MixPre II FAQ

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What is different about the MixPre II compared to the previous MixPre models? 

All MixPre II Series recorders feature 32-bit float recording, timecode generators, 192 kHz recording, adjustable limiters, auto-copy to USB drives, extended Pre-roll, output delay, and access to the optional NoiseAssist plugin. The MixPre-10 II TA3 balanced outputs are now +18 dBu.

Will the above features be backwards compatible with previous models? 

The updated hardware on the MixPre II allows for the new features and functionality.

Will you continue to support the original MixPre series? 

The MixPre Series will continue to receive updates that the hardware will support. 

What benefits does 32-bit float recording offer?

Read our article on the benefits of 32-bit float recording.

What applications support 32-bit float files?

View the list of compatible applications here.

I have no DAW handy, and I recorded my tracks in 32-bit float mode too hot. Can I adjust the file’s gain after recording?

Yes. The MixPre II has a very powerful feature called Remix/Rerecord which allows you to simultaneously play back a file and record a new L/R mix while adjusting the gains with the fader knobs.

What do I need to stream in 32-bit float?

32-bit float USB audio streaming requires Mac OS Catalina (10.15+) or Windows 10 with the ASIO driver and an application that supports 32-bit float.

How does the MixPre II achieve such high dynamic range in 32-bit float mode?

The MixPre II recorders feature Sound Devices’ own patented topology of multiple analog-to-digital converters. These converters appear in the circuitry after the Kashmir microphone preamplifier stage. They enable the recording of very-low distortion, ultra-high dynamic range audio. The MixPre II’s A-to-D’s can resolve more than 142 dB of dynamic range. Together with their Kashmir microphone preamplifiers and 32-bit float files, the MixPre II captures audio that is limited only by the capabilities of the microphone.

How do the MixPre II mic preamps compare to the original MixPre series?

The new MixPre II models, like the original MixPre-3, MixPre-6, and MixPre-10T recorders, offer the same discrete class-A Kashmir microphone preamplifiers with an exceptionally low noise-floor regardless of the gain setting. The recorder’s input gain, whether set high or very low, produce excellent results.

Any improvements to the headphone knob compared to the original MixPre models?

The MixPre II comes with a handy headphone knob “tire”. This allows for easy fingertip operation. Conveniently, this tire is removable in case large connectors or cables get in the way. 

Will the MixPre II support my control surface? Wingman?

Yes. The MixPre II supports the same control surfaces and Wingman functionality as the previous MixPre models.

  • Korg NanoKontrol Studio 
  • Korg NanoKontrol 2
  • Novation LaunchControl XL
  • Akai MidiMix
  • P.I. Engineering’s X-keys® Programmable Keypads, Sticks & Keyboards

Is Ambisonics supported? 

Yes. An optional Ambisonics Plugin is available for the MixPre-6 II and MixPre-10 II on the Sound Devices plugin store. 16- and 24-bit operation is supported. 

Is binaural monitoring available when using Ambisonics?

Yes. Binaural monitoring is available (up to 48 kHz) for record and monitoring. 

Is there a multitracking feature on the MixPre II for musicians? 

All MixPre II models support the Musician Plugin, so you can easily create a song using your MixPre II as a standalone recorder featuring over-dub, reverb, metronome, and more. Visit the Sound Devices plugin store for more information.

What are my limiter options? 

In 16- or 24-bit operation, the MixPre II offers analog/digital limiters similar to the original MixPre recorders. These limiters have been improved to give control over ratio, release, and threshold. In 32-bit float mode, the multi-stage A-to-D converters are active to capture the full dynamic range of the incoming signal; no limiters are needed. 

Is timecode accuracy maintained while powered down?

All of the MixPre II Series now include a full-featured internal timecode generator and are accurate to better than 0.2 ppm (0.5 frames per 24 hours). When the unit is off, the MixPre II Series maintains accurate timecode for up to four hours, even without batteries or external power.

What’s in the box?

  • AC wall adapter
  • USB-C to USB-C cable
  • MX-4AA Battery Sled (MixPre-3 II and MixPre-6 II)
  • MX-8AA Battery Sled (MixPre-10 II)
  • Anti rotation pin 
  • Allen wrench
  • Headphone tire.

What are my media options?

We recommend our SAM-64SD or SAM-128SD card. Additionally, a full list of third-party compatible cards is available.

Can I upgrade my original series MixPre?

Due to the hardware differences, an original MixPre cannot be updated to the MixPre II.

Does Sound Devices offer a trade-in program?

The MixPre II Series is available for sale only through our resellers. We do not offer trade-ins for the original MixPre Series.

What is MixAssist? 

MixAssist reduces ambient noise and reverberation when mixing and recording with multiple microphones by attenuating unused microphones. The advanced automixer incorporates multiple proprietary algorithms for reducing noise and phase artifacts, including Noise Adaptive Threshold, MaxBus, Last Mic Lock-on, Off-Attenuation, and NOMA (Number of Open Mic Attenuator). This is ideal for podcasts, scripted or unscripted dialogue, panel discussions, house of worship applications and more.

MixAssist is available as a plugin from the Sound Devices Store. MixAssist works with both the MixPre and MixPre-II Series. MixAssist is incompatible with the MixPre-M models or while in Musician, Ambisonics, or Remix Modes. 

What is NoiseAssist?

NoiseAssist is an advanced signal processing algorithm that reduces background noises such as traffic, generators, HVAC noise, and more. It features a simple user interface with only one adjustment, the amount of background noise to suppress. The plugin is available now for MixPre-3 II, MixPre-6 II, and MixPre-10 II at store.sounddevices.com for an introductory price of $600.

Can I use a USB hub?

Starting with firmware v5.00, all MixPre models support the use of USB hubs. USB hubs allow simultaneous use of a USB keyboard, USB Controller, and a USB Thumb-drive.
Note: USB Drives are supported by the MixPre-3 II, MixPre-6 II, MixPre-10 II, MixPre-10M, and MixPre-10T.

We recommend powered USB hubs for optimal performance. Read more about recommended USB hub practices here.  

What are my USB routing options? 

The new USB Output routing matrix added in v5.00 allows control of what signals are sent to the computer and in which order they get sent. The matrix allows for mix-minus and selection between pre-fade vs. post-fade isolated channels (M models and music projects allow post-fade only).

In Music projects (or MixPre-M models), do I need to route USB returns from my computer to a channel just to monitor it in my headphones?

USB headphone source can now be routed directly to headphones without using a channel while in Music Mode or on the MixPre-M models. You can create a custom USB headphone preset to monitor audio from a DAW while tracking a live instrument on the MixPre with no latency. 

Will Dugan Automixing come to the MixPre Series? 

There are no plans to implement Dugan Automixing on the MixPre. MixAssist is a phenomenal automixer which works extremely well.

Which modes work with 32-bit float recording? 

The MixPre II records 32-bit float files in Advanced and Custom mode when Record is set to “Advanced.” While in Music Mode, Remix, or Ambisonics Modes, 32-bit float recording is unavailable. The MixAssist plugin can be used while recording 32-bit files.