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10.09
PreSonus
StudioLive 16.4.2
A powerhouse multifunction console in a compact package
By Nick Peck
A
digital mixer/audio interface designed
for both project studio and live sound
applications, StudioLive is a 16-input,
4-bus console packed with a comprehensive list
of features. Each channel and bus include a sig-
nal chain of audio processors known as the Fat
Channel. There are six aux sends for interfacing
with external processing and for creating cue
mixes, two onboard stereo effects, inserts and
direct outputs on every channel, 100 scenes for
recalling mix setting snapshots, talkback func-
tionality, 16 high-quality mic input preamps,
individual 48-volt phantom-power switches on
each channel, and separate control room and
main outputs—all within a compact, easy-to-
transport package.
StudioLive can operate as a stand-alone
mixer, but also includes FireWire 400 ports and
a Mac/PC-compatible program called Capture
that records all 16 channels as separate tracks.
StudioLive can also function as your computer’s
audio interface, using PreSonus’ drivers to work
with most major DAWs.
Check Out the Specs
Not a square inch of available real estate is
wasted, yet StudioLive is easy to navigate. The
layout is intuitive and carefully thought-out, and
the large numbers of buttons, knobs and faders
make for a compact—but not overly cramped—
work surface. The design is so good that I was
able to learn 80 percent of the desk without ever
cracking open the manual. The well-marked but-
tons and metering all feature bright and colorful
LEDs that are perfect for low-light live sound
situations. And two StudioLives can be linked
together to create a 32-input, 8-bus console. If
you’re not using the system with a computer, you
can link as many as four StudioLives.
StudioLive’s routing and conceptual layout
should be familiar to those accustomed to analog
mixers. Each channel has an input trim at the top
and 100mm faders at the bottom, with Solo and
Mute buttons. There are no channel-specific EQ,
digital mixer
$1,999
PROS:
Incredible value for the price.
Well-designed, intuitive, direct interface.
Comprehensive feature set. Clean sound with
lots of gain.
CONS:
Faders and knobs feel flimsy. Capture
software needs polish. Faders are un-motorized.
features
1 2 3 4
5
ease of use
1 2 3
4
5
audio Quality
1 2 3
4
5
Value
1 2 3 4
5
presonus.com
StudioLive is covered
with controls, but they are so
well laid out that getting around is
a breeze.
