PreSonus StudioLive? Series III 16R Digital Rack Mixer

Overview

18-input, 18-channel rack mixer with stagebox and monitor mixer modes

For audio professionals and enthusiasts seeking unparalleled control and pristine sound quality in a compact form, the PreSonus StudioLive® Series III 16 R Digital Rack Mixer is an essential tool. Designed to seamlessly integrate into any professional recording or live sound environment, this rackmount mixer offers the flexibility, connectivity, and processing power needed to elevate your audio production. Whether you’re managing a live performance, recording in the studio, or streaming content, the StudioLive 16 R provides the precision and reliability that demands of modern workflows.

One of the standout advantages of the StudioLive 16 R is its 18 x 18 USB interface combined with a robust 32 x 32 AVB network capability. This means you can simultaneously record and playback up to 18 channels via USB, while its AVB Ethernet allows for even greater channel routing and networked audio integration. For the user, this translates to seamless multitrack recording with ultra-low latency and expanded system scalability. Whether you’re linking multiple mixers or integrating with complex audio networks, the AVB support ensures smooth, synchronized audio transport without the need for additional interface hardware.

The mixer features 16 high-quality XLR-1/4″ combo inputs, each equipped with professional-grade mic preamps and phantom power. This allows you to connect a broad range of microphones and line-level instruments with clarity and low noise, crucial for capturing every nuance in vocals or instruments. The inclusion of a dual RCA stereo input adds flexibility for connecting consumer audio devices, making it easy to incorporate background music or external playback sources into your mix. For outputs, the StudioLive 16 R offers 6 direct 1/4″ mix outputs and 2 main XLR outputs, giving you multiple options for routing your signal to speakers, monitors, or recording devices.

Sound shaping is incredibly versatile with the mixer’s 4-band and 6-band parametric equalizers on each channel, along with a 31-band graphic EQ. This extensive EQ capability allows for precise tonal sculpting, enabling you to tailor your mix to any acoustic environment or artistic preference. Beyond equalization, the onboard signal processing includes gates, compressors, and limiters on every channel, providing dynamic control to maintain consistent levels and reduce unwanted noise. The integrated Studio Magic Plug-in Suite adds professional-grade effects to your mix without the need for external hardware, helping to enhance vocal presence, add reverb, or polish instrument sounds directly within the mixer.

Practical features further enhance the usability of the StudioLive 16 R. The onboard stereo SD recorder lets you capture live performances or rehearsals directly to an SD card, eliminating the need for an external recorder. Remote control capabilities via the Metro UC 4.2 app enable you to adjust your mix wirelessly from anywhere in the venue, providing unmatched convenience during live events. The mixer is also rackmountable, with a slim 1.75-inch height and a width of 19 inches, making it easy to fit into standard audio racks. Weighing just 8.6 lbs, it is highly portable for touring or mobile setups.

In terms of connectivity, the inclusion of EtherCon AVB and RJ-45 network control ports means that you can integrate the mixer into larger AVB-compatible systems or control it remotely over a network. The USB Type B port provides straightforward computer connectivity for recording or playback, reinforcing the mixer’s role as a central hub in digital audio workflows. The combination of these features makes the PreSonus StudioLive 16 R ideal for live sound engineers, recording studios, houses of worship, and content creators who demand professional sound quality with flexible routing options.

In summary, the PreSonus StudioLive Series III 16 R Digital Rack Mixer delivers a powerful, flexible solution that meets the demands of modern audio production with precision and ease. Its comprehensive input/output options, advanced signal processing, and network integration capabilities make it a future-proof investment in your sound system. Priced competitively and backed by PreSonus’ reputation for quality, this mixer offers the tools you need to deliver exceptional audio performances and recordings with confidence.