinion of the expert communities and ordinary users, mixing consoles in the first half of 2020.

Rating of the best mixing consoles

Nomination	a place	Name of product	price
The best budget mixing consoles	1	ART ProMIX	RUB 7 680
	2	YAMAHA MG06X	RUB 10,900
	3	Behringer XENYX Q1202USB	RUB 7 650
	4	Soundcraft EPM8	RUB 12 900
The best mid-range mixing consoles	1	Allen & Heath ZED6FX	17 100 rub.
	2	Soundcraft Ui-16	RUB 26,500
	3	Allen & Heath ZEDi10FX	RUB 28,500
	4	Roland MX-1	RUB 39,900
The best mixing consoles for studio recording	1	PIONEER DJM-750MK2	RUB 103,000
	2	Yamaha MGP24X	RUB 103,000
	3	Yamaha TF1	RUB 17,000
	4	Soundcraft Si Impact	RUB 268,000
The best premium mixing consoles for studio recording	1	Yamaha CL1	RUB 1,260,000
	2	Allen & Heath dLive-S5000	RUB 1,900,000

The best budget mixing consoles

Mixing consoles are available in an almost immense price range – from a few thousand rubles to tens of millions. We will traditionally start with the most affordable price category. The presented models may be interesting for those who are taking their first steps in professional work with sound, as well as partly for professionals as auxiliary equipment for the studio.

ART ProMIX

Rating: 4.6

And the overview opens with the simplest three-channel analog mixer ProMIX from the well-known international brand of musical equipment ART. The model is notable primarily for its portability and autonomous power supply. Of course, this is not a 'remote control' in the sense in which it appears to an unprepared person, but the essence is still in the functions.

Despite the obvious modesty of functionality, this miniature mixer is able to quickly and easily solve some important tasks. For example, if there is only one input at the main mixing point for three microphones, then this is almost guaranteed to be a problem. ART ProMIX can take over this area of ​​work.

The mixer is crafted in a simple rectangular black case with no hint of any design, but to give it credit – an infographic is available on the top with captions of all controls. The dimensions of the device body are 143x45x92mm. Weight without packaging – 680g, with packaging – 900g. It works either from the mains through the standard complete 12V adapter, or from two batteries of the 'Krona' type, which will need to be purchased separately.

In terms of working with sound, this model demonstrates such characteristics. Input and output resistance – 600 ohms. Nonlinear distortion factor – no more than 0.02%. The output level is not more than + 14dB, the input is -14 The input and output levels can be in the range from -14 to + 14dB. The maximum sensitivity is 60dB.

All three mic inputs provide phantom power and are equipped with a Low cut filter. The input signal level is adjusted by simple mechanical manipulators separately for each channel. There is a balanced output on the XLR connector. Each channel is also equipped with balanced XLR outputs. Activated by DIP switches. The front panel has an AUX output, to which you can connect headphones or a studio monitor. On the same panel there are also power and overdrive indicators, a power switch and the same level controls on the channels.

Actually, this is almost all that can be said about this model in its essence. The functionality is extremely limited, there is no preamplifier for the microphone, there are no presets and there is nothing at all except for the above. In this context, the price of the device does not seem so reasonable. This is true, but still ART ProMIX is bought, loved and appreciated, not least for its reliability and durability. It is due to its simplicity that the device behaves as predictably as possible, and you can always rely on it.

Advantages

• quality, reliability and durability;
• phantom power on channels;
• balanced output;
• you can connect a studio monitor;
• power supply from the mains or from batteries;
• visual infographics on the lid;
• miniature sizes;
• portability.

disadvantages

• still overpriced, as for such functionality.

YAMAHA MG06X

Rating: 4.5

The review is continued by a Japanese manufacturer that does not need special introduction – YAMAHA and its compact mixer MG06X, presented to the public in 2014. After 6 years, it does not lose its relevance and is in demand. Manufactured in China under YAMAHA's meticulous quality control. Visually, it already resembles a 'remote control', although the dimensions are still more than compact.

MG06X model already differs sharply from the extreme minimalism of the previous version, while still retaining a rather narrow specialization. This is a passive-type analog console with relatively wide audio processing capabilities.

The dimensions of the remote control are 14.9×6.2×20.2cm. Weight – 0.9kg. Equipped with two mono inputs (mic / line), two XLR / 1/4 “stereo inputs, two XLR, TRS stereo outputs and a separate headphone output. Two-band equalizer for mono channels. Nearly all connectors and controls are located on the top panel. There is also an LED seven-segment indicator.

The device is capable of recognizing sound in the range of vibrations from 20 to 20 thousand Hz. For the key characteristics, regardless of the manufacturer's statements, independent testers obtained the following results: nonlinear distortion coefficient – no more than 0.001%, noise level – about -105dBA. All this speaks for a decent studio level.

Several important notes. Many newer mixing consoles have non-standard line inputs. Here, too, at inputs 3/4 and 5/6, we have -10 dBu, that is, a slightly increased sensitivity compared to the standard. To avoid overloading the inputs, use the PAD buttons to lower this value and allow you to connect a higher signal.

The balanced outputs of the console are capable of producing a high-amplitude signal well above the studio standard of +4 dBu – up to +18 dBu. To connect a guitar you will need a DiBOX, since all inputs are line level only. The real range of the headphone output is much wider than the rated 24 + 24 mW and the volume margin is much higher than the reasonable capabilities of the human ear.

In this model, the professional level in every detail is pleasantly surprised. Even the fact that on such a compact model, XLR connectors are installed on the output, and not TRS and RCA, already says a lot. And the fact that the connectors are equipped with strong latches emphasizes the high level of technology.

Advantages

• high quality workmanship;
• careful attention to detail;
• studio grade D-PRE preamplifier;
• XLR connectors for output;
• powerful headphone output with the highest volume threshold;
• reliability and durability.

disadvantages

• some users still lack the RCA connector (tulips).

Behringer XENYX Q1202USB

Rating: 4.4

As the third issue, consider a good compromise between professional asceticism, amateur breadth of functionality and affordability. This is the XENYX Q1202USB 12-channel mixing console from Behringer.

This model is of a kind of intermediate level 'improved amateur', when using the remote control one can easily carry out rehearsals of small ensembles, but at the same time the general class of the device is nevertheless closer to the initial one.

The first four channels in this model are monophonic, they are supplied with Xenyx preamplification – this is aimed at ensuring the functioning of microphones, including condenser type. Alternatively, mono instruments such as a guitar can be connected to these inputs. The physical connection is via XLR connectors with phantom power and 6.35mm jacks. Directly below the jacks are the input level controls. Even lower – compressors with LED indicators.

To equalize the sound in terms of frequencies and form a more readable picture of the mix, three-band equalizers are used on the second four of monophonic tracks. Low Cut filters 'cut' the signal below 80Hz, thereby eliminating most of the mechanical noise and interference.

The third four channels are already stereo, equipped with TS connectors. Sensitivity lends itself to small adjustments using buttons toggle between + 4dBu and -10dBV. Also here, as on all tracks, there are knobs for sending a signal to FX Send for transferring to third-party devices for processing, panning the signal or balancing left and right, sending to the general mix. A dedicated control button FX TO CTRL RM allows you to listen to the monitor sound before sending it for processing with special effects.

The general conclusion on the model is as follows. This is a high amateur level, solid quality, reliable and trouble-free with not at all 'shameful' functionality. And this is a budget option with natural simplifications and limitations, and if you need an ultra-quiet case, an effects processor and other add-ons, you can look at the EURORACK UB1202FX or QX1202USB models.

Advantages

• high amateur / semi-professional level;
• 12 channels;
• equalizers;
• sensitivity;
• reliable trouble-free operation.

disadvantages

• may give a dropout on mic preamps.

Soundcraft EPM8

Rating: 4.4

The selection of the best budget mixing consoles according to the version will be completed by an interesting model from the British company Soundcraft, which has proven itself very well in specialized circles and is now part of the Harman Pro Group.

It is the most affordable model in the Soundcraft EPM series. In terms of functionality, it is almost the same as the previous generation Soundcraft Spirit E line with differences only in the circuitry of the preamplifiers.

The dimensions of the case here are still relatively compact – 330×90.5x362mm, but the massiveness is already decent – 5.6kg. Average power consumption is less than 20W. It is powered from the mains through a built-in pulse power supply unit. The body is metal, sturdy, materials are solid. The optimal installation is on a flat, horizontal surface. Can also be mounted on a 19 ”rack.

Of the ten active channels, eight are monaural and two are stereo. New model 60mm faders are installed. They are more accurate and reliable, and also compact, which made it possible to reduce the size of the remote control to a minimum.

Mono channels are routed to a separate XLR input, plus a 1/4 ″ line input, the same INSERT input and a level control. Stereo channels are connected via three-pole 1/4 ″ jacks. So you can connect keys, a drum machine, any signal processing device. The inputs are balanced, supporting high frequency signals. An unbalanced signal is allowed with special wiring, but only with the shortest possible cable length.

The mono channels are equipped with a three-band equalizer to control the high, mid and low frequencies. The middle range is accepted here in the range from 150 to 3500 Hz. The function is used to manually adjust the frequencies in order to achieve better speech intelligibility, expressiveness of the sound of a particular instrument. Stereo channels have their own high-precision two-band equalizer with balance control, PFL and MUTE buttons, pan control and other functions.

Advantages

• high technological level;
• ergonomics;
• convenient connection interfaces;
• practically no background noise;
• flexible equalizers;
• quality and reliability;

disadvantages

• many users miss the built-in reverb.

The best mid-range mixing consoles

In the second selection, we will consider the conditional average price category of the best mixing consoles according to experts. There is no clear border between these conditional groups, and individual models may be better in some way, and worse in some way, but in general the level is still higher.

Allen & Heath ZED6FX

Rating: 4.9

Let's start with a mixing console, which is not too expensive for the price of the previous one, but the level here can already be felt at the level of the manufacturer – the British specialized company Allen & Heath with headquarters in Penrin. We will talk here even about three whole models – ZED-6, ZED-6FX and ZEDi-8, since there are minimal differences between them, which we will indicate.

Each model in the series is a 6-channel active type analog console. The ZED6FX case is relatively compact – 88.9x249x236.4, the weight is really small – only 1.36kg. The ZED6FX modification, among other things, is also equipped with an effects processor. The ZEDi-8 has its own advantage – a two-channel audio interface adapted for the USB bus.

The key and simultaneously unifying features of each model are as follows. Each has two microphone line inputs with separate TRS and XLR interfaces; a pair of stereo inputs on 'jacks'; Mono TRS inputs for direct guitar hookup without direct box. Two mono channels are equipped with a cut-off filter. For condenser microphones, 48V phantom power is provided.

The mixing console includes GSPre mic preamps with good headroom and minimal noise. They not least influence the creation of a characteristic 'warm' sound. Each mono and stereo channel in the mixer is equipped with a two-band equalizer. Fader 60mm Main Mix fader with pleasant smooth running.

The master outputs in this model are also based on XLR connectors. This provides a wide range of possibilities for comprehensive monitoring. The remote control is powered from the mains through the built-in power supply. Stability is provided by a robust steel chassis.

We should also dwell on the above-mentioned effects processor. Through it, 100 ready-made presets are available in ZED6FX. Here you will find everything of high studio quality, including reverb, delay and all kinds of their combinations.

Advantages

• brand;
• high technological level;
• combination of cost and quality;
• microphone preamplifiers;
• phantom power for condenser microphones;
• many preset presets.

disadvantages

• no obvious flaws were found.

Soundcraft Ui-16

Rating: 4.8

Moving from analog to digital with the popular Soundcraft Ui Series 12-channel digital mixing console. The British company has released similar models Ui12 and Ui16, differing only in the number of inputs and outputs. In the context of all products of the brand, this line is positioned as a budget one.

In addition to digital principles, here we still see such innovations as a wired Ethernet port and even a Wi-Fi module. Such equipment is designed to establish remote control of the console using specialized software on popular operating systems, including mobile ones. Moreover, control is supported from several devices at once – up to 10 in total, and also including wearable gadgets.

Let's go through the main technical characteristics. Of the 12 channels of the console, 8 are connected via TRS Jacks, the remaining 4 – via XLR. The master section contains controls for the output signal, the level of the signal to the headphones, there are also two 1/4 '' TRS jacks for headphones and four master outputs with different connectors – two XLR and two 1/4 '' TRS Jacks. There are also line outputs on RCA jacks, four AUX outputs on XLR jacks. Import and export of files is supported, and directly through one of the two USB-interfaces, recording to an external drive is possible.

The device contains an integrated USB media player. In electronics, Lexicon, Digitech and dbx signal handlers are wired. Manual frequency control can be done using the built-in four-band equalizer. The device comes with specialized cross-platform software for detailed sound settings using a 31-band software digital equalizer. There are also noise gate and compressor functions.

The Soundcraft Ui-16 remote control also includes the ability to control microphone preamps. The inputs and outputs support RTA purity analysis, and the outputs are additionally equipped with low-pass filters. The functionality is crowned with an integrated effects processor.

A pedal can be connected as an additional function. There is also a complete system reset function for emergency cases.

Advantages

• brand;
• quality of materials and elaboration of details;
• Ethernet port;
• Wi-Fi;
• joint remote control from 10 different devices;
• support for many operating systems;
• import and export of files;
• recording to an external hard drive;
• built-in effects processor;
• you can connect a pedal.

disadvantages

• Wi-Fi connection may be lost.

Allen & Heath ZEDi10FX

Rating: 4.7

Let's go back to the British manufacturer Allen & Heath, and even to the ZEDi series, but consider a more interesting product of this line – the ZEDi-10 and ZEDi-10FX mixing consoles. These two modifications are almost identical with the only difference that the ZEDi-10FX is equipped with an effects processor. The manufacturer positions the models for both concert and studio use.

This is a 10-channel analog mixing console. Includes four line-level microphone inputs, two switchable Hi-Z inputs, two stereo channels, connection to external electronics via USB 4×4 audio interface. The body of the device is predominantly metal, designed for desktop installation. Case dimensions – 332x274x96mm, control panel weight – 2.3kg. The design is robust, powered from the mains through the built-in power supply.

Let's take a closer look at the characteristics and capabilities of the ZEDi10FX. The remote has a built-in audio interface and is equipped with high-quality GSPre microphone preamps of the latest edition. The effects processor here is also not 'for weight', but quite a serious studio level, contains 100 presets and the TapTempo function. There is also a separate output for an external effects processor or pedal. The outputs are supplied with 48V phantom power to power the condenser microphones. Manual frequency control can be done with a three-band equalizer. Explicit low-frequency noise is cut off by the Low-cut filter. There is a 60mm master fader with a smooth ride.

There are a variety of ways to connect tools and equipment. The microphone inputs are linked to separate TRS and XLR jacks. Guitar or bass can be connected directly without direct box via the two DI instrument inputs. Two more linear stereo inputs are tied to standard jacks. A separate innovation is a USB audio interface for 4 channels with 24 bit / 96 kHz perception; works directly with Mac and PC systems, and with iOS through an adapter. The balanced main outputs are also provided on XLR sockets.

ZEDi10FX provides extensive analysis and monitoring capabilities. Active monitors or even an entire individual monitoring system can be connected via the Aux output. A significant expansion of the functionality of the console can be obtained through the bundled software – CubasisLE and CubaseLE applications.

Advantages

• built-in audio interface;
• microphone preamplifiers;
• high quality workmanship;
• reliability and durability;
• built-in effects processor;
• flexible monitoring options;
• adapted 4-channel audio USB interface.

disadvantages

• no fundamental disadvantages were found.

Roland MX-1

Rating: 4.6

Rounding out the selection of the best mid-range mixing consoles is the multichannel and multifunctional MX-1 model from the renowned Roland brand. The MX-1 is part of Roland's AIRA series of professional music equipment. This is one of the most affordable options in the professional segment.

Outwardly, the mixing console is similar to many of its counterparts – a strict metal case with dimensions of 65 × 400 × 264mm and a weight of 1.81kg with many controls, jacks, buttons and manipulators throughout the top panel. In terms of design, this kind of equipment has too little field for action, but here the creators made up for everything with backlighting. Literally every button and every rotary encoder is illuminated. There is a different shade of illumination for different groups of elements. Combined with quality materials that, even with such close emphasis, do not show any flaws in the assembly, this produces a mesmerizing effect.

This mixing console, like the previous model, combines several directions of sound processing – mixing itself, as well as adding effects, adjusting individual frequencies, processing by third-party applications on a PC. At the heart of everything is an 18-channel 24bit / 96kHz USB audio interface.

Let's take a look at the key specs and features of the MX-1. The console operates at sampling rates of 44.1, 48 and 96 kHz with 24-bit audio processing. The nominal input level is adjustable from –26 to + 4dBu, the output is set to + 4dBu. The input impedance is 100kOhm, the output impedance is 1kOhm for the common MixOut and 24Ohm for the headphone output. The operating frequency range is 'classic' – from 20 to 20 thousand Hz. The headroom is 18 dB.

A little more detailed consideration requires a set of built-in effects and the nature of their application. So, Roland MX-1 allows you to apply Master-effects and Beat-effects to each of the inputs separately, Master-effects also to all simultaneously. You can alternate Master FX effects using the Combi mode when using the step sequencer.

There are six types of basic Master FX and three basic Beat FX that combine to create dozens of unique combinations. Various modes are provided to unleash the full potential of the mixing console. So, the Mix mode provides for the simultaneous operation of one digital stereo channel, six analog, four AIRA stereo channels, two PC channels, and all this with the application of effects.

Advantages

• brand;
• quality of materials and workmanship;
• multifunctionality;
• many effects;
• many modes, a wide field for creativity;
• wide range of connection interfaces;
• mesmerizing illumination effect of each element;
• affordable price for professional equipment.

disadvantages

• no fundamental shortcomings have been identified.

The best mixing consoles for studio recording

The third selection in the review of the best mixing consoles in 2020, according to the magazine, is devoted to an already serious technique that is already suitable for equipping a professional studio. Our experts have selected those models that, for all their high technological and professional level, still, although they remain expensive, are not completely unaffordable.

PIONEER DJM-750MK2

Rating: 4.9

Let's start with the most modest model, based on the number of channels – the 4-channel DJ mixer DJM-750MK2 from the well-known PIONEER trademark. It really was originally developed as a DJ with adaptation for vinyl players, but, of course, no one forbids using it for other related purposes.

This is a four-channel mixing console, a product of the specialist company Pioneer DJ. The manufacturer itself positions the DJM-750MK2 as a middle class. Recommended for practicing DJ skills in preparation for club performances and may well cope with such.

The model inherited not only everything good from the previous generation DJM-750, but also took a lot from the flagship DJM-900NXS2: the Magvel Fader magnetic crossfader with a huge resource of up to 10 million movements, dithering technologies, 64-bit DSP, 32-bit DACs and ADCs, overall high sound quality in general. There is also a 24-bit USB audio interface and two high quality effect modules – Sound Color FX and Beat FX. The peculiarity of the PIONEER DJM-750MK2 is the presence of an additional USB port for iOS – gadgets, which may well be used as additional effect generators or their sources.

Among other improvements, this model received a separate microphone section with a two-band equalizer, two headphone jacks, in general, very good switching capabilities. In addition to hardware, the remote control comes with license keys for specialized software – the Rekordbox DVS and Rekordbox DJ applications. The value of the programs themselves is emphasized by the manufacturer himself, indicating their real cost of 248 euros.

From the flagship DJM-900NXS2, this model also takes a well thought out from a professional point of view the layout of the controls. There is a pleasant highlighting of important areas and elements. In general, even outwardly, the remote control makes a respectable impression.

Advantages

• brand;
• exceptional quality;
• improved EQ and fader curves;
• separate microphone section with equalizer;
• the ability to connect a gadget to iOS;
• licensed software as a bonus;
• spectacular appearance.

disadvantages

• all the same 4 channels are not enough for many.

Yamaha MGP24X

Rating: 4.9

Finally, we got to the technique, positioned as a professional one without any reservations. The Yamaha MGP24X 24-channel mixing console is not the limit, as Yamaha has also released a 32-channel version as part of the MGP lineup update. We regard MGP24X as a prefab image. Despite the decent price, this is still the lower price segment of professional studio and concert equipment.

First of all, let's highlight the main feature. MGP24X is a kind of hybrid of analog and digital technologies in studio equipment. A kind of FrontEnd here is made entirely in analog style with knobs and buttons, but at the level of functioning, everything is based on the most complex digital system. So the MGP24X developers have successfully combined the analog tactile component with the functionality available only to digital technologies.

The dimensions of the remote control are 819x169x565mm, weight without packaging is 15.5kg. There is no doubt about materials and assembly – a rugged, shock-resistant, powder-coated case, convenient controls with a well-thought-out arrangement, variable illumination of elements. In operation, the device consumes no more than 86W of electricity.

The high technological level of the model is visible in the key features. For example, the console is equipped with high-end studio-grade D-PRE preamps using an inverse Darlington circuit. This allows for more power at low impedance and delivers premium sound quality with natural bass and natural highs. Additional adjustments can be made with the innovative X-Pressive EQ, which captures the unique characteristics of vintage EQs.

Each channel is equipped with 48V phantom power. The console mixers have a USB port that can be used to connect a playback device, and this approach gives an increased sound quality with greater clarity and detail compared to analog interfaces.

The console includes a dual high-quality effects processor. A separate significant plus is the integration with gadgets Apple. Free proprietary MGP Editor software has been released specially for iPod / iPhone, which gives additional control and expanding functionality, especially in terms of effects.

Advantages

• 24 channels;
• professional level;
• a combination of analog style and digital technology;
• high end D-PRE preamps;
• innovative equalizer X-Pressive EQ;
• dual effects processor;
• tight integration with iPod / iPhone.

disadvantages

• not marked.

Yamaha TF1

Rating: 4.8

And one more mixing console from Yamaha, or rather a whole small TF series with TF1, TF and TF5 models, differing in the number of channels – 16, 24 and 32, respectively. The consoles were presented to the public in 2015 at Prolight + Sound. Yamaha positions the series as highly reliable, with advanced features, useful for professionals and accessible to beginners. The TF1 console, which we will take as an example, costs commensurate with the previous model, and from the point of view of the manufacturer it is inexpensive.

These channels are routed to the XLR + TRS microphone line inputs located on the rear panel of the interfaces. Each channel is equipped with Yamaha's innovative D-PRE preamplifier, the benefits of which we briefly described in the description of the previous model. TF1 model dimensions – 225 × 510 × 599mm, weight – 13.5kg. Consumes up to 100W of electricity. The older model, with a comparable power consumption of 120W, is much more massive – 20kg.

To be precise, the total number of inputs on the Yamaha TF1 is 40, and this includes 32 mono inputs, 2 stereo and 2 return. There are 20 AUX buses plus sub bus and stereo, and 8 more DCA groups with Roll-out. The console is equipped with 17 100mm motorized faders.

The general specifications of the mixing console are as follows. The total coefficient of nonlinear distortion is less than 0.05%. The working frequency range is from 20 to 20 thousand Hz. Dynamic range – 107dB. The signal delay time is no more than 2.6ms.

The main output channels as well as AUX buses 1 through 8 are equipped with 4-band parametric EQ plus a 31-band Flex12 GEQ. The console contains as many as eight powerful effects processors capable of solving the widest range of tasks.

The integrated audio interface for the USB2.0 bus, in combination with the corresponding port, makes it possible to perform direct two-track recording of a digital stream to an external hard drive or playback.

Here, as in the previous model, the integration with gadgets is qualitatively arranged Apple. So, iOS – devices here can be used for monitoring, moreover, up to ten gadgets can do this at the same time – a special MonitorMix application serves for this. Other programs – TF Editor and TF StageMix ™ provide remote configuration / control and wireless control via tablet iPad respectively.

Advantages

• professional level;
• versatility;
• informative display;
• remote control from wearable gadgets;
• monitoring from several gadgets at the same time;
• 8 powerful effect processors;
• wireless connection;
• solid appearance.

disadvantages

• not marked.

Soundcraft Si Impact

Rating: 4.8

The selection of the best professional mixing consoles-consoles for studio recording according to the magazine will be completed by the most expensive model of the British company Soundcraft in this nomination.

It is a professional studio-grade console with all the innovation and hi-end technology available from Soundcraft. The device combines 40 input channels – 32 mono and 4 stereo (8 if you count left and right for each separately). Each channel is equipped with a DSP preamplifier. The output is 31 buses, also completely with digital signal processing (DSP) and equalizers. Full parametric 4-band EQ per bus and channel.

Console dimensions – 750x160x500mm, weight – 20kg. Power consumption – no more than 130W. The case is classic with a strict design. The backlighting of the controls, as in any mixers of this class, is used not so much for beauty as for ease of control. So, the console has 20 subgroups of elements. Each subgroup is turned on by pressing the corresponding button, after which the entire working group is highlighted in the corresponding color.

What's more, each channel is equipped with a multi-color LCD screen that displays its status. The main control and setting of functions is done through the main 5-inch touch screen. All 26 faders are naturally motorized and automatically adjust to the activated group. There are four fader layers, each of them supports flexible settings.

Soundcraft Si Impact also takes a multi-processor approach to generating effects. The built-in effects processors (here it is Lexicon) in this model are two times less than in the previous one, but this is still excessive content for most of the studio tasks. There is also an integrated MADI interface for stagebox connection.

For high-quality multichannel recording and playback, there is a 32×32 USB audio interface similar to the previous model. In addition, the manufacturer equips the mixing console with Ableton Live 9 Lite software.

This console, like the neighboring models in the collection, is of such a high technical level that it is difficult to find objective flaws in them that would cause systematic complaints from users. As for the monitored remote control, we can only note the fact that the backlighting of the faders and indications “go blind” in an open space in daylight. The phenomenon is common among other models, but they rarely complain about it.

Advantages

• high technological level;
• many channels;
• wide switching capabilities;
• well thought out backlit control grouping;
• studio quality Lexicon effects processors;
• color LCD displays for each input fader;
• audio interface USB 32×32.

disadvantages

• poor visibility of the backlight and indication in daylight in an open space.

The best premium mixing consoles for studio recording

A special category of mixing consoles will conclude our review. These are top-level hi-end solutions, where there is practically no invisible ceiling in terms of price. Indeed, the price tag of millions of rubles greatly narrows the audience of potential buyers, but for our readers we will make such a short excursion into the world of sound equipment, which is at least worth striving for. We add that the most top-end consoles with a price approaching tens of millions of rubles, we still did not consider because of the obvious availability only to an extremely narrow circle of potential buyers.

Yamaha CL1

Rating: 4.9

The final selection will be opened by a premium mixing console, which is somehow affordable not only for top studios with multi-million dollar budgets, but also for less ambitious teams. Again it will be Japanese Yamaha equipment, this time by a whole order of magnitude more expensive than the above-described TF series. It even used the same production and marketing ploy – three modifications were released at once – CL1, CL3 and CL5, differing in the number of channels – from 48 to 72, plus 8 more stereo channels.

Here are some of the specs of this top-end console to give you an idea of ​​the Yamaha CL1's reach. The console is equipped with one of the best, as recognized by expert communities, a control interface. Most of the settings are made via the large color touchscreen display. Wide switching capabilities are represented by 8 inputs and 8 outputs on XLR connectors, AES / EBU outputs, 5-pin Midi interfaces, Word clock input / output, GPI, USB audio interface, Dante interface, wired LAN jack. There are also three Mini-YGDAI card slots.

This console provides ample opportunities for working with sound from many sources – dozens of effects, 8 studio plug-ins, all kinds of combinations, plus a special software algorithm that allows the operator to develop his own, unique author's sound. High quality digital stereo sound can be recorded directly to external USB storage. Using Dante protocol, you can record multi-channel audio in the same way.

The Yamaha CL series has the same meticulous approach as its entry-level models for remote control and integration with wearable electronics. The console has a host of integrated, comprehensive features, each of which is a separate achievement of Yamaha engineers. Thus, the Dan Dugan function provides automatic mixing – intelligent algorithms allow any event to be held with a large number of speakers with minimal manual control of the sound engineer. Other functions are designed to make it possible to apply Flex15 GEQ equalizers, monitor key parameters in detail through the display, patch an arbitrary input to any output (while the console can work as a stagebox for any other console of neighboring series), automatic application of gain compensation on the digital stage after its analog setting .

Advantages

• impeccable quality;
• one of the best Centralogic control interfaces;
• many channels;
• wide switching capabilities;
• high quality studio effects;
• a large set of Yamaha proprietary functions;
• unique innovative technologies;
• multiplayer mode;
• conditionally affordable price in the premium segment.

disadvantages

• not marked.

Allen & Heath dLive-S5000

Rating: 4.8

The short introductory premium selection will be completed by a high-end digital mixing console from Allen & Heath. It is one of the most flexible and fully featured consoles, ideal for high-profile multi-party events – teleconferencing, live radio and TV broadcasts, group concerts, and more.

This model includes 28 physical control channels, supports customization of colors and channel names, an RTA and signal generator, and four giga ACE / DX ports for Stagebox connection with support for advanced Cat5 switching. The console is compatible with the Aviom monitoring system. Separate two I / O ports are dedicated to expansion cards.

Basic setup is done via two touchscreens on the panel. You can connect an external screen through the standard VGA port. There is an integrated FX module. The scheme of remote control from wearable gadgets on the OS Android or iOS has been implemented. Three USB ports are allocated for recording a digital stream to external media. The console is powered from the mains, as many as two power supplies with the possibility of 'hot' replacement with one another in case of problems.

The entire series of dLive mixing consoles provides maximum performance due to the ability to configure any number of groups and for each configuration individually implement different stereo effects, and separately for channels and master outputs. A set of programs for automatic mixing and sound control is provided.

dLive S5000 contains a wide range of effects, has a large scene memory (up to 300), and supports connection of any number of ME series digital monitoring consoles. The WiFi module allows you to control the console remotely from a PC. Special branded applications connect wearable gadgets to work. For direct recording of a digital stream to an external medium, a special USB audio interface is used.

In the context of this model, one nuance is important – to connect analog sources to a mixing console, you need an additional Stagebox for a concert event or a special expansion card for studio recording. So through the giga ACE / DX32 sockets you can master up to 300 channels, and through the expansion card – up to 128.

Advantages

• many custom channels;
• innovative technologies;
• two touch screens for control and settings;
• exceptional reliability;
• support for expansion cards;
• remote control via mobile gadgets;
• automatic mixing modes;
• two power supplies with support for on-the-fly replacement;
• one of the best mixing stations for studio stock.

disadvantages

• not marked.

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Attention! This rating is subjective and does not constitute an advertisement and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.