Soundcraft Mixer Review: British Heritage for Live and Studio

Soundcraft has crafted mixing consoles in England since 1973, with heritage ranging from recording studio legends to touring production consoles. The current lineup brings this professional DNA to accessible price points with features that serve both live sound and recording applications. The Signature, Ui, and EPM series cover diverse needs while maintaining the quality that defines Soundcraft.

Soundcraft Signature Series

The Signature series combines analog mixing with comprehensive recording capability.

The Signature 12 ($499) provides 12 channels with USB multitrack recording. The compact format suits smaller applications.

The Signature 12 MTK ($599) adds multitrack recording capability to the Signature 12. Each channel records independently.

The Signature 16 ($599) expands to 16 channels. The size increase accommodates medium-band requirements.

The Signature 22 ($799) provides 22 channels for larger applications. The comprehensive connectivity serves diverse setups.

The Signature 22 MTK ($899) maximizes the series with multitrack recording of all channels.

Multitrack Recording Focus

The MTK (Multi-Track) versions distinguish Signature series from competitors. Every channel records independently via USB for post-production flexibility.

The 24-bit/48kHz recording quality suits most applications. The individual channel capture enables virtual soundcheck and remix capability.

The multitrack return enables playback through the mixer. The feature supports virtual soundcheck workflow.

Lexicon and dbx Processing

Harman ownership brings Lexicon effects and dbx processing to Signature mixers. The premium processing exceeds typical analog mixer effects.

The Lexicon reverb algorithms provide studio-quality ambience. The programs include hall, plate, room, and special effects.

The dbx limiters on select channels protect recordings and outputs. The compression proves useful for vocal control.

Soundcraft Ui Series

The Ui series provides rack-mount digital mixing controlled via browser interface.

The Ui12 ($299) delivers 12-channel digital mixing in a compact rack format. The affordable entry point provides professional features.

The Ui16 ($499) expands to 16 channels with the same control flexibility. The moderate size suits many applications.

The Ui24R ($999) maximizes the series with 24 channels. The comprehensive I/O addresses demanding requirements.

Browser-Based Control

The Ui series uses web browser control rather than dedicated apps. Any device with a modern browser becomes a control surface.

The platform independence enables control from any connected device. Multiple simultaneous users can access the mixer.

The responsive interface provides comprehensive parameter control. The visual feedback aids operation.

Soundcraft EPM Series

The EPM series provides straightforward analog mixing at accessible prices.

The EPM6 ($199) delivers 6-channel analog mixing. The basic format suits simple applications.

The EPM8 ($249) expands to 8 channels. The additional inputs accommodate moderately larger setups.

The EPM12 ($349) provides 12 channels. The size serves small bands and presentations.

The no-frills approach focuses resources on quality preamps and EQ rather than features.

Audio Quality Assessment

Soundcraft mixers deliver the audio quality that professional heritage suggests. The preamps provide clean gain with adequate headroom.

The EQ sections prove musical and useful. The British EQ character flatters sources when applied.

The overall sound character suits both live sound and recording applications. The quality competes with more expensive alternatives.

Build Quality

Soundcraft constructs its mixers to professional standards. The metal chassis and quality components survive regular use.

The faders and knobs feel appropriate for the price points. The tactile quality supports confident operation.

The reliability proves adequate for professional applications. The quality justifies investment.

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All Soundcraft mixers are available at Guitar Center, Musician’s Friend, ProAudioStar, and Amazon.