Mixers

There are now lots of different ways to make a stereo master recording of your final mix, so how do you work out which one is best for you?

If you're tired of mixing on-screen using just your mouse and keyboard, then it's worth considering a hardware MIDI controller. But with so many different models available, how do you choose the one that's right for you?

Tascam's affordable 32-channel, eight-buss digital mixer takes on Yamaha's O-series, providing 24-bit/96kHz operation, surround panning, and effects processing from TC Works and Antares.

We hear from more surround producers working at very different ends of the music business to see how they've created working surround systems, and how they make use of 5.1 at the mixing stage.

We consider some of the pros and cons of mixing in surround, and hear how experienced surround producers take advantage of the format, and tackle the problems.

Our series turns to the practicalities of setting up your own surround-capable recording system, and we talk to two radically different surround studios to see how they've coped — one at project- and one at pro-studio level.

Hands-on advice to help you improve the fundamentals of your mixing technique.

Although all-valve mixers can really warm up sounds prior to digital recording, they're usually too large and expensive for the project studio. However, TL Audio's hybrid M3 now brings valve mixing within the reach of the home musician.

We test a versatile four-bus mixer which provides mic amps and direct outputs for all of its 16 input channels, as well as offering built-in facilities for M&S recording.

Soundcraft's new Spirit M-series mixers combine analogue simplicity with a useful digital output. Paul White puts the M8 to the test.

Behringer's latest addition to their Eurorack compact analogue mixer range offers 16 hi-spec channels, plus the flexibility of an in-line monitor configuration.

If you need an affordable compact mixer with a decent audio path, a simple to use layout and no unnecessary complexity, be sure to check out this new rackmount model from Studiomaster. Paul White evaluates the 162BP.

Fostex's new digital mixer sports ADAT I/O and a feature set which belies its price. Derek Johnson & Debbie Poyser trip the lightpipe fantastic.

Paul White looks at the latest addition to Mackie's compact mixer range.

Sony's surprise entry into the project-studio digital console market looks set to establish a new benchmark for ease of use and operational flexibility. Hugh Robjohns checks out the new DMX100.

Combining their vast live sound experience with the success of their 328 digital mixer, Spirit have launched a specialised version of the desk, intended for live sound work. The new 324 model, however, is also well adapted to recording, so Hugh Robjohns checks it out in both applications.

Clearly designed with live sound in mind, the CFX16 also makes an ideal mixer for a desktop studio where MIDI and audio signal need to be combined. Paul White investigates.

Digital mixers may have become fashionable in recent years, but analogue consoles still have a lot to offer. Hugh Robjohns takes a look at a high-spec, mid-budget in-line console from newcomers Audient.

Fancy doing some hard disk recording on your computer without using a soundcard? Martin Walker looks at an intriguing combination of mixer and USB interface that could let you do just that.

This unique hybrid eight-bus mixing desk brings a welcome alternative to the established options.

If you are short of space, the prospect of fitting a 40-input dual-channel mixer into a 10U rackmounting case will certainly be attractive. Martin Walker follows some leads.