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Gear / Technical Help => Recording Gear => Topic started by: lubage on April 19, 2017, 11:53:23 AM

Title: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: lubage on April 19, 2017, 11:53:23 AM
Just got emails from Gotham Sound and Trew Audio, wonder how the new preamps perform:

https://www.sounddevices.com/news/sound-devices-news/introducing-the-mixpre-series
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: sos on April 19, 2017, 12:09:26 PM
$649 / $899, per:

http://www.digitaltrends.com/music/sound-devices-mixpre-series/ (http://www.digitaltrends.com/music/sound-devices-mixpre-series/)

http://nofilmschool.com/2017/04/sound-devices-mixpre-keeps-your-workflow-flexible (http://nofilmschool.com/2017/04/sound-devices-mixpre-keeps-your-workflow-flexible)

http://www.newsshooter.com/2017/04/19/sound-devices-mixpre-3-mixpre-6-want-help-sound-game/ (http://www.newsshooter.com/2017/04/19/sound-devices-mixpre-3-mixpre-6-want-help-sound-game/)
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: drewloo on April 19, 2017, 12:13:40 PM
Damn, only $900?   I like all the different powering options.  Can't wait to hear how the new pres and a/d sound.

Thanks, Zoom!    ;)
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: aaronji on April 19, 2017, 12:46:23 PM
Those look awesome!  $650/$900 sounds pretty reasonable, too...
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: larrysellers on April 19, 2017, 12:51:14 PM
Yeah, I can't see myself not buying a mixpre-3.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: aaronji on April 19, 2017, 12:53:19 PM
^ Me neither.  I suppose you can use a phone or tablet to record the USB stream?
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: mountaintaper on April 19, 2017, 01:04:15 PM
Yeah, I can't see myself not buying a mixpre-3.

I can see no need for myself in the 3 channel version.. unless I only want a 1 channel soundboard feed.  I was looking for a back up multi-channel recorder for festivals, I usually have to borrow one from friends.. I picked up the MixPre 6, so now I can cover 3 stages at once.  I had considered an F4 or F8, but could never fathom buying a Zoom product.  Though this isn't exactly like my 788t, i'm sure it will work wonders as a backup.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: tgakidis on April 19, 2017, 01:27:47 PM
Just preordered the mixpre-6 from Gotham, happy birthday to me  :D
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: BonoBeats on April 19, 2017, 01:29:35 PM
Sound Devices built a Zoom killer lol

No DC power options, but has USB inputs- I'm assuming this will run on 5v, then?

Holy crap, that's a sexy recorder. Just when I thought I was done (with purchases), they pull me back in!
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: noahbickart on April 19, 2017, 01:38:45 PM
Will the 6 be able to do 4 xlr ins + a ⅛ inch in for 6 discrete channels?
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: drewloo on April 19, 2017, 01:43:32 PM
"Tracks   8 (6 channel + mix)"  so I would guess yes, 6 discreet channels

Here is a pic of the usb power cable.  Looks like it needs dual 5V usb sources > usb-c connector.  You might need to use a USB-c battery if you want to only use 1 usb battery.

Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Fatah Ruark (aka MIKE B) on April 19, 2017, 02:39:40 PM
Want.

Glad I held off on the Zoom. Never really had a use for more than 2 channels recently, but will have a few shows this year where 4 channels (or more) will be nice.

In reality the 3 channel version would be good for me 90% of the time (2 AUD mics + 1 mono SBD feed)...but for some outdoor shows it will be nice to run 2 omni's + 2 cards (or hypers if I ever get any).

I'll probably order one of these ASAP.

Just want to figure out total cost (recorder, power, bag, extra cables, etc).
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: ts on April 19, 2017, 02:54:04 PM
Shit! Just bought a 744.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: willndmb on April 19, 2017, 02:57:18 PM
"Tracks   8 (6 channel + mix)"  so I would guess yes, 6 discreet channels

Here is a pic of the usb power cable.  Looks like it needs dual 5V usb sources > usb-c connector.  You might need to use a USB-c battery if you want to only use 1 usb battery.
4 mono xlr/trs plus one mini stereo is how I see it so those last two are prob locked together

Yes the manual shows that you need two USB-a to power it, at least they give you the cable

What I'm wondering is the connection to a camera. The video makes it sound to me as if you can monitor/record audio coming from a camera vs the ta scam mod.es for example which you can send the camera audio
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: larrysellers on April 19, 2017, 03:03:00 PM
Lots of options for powering this thing.

Quote
It can be powered from the rear battery sled or from USB. It ships with a battery sled for 4 AA batteries. There is an optional accessory battery sled that accepts two Sony L-Mount batteries.

April 19, 2017 at 1:00PM
Nic Stage
Service / Support Coordinator - Sound Devices, LLC
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: yug du nord on April 19, 2017, 03:08:05 PM
quick dumb question..  do these actually record all tracks?... or mix-down all tracks > two tracks?
damn sweet!!
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: larrysellers on April 19, 2017, 03:14:05 PM
quick dumb question..  do these actually record all tracks?... or mix-down all tracks > two tracks?
damn sweet!!

The MixPre-3 is 5 in/2 out and theMixPre-6 is 8 in/4 out.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: yug du nord on April 19, 2017, 03:16:22 PM
^got it..  just read through it quick..  thanks! 
the iOS app might make this a magic box!!
the YS is gonna be interesting for the next few weeks i think..
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: drewloo on April 19, 2017, 03:24:52 PM
"Tracks   8 (6 channel + mix)"  so I would guess yes, 6 discreet channels


4 mono xlr/trs plus one mini stereo is how I see it so those last two are prob locked together

You're probably right, I was thinking more along the line of 6 independent channels.

User Guide is up now:  https://www.sounddevices.com/download/guides/MixPre6-UG_en.pdf
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: larrysellers on April 19, 2017, 03:26:44 PM
MixPre-3

(https://www.sounddevices.com/download/photos/MixPre-3-FrontPanel-2000px.png)
(https://www.sounddevices.com/download/photos/MixPre-3-BackPanel-w-Sled-2000px.png)
(https://www.sounddevices.com/download/photos/MixPre-3-BackPanel-wo-Sled-2000px.png)
(https://www.sounddevices.com/download/photos/MixPre-3-RightPanel-2000px.png)
(https://www.sounddevices.com/download/photos/MixPre-3-LeftPanel-2000px.png)

MixPre-6

(https://www.sounddevices.com/download/photos/MixPre-6-FrontPanel-2000px.png)
(https://www.sounddevices.com/download/photos/MixPre-6-BackPanel-wSled-2000px.png)
(https://www.sounddevices.com/download/photos/MixPre-6-BackPanel-wo-Sled-2000px.png)
(https://www.sounddevices.com/download/photos/MixPre-6-RightPanel-2000px.png)
(https://www.sounddevices.com/download/photos/MixPre-6-LeftPanel-2000px.png)
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: waltmon on April 19, 2017, 03:45:18 PM
I'm in...
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: waltmon on April 19, 2017, 03:49:52 PM
I love how small it is...interested to see what cool cases become available for it.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Craig T on April 19, 2017, 03:51:11 PM
From the user guide:

The recording functionality is dependant on the current operating mode, Basic
or Advanced.

In Basic mode, the MixPre-6 functions as a two-track 48 kHz recorder. The two
record tracks are fed by the LR mix which is driven directly by the channel knob
gains.

In Advanced Mode, the MixPre-6 is configured as a eight-channel recorder with
user-selectable 44.1, 48, 96 and 192 kHz sample rate and 16 and 24bit depth.
The LR mix tracks may be recorded as well as each of the six channels as
individual isolated (ISO) tracks. Audio for the ISO tracks is recorded “prefade”
meaning before the channel knob gain, so any changes that are made there
will only affect the LR mix and have no affect on the recorded ISO track levels.
This is particularly useful for post-production audio processing where it may be
desirable to create an alternate mix of the tracks at a later stage.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: rippleish20 on April 19, 2017, 04:04:10 PM
From the user guide:


Audio for the ISO tracks is recorded “prefade”
meaning before the channel knob gain, so any changes that are made there
will only affect the LR mix and have no affect on the recorded ISO track levels.
This is particularly useful for post-production audio processing where it may be
desirable to create an alternate mix of the tracks at a later stage. [/i]

I find this a bit confusing. Does this mean that you have no control over the incoming trim level in terms of what is recorded to the track wav files?


With the F8, the trim knobs control the volume of what is recorded to the SD card for tracks 1-8. You can then change the gain for tracks post-fader to alter what is sent to the outputs or to l/r. Is the above statement saying the same thing?

In the manual they say it in a different way which leads me to believe its more like the F8

"Gain (sometimes referred to as Trim) at the preamplifier stage has historically
been a confusing subject for many users. As implemented in the MixPre-6, Gain
sets the level of the incoming signal from the outside world before the signal
gets routed to anything else in the mixer or recorder. In a traditional workflow,
it would be typical to connect the input device to a channel and set the Gain
so that the loudest parts of the audio signal just touch the red segments of the
meters. In other mic preamplifier designs, this was a very necessary part of
the workflow in order to assure the best signal-to-noise performance (minimize
hiss). The Kashmir mic preamplifiers change the traditional workflow paradigm.
Now, precisely setting the Gain is much less critical (in most cases unnecessary)
due to the extremely quiet (lack of hiss) nature of their design. This allows
you to use the MixPre-6 with the confidence that even if optimal Gain levels
haven’t been set, your audio will still be handled and recorded with grace. The
extraordinarily low noise floor of the Kashmir mic preamplifiers allow recorded
tracks to be “normalized” (the process of adding level to a whole recorded track
as to align the loudest peak with near-maximum) in post-processing without
fear of ruining the track due to the added noise that would have been present
in other preamplifier designs. Finally, you’re free to capture audio on the fly
without worry!"
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: pohaku on April 19, 2017, 04:35:32 PM
I agree, this is confusing.  The language suggests that the individual channel gain knobs only affect the L/R mix when recording in Advanced mode and are not used to set the gain of the individual tracks when recording.  So does the unit set the gain "arbitrarily" with the expectation that you will fix it in post since the pres are so quiet?
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: rippleish20 on April 19, 2017, 04:39:33 PM
I agree, this is confusing.  The language suggests that the individual channel gain knobs only affect the L/R mix when recording in Advanced mode and are not used to set the gain of the individual tracks when recording.  So does the unit set the gain "arbitrarily" with the expectation that you will fix it in post since the pres are so quiet?

That is basically the impression I got when reading it
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: willndmb on April 19, 2017, 08:29:35 PM
"Tracks   8 (6 channel + mix)"  so I would guess yes, 6 discreet channels


4 mono xlr/trs plus one mini stereo is how I see it so those last two are prob locked together

You're probably right, I was thinking more along the line of 6 independent channels.

User Guide is up now:  https://www.sounddevices.com/download/guides/MixPre6-UG_en.pdf
there are typos or it just doesn't make sense to me, like two spots where it says three channels are 48v powered
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: drewloo on April 19, 2017, 09:01:07 PM
there are typos or it just doesn't make sense to me, like two spots where it says three channels are 48v powered

It says the same in the Mixpre 3 manual, my guess is that they did the manual for the 3 first and did a sloppy job of porting that manual over for the 6.  At least let's hope so.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: noahbickart on April 19, 2017, 09:07:07 PM
Given all the business we Tapers have sent SD's way over the years, is there no rep who posts here? I know we ran the tascam guy off...

I too read the guide to suggest that the big 4 knobs only affect the stereo mix. Hopefully one can set which gain stage they control in the menu.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: voltronic on April 19, 2017, 11:28:28 PM
If the gain control really works as described in the manual, that would be a deal-breaker for me.  I don't care how spectacular the preamps are; I still want to be able to control gain on my tracks, and crank the hell out of them if needed.  That's one of the things you're paying for with high-quality pres, right??  I'd have that capability with digital mics running into AES inputs, and the noise levels are way, way low there.  The "never mind about gain, just normalize in post" attitude is very surprising coming from SD.

How low must SD be setting the (presumably) fixed input gain to be sure that it's never going to clip?  Or are the limiters always active?  Analog limiters are great, but for music recording I will still avoid them unless absolutely necessary because you can hear them working in some situations.

The whole input approach seems very contrary to the normal workflow most people have learned.  You should be able to set gain for your ISO tracks, and then go into your L/R mixdown and use the knobs as channel faders (not gain controls) for your mixdown.  That's pretty standard in pro field recorders, I believe.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: lubage on April 20, 2017, 03:19:57 AM
Near the bottom of page 2 of the discussion linked below the gain feature is mentioned.  Perhaps gain adjustment is possible in "Advanced" mode and not in "Basic"?

http://jwsoundgroup.net/index.php?/topic/29601-new-sd-gear/
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: jcable77 on April 20, 2017, 04:27:17 AM
 :o I think I can get $650 for my whole rig. :o
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dactylus on April 20, 2017, 07:35:21 AM
Disappointing but not surprising considering the market / competition of the day.  Maybe this is why the Marantz PMD-706 never surfaced...

I hope that SD follows up with another announcement for a full featured SD744 replacement with 4 pres.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dactylus on April 20, 2017, 07:48:30 AM
Shit! Just bought a 744.

I think that is a good thing!

 :coolguy:
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dogmusic on April 20, 2017, 09:30:41 AM
Here's a quote from the User Guide "Advanced Mode" section:

"Channel > Gain > Sets the sensitivity of the input. Generally, the Gain should be set so that the loudest parts of the audio signal just touch the red segments of the meters."

So I think there is individual gain control of each recording channel.

The default mode seems to be for videographers.

Further: There is Custom Mode to set up one-button access to the channel gain controls.

And there are 4 User Presets which could be very useful.

My question is: how do you fast forward and rewind?
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: rippleish20 on April 20, 2017, 09:55:04 AM
It will be interesting to get more details as the I've read all the material carefully and my conclusion is that you can't set the volume of each recorded track, only for the tracks going into the mix. This is really a mixer, not a recorder per se. The emphasis is on mixing ability. If you control the volume of the track recordings via the knobs, how do you control the volume of tracks post fader? There is nothing in the manual that show an interface for doing this - the inference is that the knobs control this.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: yug du nord on April 20, 2017, 10:32:00 AM
^I'm probably wrong..  but I think that these are more intended as computer interfaces.  And as stated, as a "back-up" recorder of the mix-down.
But I do think that it could be very useful as a two-channel recorder with access via iOS app.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: aaronji on April 20, 2017, 11:20:29 AM
I don't believe for a second that you can't control the gain.  Especially since they say, "Our mic preamps simply have to be heard to be believed, whether mic’ing drums, birds, or dialog, using condenser, dynamic, or ribbon mics, the finest textures of the audio are preserved."  What fixed gain level would possibly be flexible enough to deal with all of these different situations? 
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: MakersMarc on April 20, 2017, 11:31:25 AM
Can find no mention of the SD card slot, where is it and what about capacity?
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: yug du nord on April 20, 2017, 11:35:51 AM
From the "Specs" page:

"Recording Storage
Type: SD, SDXC, SDHC Card
Max Storage Size: 512 GB (SDXC)
Card format: FAT32 (32GB or less) or exFAT (>32GB)"
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: sos on April 20, 2017, 11:38:26 AM
...and, slot's on the back (see: p. 10):
https://www.sounddevices.com/download/guides/MixPre6-UG_en.pdf
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: HealthCov Chris on April 20, 2017, 12:39:19 PM
Yeah, I can't see myself not buying a mixpre-3.

I can't wait to hear how it makes those ck63's sound!  If its like we expect, I'll be right behind you.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: MakersMarc on April 20, 2017, 01:28:05 PM
Thanks. Wow. 512.  :D
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dogmusic on April 20, 2017, 03:36:14 PM
This came from another forum:

http://jwsoundgroup.net/index.php?/topic/29601-new-sd-gear/&page=3

"In advanced mode, the MixPre-3 and -6 will operate like a mixer that most readers here are used to: The input's knob will be the fader and control the post-trim level to the LR mix. The input's trim (Accessible via the Input Settings screen when the input's knob is pressed) will control the level into the ISO track and then into the fader."
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: rippleish20 on April 20, 2017, 04:32:48 PM
This came from another forum:

http://jwsoundgroup.net/index.php?/topic/29601-new-sd-gear/&page=3

"In advanced mode, the MixPre-3 and -6 will operate like a mixer that most readers here are used to: The input's knob will be the fader and control the post-trim level to the LR mix. The input's trim (Accessible via the Input Settings screen when the input's knob is pressed) will control the level into the ISO track and then into the fader."

Good thread. It answers several of my questions. So you can set the trim gain at least in some fashion
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dactylus on April 20, 2017, 11:28:03 PM
This came from another forum:

http://jwsoundgroup.net/index.php?/topic/29601-new-sd-gear/&page=3

"In advanced mode, the MixPre-3 and -6 will operate like a mixer that most readers here are used to: The input's knob will be the fader and control the post-trim level to the LR mix. The input's trim (Accessible via the Input Settings screen when the input's knob is pressed) will control the level into the ISO track and then into the fader."

^
jon_tatooles & Nic from Sound Devices are both on the jwsoundgroup forum listed above.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: pohaku on April 21, 2017, 12:36:39 AM
And further on in the JWS thread:


"Folks - you can use channel knobs to adjust your ISO levels. To do this, you would select Custom mode and set Record to Advanced and leave Channel set to Basic. When Channel is set to Basic, ISO levels are post channel knob and when Record is set to Advanced, ISOs can be armed."

Looks quite nice if you want 6 tracks and 4 pres.  I expect the sound quality and construction will be up to the usual SD standard.  Nice that there is some competition among manufacturers in this little recording niche.  Zoom and SD have upped the ante.  Who's next?
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: justink on April 21, 2017, 05:51:39 AM
What's the best way to input into a Canon 5D MarkIV to record on the camera's card with audio?
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Paul Isaacs on April 21, 2017, 07:59:46 AM

Just to confirm folks, MixPre-3 and 6 do have both trim gains for ISO levels and fader gains for stereo mixing.
Sorry about delay in response - just saw the thread on this forum.

Paul
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: willndmb on April 21, 2017, 09:14:07 AM
What's the best way to input into a Canon 5D MarkIV to record on the camera's card with audio?
i don't think you can unless you used the headphones out
That's the huge plus of the ta scam 60d, it has a dedicated camera out that you can adjust too
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dogmusic on April 21, 2017, 09:23:34 AM
What's the best way to input into a Canon 5D MarkIV to record on the camera's card with audio?
i don't think you can unless you used the headphones out
That's the huge plus of the ta scam 60d, it has a dedicated camera out that you can adjust too

There is a dedicated stereo out on the left side.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: rippleish20 on April 21, 2017, 09:48:00 AM
And further on in the JWS thread:


"Folks - you can use channel knobs to adjust your ISO levels. To do this, you would select Custom mode and set Record to Advanced and leave Channel set to Basic. When Channel is set to Basic, ISO levels are post channel knob and when Record is set to Advanced, ISOs can be armed."

Looks quite nice if you want 6 tracks and 4 pres.  I expect the sound quality and construction will be up to the usual SD standard.  Nice that there is some competition among manufacturers in this little recording niche.  Zoom and SD have upped the ante.  Who's next?

SD support also answered the question about gain for th ISO tracks and confirmed you can set gain.


"To access the gain, it will require you to be in either Advance Mode or Custom Mode (Custom with Advance Channel on) and you'll be able to access the gain by itself. To access the gain, pressing the channel knob down will put the user in the Input Channel Settings (much like how toggling the 6-Series PFL toggle). There, you'll be able to adjust the gain and the knob will become the fader."

I ws impressed with how quickly they responded to my question.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: pohaku on April 21, 2017, 12:21:29 PM

Just to confirm folks, MixPre-3 and 6 do have both trim gains for ISO levels and fader gains for stereo mixing.
Sorry about delay in response - just saw the thread on this forum.

Paul

Paul,

Thanks for dropping in and confirming this.  I greatly appreciate that you and SD have taken the time to help us out.

Now that you are here, stay a while! :coolguy:

Henri
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: su6oxone on April 21, 2017, 12:53:41 PM
Paul,

Thanks for dropping in and confirming this.  I greatly appreciate that you and SD have taken the time to help us out.

Now that you are here, stay a while! :coolguy:

Henri

SD is the best.  I just about loved my 702 to death, still my favorite recorder of all time.  If I were still taping I would be all over the MixPre-6...
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: noam on April 21, 2017, 03:01:20 PM
SD is the best.  I just about loved my 702 to death, still my favorite recorder of all time.  If I were still taping I would be all over the MixPre-6...

Is there any point keeping the 702 in view of this new release? ???
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: su6oxone on April 21, 2017, 04:24:23 PM
Is there any point keeping the 702 in view of this new release? ???

Can't beat those blinding LED level lights on the 7-series.  8)

Aside from features and audio quality, one thing I am particularly curious (for someone who definitely will not be getting one) about is what the battery life is with AA batteries and what type of lithium batteries it can use.  It doesn't look like it can use the Sony camcorder lithium batteries like the 7-series, which gave it a lot of operating time. 
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: jbell on April 21, 2017, 04:28:58 PM
It can use the sony batteries!!  There is an optional sled to hold 2 of the sony batteries and they can be hot swapped.  Here is a link

https://www.gothamsound.com/product/mixpre-l-series-battery-sled

Is there any point keeping the 702 in view of this new release? ???

Can't beat those blinding LED level lights on the 7-series.  8)

Aside from features and audio quality, one thing I am particularly curious (for someone who definitely will not be getting one) about is what the battery life is with AA batteries and what type of lithium batteries it can use.  It doesn't look like it can use the Sony camcorder lithium batteries like the 7-series, which gave it a lot of operating time.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: su6oxone on April 21, 2017, 04:31:58 PM
It can use the sony batteries!!  There is an optional sled to hold 2 of the sony batteries and they can be hot swapped.

That's crazy!!!  Those L batteries were pretty big, and two at the same time would be incredible.  And hot swappable too... just, wow.  And AA for emergencies.  Incredible. 

Too bad the inputs are on opposite sides but that couldn't be helped I guess with that form factor.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: jbell on April 21, 2017, 04:36:14 PM
There is also an optional sled that can hold 8 AA batteries vs. the 4 AA that comes with it.   
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: justink on April 21, 2017, 09:10:19 PM
would really like all of this but with 8 xlr/trs inputs. 

tempted for the mixpre6 but don't want to jump the gun if they have an 8 coming...
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: johnfitz on April 21, 2017, 09:39:07 PM
Maybe I missed something, but the Mixpre-6 only shows a two channel display. How do you monitor the other two channels if you're all four inputs?

Or is that something you would have to do on your phone through the bluetooth?
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: jnorman34 on April 21, 2017, 10:07:30 PM
I have a 702 which I love.  I would like to hear how the new mp6 compares.  Do the new Machines have the same solid build quality?  What features does my 702 have that are not included in the new recorders?   Is there any reason why a 702 might make a better recording than the new units?  Why are the new units so inexpensive compared to what I paid for my 702?  Thanks.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: jbell on April 21, 2017, 10:40:48 PM
https://www.sounddevices.com/products/recorders/mixpre-6

Maybe I missed something, but the Mixpre-6 only shows a two channel display. How do you monitor the other two channels if you're all four inputs?

Or is that something you would have to do on your phone through the bluetooth?
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: voltronic on April 21, 2017, 11:16:24 PM
would really like all of this but with 8 xlr/trs inputs. 

tempted for the mixpre6 but don't want to jump the gun if they have an 8 coming...

Same here, but if that's coming at all, I bet it will be a full-on replacement for the 788 and priced accordingly.

Honestly when I saw the $250 price difference between the MixPre-3 and the -6, I figured the -6 must have 6 combo inputs / pres.  I was very disappointed when I saw it only has ONE more, and the only other added functionality seems to be enabling options in software, unless the 3 and the 6 really do use different chips and typologies.  In other words, are these recorders sort of like the AETA 4Minx in the sense that the different versions have the same core hardware and software, and you pay more for the added hardware pieces and to enable the software to use them?  Maybe Paul can shed some light on this.

With the MixPre-6 at $899, I feel like it has to be compared directly to the Zoom F8 which is only $100 more.  The Zoom is a better value from a features standpoint (8 preamps, more recording channels, dual-media recording, full TC function) but the MixPre-6 wins on design, powering, and (probably) overall quality, certainly in pedigree and in customer service.  The analog limiters are also a huge if your work needs limiters.  Which way will customers in this price range go?  Even if SD wins handily in absolute sound quality (and we'll have to wait for the tests on that), is the target customer of the MixPre series (podcasters and DSLR filmmakers) going to even notice or appreciate that quality difference?  I feel if SD could have squeezed in two more combo jacks and preamps, it would be much more attractive, even if they had to raise the price to $1000.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dactylus on April 22, 2017, 02:56:18 AM
I have a 702 which I love.  I would like to hear how the new mp6 compares.  Do the new Machines have the same solid build quality?  What features does my 702 have that are not included in the new recorders?   Is there any reason why a 702 might make a better recording than the new units?  Why are the new units so inexpensive compared to what I paid for my 702?  Thanks.

Look at a photo of your 702 & the new mix-pre machines side by side and I think that you will have your answer.  The new Mix-pre's are a "cheaper SD unit" to compete with the sub $1,000.00 Zooms...  They are NOT in the same league as the SD 700 series recorders in my opinion...  You get what you pay for in most cases.

I really would like to see a 744 replacement from SD with 4 mic pre's... that is not part of the budget series. 

Paul can you please prevent me from spending money on an outdated SD recorder if there are new, SD recorders on the horizon, to update the 722 - 744 - 788 machines?

thank you,

David
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dactylus on April 22, 2017, 03:02:02 AM
would really like all of this but with 8 xlr/trs inputs. 

tempted for the mixpre6 but don't want to jump the gun if they have an 8 coming...

Honestly when I saw the $250 price difference between the MixPre-3 and the -6, I figured the -6 must have 6 combo inputs / pres.  I was very disappointed when I saw it only has ONE more, and the only other added functionality seems to be enabling options in software, unless the 3 and the 6 really do use different chips and typologies.  In other words, are these recorders sort of like the AETA 4Minx in the sense that the different versions have the same core hardware and software, and you pay more for the added hardware pieces and to enable the software to use them? Maybe Paul can shed some light on this.

^
These recorders are nothing like the AETA 4MinX in terms of hardware...  And I know that is not what you are referring to.  The AETA pricing scheme, meh...   :shrug:  Works for me, that is why I purchased that machine.  4 world class AETA pre's with a recorder / mixer with a multitude of features for less than the price of a new SD744.  And I love the SD line of audio gear.  I've had a SD722 for 10+ years, never getting rid of it.  Rock solid, world class gear.  I have a SD788-SSD, again rock solid, world class audio gear made next door in Wisconsin.   ;)

I've said it before and I'll say it again, I liked the AETA pricing scheme that allowed me to purchase 8 channels, 4 independent, 48V phantom AETA pre's for less than the cost of a new SD744T.  Variety is the spice of life!



Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: willndmb on April 22, 2017, 12:01:30 PM
What's the best way to input into a Canon 5D MarkIV to record on the camera's card with audio?
i don't think you can unless you used the headphones out
That's the huge plus of the ta scam 60d, it has a dedicated camera out that you can adjust too

There is a dedicated stereo out on the left side.
you can almost guarantee that it's not adjustable though and so it will overload most cameras/camcorders.
Depends on the quality input or if you had an attenuater. I have had good results using one but it's so much easier with an adjustable out
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: old and in the way on April 22, 2017, 12:18:01 PM
i may pull on a mixpre 3 . a already have a 744t and a few really good preamps for different situations . i really like my audioroot upre mk11>744 aes in . These new decks are not in the same ballpark. no aes or spdif like the 744 . i have the same routing as these new decks . the mixpre 3 looks small enough for  those times when i want to go small rig or stealth. i have a tintbox and m10 already but this may be a good piece to add to the arsenal.but i'll probably hold off until i here some reviews ( battery life & the new pre's etc etc.)
i wish sd would have updated the 744 ( touch screen and usb3 or thunder bolt.and Maybe with the new pres . if they are that good.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Paul Isaacs on April 22, 2017, 12:22:15 PM
Maybe I missed something, but the Mixpre-6 only shows a two channel display. How do you monitor the other two channels if you're all four inputs?


Touching the meter area switches between stereo meter view and multi-channels views. There are 3 different views.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Paul Isaacs on April 22, 2017, 12:44:26 PM
I have a 702 which I love.  I would like to hear how the new mp6 compares.  Do the new Machines have the same solid build quality?  What features does my 702 have that are not included in the new recorders?   Is there any reason why a 702 might make a better recording than the new units?  Why are the new units so inexpensive compared to what I paid for my 702?  Thanks.

Wow lots of questions! Sorry haven't got to this sooner, but at NAB in Las Vegas!
There is no compromise on build quality. Chassis is die cast aluminum - very solid.
The Kashmir mic preamps are a totally new design and comparable in quality to 7-series. We do plan on getting some demo files online soon so you can listen.
There are many reasons why there is a cost difference between the 702 and MixPre: the 702 is over 10-year old technology. Progress in component performance and DSP/FPGA, efficiencies in manufacturing and design, different code architecture, use of different materials and components, different I/O, different feature sets and more.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Paul Isaacs on April 22, 2017, 12:51:04 PM
The MixPre-6 with its 4x XLR/TRS mic/line inputs and 2 additional unbalanced aux inputs on 1/8" make this a 6 input device. You can record those six inputs as ISOs, hence the '6' in MixPre-6. You can record the mix of those for a total of 8 track 192 kHz / 24-bit recording.
This would make a great alternative to the 744 for those wanting 4 high quality mic preamps.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Paul Isaacs on April 22, 2017, 12:57:38 PM

Quote
What's the best way to input into a Canon 5D MarkIV to record on the camera's card with audio?

Quote
There is a dedicated stereo out on the left side.
Quote
you can almost guarantee that it's not adjustable though and so it will overload most cameras/camcorders.

You can adjust the level of the stereo output so you can prevent overload of cameras. We've included this specifically to make it compatible with a wide range of cameras, DSLRs, and other down stream devices.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: raoulduke on April 22, 2017, 01:07:02 PM
Paul, is there a front panel lock option on the MixPre-3/6, similar to the 'backlight key/tone key' menu on the 7xx series?
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: old and in the way on April 22, 2017, 02:35:12 PM
looks like you can link channels 1&2 for mid side recording on the mixpre 3 . probably can as well for the 6
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: johnfitz on April 22, 2017, 03:22:07 PM
https://www.sounddevices.com/products/recorders/mixpre-6

Maybe I missed something, but the Mixpre-6 only shows a two channel display. How do you monitor the other two channels if you're all four inputs?

Or is that something you would have to do on your phone through the bluetooth?


 :facepalm: Thanks!
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: old and in the way on April 22, 2017, 03:27:11 PM
looks like you can adjust the lcd brightness but there is nothing in the guide about it. Question! can the screen be turned off as well as the buttons. this would save power and be useful
for other times.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: larrysellers on April 22, 2017, 03:49:29 PM
Paul, is there a front panel lock option on the MixPre-3/6, similar to the 'backlight key/tone key' menu on the 7xx series?

Yeah, this is pretty important.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: johnw on April 22, 2017, 05:28:09 PM
Can gain be linked for channels 1,2 and 3,4?
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: nolamule on April 22, 2017, 05:52:52 PM
Correct, is there a stealth mode like on the 7 series?

looks like you can adjust the lcd brightness but there is nothing in the guide about it. Question! can the screen be turned off as well as the buttons. this would save power and be useful
for other times.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: old and in the way on April 22, 2017, 06:12:37 PM
Can gain be linked for channels 1,2 and 3,4?
on the mixpre6 you can link 1through 6 .
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: datbrad on April 22, 2017, 06:35:20 PM
I just finished carefully reading the user guide for the Mixpre-6 and there is no mention of any kind of "hold" feature. But I think SD can easily add that feature with firmware. One opportunity I saw could be with the "*" button on the front panel. First part of UG identifies that button for user defined shortcuts, but offers no detailed info beyond that one mention. I'd be fine with having to push the "*" button before any of the transport or touch screen controls will work. Like a gun safety in a way. Just a thought.....
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: mnm207 on April 22, 2017, 06:46:32 PM
Paul, based on your answer about the MP-6 above in terms of number of ISO tracks, I assume the MP-3 can only record 3 ISO tracks. Does it's mixing functionality allow ISOs of inputs 1 through 3 while sending (only) the 3.5mm input to the L/R mix?
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: justink on April 22, 2017, 07:47:48 PM
Paul, any plans for a mixpre 8?
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: willndmb on April 22, 2017, 11:21:51 PM

Quote
What's the best way to input into a Canon 5D MarkIV to record on the camera's card with audio?

Quote
There is a dedicated stereo out on the left side.
Quote
you can almost guarantee that it's not adjustable though and so it will overload most cameras/camcorders.

You can adjust the level of the stereo output so you can prevent overload of cameras. We've included this specifically to make it compatible with a wide range of cameras, DSLRs, and other down stream devices.
sweeeeeeet
Thanks for joining and posting all this info too

Personally, can't wait to hear a mixpre/tascam comp
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: if_then_else on April 23, 2017, 04:35:49 AM
Are the any functions / settings etc. (e.g. in the "Advanced Mode") which are exclusively available via the SD "Wingman" app? Or can all essential features of these mixpre-3/6 devices be reached via physical buttons/switches/pods? Any plans to port the Wingman app to other mobiles operating systems (e.g. Android)?
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dogmusic on April 23, 2017, 08:42:33 AM
On Page 27 of the revised manual, it states:

"The MixPre-6 can record up to eight audio tracks at 96kHz, 24-bit"

Is this a typo? I thought it does eight audio tracks at 192kHz, 24-bit.

Also, can you link two or more mixpre-6's for 12 tracks or more?

Given the camera screws, could you then stack two of these (synced) for an 8 xlr input machine?
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: justink on April 23, 2017, 06:24:51 PM
On Page 27 of the revised manual, it states:

"The MixPre-6 can record up to eight audio tracks at 96kHz, 24-bit"

Is this a typo? I thought it does eight audio tracks at 192kHz, 24-bit.

Also, can you link two or more mixpre-6's for 12 tracks or more?

Given the camera screws, could you then stack two of these (synced) for an 8 xlr input machine?


really want to know this too!
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: WalkingStickMan on April 23, 2017, 11:11:04 PM
My question now is- where does the MixPre-D stand in all of this? Are there ANY benefits to the MixPre-D at this point, and do we think it'll end up staying in production? Selfish questions given that I just purchased one less than a month ago, but would like to understand any benefit of hanging onto it before I trade it back in. I do love the solid construction and idea of the digital out (if I can find a recorder that'll take AES, since my Tascam only seems to want S/PDIF)...
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: spyder9 on April 24, 2017, 04:26:13 PM
My question now is- where does the MixPre-D stand in all of this? Are there ANY benefits to the MixPre-D at this point, and do we think it'll end up staying in production? Selfish questions given that I just purchased one less than a month ago, but would like to understand any benefit of hanging onto it before I trade it back in. I do love the solid construction and idea of the digital out (if I can find a recorder that'll take AES, since my Tascam only seems to want S/PDIF)...

MixPre-D will stay for a while, for it's 2 channel.  However, many people will gravitate to the SD 302 Preamp again, because (1) it has 3 channels and (2) it has lundahl transformers.  That would be a perfect match for the MixPre-3
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: spyder9 on April 24, 2017, 04:37:25 PM
It's a little big for me.  I like my recorders to be the size of a pack of cigarettes.  Small.  Smaller.  Smallest. 

That said, I'd buy the MixPre-3 only if I knew its preamps were better than a Sony PCM-M10 and has it's incredibly long battery life too.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: jbell on April 24, 2017, 06:16:03 PM
I can't wait for my Mixpre-6!!  Exactly what I've been waiting for!  4 SD preamps and I can run my Tinybox in to the unbalanced input for 6 channels.  I'm suprised everyone is nit picking it so much.  Folks would have dropped $900 on an R-44 a few years ago no problem.  Mine can't get here fast enough.  Once mine arrives I'll try to get samples up quickly
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: spyder9 on April 24, 2017, 08:38:10 PM
I can't wait for my Mixpre-6!!  Exactly what I've been waiting for!  4 SD preamps and I can run my Tinybox in to the unbalanced input for 6 channels.  I'm suprised everyone is nit picking it so much.  Folks would have dropped $900 on an R-44 a few years ago no problem.  Mine can't get here fast enough.  Once mine arrives I'll try to get samples up quickly

But John, nit picking is fun.  LOL   Its part of the game of buying something noone has ever run before.  When the R-44 came out, I complained it didn't make coffee. ;D
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: justink on April 24, 2017, 08:57:51 PM
I can't wait for my Mixpre-6!!  Exactly what I've been waiting for!  4 SD preamps and I can run my Tinybox in to the unbalanced input for 6 channels.  I'm suprised everyone is nit picking it so much.  Folks would have dropped $900 on an R-44 a few years ago no problem.  Mine can't get here fast enough.  Once mine arrives I'll try to get samples up quickly

that's the problem.  i have an Oade R-44. 

the Mixpre-6 is neat, but it's not that much of anything better than my R-44.  if it had 8 channels/pres, i would buy it at around a $1500 price point.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: rigpimp on April 25, 2017, 02:24:01 PM
Anyone interested in coordinating a group buy?
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: noahbickart on April 25, 2017, 03:45:00 PM
Anyone interested in coordinating a group buy?

I'm in for a MixPre6 if this goes down.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: goodcooker on April 25, 2017, 04:19:16 PM
Anyone interested in coordinating a group buy?

Would this bring the price down? I thought SD had a fix on their prices so that retailers had to meet the minimum MSRP to keep the perceived retail value high?
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: datbrad on April 25, 2017, 05:32:55 PM
I'm sure there is a minimum order quantity for distributors to buy at wholesale. If we have any corporate lawyers here that are willing to work pro bono, maybe we can setup a non-profit organization "to further the art of audio recording in the field using American made equipment". This would establish an entity that can become a "dealer" for Sound Devices. Each person involved is deemed a "shareholder". We find out what the wholesale pricing is, then use that figure for the amount needed for each shareholder to "invest" along with a split of the cost of setting up the NPO. Then, each shareholder, now called a member, can receive a unit for whatever that figure ends up being. It will be below MSRP for sure. We just need to ensure there is no surplus revenue or dividends paid to any members. Probably close to impossible to actually execute such a plan in a practical sense, but its fun to think of the possibilities anyway.. .
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Craig T on April 25, 2017, 06:13:28 PM
I applaud your creativity, but I highly doubt that the effort (entity creation, non-profit and tax exemption filings, tax returns, etc.) would be worth the discount.

I'm sure there is a minimum order quantity for distributors to buy at wholesale. If we have any corporate lawyers here that are willing to work pro bono, maybe we can setup a non-profit organization "to further the art of audio recording in the field using American made equipment". This would establish an entity that can become a "dealer" for Sound Devices. Each person involved is deemed a "shareholder". We find out what the wholesale pricing is, then use that figure for the amount needed for each shareholder to "invest" along with a split of the cost of setting up the NPO. Then, each shareholder, now called a member, can receive a unit for whatever that figure ends up being. It will be below MSRP for sure. We just need to ensure there is no surplus revenue or dividends paid to any members. Probably close to impossible to actually execute such a plan in a practical sense, but its fun to think of the possibilities anyway.. .
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: spyder9 on April 25, 2017, 08:40:18 PM
It's a noble cause, but I think the only one's getting price breaks are licensed resellers:  B&H Photo, Sweetwater, and Full Compass.

That's said, I will be in the market for a MixPre-3.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Chilly Brioschi on April 25, 2017, 09:32:36 PM
I wanna "Silk" button!
Where's the Silk button?        ;D

I might go a MP-6         :hmmm:
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: voltronic on April 25, 2017, 10:19:12 PM
I wanna "Silk" button!
Where's the Silk button?        ;D

Don't you mean the "euphonic odd-order harmonic distortion and saturation" button?  :yack:
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: rigpimp on April 25, 2017, 11:52:37 PM
I see group buys all the time on photo and automobile forums but I have been a member here since the inception in 2003 (and Oade Boards before that) and have never seen an attempt at a group buy.  We never know if someone would throw us a bone unless we ask.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: acutejam on April 26, 2017, 12:38:47 AM
I've been reading the heck outta the mic threads getting ready to up my game and just all hesitant with battery power and custom cabling and making expensive mics work with a sony m10... and then I saw this.

So a boneheaded question ... I could just plug XLR adapted DPA 4060s into this ... And that's that? I'd need nothing else? and it seems my CA14s would work straight in as well? I just want a fanny pack, a single really small box, and two mics clipped to hat....

And if I could monitor/control it with an iPhone like I was texting like every other idiot around me?!?! That is perfect!
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Paul Isaacs on April 26, 2017, 12:43:20 AM
Paul, is there a front panel lock option on the MixPre-3/6, similar to the 'backlight key/tone key' menu on the 7xx series?

No but thanks for the suggestion
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Paul Isaacs on April 26, 2017, 12:45:17 AM
Can gain be linked for channels 1,2 and 3,4?

Yes
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Paul Isaacs on April 26, 2017, 12:51:14 AM
Paul, based on your answer about the MP-6 above in terms of number of ISO tracks, I assume the MP-3 can only record 3 ISO tracks. Does it's mixing functionality allow ISOs of inputs 1 through 3 while sending (only) the 3.5mm input to the L/R mix?

Not sure what you are wanting to do. Can you give me a realworld example of the application?
Thx
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Paul Isaacs on April 26, 2017, 12:56:34 AM
On Page 27 of the revised manual, it states:

"The MixPre-6 can record up to eight audio tracks at 96kHz, 24-bit"

Is this a typo? I thought it does eight audio tracks at 192kHz, 24-bit.

Also, can you link two or more mixpre-6's for 12 tracks or more?

Given the camera screws, could you then stack two of these (synced) for an 8 xlr input machine?

Yes that was a typo that has now been corrected. 192 kHz is correct. Thanks.
No, you cannot link 2 or more MixPre-6's.

Paul


Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: F.O.Bean on April 26, 2017, 02:50:14 AM
As of right now, the MixPre6 is USELESS IMO to me! You CANNOT adjust the gain for the recorder part of the deck with the nice, big gain knobs on the front! You HAVE TO go through the menu to be able to adjust the gain "post-fade" :P

This is straight from the MixPre6 Manual :P

In Advanced Mode, the MixPre-6 is configured as a eight-channel recorder with
user-selectable 44.1, 48, 96 and 192 kHz sample rate and 16 and 24bit depth. 
The LR mix tracks may be recorded as well as each of the six channels as
individual isolated (ISO) tracks.  Audio for the ISO tracks is recorded “prefade”
meaning before the channel knob gain, so any changes that are made there
will only affect the LR mix and have no affect on the recorded ISO track levels. 
This is particularly useful for post-production audio processing where it may be
desirable to create an alternate mix of the tracks at a later stage.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: F.O.Bean on April 26, 2017, 02:54:27 AM
Once the above issue is fixed and you can adjust gain with the knobs on the front of the deck, I'll probably be selling my VMS02IB and one of my DR70D's, so that I can buy one of these! This is EXACTLY the deck I've been waiting for, but if SD doesn't fix the gain knob issue, then I want NOTHING to do with this thing! So SD, it's totally up to you as of right now :P ;D I love EVERYTHING about it, except the gain issue! I LOVE the flexible powering options as well!

I've read BOTH MixPre6 manuals inside & out, and the gain knob issue thing was the ONLY CON that I could find with this deck, for me personally!
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: noahbickart on April 26, 2017, 06:31:16 AM
Bean: Read the whole thread before ranting.

This has been answered multiple times by the SD rep.

You will be able to use this unit to do what you want already.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Life In Rewind on April 26, 2017, 07:07:17 AM
Bean: Read the whole thread before ranting.

This has been answered multiple times by the SD rep.

You will be able to use this unit to do what you want already.

Seems like it's setup like a traditional trimmer + fader like you'd find on most mix desks.

The difference the trimmer is in the software - and calls it "sensitivity" (my Yamaha mixers were labeled like that)

I guess theoretically - you could just check sensitivity spec on your mics - and set the recorder to match that.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dogmusic on April 26, 2017, 08:17:56 AM
On Page 27 of the revised manual, it states:

"The MixPre-6 can record up to eight audio tracks at 96kHz, 24-bit"

Is this a typo? I thought it does eight audio tracks at 192kHz, 24-bit.

Also, can you link two or more mixpre-6's for 12 tracks or more?

Given the camera screws, could you then stack two of these (synced) for an 8 xlr input machine?

Yes that was a typo that has now been corrected. 192 kHz is correct. Thanks.
No, you cannot link 2 or more MixPre-6's.

Paul

Hi Paul. Thanks for your reply. That's too bad about non-linkage. I suppose using an external timecode generator to stamp the tracks on two machines would make it a snap to align them in post.

Is it possible to attach one Mix-Pre-6 on top of another with the camera mount screws?

Thanks.



Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: mnm207 on April 26, 2017, 09:51:35 AM
Paul, based on your answer about the MP-6 above in terms of number of ISO tracks, I assume the MP-3 can only record 3 ISO tracks. Does it's mixing functionality allow ISOs of inputs 1 through 3 while sending (only) the 3.5mm input to the L/R mix?

Not sure what you are wanting to do. Can you give me a realworld example of the application?
Thx

Here's what I'm thinking: my recording is mostly podcast centered. I'm usually recording two, sometimes three, speakers. The MP-3 seems ideal for my general uses. Every once and a while I record four speakers and I've floated the idea of a panel conversation with five people for a couple of topics. I'd like to have each mic in that scenario record to its own track. Can I plug three mics into the MP-3's XLR inputs, then run two more via my MixPre into the 1/8" auxiliary input with mics 1 through 3 recording only to ISO tracks and only the auxiliary inputs routed to the stereo mix? In the end, I want each speaker on its own track (once the L/R stereo mix is split in my DAW)?

I have a feeling your answer will likely be, "look at the MP-6."

Thanks, Paul!
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: GDfan on April 26, 2017, 10:25:33 AM
I can't wait to get one! please take my money!!! :clapping: :clapping: :clapping:
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dactylus on April 26, 2017, 11:53:04 AM
Paul, is there a front panel lock option on the MixPre-3/6, similar to the 'backlight key/tone key' menu on the 7xx series?

No but thanks for the suggestion

^
Paul,

A front panel lock option on the MixPre-3/6, similar to the 'backlight key/tone key' menu on the 7xx series would be a really nice addition for this machine!  Thanks for fielding questions on the new machines!



Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: tim in jersey on April 26, 2017, 01:31:40 PM
Paul, is there a front panel lock option on the MixPre-3/6, similar to the 'backlight key/tone key' menu on the 7xx series?

No but thanks for the suggestion

^
Paul,

A front panel lock option on the MixPre-3/6, similar to the 'backlight key/tone key' menu on the 7xx series would be a really nice addition for this machine!  Thanks for fielding questions on the new machines!

Ditto.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: tgakidis on April 26, 2017, 04:49:15 PM
Bean: Read the whole thread before ranting.

This has been answered multiple times by the SD rep.

You will be able to use this unit to do what you want already.

I just got off the phone with sound devices and you cannot control gain with the knobs in advance mode, you have to go through the menu screen.  Game changer for me.  I'm cancelling my preorder.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: rippleish20 on April 26, 2017, 05:08:21 PM
Bean: Read the whole thread before ranting.

This has been answered multiple times by the SD rep.

You will be able to use this unit to do what you want already.

I just got off the phone with sound devices and you cannot control gain with the knobs in advance mode, you have to go through the menu screen.  Game changer for me.  I'm cancelling my preorder.

I was afraid of this but thought I'd wait until we got more information. The device appears to me to really geared towards mixing not recording per se. Based on the description of how you can set gain for each ISO, I believe its likely to be fairly crude in use and will disappoint people wanting a straight four track recorder where you interactively change gain using the Channel knobs. The Channel knobs primary focus is to set the post fader gain for the mix track(s) or output. For two tracks this is fine as you can just use the recording of the L/R track. But for four tracks I think you are going to have to press on the Channel knob, drop down into the menu and set the gain and then probably have to do that every time you want to make a change to the gain. 

These look like awesome devices and it will probably work for my needs but I dont think they are really the Zoom killers everyone thinks they are. 
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: noahbickart on April 26, 2017, 05:35:08 PM
Bean: Read the whole thread before ranting.

This has been answered multiple times by the SD rep.

You will be able to use this unit to do what you want already.

I just got off the phone with sound devices and you cannot control gain with the knobs in advance mode, you have to go through the menu screen.  Game changer for me.  I'm cancelling my preorder.

I stand corrected. Thanks. I agree that this makes the product basically useless "for what we do."

Hopefully, they can add mode of operation via software to meet our needs better.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: voltronic on April 26, 2017, 06:33:13 PM
Bean: Read the whole thread before ranting.

This has been answered multiple times by the SD rep.

You will be able to use this unit to do what you want already.

I just got off the phone with sound devices and you cannot control gain with the knobs in advance mode, you have to go through the menu screen.  Game changer for me.  I'm cancelling my preorder.

That conflics with what Paul has posted on JWSound (http://jwsoundgroup.net/index.php?/topic/29601-sound-devices-mix-pre-3-and-mix-pre-6/&page=4#comment-332389):
Quote
Folks - you can use channel knobs to adjust your ISO levels. To do this, you would select Custom mode and set Record to Advanced and leave Channel set to Basic. When Channel is set to Basic, ISO levels are post channel knob and when Record is set to Advanced, ISOs can be armed.

So which SD rep has the correct info?  There seems to be fragmented / conflicting info about these MixPres in general.  We might need to wait for them to get their act together on consistent information before we draw any hard conclusions.

That said, I agree that if what Ted was told is true, it makes these FAR less desirable until there is a firmware update to fix it.  Why would they not at least give users the option of using the knobs for input trim?  The pro film / TV folks on JWSound certainly sound like they need that feature; it's not just us concert tapers.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dogmusic on April 26, 2017, 07:06:47 PM

That conflicts with what Paul has posted on JWSound (http://jwsoundgroup.net/index.php?/topic/29601-sound-devices-mix-pre-3-and-mix-pre-6/&page=4#comment-332389):
Quote
Folks - you can use channel knobs to adjust your ISO levels. To do this, you would select Custom mode and set Record to Advanced and leave Channel set to Basic. When Channel is set to Basic, ISO levels are post channel knob and when Record is set to Advanced, ISOs can be armed.

So which SD rep has the correct info? 

Hopefully Paul will chime in today and give us the straight goods.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: noahbickart on April 26, 2017, 07:10:58 PM

That conflicts with what Paul has posted on JWSound (http://jwsoundgroup.net/index.php?/topic/29601-sound-devices-mix-pre-3-and-mix-pre-6/&page=4#comment-332389):
Quote
Folks - you can use channel knobs to adjust your ISO levels. To do this, you would select Custom mode and set Record to Advanced and leave Channel set to Basic. When Channel is set to Basic, ISO levels are post channel knob and when Record is set to Advanced, ISOs can be armed.

So which SD rep has the correct info? 

Hopefully Paul will chime in today and give us the straight goods.

I sent him a pm encouraging him to do so.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dactylus on April 26, 2017, 07:35:21 PM

No gain control will be a non-starter for me too.  All set to cancel the MixPre-6 order immediately!

Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: fobstl on April 26, 2017, 10:30:33 PM
This video has a segment on the gain starting around 1:40 but the explanation after that doesn't really clear things up.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T7OofxvbJfM (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T7OofxvbJfM)
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: vwmule on April 26, 2017, 11:27:02 PM
The befuddled look on the interviewer's face, from the start, says it all ...
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Paul Isaacs on April 27, 2017, 02:51:51 AM
Quote

Is it possible to attach one Mix-Pre-6 on top of another with the camera mount screws?

Thanks.

Yes
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Paul Isaacs on April 27, 2017, 02:54:20 AM
Quote

Here's what I'm thinking: my recording is mostly podcast centered. I'm usually recording two, sometimes three, speakers. The MP-3 seems ideal for my general uses. Every once and a while I record four speakers and I've floated the idea of a panel conversation with five people for a couple of topics. I'd like to have each mic in that scenario record to its own track. Can I plug three mics into the MP-3's XLR inputs, then run two more via my MixPre into the 1/8" auxiliary input with mics 1 through 3 recording only to ISO tracks and only the auxiliary inputs routed to the stereo mix? In the end, I want each speaker on its own track (once the L/R stereo mix is split in my DAW)?

I have a feeling your answer will likely be, "look at the MP-6."


Look at the MP-6 :)
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Paul Isaacs on April 27, 2017, 03:00:18 AM
Quote

I just got off the phone with sound devices and you cannot control gain with the knobs in advance mode, you have to go through the menu screen.  Game changer for me.  I'm cancelling my preorder.

You can control the ISO track gain with the channel knobs. This is achievable in Custom mode, not Advanced mode.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: tgakidis on April 27, 2017, 03:58:49 AM
Quote

I just got off the phone with sound devices and you cannot control gain with the knobs in advance mode, you have to go through the menu screen.  Game changer for me.  I'm cancelling my preorder.

You can control the ISO track gain with the channel knobs. This is achievable in Custom mode, not Advanced mode.

Thanks for the clearing that up Paul!
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dogmusic on April 27, 2017, 06:47:57 AM
Quote

I just got off the phone with sound devices and you cannot control gain with the knobs in advance mode, you have to go through the menu screen.  Game changer for me.  I'm cancelling my preorder.

You can control the ISO track gain with the channel knobs. This is achievable in Custom mode, not Advanced mode.

Is that something you can set and forget? In other words, can you set it up so you just power it on and the channel knobs are immediately available to control the ISO track gain, or do you have to go through some menus and button pushes everytime?
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dogmusic on April 27, 2017, 06:48:51 AM
Quote

Is it possible to attach one Mix-Pre-6 on top of another with the camera mount screws?

Thanks.

Yes

Great! Thanks.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: willndmb on April 27, 2017, 09:20:27 AM
Quote

I just got off the phone with sound devices and you cannot control gain with the knobs in advance mode, you have to go through the menu screen.  Game changer for me.  I'm cancelling my preorder.

You can control the ISO track gain with the channel knobs. This is achievable in Custom mode, not Advanced mode.
since I'm sure this will come up again...
"Folks - you can use channel knobs to adjust your ISO levels. To do this, you would select Custom mode and set Record to Advanced and leave Channel set to Basic. When Channel is set to Basic, ISO levels are post channel knob and when Record is set to Advanced, ISOs can be armed."
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: johnw on April 27, 2017, 10:02:57 AM
But can this custom mode/settings be made the default at power on? I for one would inevitably screw this process up at some point where I'm setting up in a hurry if it can't be made the default when I turn on the recorder.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: rippleish20 on April 27, 2017, 10:46:56 AM
All I can say is it will be interesting to see these things in action. The newest version of the manual is much improved but it still seems to conflict with some of what I'm reading in terms of Channel knobs & the ISOs.

--------------------------------------
SD support answered me with:

Hello Alan,

To access the gain, it will require you to be in either Advance Mode or Custom Mode (Custom with Advance Channel on) and you'll be able to access the gain by itself. To access the gain, pressing the channel knob down will put the user in the Input Channel Settings (much like how toggling the 6-Series PFL toggle). There, you'll be able to adjust the gain and the knob will become the fader.

Hope that has cleared it up for you!

Dennis Witt
Sound Devices, LLC

--------------------------------------
The manual now says in Custom mode Gain options : "Lets you access to (two-stage) Channel Gain controls, limiters and linking."

And under User Presets:

"Flexibility is the MixPre-6’s M.O. To make it easy for you to use the MixPre-6 in a wide variety of situations, we created a slick feature where you can store and recall snapshots of all of the MixPre-6’s settings. There are four internal Preset slots available. Also, the SD card can store virtually unlimited Presets."

http://cdn.sounddevices.com/download/guides/MixPre6-UG_en.pdf
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: datbrad on April 27, 2017, 05:41:13 PM
Here is how I imagine the workflow with the Mixpre-6, based on these recent clarifications:

    In Basic Mode, the unit operates like a true field mixer. The user, with headphone monitoring, can make a live matrix mix on the fly down to a 2 track stereo recording. The channel knobs control the gain for each channel, but the only thing recorded is the final stereo mix. If only one pair of mics or one pair of line input tracks are being recorded, then the unit works basically like any other stereo recorder. The control knobs work just like we are used to with other recorders, and there is the option to control gain by individual channel, or by linking them to one knob for gain, with the one next to it serving as a L/R pan control knob.

    In Advanced or Custom mode, the knobs still work as they do in Basic Mode, controlling each channel in relation to a mix down to stereo tracks. The difference here is that in addition to the mixing mode, the ISO tracks can be recorded separately, so a post mix version can be put together afterwards. Since these tracks are recorded "pre fader", it allows the user to play around with a live mix on the fly, while still having the individual tracks captured without being impacted by the user riding the faders for the stereo live mix.

    Gain for each channel can be adjusted separately, by pushing each channel knob individually to adjust the gain for one specific channel at a time. The limitation here is that you can't see on the display the relationships between tracks with all tracks peak levels displayed on the touchscreen at the same time. This is a clear departure in workflow from a 744T or an R44, where all the tracks are shown on the display and you can adjust one track while seeing a meter display of all the tracks at the same time. This situation explains the reason for the paragraph on page 20 of the user guide "A Little Bit About Gain". In a nutshell, the message calls for a change in thinking about the relationship of gain and how it impacts the final result. Trying to record an ideal level that is maximized to be as close to 0db on the meters as possible, something we all worked towards with 16bit recording in the past, is not necessary.

Sound Devices is proposing that since the preamps have such a huge range between the noise floor and the maximum input level, it's a waste of time trying to record the ISO tracks with perfect levels. Even if the ISO tracks are all recorded with maximum peaks only hitting -12 or -6 on the meters, there will be no issue with bumping the gain in post to -1 or 0 if desired. A practical example would go like this: Assume you are interested in recording a simple matrix, blending 2 mic channels with 2 soundboard channels. You can play around with delay on the mics to account for the distance from the stage, and use headphones to mix the 4 channels together and that mix will be recorded on the dedicated stereo tracks. Meanwhile, since headphones can be very misleading in a loud concert environment, the individual ISO tracks set to a moderate level with max peaks at -6db on the meters will serve as a backup, offering a second chance to create a mix later in post.

So, it's not perfect by any means, but when I think about it my initial skepticism I realize that it may be based on a perceived need that really doesn't exist anymore. In fact, it could be viewed as a benefit. With this unit you can be all over the map with the level adjustments for the live mix without worry, because if you screw up you still have an unaltered version of the ISO tracks preserved to try it again later in post. And, if you need to add gain to any of those tracks to lift them up in volume, they claim the difference between the tracks with bumped up levels in post vs. levels captured at the "ideal" maximized word length to begin with is no longer an issue worth worrying about.

I'm still not convinced this unit is what I would want for a multitrack recorder at the sub-$1k price point, but the ISO gain workflow is not a show stopper by any means. I'm still holding out hope that Marantz Pro will introduce that PMD-706. From looking closely at the banner for that 6 channel unit that was briefly shown on their website, I'm expecting the form factor to be more like the rest of the current lineup from Marantz, with the case being deeper than it is wide, similar to the Zoom H6 layout.



Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: rippleish20 on April 27, 2017, 06:05:08 PM
DATBREADs comment is pretty much how I read it also in terms of how it will work. I'm not quite as convinced about the part where the great pre-amps negate the need to adjust gain, however...

 
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: larrysellers on April 27, 2017, 06:56:35 PM
I can't think of a recorder made in the last 15 years that didn't have a button lock (hold) feature.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: datbrad on April 27, 2017, 07:20:16 PM
The Korg MR1000 didn't have a hold button, oddly enough. Only one I can think of though....
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: justink on April 27, 2017, 09:40:42 PM
Basic, Advanced, and Custom modes...

needs a "Concert" or "Taper" mode with everything that we need.  Lock function, "stealth" function, gain control, locked channel gain, level meter zoom, etc.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: tgakidis on April 27, 2017, 10:37:17 PM
But can this custom mode/settings be made the default at power on? I for one would inevitably screw this process up at some point where I'm setting up in a hurry if it can't be made the default when I turn on the recorder.

From the manual:

User Presets
Flexibility is the MixPre-6’s M.O. To make it easy for you to use the MixPre-6 in a wide variety of situations, we created a slick feature where you can store and recall snapshots of all of the MixPre-6’s settings. There are four internal Preset slots available. Also, the SD card can store virtually unlimited Presets.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: tim in jersey on April 27, 2017, 11:35:59 PM
I can't think of a recorder made in the last 15 years that didn't have a button lock (hold) feature.

The F8 doesn't have a hold function last I had heard...
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dogmusic on April 27, 2017, 11:40:03 PM
But can this custom mode/settings be made the default at power on? I for one would inevitably screw this process up at some point where I'm setting up in a hurry if it can't be made the default when I turn on the recorder.

From the manual:

User Presets
Flexibility is the MixPre-6’s M.O. To make it easy for you to use the MixPre-6 in a wide variety of situations, we created a slick feature where you can store and recall snapshots of all of the MixPre-6’s settings. There are four internal Preset slots available. Also, the SD card can store virtually unlimited Presets.

I wonder if the settings will stay on your preset after you power down the unit, or will you have to re-select that preset when you turn it on again.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Paul Isaacs on April 27, 2017, 11:41:04 PM

Quote

You can control the ISO track gain with the channel knobs. This is achievable in Custom mode, not Advanced mode.

Is that something you can set and forget?

Yes
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dogmusic on April 27, 2017, 11:45:25 PM

Quote

You can control the ISO track gain with the channel knobs. This is achievable in Custom mode, not Advanced mode.

Is that something you can set and forget?

Yes

Thanks, Paul. You've certainly cleared that up for me. Seems like a very good machine.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Paul Isaacs on April 27, 2017, 11:53:30 PM
Quote
.

I wonder if the settings will stay on your preset after you power down the unit, or will you have to re-select that preset when you turn it on again.

The MixPre's always power up in the same state they were in prior to last power down.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: voltronic on April 27, 2017, 11:57:38 PM
Paul, thank you for being here and angering our questions.

What I can't get past though is the idea that traditional gain setting practices don't need to be observed.

I'm an effort to answer this myself, I read through the mp6 manual. 

From page 19 under BASIC MODE:
Quote
The limiters are present on each channel and the LR mix bus.

Then below that under ADVANCED MODE:
Quote
For more complex situations requiring individual channel-to-track recording,
soloing, channel linking and extended gain functionality and limiter bypass.

So the limiters are always engaged in Basic, but can be defeated in Advanced.  Got it.

Does Basic use auto gain setting as well?  It seems to be implied by comparing with Advanced mode.
Page 16 under ADVANCED > Channel > Gain:
Quote
Sets the sensitivity of the input. Generally, the Gain should be
set so that the loudest parts of the audio signal just touch the
red segments of the meters.
Then pg 20 in the A Little Bit About Gain section basically says that is no longer necessary because this unit has analog limiters and low-nose preamps which makes traditional level setting irrelevant.  So the manual is advising users to follow good gain setting practice, then telling them that doesn't matter?

I don't get the whole "easy mode" concept.  How are people supposed to learn how to do things properly or make informed choices for themselves?
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Paul Isaacs on April 27, 2017, 11:59:33 PM
Folks - just to save you having to ask the same question more times, a summary ...

Yes - you can use the channel knobs to adjust individual track levels. You will set this up in Custom mode.
Once you've set this, the unit will always power up in that state. You can also choose to save it as a preset for later recall if you decide to use the MixPre in a totally different configuration.

I understand the user guide has been a bit ambiguous on these subjects. We are still tweaking the guide. It will be complete by the time we start shipping which we anticipate will be mid-May.

Thanks

Paul
Director of Product Development and Design, Sound Devices.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Paul Isaacs on April 28, 2017, 12:22:22 AM
Basic Mode: For less experienced audio users who may not have had much experience optimizing audio levels. Single gain stage controlled by channel knob. Only the stereo mix is recorded.
Advanced Mode: For experienced audio users allowing access to all features. Dual gain stage (virtual trim gain and channel knob fader gain); All tracks are available for recording; ISO tracks recorded pre-fade, post trim.
Custom Mode: You can choose which advanced features you want to add to Basic mode.  In order to be able to use channel knobs to adjust ISO gain, you need to add the advanced Record features which allow you to record arm ISO tracks.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: justink on April 28, 2017, 12:25:43 AM
Paul is awesome.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: muj on April 28, 2017, 02:51:12 AM
what a headache..just happy i'm picking up my Nagra 7 in 20 days..LOL
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: jcb on April 28, 2017, 03:41:49 AM
It seems promising. I just hope someone (SD preferably) offers a Hirose power option.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: voltronic on April 28, 2017, 06:22:03 AM
Paul,

Those last two posts make everything very concise and clear.  Thanks for the clarification.  It sounds like the unit really does everything we here would want it to do; it's just that the documentation was confusing with regard to if and how that can be accomplished.

One thing I have not seen discussed yet: Would you please share some details of the preamp design?  I'm curious if it is more like the 6-series, or an evolution of that in the 788T.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: voltronic on April 28, 2017, 06:42:36 AM
It seems promising. I just hope someone (SD preferably) offers a Hirose power option.

Not surprised this wasn't included.  It might to nice to have that heavy-duty connector, but they have quite a few powering options, and you can even power this with a cheap USB power pack through the USB-C port.  I can't find it right now, but I remember reading that it requires 1.5 A.  Most newer packs have a 2 A port, so you'd be covered.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: rigpimp on April 28, 2017, 11:23:31 AM
It seems promising. I just hope someone (SD preferably) offers a Hirose power option.

Not surprised this wasn't included.  It might to nice to have that heavy-duty connector, but they have quite a few powering options, and you can even power this with a cheap USB power pack through the USB-C port.  I can't find it right now, but I remember reading that it requires 1.5 A.  Most newer packs have a 2 A port, so you'd be covered.

Careful.  The USB-C power option only allows phantom on a single input pair and not both.  It turns the second pair into line in/Aux
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dogmusic on April 28, 2017, 11:35:22 AM
It seems promising. I just hope someone (SD preferably) offers a Hirose power option.

Not surprised this wasn't included.  It might to nice to have that heavy-duty connector, but they have quite a few powering options, and you can even power this with a cheap USB power pack through the USB-C port.  I can't find it right now, but I remember reading that it requires 1.5 A.  Most newer packs have a 2 A port, so you'd be covered.

Careful.  The USB-C power option only allows phantom on a single input pair and not both.  It turns the second pair into line in/Aux

I believe that it defaults to phantom on a single input pair only with an under powered USB-C source. If your battery pack will supply enough power (and the MixPre-6 will tell you if it does or not), then you will apparently get full phantom on all 4 inputs.

Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: noahbickart on April 28, 2017, 12:06:48 PM
I'm sure that the new big USB-c power packs designed for big tablets and small apple laptops will power this just fine.

But even with older smaller USB btteries, SD has provided a workaround. The unit ships with a Y cable which can draw from 2 USB sources in parallel.

That, in combination with hotswapping either the 8 aa or l type batteries should allow for infinite field time.

Do current 744 users have good ideas about the best/least expensive L type battery?
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: rippleish20 on April 28, 2017, 12:18:50 PM
To preserve battery power, USB-C power sources take priority over batteries if
both are connected with one exception - if the USB-C power source does not
meet the full power requirements of the MixPre-6, you can choose to power
from battery or continue to power from USB-C. We have designed the MixPre-6
so that even with an under powered USB-C source, you will still be able to use
two of the four channels with 48V phantom mics. The third and fourth channel
can still be used with dynamic mics and line, aux, or USB sources. To achieve
this we automatically do the following:
• Dim LCD and LED Brightness
• Disable USB-A port
• Disable HDMI TC port


I cant find what the required amperage is for full operation. Some of the USB-c batteries apparently do 3+ amps but would USB-A at 2.4 provide enough power?
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dogmusic on April 28, 2017, 12:30:42 PM
I cant find what the required amerperage is for full operation. Some of the USB-c batteries apparently do 3+ amps but would USB-A at 2.4 provide enoguh power?

This from Paul Isaacs on the jwsoundgroup.net:

"Question about powering the device through USB: I know it can be powered via USB through a laptop or USB Wall Adaptor, but can it powered via a portable USB Battery charger like an Anker battery pack?  What's the minimum power required via USB for it to fully function?  Thanks, Mark

Yes it can. 1.5A USB power source required for full functionality. The MixPre will tell you if the source is underpowered. "

http://jwsoundgroup.net/index.php?/topic/29601-sound-devices-mix-pre-3-and-mix-pre-6/&page=4
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: aaronji on April 28, 2017, 12:42:02 PM
Paul: thanks for taking the time and trouble to participate in this thread and answer all of our questions! Sometimes we tapers forget that we are a small (and rather particular) segment of the market, so your attention to us is very much appreciated!

I think this looks great for my purposes. I am very curious to hear more about the pres. Between this and the new DPA d.vice, my taping budget appears to be poised for a big hit...
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: rigpimp on April 28, 2017, 01:08:47 PM
I must have overlooked the under powered part.  So what happens if your USB power source drops below 1.5v?  It must revert to internal batteries without a hiccup.  ?  I cannot imagine how devastated I would be to stand by and watch P48 drop on channels 3 & 4.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: rippleish20 on April 28, 2017, 01:33:33 PM
Couldn't you use the provided Y cable to connect to two different USB batteries?
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: noahbickart on April 28, 2017, 01:55:18 PM
I must have overlooked the under powered part.  So what happens if your USB power source drops below 1.5v?  It must revert to internal batteries without a hiccup.  ?  I cannot imagine how devastated I would be to stand by and watch P48 drop on channels 3 & 4.

That's why you'd also have the 8 AA (or L type) sled in the back. Redundant power.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Fatah Ruark (aka MIKE B) on April 28, 2017, 01:56:49 PM
I think this looks great for my purposes. I am very curious to hear more about the pres. Between this and the new DPA d.vice, my taping budget appears to be poised for a big hit...

Same. MicPre6, plus the mics of your choice (x4), the d.vice and some 406x's would be a perfect combo for everything I do. ...provided they all do what I think they will do.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: tim in jersey on April 28, 2017, 04:50:36 PM
Do current 744 users have good ideas about the best/least expensive L type battery?

Lenmar LIS970P  https://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16830994418

I've been using these exclusively w/ my 7xx devices since the 722 first launched (I was on the pre-order list) and now use them in a 744.  I've had to replace a few due to age, of course. But otherwise solid as a rock.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: voltronic on April 28, 2017, 07:11:29 PM
It seems promising. I just hope someone (SD preferably) offers a Hirose power option.

Not surprised this wasn't included.  It might to nice to have that heavy-duty connector, but they have quite a few powering options, and you can even power this with a cheap USB power pack through the USB-C port.  I can't find it right now, but I remember reading that it requires 1.5 A.  Most newer packs have a 2 A port, so you'd be covered.

Careful.  The USB-C power option only allows phantom on a single input pair and not both.  It turns the second pair into line in/Aux

I believe that it defaults to phantom on a single input pair only with an under powered USB-C source. If your battery pack will supply enough power (and the MixPre-6 will tell you if it does or not), then you will apparently get full phantom on all 4 inputs.

While I'm typing this I see dogmusic found the post I read at JWSound where Paul states the 1.5 A spec (thanks).

This means that the MixPres have yet another low-cost option for redundant powering, and one which most of us probably already own.  All that would be needed is a USB-C cable. 

Consider that the sales literature and manual says the MixPre will run off a wall wart USB power source, and most of those you see are 1.5-2A.  It's the older USB phone chargers that only put out 1 A or even less that probably will force the MixPre into "low power" mode.

The MixPre is also meant to be used as an audio interface, and USB 3.0 will only provide 1.5 A / 5 V.

Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: willndmb on April 28, 2017, 08:19:43 PM
so my question does but doesn't have to do with this thread.
Maybe I am misunderstanding the terms but when I think of gain, i think adding.
When I think trim, i think cutting back.
When I think fader, I think cutting back or lowering too.

you can "add" gain via the knobs correct??
Most posts talk about the pre fader and/or trim.
Common sense tells me yes but the terms are throwing me.
Thanks
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dogmusic on April 28, 2017, 09:08:46 PM
so my question does but doesn't have to do with this thread.
Maybe I am misunderstanding the terms but when I think of gain, i think adding.
When I think trim, i think cutting back.
When I think fader, I think cutting back or lowering too.

you can "add" gain via the knobs correct??
Most posts talk about the pre fader and/or trim.
Common sense tells me yes but the terms are throwing me.
Thanks

I find the term "trim" a bit of a problem too. It's all about controlling input. If you're in a studio, you control the input from a microphone to the mixer with the trim control. Then you control the input to the recorder with the fader. If you've set your trim correctly, you never have to worry about having distorted sound from the microphone to the fader. But the level of the fader has to be watched to not overload the input to the recorder.

Tapers generally record from a microphone straight into a recorder without a mixer. So we want the input control to directly affect the sound from a microphone to an individual recorded track. In film audio lingo, this track is called an ISO.

So when Paul says you can directly control the trim of an ISO with the fader knob by setting that up in Custom mode, I take it on faith that he means we can set the record level from the microphone directly to the tracks with the knobs.

Not sure if this is any clearer.  :shrug:

Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: jefflester on April 28, 2017, 09:18:11 PM
so my question does but doesn't have to do with this thread.
Maybe I am misunderstanding the terms but when I think of gain, i think adding.
When I think trim, i think cutting back.
When I think fader, I think cutting back or lowering too.

you can "add" gain via the knobs correct??
Most posts talk about the pre fader and/or trim.
Common sense tells me yes but the terms are throwing me.
Thanks
Comes from mixer terminology, the first thing the mic input sees is a preamp and the control of the gain of that preamp is commonly called "trim." The trim controls for each channel are to get all inputs to mixer to be in the same general range, because the inputs can come from a wide variety of sources - condenser mics, dynamic mics, ribbon mics, consumer and pro line level, with a wide range of signal level. Then the sliders(faders) control the sources relative to each other. On some mixers, the trim control is labelled gain. On many mixers the range actually goes from negative to positive, so a particularly hot source would actually get attenuated.

Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: if_then_else on April 29, 2017, 05:38:39 AM
Powering options for the mixpre-3/6 series and their prices (in EUR). Looks like the USB-C cable is both the most versatile and the cheapest option?

https://www.videodata.de/shop/products/de/Audio/Portable-Audiomischer/Sound-Devices-MixPre-6.html?XTCsid=o4u4ohf7tkrkclnt0vm6psm1rppqfe4l
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: beatkilla on April 29, 2017, 11:29:22 AM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4l0yNknm1dQ

Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: goodcooker on April 29, 2017, 11:46:06 AM
Seems like with the ability to save presets the MixPre6 could be very useful for us or at least for me

Save a preset for most encountered field recoding scenarios

- simple two track audio recording with bit and sample rate of choice
- four track matrix - two mics and two SBD - link 1&2 and 3&4 for easy gain adjustment
- four mic tracks for split omnis and center pair - or front & back pair for surround
- link 1 through 4 for ambisonics

My interest has been piqued by the new Sennheiser Ambio mic. The need for four identical preamps that can be ganged was a deal breaker. Just can't justify a 788 for a hobby. This may change that for me.


After searching the manual looks like I assumed incorrectly this could be done....
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dogmusic on April 29, 2017, 02:25:11 PM

- link 1 through 4 for ambisonics


Can you link all 4 inputs? I thought I read somewhere that you can only link two stereo pairs, i.e., 1&2 and 3&4.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: johnw on April 29, 2017, 03:25:27 PM
Paul isaacs: at 1:52 in the YouTube video you stated that this is "certainly not a replacement" for the 7 series recorders. You mentioned that you'd get back to that later but never really did. Could you clarify that here? It sounds as if you feel the preamps are superior to the 702/22/44. How does the analog to digital stage compare?

I use my 744t to record 4 channel microphone recordings. Channels 3,4 receive a fixed 20db of gain from a preamp. What I wish I could do is to be able to add to that on the fly. As it is, I have an additional 8 db added through the menu settings and just hope I don't overload those channels. I was hopeful that the second front rotary knob could be enabled to do this through a firmware upgrade in the way that it can be done for linked channels 1,2. Since that feature is never going to get added, I'm considering the mixpre 6 as a replacement. But if the analog to digital stage is not as good as the 7series, I'll keep using what I've got.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: goodcooker on April 29, 2017, 04:02:26 PM

- link 1 through 4 for ambisonics


Can you link all 4 inputs? I thought I read somewhere that you can only link two stereo pairs, i.e., 1&2 and 3&4.

Just went and searched for the word LINK in the PDF manual and it looks like you are right - only stereo pairs can be linked together. Original post changed.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dogmusic on April 29, 2017, 04:05:56 PM

- link 1 through 4 for ambisonics


Can you link all 4 inputs? I thought I read somewhere that you can only link two stereo pairs, i.e., 1&2 and 3&4.

Just went and searched for the word LINK in the PDF manual and it looks like you are right - only stereo pairs can be linked together. Original post changed.

Maybe that's something they can add in a firmware update.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: old and in the way on April 29, 2017, 07:08:49 PM
i went and ordered a mixpre3. Decided on the 3 over the 6 for several reasons . one was the size.the other is that i have a 744t that i put an audioroot upremk11 in front that gives me the same specs as these new sd decks. ill hang onto my 744 for yrs to come as i can do so much with it that i could not do with these new decks. The 3 with it's small size will be used
as a small rig for times when all i want is simplicity or maybe stealth.i hope that they will come out with a hold option and a way to go stealth mode .it should be as simple as firmware.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dactylus on April 30, 2017, 09:37:04 AM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4l0yNknm1dQ

Thanks for the link.  Nice interview with Paul!

Paul in the video the quality of the new pre's for MixPre's is mentioned as being on par with the 6 series devices.  Can you comment on the quality of the new Kashmir pre's as compared to the sd788, the sd6 series and the older 7 series recorders? 

And as "johnw" mentioned above I'm also interested in the analog to digital stage comparison for the new MixPre's as compared to the older 7 series recorders.  Also curious about the comparison of the analog to digital stage of the new MixPre's to the sd788.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Chilly Brioschi on April 30, 2017, 10:03:03 AM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4l0yNknm1dQ

This is a Sound Device after my own heart.
Super-low noise floor and copious analog compression means guerilla taping has just taken a giant leap forward.

I cannot wait to hear what these babies sound like.

Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: justink on April 30, 2017, 06:36:14 PM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4l0yNknm1dQ

This is a Sound Device after my own heart.
Super-low noise floor and copious analog compression means guerilla taping has just taken a giant leap forward.

I cannot wait to hear what these babies sound like.

i'm very curious as to how the limiter sounds as well.  i'd love to crank the levels before the show and leave them alone all show long with the bag flap closed, KNOWING that even if I clip, it will sound fine.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: rigpimp on April 30, 2017, 06:38:56 PM
I typically would not classify myself as an early adopter but I am dying to hear and use one of these things.  Has anyone pinned down some pre-release sound samples yet?  Paul, can we hear your DPA piano recording?

I have used an Edirol (pre-Roland) R-44 since 2007 and I am ready for "new" and "more" without breaking the bank on a 788, which is a dream machine for me.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: noahbickart on April 30, 2017, 07:24:15 PM
I bet this would be a perfect battery:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LRQDAEI/ref=psdc_7073960011_t2_B01F8IRIN0
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: willndmb on April 30, 2017, 08:43:27 PM
I bet this would be a perfect battery:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LRQDAEI/ref=psdc_7073960011_t2_B01F8IRIN0
you are paying for the third output/"c"
There are way cheaper options to get it done.
I recently got a 10.5 mah Rav power for $18. They supply you a cable if you need one too
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: gewwang on April 30, 2017, 08:55:11 PM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4l0yNknm1dQ

This is a Sound Device after my own heart.
Super-low noise floor and copious analog compression means guerilla taping has just taken a giant leap forward.

I cannot wait to hear what these babies sound like.

i'm very curious as to how the limiter sounds as well.  i'd love to crank the levels before the show and leave them alone all show long with the bag flap closed, KNOWING that even if I clip, it will sound fine.

ideally you'd want to run levels conservatively so the limiter never gets engaged.

https://www.recordingrevolution.com/stop-recording-so-hot-into-your-daw/ (https://www.recordingrevolution.com/stop-recording-so-hot-into-your-daw/)


Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: noam on May 01, 2017, 12:50:13 PM
I bet this would be a perfect battery:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LRQDAEI/ref=psdc_7073960011_t2_B01F8IRIN0

How long roughly can the MixPre3 run with phantom, 96/24 and 2 mics on this?
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: noam on May 01, 2017, 12:51:19 PM
I bet this would be a perfect battery:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LRQDAEI/ref=psdc_7073960011_t2_B01F8IRIN0
you are paying for the third output/"c"
There are way cheaper options to get it done.
I recently got a 10.5 mah Rav power for $18. They supply you a cable if you need one too

Can you clarify what you mean "you are paying for the third output/"c"?
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: rippleish20 on May 01, 2017, 12:58:10 PM
I bet this would be a perfect battery:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LRQDAEI/ref=psdc_7073960011_t2_B01F8IRIN0
you are paying for the third output/"c"
There are way cheaper options to get it done.
I recently got a 10.5 mah Rav power for $18. They supply you a cable if you need one too

Can you clarify what you mean "you are paying for the third output/"c"?

USB-c makes for faster chaarging, I believe, so you do get something useful with that port...
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: yug du nord on May 01, 2017, 07:22:26 PM
Granted the USBPre2 is only two channels....  but how do the pre amps and ADC compare to the new MixPre 3/6 series??
Thanks.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: old and in the way on May 01, 2017, 07:45:52 PM
The USB pre2 is supposed to have the same pres as the 788t which are the best of the 7xx series
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: willndmb on May 01, 2017, 09:30:19 PM
I bet this would be a perfect battery:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LRQDAEI/ref=psdc_7073960011_t2_B01F8IRIN0
you are paying for the third output/"c"
There are way cheaper options to get it done.
I recently got a 10.5 mah Rav power for $18. They supply you a cable if you need one too

Can you clarify what you mean "you are paying for the third output/"c"?
usb batteries that have dual, full size "a" outs can be had for way less then the price shown on Amazon for the linked battery
The linked battery has the "c" as a third output.
That's nice if you need/want to run the mixpre AND something else, otherwise you can simply use the "a" outs and the supplied cable for much cheaper.

I believe, As another member said, "c" charges faster but your paying for it and it's a nice plus for sure

Edit
Example, the same battery with three "a" outs vs two and a "c" https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B012NIQG5E/ref=s9_acsd_al_bw_c_x_5_w
$30 less
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: yug du nord on May 01, 2017, 11:02:22 PM
The USB pre2 is supposed to have the same pres as the 788t which are the best of the 7xx series

USBPre2 uses the same topology as the 744 pre amps.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dactylus on May 02, 2017, 07:51:33 AM
The USB pre2 is supposed to have the same pres as the 788t which are the best of the 7xx series

USBPre2 uses the same topology as the 744 pre amps.

Curious if anyone here can "hear" the difference between the 702/722/744 pre's vs the 788 pre's?

 :guitarist:
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: beatkilla on May 02, 2017, 12:49:45 PM
A new video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l-E5gyHtGPg
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Fried Chicken Boy on May 02, 2017, 10:55:16 PM
Marking thread.  Hoped this new MixPre series would have digi I/O, ability to link and sync two or more devices, and a front panel lock/stealth mode like the 7-series, but so it goes.  Still looks appealing. 

Thanks for your input and answering questions, Paul. 
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: digifish_music on May 03, 2017, 02:37:49 AM
...does anyone know if the Aux in is stereo when using plugin powered mics? I think it may be. In this case would be nice to use it with some binaurals at the same time as the main mic ins.

I think you can select the L or R Channel as an input to any of the tracks. I think this is true for both the 3 and 6?

BTW I think this is the best interview I have seen so far:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jtipUW47BHQ&t=16


Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: b_curl on May 03, 2017, 07:42:13 AM
Jeez, i grabbed a SD MixPre-D  brand new about 6months ago to pair with my Sony PCM-M10.

As much as i love the set up, the 3 is a good $500 CHEAPER than the MixPre-D alone.

Having the USB-C as an interface as well as another power option, different power options and just the simplicity of having just the one unit too, surely this is a far greater deal.

Too good to be true? Or is the MixPre-D still work such a premium price?
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: noahbickart on May 03, 2017, 11:13:43 AM
Looks like the manual has been updated: http://cdn.sounddevices.com/download/guides/MixPre6-UG_en.pdf

I'd love for someone to make a simple how to guide to set up the recorder in "taper mode," All I want is 6 channels, 4 xlr in, each pair of ISOs controlled by a single knob, and 1/8 inch line in for 5/6.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Fatah Ruark (aka MIKE B) on May 03, 2017, 03:37:26 PM
Any ideas on a bag for this? I was thinking maybe the Zoom bag might work. Also I've checked out the Sachtler small bag when I was last at B+H and it looked pretty nice.

I'd need to have enough room for the (1) recorder, (2) batteries (+extra batteries), (3) Naiant IPA, (4) Beyer mics, (5) Nevaton mics, (6) Windscreens, (7) M10, and a little extra room for various crap.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Paul Isaacs on May 03, 2017, 04:53:53 PM
Looks like the manual has been updated: http://cdn.sounddevices.com/download/guides/MixPre6-UG_en.pdf

I'd love for someone to make a simple how to guide to set up the recorder in "taper mode," All I want is 6 channels, 4 xlr in, each pair of ISOs controlled by a single knob, and 1/8 inch line in for 5/6.

From out of the box, something like this ...
1. Set to Advanced mode (System/Mode menu)
2. Link channels 1 and 2 (Press channel 1 knob to enter channel 1 screen, goto page 3 and set linking to '1-2'). While in the channel 1 screen, you can choose your input type, phantom, low cut etc too.
3. Link channels 3 and 4 (Press channel 3 knob to enter channel 3 screen, goto page 3 and set linking to '3-4'). While in the channel 3 screen, you can choose your input type, phantom, low cut etc too.
4. Link channels 5 and 6 (Press * button to enter channel 5 screen, goto page 2 and set linking to '5-6'). While in the channel 5 screen, set your input to Aux In 1. This will auto set channel 6 to Aux In 2. By default Aux In is set to Line.

Pretty much that's it. You just need to worry about setting your gain.

Once you've set up, consider saving the setup as a Preset, so you can recall all of this with a touch of a button.

Paul
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: gewwang on May 03, 2017, 06:00:16 PM
Any ideas on a bag for this? I was thinking maybe the Zoom bag might work. Also I've checked out the Sachtler small bag when I was last at B+H and it looked pretty nice.

I'd need to have enough room for the (1) recorder, (2) batteries (+extra batteries), (3) Naiant IPA, (4) Beyer mics, (5) Nevaton mics, (6) Windscreens, (7) M10, and a little extra room for various crap.

I ordered a mixpre-3 with the 8AA and L-batt extensions. The L-batt will sit on its side when attached and the dimensions will be interesting. I'm waiting to see what it looks like after I get it before thinking about a bag or the best way to fit it in my current bag where the 744 sits now.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: rigpimp on May 03, 2017, 07:25:29 PM
I'm guessing this may fit nicely in my unused Portabrace RM-Multi
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Fatah Ruark (aka MIKE B) on May 03, 2017, 07:25:51 PM
Well...I turned in my diesel VW last week and they cut me a check for about $24.5K...figured I could splurge a bit on this.

Ordered the MixPre-6 with the Sachtler Lightweight Audio Bag (Small). I'll give that bag a try, and return it if I don't like it. I did check it out in NY at B+H and it looks really nice. Only concern would be if the recorder was too small for it. B+H has it in their suggested accessories, but I'm not sure how good a suggestion on an item that isn't even available is.

I have a few USB batteries. I'll hope one of them works well enough for this unit. Otherwise I'll order another (you can never have enough USB batteries IMO).

Sounds like end of May for me. Hopefully it arrives before TAB at Red Rocks.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: jazzgtrl4 on May 03, 2017, 07:52:02 PM
Where did you guys buy from?
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Fried Chicken Boy on May 03, 2017, 07:52:25 PM
^^  Very cool that you guys took the plunge!  I can't wait to hear the hands-on impressions after you have these decks in the field.  Looking forward to hearing your pulls with 'em, too.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: noam on May 04, 2017, 12:15:00 AM
Marking thread.  Hoped this new MixPre series would have digi I/O, ability to link and sync two or more devices, and a front panel lock/stealth mode like the 7-series,

It's really stupid you can't switch these lights off.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: jbell on May 04, 2017, 07:00:58 AM
Gotham

Where did you guys buy from?
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dactylus on May 04, 2017, 07:13:38 AM
Where did you guys buy from?

Trew Audio - they gave me free shipping on the MixPre-6 + the battery mount for the Sony-type L batteries.  Free shipping just like everyone else selling these machines, BUT I had to ask for the free shipping.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dactylus on May 04, 2017, 07:14:25 AM
Looks like the manual has been updated: http://cdn.sounddevices.com/download/guides/MixPre6-UG_en.pdf

I'd love for someone to make a simple how to guide to set up the recorder in "taper mode," All I want is 6 channels, 4 xlr in, each pair of ISOs controlled by a single knob, and 1/8 inch line in for 5/6.

From out of the box, something like this ...
1. Set to Advanced mode (System/Mode menu)
2. Link channels 1 and 2 (Press channel 1 knob to enter channel 1 screen, goto page 3 and set linking to '1-2'). While in the channel 1 screen, you can choose your input type, phantom, low cut etc too.
3. Link channels 3 and 4 (Press channel 3 knob to enter channel 3 screen, goto page 3 and set linking to '3-4'). While in the channel 3 screen, you can choose your input type, phantom, low cut etc too.
4. Link channels 5 and 6 (Press * button to enter channel 5 screen, goto page 2 and set linking to '5-6'). While in the channel 5 screen, set your input to Aux In 1. This will auto set channel 6 to Aux In 2. By default Aux In is set to Line.

Pretty much that's it. You just need to worry about setting your gain.

Once you've set up, consider saving the setup as a Preset, so you can recall all of this with a touch of a button.

Paul

Thanks Paul!!

 :coolguy:
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: caymanreview on May 04, 2017, 07:16:16 AM
Where did you guys buy from?

Trew Audio - they gave me free shipping on the MixPre-6 + the battery mount for the Sony-type L batteries.  Free shipping just like everyone else selling these machines, BUT I had to ask for the free shipping.

are you joking? gear slut of the decade?
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: tgakidis on May 04, 2017, 10:54:14 AM
Gotham

Where did you guys buy from?

Ditto
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: GDfan on May 04, 2017, 12:57:05 PM
Where did you guys buy from?

B & H Photo
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: sos on May 04, 2017, 04:30:02 PM
Where did you guys buy from?

Team Kashmir (Midwest chapter) cast it's ballot for... Sweetwater
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: rippleish20 on May 04, 2017, 04:57:31 PM
So May 5th went to "late May"? Not that it surprises me...
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dogmusic on May 04, 2017, 04:58:09 PM
I'm still on the fence about the MixPre-6. Because of the dismal Canadian dollar, it costs over $1200.00 here.

I have a USBPre2 which I can use digital-in to a Tascam DR100mk3. But it would be great to have an all-in-one.

I realize no one has heard the Kashmir preamps, but given SD's devotion to excellence, do members here feel confident that the Kashmirs will be of equal quality to the preamps in the USBPre2?


Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Fatah Ruark (aka MIKE B) on May 04, 2017, 06:27:42 PM
So May 5th went to "late May"? Not that it surprises me...

Is that for people that ordered right away?

I was looking last week and B+H said "Mid-May" ...now it says "End of May." I was assuming the people that ordered when it said Mid-May will get the first batch...and I guess I'm in the 2nd batch.

I'd really like to have mine for TAB on 5/31.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: rippleish20 on May 04, 2017, 07:07:01 PM
I ordered mine when they first announced them in mid April. The estimate at that point was May 5th (not that I believed that)
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: improviser on May 04, 2017, 10:06:20 PM
I'm with you, dogmusic.  $1200 (Canadian dollars) is a lot of money for me.  If the new Kashmir preamps sound as good as those on their other products, I'll take the plunge, but I'd rather wait for some reports.

Do you know where they will be available in Canada?  I know that Studio Economik in Montreal will be carrying them.  Looks like the prices are comparable to ordering from the USA.  Any others?
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: hipporu on May 05, 2017, 04:02:52 AM
musicstore.de said today: we expect delivery in late May.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dogmusic on May 05, 2017, 08:46:46 AM
I'm with you, dogmusic.  $1200 (Canadian dollars) is a lot of money for me.  If the new Kashmir preamps sound as good as those on their other products, I'll take the plunge, but I'd rather wait for some reports.

Do you know where they will be available in Canada?  I know that Studio Economik in Montreal will be carrying them.  Looks like the prices are comparable to ordering from the USA.  Any others?

Yes, there are a few others: Trew Audio, Sonotechnique, RVA Canada, Audio Services Corp. Canada. They all supply the film audio industry. But the prices are all about the same as Studio Economik.

It's not their fault, of course. The loonie's in the toilet. And you're right that there's no advantage in ordering from the States.

Perhaps Paul who has been so helpful on this forum could compare the Kashmir preamps with the 6 and 7 series.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: old and in the way on May 05, 2017, 08:49:31 AM
ordered through Location Sound in california. i figured the other places would probably go through their initial allotment . i think these orders will come out of SD in one big batch.
Anyway its just my theory .
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: larrysellers on May 05, 2017, 10:16:30 AM
Where did you guys buy from?

Trew Audio - they gave me free shipping on the MixPre-6 + the battery mount for the Sony-type L batteries.  Free shipping just like everyone else selling these machines, BUT I had to ask for the free shipping.

Did you order the L battery sled or did they throw it in with the purchase?
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dallman on May 05, 2017, 01:33:57 PM
I have 2 questions that I have not seen answered yet. I think they would apply to many on this board. My questions are about the Mixpre6, but they could be applicable to the Mixpre3 if you follow my context.

First I would preface by stating that my current primary use of gear is recording live music audience recordings at concerts. All types venues flavors volumes etc.
Currently I mostly use a Tascam DR680MKII and a Sound Devices USB Pre 2. I record 3 separate stereo tracks using 3 different pairs of mics with different patterns. I usually have one pair Cardioid, one pair Hypercardioid and one pair Omnidirectional. I use 4 mics ( 2of the pairs) directly XLR into the Tascam and 2 mics (the final pair) direct XLR into the USB Pre 2 then digitally output into the Tascam. I do not use the mix track as a mix track because I have no desire to mix the mics together. Therefore I end up with three separate distinct recordings of the event being recorded.

So my questions in this context are as follows:
1. If I use 4 mics XLR in (P48) and then 2 additional mics via aux in (maybe plug in power, but more likely p48 mics through another preamp outputting to TRS 1/8 aux input on the MixPre6), will all 6 mice be taking advantage of the Kashmir preamps?
2. Since I do not need the mix track, is there any way to use that as another input gaining 2 more distinct track options, or if I were to guess that is a not possible, is there any way to route one of the existing stereo pairs solely to the mix tracks which I could then record at a different gain?

Just to be clear, I expect these tracks to be captured on the SD card in the deck and I would then transfer to my PC. I am not too concerned about my MixPre6 output options in the above scenario, unless I am not seeing some additional advantage to the mixpre6 outputs.

I should ask one more unrelated question: Is there any chance that there will be an android app coming to take advantage of the Bluetooth functionality for us Android users?

Thanks for any help in answering this. I'm itching to order... ;D
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dogmusic on May 05, 2017, 02:05:14 PM
I use ... 2 mics (the final pair) direct XLR into the USB Pre 2 ...

Do you expect that the Kashmir preamps will equal the quality of your USB Pre 2 preamps?
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dallman on May 05, 2017, 02:15:35 PM
Hard for me to know, but I do not see why not. They are being touted as top notch from a company known for their preamps and their sound. It also appears from the literature that the pre's can handle whatever is thrown at them and that can be useful especially at the start of a live show. In addition for myself I do not like to drive my pre's to redline as to me they then sound a bit compressed. It is unnecessary in the digital age with even good pre's much less top line preamps, but everyone is entitled to record however they prefer. I like the idea of noise free gain boosts in post. I also like the idea of a smaller form factor although the setup I use is not huge nor heavy, but still, this would still be considerably smaller.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dpower on May 05, 2017, 03:40:55 PM
@dallman... To your question #1, you ask if all 6 mics (including the two you'll run from another preamp) will take advantage of Kashmir preamps.

I interpret Aux In to be a line level input so I'd be very surprised if it there were preamps of any kind in the signal path.

Paul Isaacs will be able to confirm.

Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dactylus on May 05, 2017, 03:51:39 PM
Where did you guys buy from?

Trew Audio - they gave me free shipping on the MixPre-6 + the battery mount for the Sony-type L batteries.  Free shipping just like everyone else selling these machines, BUT I had to ask for the free shipping.

Did you order the L battery sled or did they throw it in with the purchase?

I ordered the L battery sled.  It was not a freebie.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: beatkilla on May 06, 2017, 09:42:03 AM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nLzS8XYxqZM

A different video where at around 2:30 it is stated that the kashmir pres are equal to the 7xx series.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dogmusic on May 06, 2017, 10:20:58 AM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nLzS8XYxqZM

A different video where at around 2:30 it is stated that the kashmir pres are equal to the 7xx series.

That's great to hear. Thanks for that link.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: vwmule on May 06, 2017, 01:50:26 PM
"The Kashmir preamps, which are of equal quality to our 7-series and our 6-series recorders ... We cut no corners on these preamps."
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: GDfan on May 06, 2017, 04:19:11 PM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nLzS8XYxqZM

A different video where at around 2:30 it is stated that the kashmir pres are equal to the 7xx series.

Thanks!

11:00 mark " Being a pre amp company, we have a lot of flavors and kashmir is just one more" 
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dpower on May 06, 2017, 07:43:16 PM
The Simpsons - Season 5 / Episode 15: "How come I can't get no Tang around here?"

In all seriousness, I'm looking forward to hearing samples from these puppies. Something tells me SD won't disappoint.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dactylus on May 08, 2017, 01:01:44 PM

Two potential bag choices for the MixPre6.  I have an Orca-30 and that might be perfect for me for the MixPre6, 2 pairs of mics and accessories...

https://www.amazon.com/Orca-Mini-Sound-Bag-Smaller/dp/B01GFCT3BI


https://www.amazon.com/Orca-Audio-Bag-Mixer-Mixers/dp/B0129DL5PY/ref=sr_1_1?s=musical-instruments&ie=UTF8&qid=1494262746&sr=1-1&keywords=orca-30




Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Mr.Fantasy on May 08, 2017, 02:37:52 PM
16 pages....quite a read!!! Sounds like an awesome unit that is going to shake up the Yard Sale for quite some time.

Would someone give me an example of what this USB Audio stream would look like?
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: waltmon on May 08, 2017, 04:22:18 PM
Does the small Orca bag zip shut securely or does it just have that clear plastic semi-open cover?
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: leehookem on May 08, 2017, 04:37:12 PM
looks open
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dactylus on May 09, 2017, 04:52:16 AM
Does the small Orca bag zip shut securely or does it just have that clear plastic semi-open cover?

I don't have the smaller Orca bag (OR-28).  But if it is like the larger OR-30, which I do have, it does NOT zip shut securely, it just has the clear plastic semi-open cover. 

I'm not really a fan of those type covers and I'm going to go to a local seamstress and see if I can have her make and sew on a "zipper cover" with an additional "water resistant fabric cover," that folds over the top similar to the SonicSense SonicCase bag.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: sos on May 10, 2017, 04:49:17 PM
5th release ("1-E") of the MixPre-6 online user guide is up. The revisions are:

Made more edits in Inputs & USB chapters, Appendix & Specs

... the most crucial of which, appears to be the rewording in the Inputs section (pp. 19 - 21)

They've removed an entire paragraph titled A Little Bit About Gain ... and have rephrased what appears under the header Inputs Menu, now adding subheaders Selecting Input Sources for Channels 5 and 6 and Configuring Aux In Mode

http://cdn.sounddevices.com/download/guides/MixPre6-UG_en.pdf

The MixPre-3 user guide also had similar (but less) revisions made
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: jazzgtrl4 on May 11, 2017, 02:25:26 PM
sweetwater rep just emailed me, they got pushed back to beginning of June, i figured this would happen.  wonder if its the same for the other dealers.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: jbell on May 11, 2017, 05:58:24 PM
^ I haven't heard anything from Gotham!!  I got my order in really early so hoping to get it before June.   :shrug:
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: F.O.Bean on May 11, 2017, 07:42:47 PM
I certainly have HIGH hopes for the new MixPre6! As long as the nice, big gain knobs are "post-fade" instead of "pre-fade", and they control gain at the recorder end, I'll be buying one soon hopefully to test out as my new main deck! The MixPre6 is about as small as the 70D, and I have honestly been dreaming about a small, SD version of the 70D, which is the MixPre6 IMO 8)

I used to run an SD 722, and it was BY FAR the nicest deck/all-in-one I've EVER had/owned. I have been thinking for awhile now that I WISHED that SD would come out with something new/cheaper than the 7xx units, as well as updated mic preamps, since the 702/722/744 have been out since 2005, so 12 years old! LOTS has happened technology-wise in that area in the last 12 years, so I'm REALLY hoping that the new MixPre 3/6 are an SD 7xx killer ;D I guess only time will tell!

I might even sell my VMS02IB and just run 4 Channels of 60v PFA's->MixPre6, if the preamps are good enough :) And if anyone can point me in the direction of SD updating the MixPre6 FW allowing the gain knobs on the front of the deck to be used "post-fade", I'd really appreciate it! I just don't feel like reading through all of those posts again!
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: F.O.Bean on May 11, 2017, 07:48:40 PM
And further on in the JWS thread:


"Folks - you can use channel knobs to adjust your ISO levels. To do this, you would select Custom mode and set Record to Advanced and leave Channel set to Basic. When Channel is set to Basic, ISO levels are post channel knob and when Record is set to Advanced, ISOs can be armed."

Looks quite nice if you want 6 tracks and 4 pres.  I expect the sound quality and construction will be up to the usual SD standard.  Nice that there is some competition among manufacturers in this little recording niche.  Zoom and SD have upped the ante.  Who's next?

Thanks Pohaku! This is what I wanted to know! I was thinking that maybe it could be setup via the Custom Mode, to allow the gain knobs to be used post fade! If so, I really might take the plunge and buy one, and sell my VMS02IB and my backup DR-70D ;D
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: F.O.Bean on May 11, 2017, 09:12:45 PM
After reading through some of this thread, and realizing the gain knobs can be adjusted in the ISO tracks by pushing the gain knob IN and then adjusting the post-fade gain of that channel, I just listed my Schoeps VMS02IB Preamp and my backup DR-70D for sale :) My plan is to run 4 channels of 60v PFA's directly into the MixPre6 "Kashmir" preamps, and use the 5/6 Channel 1/8" Input for when I get SBD Patches ;D

I don't mind being a guinea pig when it comes to new, HQ looking gear! I bought a V3 and SD 722 shortly after they came out, and I ended up liking them so much that I ran them for many years [722 moreso than the V3]. I'm hoping that the MixPre6 preamps are as good/better than the 7xx Series preamps as SD claims, because I don't plan on running an external preamp in front of it unless I REALLY dislike the new Kashmir Preamps, which I highly doubt if they're of the 7xx quality or better 8)

And a HUGE thanks to the people from SD who joined our amazing site and offered to answer any questions that our small, niche group had! That's VERY cool of them IMO, and just goes to show what a stand-up company SD really is!

EDIT: One question I keep meaning to ask is, how do you control the gain of the 5/6 Channel 1/8" Input when using all 6 Channels?
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: justink on May 11, 2017, 09:26:49 PM
The iPhone app
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Paul Isaacs on May 12, 2017, 07:55:34 AM

EDIT: One question I keep meaning to ask is, how do you control the gain of the 5/6 Channel 1/8" Input when using all 6 Channels?

Ch 5/6 have to have their gain controlled from their channel screens since they don't have a dedicated knob. You can make a shortcut on the star button for quick access to these channels.

Paul
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Mr.Fantasy on May 12, 2017, 08:03:44 AM

EDIT: One question I keep meaning to ask is, how do you control the gain of the 5/6 Channel 1/8" Input when using all 6 Channels?

Ch 5/6 have to have their gain controlled from their channel screens since they don't have a dedicated knob. You can make a shortcut on the star button for quick access to these channels.

Paul

No star button on the MixPre-3 though?

Do you know when the first shipment will be Paul?
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dpower on May 12, 2017, 08:10:12 AM
Paul... I'm curious:

Is there a way to make the front panel channel knobs control trim? In all the videos I've seen so far, it appears mic trim is adjusted only in Advanced mode using the headphone / input encoder—making each channel knob a fader rather than a trim / gain control. Is this the case?

Thanks,
dp
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dogmusic on May 12, 2017, 09:31:17 AM
Paul... I'm curious:

Is there a way to make the front panel channel knobs control trim? In all the videos I've seen so far, it appears mic trim is adjusted only in Advanced mode using the headphone / input encoder—making each channel knob a fader rather than a trim / gain control. Is this the case?

Thanks,
dp

This is a quote from Paul Isaacs (I can't remember from where):

"Folks - you can use channel knobs to adjust your ISO levels. To do this, you would select Custom mode and set Record to Advanced and leave Channel set to Basic. When Channel is set to Basic, ISO levels are post channel knob and when Record is set to Advanced, ISOs can be armed. "

Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dpower on May 12, 2017, 10:01:56 AM
@dogmusic... Thanks for your response. I've seen that quote a few times. But "adjust your ISO levels" doesn't make it clear whether you're adjusting preamp gain or post-preamp mix/record level. And those—as I'm sure you're aware—are two very different things.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Paul Isaacs on May 12, 2017, 10:21:28 AM
@dogmusic... Thanks for your response. I've seen that quote a few times. But "adjust your ISO levels" doesn't make it clear whether you're adjusting preamp gain or post-preamp mix/record level. And those—as I'm sure you're aware—are two very different things.

There are various ways to setup the MixPre. There is a way to configure MixPre so that you can use the channel knobs to adjust the levels on the individual recorded tracks i.e. so that channel knob 1 controls the level of track 1, channel knob 2 controls the level of track 2, channel knob 3 controls the level of track 3 etc. Is that what you want to do?
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dpower on May 12, 2017, 10:47:07 AM
Paul... Thanks for weighing in.

I don't want to sound pedantic but my answer to your question is, "It depends what you mean by 'level'."

Thinking about this in a mixer context, each channel has a preamp gain (or 'trim') control and a fader, correct?

What I'd like to know is whether the MixPre channel knobs act as a) preamp gain controls; or b) faders.

Thanks,
dp
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Todd R on May 12, 2017, 11:06:16 AM
Paul... Thanks for weighing in.

I don't want to sound pedantic but my answer to your question is, "It depends what you mean by 'level'."

Thinking about this in a mixer context, each channel has a preamp gain (or 'trim') control and a fader, correct?

What I'd like to know is whether the MixPre channel knobs act as a) preamp gain controls; or b) faders.

Thanks,
dp

If you dig through all the posts, this has been covered, and the answer to your question is that it can be either.  In basic mode, the mixpre only records 2 channels, and those inputs are routed to the LR mix.  In that case, the channel knobs control gain and do not act as faders.  In advanced mode, multiple channels (up to the full set of 6 input channels) can be armed, with a LR mix track recorded and each of the other six channels (if all armed) are recorded to ISO tracks.  In the advanced mode, the faders ("channel knobs") only control the level of the recording to the LR mix track.  The 6 ISO tracks are recorded post-trim, pre-fader:  that is, the gain is set by the trim control (which appears to be the control knob on the side) not the channel knobs, such that the channel knobs have no effect on the recorded level of the ISO tracks, only the LR mix track.

If you wanted to record all channels but instead have the channel knobs control the level of the recording of the ISO tracks, you can set up the mixpre in custom mode, using the advanced mode portion that allows arming all of the 6 channels but instead choose basic recording as part of the custom mode such that the channel knobs control the recorded level of the ISO tracks.  In this setup, the channel knobs act as the preamp gain (trim) controls not as faders.

That seems to address the function of what happens.  If you're asking which of the actual gain stages within the mixpre are being used in the custom mode above (trim/gain stage vs fader gain stage), we'd need a block diagram or have Paul comment.  I'd imagine though as the fader gain stage can only provide 20db of gain that if you choose basic record mode such that the channel knobs act as trim control, then the gain is actually applied at the gain/trim stage providing access to the full 76db of gain.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Life In Rewind on May 12, 2017, 11:09:19 AM
Is the recording captured pre or post fader?

Assuming post - but just curious as this seems to be a mixer first and recorder second.

Toggle-able?
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dpower on May 12, 2017, 11:18:03 AM
Thank you, Todd. Your explanation makes things much clearer.

To summarize, the channel knobs can control preamp gain OR fader gain depending on how the MixPre is configured.

Thanks!
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Todd R on May 12, 2017, 11:34:37 AM
Glad to help, esp as I spent a bunch of time trying to figure it out myself.  Didn't help that mixer folks speak a different language. What the hell is an ISO? International Standards Organization? (Got it now, of course.)
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dpower on May 12, 2017, 11:44:21 AM
It's always good fun trying to figure out how hardware works before anyone's actually had a device in their hands. We're all pounding away at user guides, speculation, and common sense. Thankfully, Paul Isaacs hangs out here.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: voltronic on May 12, 2017, 09:09:15 PM
On a laptop with no headphones at the moment, but here's the first recording of these I've seen posted.  Look who is on piano:
https://www.facebook.com/sounddevices/videos/10155309408816764/ (https://www.facebook.com/sounddevices/videos/10155309408816764/)
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: leehookem on May 12, 2017, 11:22:49 PM
smooooooth...
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: jbell on May 13, 2017, 07:00:25 AM
smooooooth...
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dogmusic on May 13, 2017, 08:20:09 AM
Very nice! And sweet piano there, Paul.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: F.O.Bean on May 14, 2017, 04:56:40 AM
Found these decent shorty Rt Angle cables for the USB C input of the MixPre from China! I just bought [3] of the short ones and [2] of the longer ones with the braiding! I have about 8+ of these exact same cables to power BOTH of my DR-70D's, except with a Micro USB-B end, instead of the USB-C end, and they have worked out AWESOME & flawlessly for me in the 2+ years I've been using them, so I have no fears buying the MixPre6 for under $1k, and then only buying $1.50 USB-C Cables for them from China lol ;) ;D

Right Angle USB-A>USB-C Shorty Cables
http://www.ebay.com/itm/381770102038
3' Right Angle USB-A>USB-C Braided Cables
http://www.ebay.com/itm/162327537413?var=461341515784
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: old and in the way on May 16, 2017, 08:53:17 AM
well they processed my payment (location sound) so it should be soon.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: old and in the way on May 16, 2017, 09:58:47 AM
well they processed my payment (location sound) so it should be soon.

I wouldn't hold your breath. Location Sound's website saying: "Anticipated availability: June 2017". Let me guess... you paid with PayPal, right? If so, your payment would've been put through. If pre-ordering with credit card, many vendors won't charge the card until shipment is actually made...

BTW, I just heard from a Sweetwater rep, who's representing the same thing... "first week of June"
well they processed my payment (location sound) so it should be soon.

I wouldn't hold your breath. Location Sound's website saying: "Anticipated availability: June 2017". Let me guess... you paid with PayPal, right? If so, your payment would've been put through. If pre-ordering with credit card, many vendors won't charge the card until shipment is actually made...

BTW, I just heard from a Sweetwater rep, who's representing the same thing... "first week of June"
   



nope pay'd with my bank card. talked to them last week and they said my card would be processed as soon as they have some units . i was first to order the 3 through them.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: hipporu on May 16, 2017, 11:16:24 AM
Question for Paul
If I feed the signal from mini USB mixpe-D to USB C mixpre-6...
Can this work as the 5-6 channel for the mixpre-6?
Thank you.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Fatah Ruark (aka MIKE B) on May 16, 2017, 12:27:23 PM
In regards to shipping I would expect the availability date on websites to get pushed back as they take more orders. I know some folks ordered the first day they were available to order. I think B+H's original ship date was today, so maybe some people that ordered from them day 1 will have them shipped this week. I didn't order for another week or so after that and B+H said "End of May" so I'm thinking that I'm in the 2nd or 3rd shipment they expect from Sound Devices.

That being said, retailers are always happy to advertise a best scenario date and then ship late if needed just to get those sales.

Still hoping mine gets here before 5/31 for TAB at Red Rocks.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: mccordo on May 16, 2017, 01:12:31 PM
I placed an inquiry today and was told Sound Devices was on back order and that a MixPre 6 would be about 6 weeks out for new orders.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: jazzgtrl4 on May 16, 2017, 02:04:24 PM
https://livestream.com/gothamsound/sound-devices-mixpre-6

live stream right now of this recorder from Gotham
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: rippleish20 on May 16, 2017, 02:32:48 PM
https://livestream.com/gothamsound/sound-devices-mixpre-6

live stream right now of this recorder from Gotham

Very cool to actually see how the menus work etc. A shipping date of May 19th is given...
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dallman on May 16, 2017, 04:40:34 PM
I have 2 questions that I have not seen answered yet. I think they would apply to many on this board. My questions are about the Mixpre6, but they could be applicable to the Mixpre3 if you follow my context.

First I would preface by stating that my current primary use of gear is recording live music audience recordings at concerts. All types venues flavors volumes etc.
Currently I mostly use a Tascam DR680MKII and a Sound Devices USB Pre 2. I record 3 separate stereo tracks using 3 different pairs of mics with different patterns. I usually have one pair Cardioid, one pair Hypercardioid and one pair Omnidirectional. I use 4 mics ( 2of the pairs) directly XLR into the Tascam and 2 mics (the final pair) direct XLR into the USB Pre 2 then digitally output into the Tascam. I do not use the mix track as a mix track because I have no desire to mix the mics together. Therefore I end up with three separate distinct recordings of the event being recorded.

So my questions in this context are as follows:
1. If I use 4 mics XLR in (P48) and then 2 additional mics via aux in (maybe plug in power, but more likely p48 mics through another preamp outputting to TRS 1/8 aux input on the MixPre6), will all 6 mics be taking advantage of the Kashmir preamps?
2. Since I do not need the mix track, is there any way to use that as another input gaining 2 more distinct track options, or if I were to guess that is a not possible, is there any way to route one of the existing stereo pairs solely to the mix tracks which I could then record at a different gain?

Just to be clear, I expect these tracks to be captured on the SD card in the deck and I would then transfer to my PC. I am not too concerned about my MixPre6 output options in the above scenario, unless I am not seeing some additional advantage to the mixpre6 outputs.

I should ask one more unrelated question: Is there any chance that there will be an android app coming to take advantage of the Bluetooth functionality for us Android users?

Thanks for any help in answering this. I'm itching to order... ;D

Since my questions got buried amongst the many pages, I emailed Paul directly and he promptly responded, so I thought I would share the answers:
Hi Dallman

1. No. The Kashmir preamps are on the XLR 1-4 inputs, not the 1/8" Aux In.

2. The MixPre-6 has a maximum of 6 input channels. You cannot use the Mix tracks to expand that to 8 input channels.

"Is there any way to route one of the existing stereo pairs solely to the mix tracks which I could then record at a different gain?"

There is a way to do this but it requires that you use  a combination of the software gain controls and channel knobs.

thanks

Paul
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: willndmb on May 16, 2017, 09:05:09 PM
I have 2 questions that I have not seen answered yet. I think they would apply to many on this board. My questions are about the Mixpre6, but they could be applicable to the Mixpre3 if you follow my context.

First I would preface by stating that my current primary use of gear is recording live music audience recordings at concerts. All types venues flavors volumes etc.
Currently I mostly use a Tascam DR680MKII and a Sound Devices USB Pre 2. I record 3 separate stereo tracks using 3 different pairs of mics with different patterns. I usually have one pair Cardioid, one pair Hypercardioid and one pair Omnidirectional. I use 4 mics ( 2of the pairs) directly XLR into the Tascam and 2 mics (the final pair) direct XLR into the USB Pre 2 then digitally output into the Tascam. I do not use the mix track as a mix track because I have no desire to mix the mics together. Therefore I end up with three separate distinct recordings of the event being recorded.

So my questions in this context are as follows:
1. If I use 4 mics XLR in (P48) and then 2 additional mics via aux in (maybe plug in power, but more likely p48 mics through another preamp outputting to TRS 1/8 aux input on the MixPre6), will all 6 mics be taking advantage of the Kashmir preamps?
2. Since I do not need the mix track, is there any way to use that as another input gaining 2 more distinct track options, or if I were to guess that is a not possible, is there any way to route one of the existing stereo pairs solely to the mix tracks which I could then record at a different gain?

Just to be clear, I expect these tracks to be captured on the SD card in the deck and I would then transfer to my PC. I am not too concerned about my MixPre6 output options in the above scenario, unless I am not seeing some additional advantage to the mixpre6 outputs.

I should ask one more unrelated question: Is there any chance that there will be an android app coming to take advantage of the Bluetooth functionality for us Android users?

Thanks for any help in answering this. I'm itching to order... ;D

Since my questions got buried amongst the many pages, I emailed Paul directly and he promptly responded, so I thought I would share the answers:
Hi Dallman

1. No. The Kashmir preamps are on the XLR 1-4 inputs, not the 1/8" Aux In.

2. The MixPre-6 has a maximum of 6 input channels. You cannot use the Mix tracks to expand that to 8 input channels.

"Is there any way to route one of the existing stereo pairs solely to the mix tracks which I could then record at a different gain?"

There is a way to do this but it requires that you use  a combination of the software gain controls and channel knobs.

thanks

Paul
so I wonder what the preamp on the 1/8 is compared to, I mean I'm sure it's good but is it as good as _____
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: aaronji on May 17, 2017, 08:27:16 AM
https://livestream.com/gothamsound/sound-devices-mixpre-6

live stream right now of this recorder from Gotham

Thanks for posting this!  Very informative.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dogmusic on May 17, 2017, 01:01:03 PM
Can you send different tracks out the STEREO OUT than the HEADPHONE OUT?

Could you send only Tracks 1&2 through one and only Tracks 3&4 out the other?
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Popmarter on May 17, 2017, 02:15:22 PM
Does anyone know if these knobs on the mixpre 3 (or 6) can be set on hold, to prevent further movement?
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: gewwang on May 17, 2017, 04:05:36 PM
From Gotham:
We are expecting the mix-pre to start shipping from Sound Devices on the 19th.

We are only receiving a few at a time from SD
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: mountaintaper on May 18, 2017, 09:57:57 AM
Yesterday my L-type battery sled shipped, so I'll have that to stare at and do noting with for at least a few days until MixPre-6 might ship.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Paul Isaacs on May 18, 2017, 12:03:11 PM
Can you send different tracks out the STEREO OUT than the HEADPHONE OUT?

Could you send only Tracks 1&2 through one and only Tracks 3&4 out the other?

Yes!
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Paul Isaacs on May 18, 2017, 12:04:59 PM
Does anyone know if these knobs on the mixpre 3 (or 6) can be set on hold, to prevent further movement?

At this time, no.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Popmarter on May 18, 2017, 12:06:08 PM
Does anyone know if these knobs on the mixpre 3 (or 6) can be set on hold, to prevent further movement?

At this time, no.

ok, thanks!
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dogmusic on May 18, 2017, 01:00:38 PM
Can you send different tracks out the STEREO OUT than the HEADPHONE OUT?

Could you send only Tracks 1&2 through one and only Tracks 3&4 out the other?

Yes!

That's great, Paul. Thanks!
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Paul Isaacs on May 18, 2017, 04:05:42 PM
Some MixPre audio samples uploaded here ...

https://www.sounddevices.com/products/recorders/mixpre-3/audio-samples
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: voltronic on May 18, 2017, 08:51:07 PM
Some MixPre audio samples uploaded here ...

https://www.sounddevices.com/products/recorders/mixpre-3/audio-samples

Very impressive samples!  Fellow pianist here, and I'm curious to know if you are playing on any or all of the C7 piano samples.  Excellent playing for the opening the Mephisto Waltz, but the Rachmaninov was a better recording with these mics in this space at the closer distance.  Would love to hear what the MixPre can do with a top quality set of omnis (Gefell M296, Josephson C617 or such) on a concert grand in a good hall.

Extremely low self-noise on these preamps also.  Very well done!
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: aaronji on May 19, 2017, 08:27:47 AM
Does anyone know if these knobs on the mixpre 3 (or 6) can be set on hold, to prevent further movement?

At this time, no.

Can I read this as suggesting that a hold function may be something that is added in the future?
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Paul Isaacs on May 19, 2017, 08:28:58 AM
Some MixPre audio samples uploaded here ...

https://www.sounddevices.com/products/recorders/mixpre-3/audio-samples

Very impressive samples!  Fellow pianist here, and I'm curious to know if you are playing on any or all of the C7 piano samples.  Excellent playing for the opening the Mephisto Waltz, but the Rachmaninov was a better recording with these mics in this space at the closer distance.  Would love to hear what the MixPre can do with a top quality set of omnis (Gefell M296, Josephson C617 or such) on a concert grand in a good hall.

Extremely low self-noise on these preamps also.  Very well done!

Yes - all the C7 samples were me - a bit ragged but thats what you get when you're unrehearsed and focussing on preamp recording. These were intentionally recorded raw and dry so you can easily hear preamps. I very much agree that it would be great to hear some top quality omnis on a grand in a concert hall -  I'll see if we can arrange something.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dpower on May 19, 2017, 12:41:31 PM
I realize I'm taking a huge shot in the dark here (or maybe it's better described as "grasping at a straw") but might it be possible to connect the USB port of an SD USBPre 2 to the USB of a MixPre 3/6 and record the USBPre's 2-channel output in the digital domain?

My guess is, it's not possible.

But I'm thinking how great it would be to have both devices in the same bag — 6 Sound Devices preamps and limiters — and avoid analog cabling between them.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Paul Isaacs on May 19, 2017, 01:45:40 PM
I'm realize I'm taking a huge shot in the dark here (or maybe it's better described as "grasping at a straw") but might it be possible to connect the USB port of an SD USBPre 2 to the USB of a MixPre 3/6 and record the USBPre's 2-channel output in the digital domain?

My guess is, it's not possible.

But I'm thinking how great it might be to have both devices in the same bag — 6 Sound Devices preamps and limiters — and avoid analog cabling between them.

Not possible!
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: if_then_else on May 19, 2017, 03:29:21 PM
Is there a list of approved SD cards for the mixpre-3 and the mixpre-6 yet?

I couldn't find any in the support section yet:
https://www.sounddevices.com/support/approved-media
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Paul Isaacs on May 19, 2017, 04:27:25 PM
Is there a list of approved SD cards for the mixpre-3 and the mixpre-6 yet?

I couldn't find any in the support section yet:
https://www.sounddevices.com/support/approved-media

I would highly recommend these Sound Devices one's as they have been optimized for use in our gear ...
https://www.amazon.com/Sound-Devices-SAM-32SD-32GB-Card/dp/B01MUS45W4/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1495225059&sr=8-2&keywords=sound+devices+sam

There is no approved media list as of yet. Having said that most SanDisk and Delkin SD cards with minimum specs of class 10 have proven to work fine so far.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: voltronic on May 19, 2017, 06:28:47 PM
Some MixPre audio samples uploaded here ...

https://www.sounddevices.com/products/recorders/mixpre-3/audio-samples

Very impressive samples!  Fellow pianist here, and I'm curious to know if you are playing on any or all of the C7 piano samples.  Excellent playing for the opening the Mephisto Waltz, but the Rachmaninov was a better recording with these mics in this space at the closer distance.  Would love to hear what the MixPre can do with a top quality set of omnis (Gefell M296, Josephson C617 or such) on a concert grand in a good hall.

Extremely low self-noise on these preamps also.  Very well done!

Yes - all the C7 samples were me - a bit ragged but thats what you get when you're unrehearsed and focussing on preamp recording. These were intentionally recorded raw and dry so you can easily hear preamps. I very much agree that it would be great to hear some top quality omnis on a grand in a concert hall -  I'll see if we can arrange something.

You're being very humble.  Speaking as a mainly classical guy, your Rachmaninov and Liszt performances were not at all ragged - really very nice playing.  I'm not as qualified to critique your jazz examples, but they sounded great also.

I completely understand the decision to record these tracks in a dry home acoustic, and it really does make the quality of the preamps very apparent.  I downloaded the tracks and the spectrograms confirmed the very quiet background.  This is how I record myself at home also (albeit on a Yamaha U1) so I was especially interested to hear these.

Thanks for posting these, and for all of the great info you've shared here.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Paul Isaacs on May 19, 2017, 06:55:35 PM

Thanks for posting these, and for all of the great info you've shared here.

You're welcome
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: vwmule on May 20, 2017, 02:37:25 AM
Second that ... Thanks, Paul, for dropping in and answering questions. Ordered the MP6 on Thursday.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dogmusic on May 20, 2017, 08:28:13 PM
Paul, the Beethoven Medley is my favourite. I thought you managed to put a lot of heart into your playing, despite the session's focus on demonstrating the preamps.

Also, I liked the mic position on that one and on "Ethereal". They made the C7 sound like a totally different/better instrument than on "Dark Sustain" or "JazzyThang" where the piano sounded harsh and closed in. (I assume the mics were placed nearer on those than on the first two I mentioned.)

And let me add my thanks for all your patient replies to all the questions.

I had already placed my order for a MixPre-6 before hearing these samples, but they confirmed for me that it was the right decision -- regardless of the sad state of the Canuck buck!

And here's a mouth-watering picture from jwsoundgroup.net for those of us awaiting delivery...




Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Fatah Ruark (aka MIKE B) on May 21, 2017, 02:25:03 PM
B+H has the current availability at:

Quote
Expected availability: Jun 7, 2017

I'm assuming that is if I order today (as opposed to when I ordered a few weeks ago and it said "End of May."

...really hoping to get this thing in my hands by TAB on 5/31, but I know it's likely I won't have it until Panic at Red Rocks (which at least leaves plenty of time to play with it...not that I expect it to be hard to figure out.

Anyone that ordered the first day get a shipping notification yet?
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: jbell on May 21, 2017, 04:28:25 PM
Not yet and I would be shocked if I did.  Gotham sales told me they are only getting 4 in the first batch

B+H has the current availability at:

Quote
Expected availability: Jun 7, 2017

I'm assuming that is if I order today (as opposed to when I ordered a few weeks ago and it said "End of May."

...really hoping to get this thing in my hands by TAB on 5/31, but I know it's likely I won't have it until Panic at Red Rocks (which at least leaves plenty of time to play with it...not that I expect it to be hard to figure out.

Anyone that ordered the first day get a shipping notification yet?
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: pohaku on May 21, 2017, 07:41:42 PM
I am quite interested to hear how good the Mixpre's preamps are compared to other SD devices and to the F8.  I am currently using a USBPre2 to feed the main pair of my F8, and using the stock F8 pres for other mics and board feeds.  I am awaiting the new portable Pueblo pre as well.  While I expect that the Mixpre's preamps will be better than those in the F8, it will be interesting if there is a significant audible difference compared to using a good outboard pre with the F8.  Of course, purely in the interest of portability, I may just need to pick up a Mixpre 6 as well. ;D
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Fatah Ruark (aka MIKE B) on May 21, 2017, 08:15:44 PM
Not yet and I would be shocked if I did.  Gotham sales told me they are only getting 4 in the first batch

I would assume SD will ship higher quantities based on the stores volume of sales...so B+H should get more than Gotham.

That being said, I would also expect that B+H really had no idea how many they would get in the first batch so they really didn't have an accurate way of pushing back the delivery date. I am planning on NOT getting mine when they said I would. :D
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: justink on May 21, 2017, 09:22:55 PM
i want a mixpre-6.  i know it's loaded with features (mostly that i don't need/use). 

but really, for what we/i do...  it's not much of an improvement over my Oade CM R-44.  I'm looking for eight powered XLR/TRS inputs for eight ISO channels.  I would totally buy a mixpre-6 if it had six.  those extra two (almost afterthought) channels aren't upping the ante for me.  i guess i can use those channels for a dedicated soundboard patch.  can you JUST use those two side channels only? 

that said, the convoluted way of distributing and controlling gain across those six channels also has me worried.  i'd like dedicated knobs for each channel as well.  if the unit is bigger because of it, so be it.

anyone care to sell me on the mixpre-6?
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: old and in the way on May 22, 2017, 03:11:22 PM
good news my mixpre3 is on its way. they are not expecting the 8aa sled for another 2 wks but at least ill have the 4aa sled . plus i bought a usbc to usba cable .Location sound just called about 10 min ago and  gave me the good news.say they will ship it out today.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: gewwang on May 22, 2017, 03:52:09 PM
^ great news, congrats.

Looks like Gotham got 4 of each:


https://twitter.com/GothamSound/status/866667614101221377/photo/1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.gothamsound.com%2F (https://twitter.com/GothamSound/status/866667614101221377/photo/1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.gothamsound.com%2F)

Unfortunately, I haven't been called yet so I probably wasn't one of them.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: stuartprovine on May 22, 2017, 04:11:09 PM
Really hoping that in a future firmware update that these recorders will be able to synchronize in a master / slave kind of fashion.  I imagine that one master unit could send sample clock and transport commands over the HDMI cable.  I know there's no TC generator, but even having sync'd clocks and transport would be great for my needs.  Fingers crossed.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: rippleish20 on May 22, 2017, 05:12:00 PM
Trew said they are getting enough to cover their earliest orders and mine should ship this week (Mixpre-6) ...
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: tgakidis on May 22, 2017, 05:51:40 PM
Got my tracking notice from Gotham!
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: jbell on May 22, 2017, 05:58:35 PM
Me too!  Thanks Ted

Got my tracking notice from Gotham!
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: willndmb on May 22, 2017, 06:54:53 PM
I'm glad to hear these are shipping for you guys. Can't wait to hear real live samples.

Still find it hard to believe there isnt a hold feature with those big knobs though
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: yug du nord on May 23, 2017, 05:45:46 PM
I'm glad to hear these are shipping for you guys. Can't wait to hear real live samples.

Still find it hard to believe there isnt a hold feature with those big knobs though

I'm not worried about the knobs..  but it would be great to be able to lock the "STOP" and "POWER" buttons.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: datbrad on May 23, 2017, 05:59:09 PM
Most recorders with a hold switch I've seen lock out all transport controls, but leave gain knobs adjustable. I was surprised to read in the user guide for the Tascam DR701 that the hold even locks out the gain knobs. I wonder what happens when the hold is taken off after a gain knob was inadvertently moved. Does it realign with it's current position and that's it, or suddenly jump to whatever new position the knob ended up? Anybody know?
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: rippleish20 on May 23, 2017, 08:15:27 PM
Found these decent shorty Rt Angle cables for the USB C input of the MixPre from China! I just bought [3] of the short ones and [2] of the longer ones with the braiding! I have about 8+ of these exact same cables to power BOTH of my DR-70D's, except with a Micro USB-B end, instead of the USB-C end, and they have worked out AWESOME & flawlessly for me in the 2+ years I've been using them, so I have no fears buying the MixPre6 for under $1k, and then only buying $1.50 USB-C Cables for them from China lol ;) ;D

Right Angle USB-A>USB-C Shorty Cables
http://www.ebay.com/itm/381770102038
3' Right Angle USB-A>USB-C Braided Cables
http://www.ebay.com/itm/162327537413?var=461341515784

I bought one of these - it actually looks pretty well made
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: voltronic on May 23, 2017, 09:13:13 PM
Most recorders with a hold switch I've seen lock out all transport controls, but leave gain knobs adjustable. I was surprised to read in the user guide for the Tascam DR701 that the hold even locks out the gain knobs. I wonder what happens when the hold is taken off after a gain knob was inadvertently moved. Does it realign with it's current position and that's it, or suddenly jump to whatever new position the knob ended up? Anybody know?

If it works like the DR-70D (quite likely), then it suddenly jumps to the new position.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Vunz on May 24, 2017, 06:22:43 AM
As far as I know, this the first, albeit very short and unscientific, comparison between the Zoom F8 and the MixPre-3:

https://youtu.be/TzGPe5IBkCU

The difference is clearly noticeable.

Cheers,
Vincent
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: datbrad on May 24, 2017, 06:46:05 AM
Hmm...likely same on dr701...I can imagine if a user didn't notice they had bumped one, then when switched off to make a minor adjustment, all hell breaks loose when one channel goes way off unexpectedly....not a good thing in a packed FOB taping scenario. Coffin nail in the the Tascam for me. Shoot, I was starting to lean that way....price is sure right.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: F.O.Bean on May 24, 2017, 08:41:24 AM
Found these decent shorty Rt Angle cables for the USB C input of the MixPre from China! I just bought [3] of the short ones and [2] of the longer ones with the braiding! I have about 8+ of these exact same cables to power BOTH of my DR-70D's, except with a Micro USB-B end, instead of the USB-C end, and they have worked out AWESOME & flawlessly for me in the 2+ years I've been using them, so I have no fears buying the MixPre6 for under $1k, and then only buying $1.50 USB-C Cables for them from China lol ;) ;D

Right Angle USB-A>USB-C Shorty Cables
http://www.ebay.com/itm/381770102038
3' Right Angle USB-A>USB-C Braided Cables
http://www.ebay.com/itm/162327537413?var=461341515784

I bought one of these - it actually looks pretty well made

Sweet 8) Like I said, I bought these exact same cables, except with Micro B ends, and they have worked FLAWLESSLY with both of my DR-70D's ;) I'm still waiting on my Micro C cables from this link! Let us know how they work when you receive them ;D

And I'm ordering my MixPre6 ASAP! I should have it ordered within the next week or two MAX! So once I sell my backup 70D and a few other things, I'll be ordering a brand new MixPre6, and it's LITERALLY the LAST piece of my taping puzzle! Caps, KCY's, +60v PFA's, Stands, clamps, shocks, etc CHECK, and are ALL taken care of and top notch! The LAST HQ thing that I've wanted/needed is a badass deck! And the MixPre6 was made FOR ME, because it has EVERYTHING that I have wanted in a tiny, multi-channel recorder :)

And yeah, I've been screwed over TOO MANY damn times by the DR70D's stupidly designed HOLD/Gain Knobs debacle! If I forget that Hold is ON when I'm trying to dial in my levels, then I end up screwing up my levels and have to fix the error/s in post production! VERY BIG PITA IMO!

That said, the ONLY thing that I want SD to add to their new FW is a HOLD option/function of some kind! That way, hitting the STOP button ONCE wouldn't STOP/RUIN your recordings! At least add something easy, like you HAVE TO hit the STOP button 2x-3x before it actually STOPS the deck! Wouldn't that be easy in another FW Update?
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: F.O.Bean on May 24, 2017, 12:05:45 PM
Any chance of an Android based Wingman app? I'd REALLY like to take advantage of that app with my Google Pixel FWIW
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: sos on May 24, 2017, 12:28:30 PM
Sweetwater has received their initial shipment and is fulfilling early orders, in case anyone has placed pre-orders there...
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Fatah Ruark (aka MIKE B) on May 24, 2017, 01:59:30 PM
Any chance of an Android based Wingman app? I'd REALLY like to take advantage of that app with my Google Pixel FWIW

I'm under the impression there is some issue getting apps like this to work with Android.

I think I'll probably just pick up an iPod Touch to use with this, the DPA d.Vice and I also have a drone that's app is horrible on Android, but great on iOS.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dactylus on May 24, 2017, 02:18:53 PM
Sweetwater has received their initial shipment and is fulfilling early orders, in case anyone has placed pre-orders there...

Trew Audio in Nashville took my order, I was #5 on their list.  Today they're receiving 2 MixPre 6's & 3's & two "demo units".  I will likely receive my order once they receive their second shipment next week...

 :cheers:
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: rigpimp on May 24, 2017, 04:49:06 PM
I reached out to Sweetwater and they said they dont think theyll have regular stock until after July 6th.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: jbell on May 24, 2017, 05:12:26 PM
Have mine in hand and it is REALLY small.  Super high quality construction.  Super stoked
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: aaronji on May 24, 2017, 05:23:29 PM
^ Details please! Did you get the 6 or 3? I (and, I am sure, others) would love some feedback! How is the touch screen? I can't wait for these to become available in Europe...

[Edit: How stiff are the gain knobs and the transport buttons? Is the lack of a hold likely to be a problem?]
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: jbell on May 24, 2017, 06:17:46 PM
Got the Mixpre-6.  Only played with it for about 45 minutes.  It is AWESOME super HQ as you expect from SD.  The gain knobs are stiff and would be hard to move accidentally in a gear bag.  Touch screen works great and easy to navigate.  The metering is awesome. Put a 64gig PNY card in it formatted the card and works fine with my minimal testing.  It is amazingly small hard to believe until you hold it.  For now that is all, I only had a little bit of time to use it.  I'll try to post back later this weekend.  I'll try to find something to record. 
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: aaronji on May 24, 2017, 06:33:28 PM
^ I'm drooling a little...

Thanks for the comments and I can't wait to hear more!

Kind of tempted to order from the States and have family re-ship, but I should probably exercise some patience for a change...
 
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: jbell on May 24, 2017, 06:36:52 PM
I have been waiting for this recorder for a while!  This crushes the competition for me personally.  Big upgrade from my DR-70d

^ I'm drooling a little...

Thanks for the comments and I can't wait to hear more!

Kind of tempted to order from the States and have family re-ship, but I should probably exercise some patience for a change...
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: rippleish20 on May 24, 2017, 07:32:44 PM
Sweetwater has received their initial shipment and is fulfilling early orders, in case anyone has placed pre-orders there...

Trew Audio in Nashville took my order, I was #5 on their list.  Today they're receiving 2 MixPre 6's & 3's & two "demo units".  I will likely receive my order once they receive their second shipment next week...

 :cheers:

I was in the first two on their list and mine shipped!  :headphones:
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Fatah Ruark (aka MIKE B) on May 24, 2017, 07:48:01 PM
I'm thinking this battery looks pretty good. Same length at the recorder (about 6.5"). Anyone else pick up one of these? Anyone know how long this battery should run this sucker with 4 channels going?

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00X5RV14Y/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A294P4X9EWVXLJ
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: mountaintaper on May 24, 2017, 08:15:37 PM
Sweetwater has received their initial shipment and is fulfilling early orders, in case anyone has placed pre-orders there...

Trew Audio in Nashville took my order, I was #5 on their list.  Today they're receiving 2 MixPre 6's & 3's & two "demo units".  I will likely receive my order once they receive their second shipment next week...

 :cheers:

I was in the first two on their list and mine shipped!  :headphones:

I was #1..ordered mine within 5 minutes of the announcement.  Shipped today from Trew.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: tgakidis on May 24, 2017, 08:29:58 PM
Got mine in hand.  Two of the three USB C cables I ordered don't send enough power from a USB battery to power more then 2 channels of phantom. The stock one from SD only works on 4 channels if both USB A plugs are plugged in. This is the one that can power 4 phantom channels off a USB battery. https://www.ebay.com/itm/162439366511
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: tgakidis on May 24, 2017, 08:32:42 PM
I was able to set up the custom menu to use the fader knobs to control gain on channels 1-4.  5-6 still need to be done from the menu screen.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: vwmule on May 24, 2017, 08:50:41 PM
Ted, let's see that baby lined up with the F8.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: voltronic on May 24, 2017, 10:29:44 PM
Got mine in hand.  Two of the three USB C cables I ordered don't send enough power from a USB battery to power more then 2 channels of phantom. The stock one from SD only works on 4 channels if both USB A plugs are plugged in. This is the one that can power 4 phantom channels off a USB battery. https://www.ebay.com/itm/162439366511

Shouldn't any cable that is USB 3.1 compliant do the trick (assuming the proper termination of course)?

Like this one from the same seller:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/USB-3-1-USB-C-Angled-to-Left-Angled-90-Degree-A-Male-Data-Cable-for-Macbook-30cm/152311431187 (http://www.ebay.com/itm/USB-3-1-USB-C-Angled-to-Left-Angled-90-Degree-A-Male-Data-Cable-for-Macbook-30cm/152311431187)
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: willndmb on May 24, 2017, 11:13:01 PM
Got the Mixpre-6.  Only played with it for about 45 minutes.  It is AWESOME super HQ as you expect from SD.  The gain knobs are stiff and would be hard to move accidentally in a gear bag.  Touch screen works great and easy to navigate.  The metering is awesome. Put a 64gig PNY card in it formatted the card and works fine with my minimal testing.  It is amazingly small hard to believe until you hold it.  For now that is all, I only had a little bit of time to use it.  I'll try to post back later this weekend.  I'll try to find something to record.
could you try and snap some pics with the m10?
thanks
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: pohaku on May 25, 2017, 12:00:12 AM
Quote from: vwmule link :really_sucks:=topic=181803.msg2228203#msg2228203 date=1495673441
Ted, let's see that baby lined up with the F8.

Better yet, I would be interested in a comparison of the preamps with the F8, since you now have both.  I am obviously just looking for an excuse to get one of these.   :lol:
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Todd R on May 25, 2017, 12:19:35 AM
I'm thinking this battery looks pretty good. Same length at the recorder (about 6.5"). Anyone else pick up one of these? Anyone know how long this battery should run this sucker with 4 channels going?

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00X5RV14Y/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A294P4X9EWVXLJ

That's the battery I ordered, sitting here waiting for the MP6 to show up.  I think I was figuring 10-12 hours runtime optimistically, and probably 8-10 hours more conservatively.

I bugged bhphoto customer service about my order.  First couple of emails seemed canned saying it is out of stock and they would contact me when new stock arrived.  Then got an email saying their shipment to fulfill my order would arrive at their warehouse in 3-5 days.  Sounds like it will be too late unfortunately for Trey at RR, but in plenty of time for Panic.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: tgakidis on May 25, 2017, 05:04:37 AM
Ted, let's see that baby lined up with the F8.

Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: tgakidis on May 25, 2017, 05:06:39 AM
Quote from: vwmule link :really_sucks:=topic=181803.msg2228203#msg2228203 date=1495673441
Ted, let's see that baby lined up with the F8.

Better yet, I would be interested in a comparison of the preamps with the F8, since you now have both.  I am obviously just looking for an excuse to get one of these.   :lol:

Like you need an excuse
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: rogs on May 25, 2017, 07:35:26 AM
I hate Sound Devices....
 
I've been an amateur taper for more years than I care to remember. Nothing serious - I just enjoying playing around with audio kit.

But I know my place.  I bought an Olympus LS5 (which I still think is the best made ever of the small 2 track recorders)....I bought a Sony M10 - mostly after following reports on this board - lovely piece of kit.

I always wanted something by Sound Devices of course, but the prices were always way above what I could justify spending.

Now they go and bring out the MixPre3... I still can't really justify spending that much, but it's soooo tempting... I now have to wrestle with my conscience.... if only they'de kept their prices stratospheric, I shouldn't be suffering all this anguish.

As I say, I hate them!... :)
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: pohaku on May 25, 2017, 08:11:56 AM
Quote from: vwmule link :really_sucks:=topic=181803.msg2228203#msg2228203 date=1495673441
Ted, let's see that baby lined up with the F8.

Better yet, I would be interested in a comparison of the preamps with the F8, since you now have both.  I am obviously just looking for an excuse to get one of these.   :lol:

Like you need an excuse

I have a wife.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: pohaku on May 25, 2017, 08:14:54 AM
Ted, let's see that baby lined up with the F8.

Damn.  It is much smaller than I expected.  Impressive.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dogmusic on May 25, 2017, 11:10:17 AM
I'm thinking this battery looks pretty good. Same length at the recorder (about 6.5"). Anyone else pick up one of these? Anyone know how long this battery should run this sucker with 4 channels going?

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00X5RV14Y/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A294P4X9EWVXLJ

That's the battery I ordered, sitting here waiting for the MP6 to show up.  I think I was figuring 10-12 hours runtime optimistically, and probably 8-10 hours more conservatively.


Are you planning to use the supplied SD Y-cable to plug into both ports of this battery simultaneously?

I'm wondering if I could get by for now just using two external USB battery packs that I already have. But their maximum output port is only 2.1A.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: tgakidis on May 25, 2017, 11:21:43 AM
Are you planning to use the supplied SD Y-cable to plug into both ports of this battery simultaneously?

I'm wondering if I could get by for now just using two external USB battery packs that I already have. But their maximum output port is only 2.1A.

My guess is you will be ok because I sued a Tekkeon 3450's usb out and that worked and there is no way it's more then 2.1A, most likey it's 1.5a
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Todd R on May 25, 2017, 11:36:09 AM
I'm thinking this battery looks pretty good. Same length at the recorder (about 6.5"). Anyone else pick up one of these? Anyone know how long this battery should run this sucker with 4 channels going?

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00X5RV14Y/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A294P4X9EWVXLJ

That's the battery I ordered, sitting here waiting for the MP6 to show up.  I think I was figuring 10-12 hours runtime optimistically, and probably 8-10 hours more conservatively.


Are you planning to use the supplied SD Y-cable to plug into both ports of this battery simultaneously?


No plan yet, guess I was figuring I'd get an appropriate right angle cable and just use the supplied Y cable in the meantime.  Didn't realize until yesterday's reporting that the cables might be so finicky and that the Y cable would only work if both USB-A ends were plugged in. 

It looks like I'll have plenty of time to play with it once I get it and before I get out to record, but in a pinch hopefully the Y cable will work plugged into both ports of the above battery.  I also have 4-5 smaller single port USB external batteries, so hopefully some combination of a couple of those and the Y cable will work until I can get a working right angle cable.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: rippleish20 on May 25, 2017, 11:52:01 AM
After some googling, the USB-C cable situation is more complicated than one might think. Many companies appear to skip the specs although thanks to one Google Engineer many of them are no up to spec. And some companies, ie Apple, introduce their own solutions that go above spec...



https://www.engadget.com/2015/11/04/google-pixel-engineer-vs-shoddy-usb-type-c-cables/

http://www.androidauthority.com/usb-type-c-and-3-1-explained-656552/

https://www.reddit.com/r/NintendoSwitch/comments/5x948s/answering_your_questions_about_usb_typec/


Although I have bought some, random Chinese cables bought off Ebay make me a little nervous. The Mixpre presumably only draws 1.5 amp so cables lacking the resistors specified in the standard might not be a problem, but I would prefer to have cables that provide protection.

This cable looks good

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B010VFFU1W/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A3MG5HP7HSRMFL


I would be interested in comments from those who build cables etc and know more about some of the issues...
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: vwmule on May 25, 2017, 11:56:24 AM
Holy hell that's small. The F8 is compact itself.

Thanks for doing that. Hope my MP6 arrives soon.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dogmusic on May 25, 2017, 12:07:31 PM
Are you planning to use the supplied SD Y-cable to plug into both ports of this battery simultaneously?

I'm wondering if I could get by for now just using two external USB battery packs that I already have. But their maximum output port is only 2.1A.

My guess is you will be ok because I sued a Tekkeon 3450's usb out and that worked and there is no way it's more then 2.1A, most likey it's 1.5a

That's really surprising that 2.1A alone or even 1.5A will work. Thanks for that info.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dogmusic on May 25, 2017, 12:17:05 PM
I'm thinking this battery looks pretty good. Same length at the recorder (about 6.5"). Anyone else pick up one of these? Anyone know how long this battery should run this sucker with 4 channels going?

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00X5RV14Y/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A294P4X9EWVXLJ

That's the battery I ordered, sitting here waiting for the MP6 to show up.  I think I was figuring 10-12 hours runtime optimistically, and probably 8-10 hours more conservatively.


Are you planning to use the supplied SD Y-cable to plug into both ports of this battery simultaneously?


No plan yet, guess I was figuring I'd get an appropriate right angle cable and just use the supplied Y cable in the meantime.  Didn't realize until yesterday's reporting that the cables might be so finicky and that the Y cable would only work if both USB-A ends were plugged in. 

It looks like I'll have plenty of time to play with it once I get it and before I get out to record, but in a pinch hopefully the Y cable will work plugged into both ports of the above battery.  I also have 4-5 smaller single port USB external batteries, so hopefully some combination of a couple of those and the Y cable will work until I can get a working right angle cable.

I've got my eye on that battery as well, so it'll be interesting to see how that works out.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dactylus on May 25, 2017, 02:16:32 PM
Are you planning to use the supplied SD Y-cable to plug into both ports of this battery simultaneously?

I'm wondering if I could get by for now just using two external USB battery packs that I already have. But their maximum output port is only 2.1A.

My guess is you will be ok because I sued a Tekkeon 3450's usb out and that worked and there is no way it's more then 2.1A, most likey it's 1.5a

Ted looking at the left and right side of the MP-6 it appears that the standard exit angles for RA XLR's of 1:30-2:00 on the left side and 10:00-10:30 on the right side might cause some issues with the usb-a port & the 3.5mm Mic/Aux aux input.  What is your opinion of workable, RA xlr cables for the MP-6?  Thanks!

David

Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: jbell on May 25, 2017, 04:18:47 PM
I grabbed this cable and it worked fine for 2 channels!  I haven't tried 4 channels

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01932JAIS/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Also grabbed this battery

Vinsic 20000mAh Power Bank, Ultra Slim External Battery Pack Backup Portable Charger with Qucik Charger, Type C, Smart USB Outputs for All Smartphones
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: tgakidis on May 25, 2017, 04:22:06 PM

Ted looking at the left and right side of the MP-6 it appears that the standard exit angles for RA XLR's of 1:30-2:00 on the left side and 10:00-10:30 on the right side might cause some issues with the usb-a port & the 3.5mm Mic/Aux aux input.  What is your opinion of workable, RA xlr cables for the MP-6?  Thanks!

David

i guess it all depends on what things might get in the way.  i personally wouldn't be using the usb-a in the field.  Most of my angles are 7:30 on the left and 4:30 on the right since i have a tube amp powering my telefunkens and not straight in from the mics.  in your case 4:30 on the left and 7:30 on the right.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: sos on May 25, 2017, 04:49:22 PM
More pics, to get a sense of scale...

Pictured below, with a SD MixPre-D, inside a Sachtler #SN607 (small) audio bag
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Fatah Ruark (aka MIKE B) on May 25, 2017, 08:15:43 PM
Mine just shipped. Worst case scenario it arrives in the afternoon of TAB at Red Rocks (next Wednesday). Hopefully the day before so I don't have to figure things out in the section! (I do have my M10 rig, so I'll have a backup rig going).
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: GDfan on May 25, 2017, 10:43:27 PM
I got my tracking number today from B&H, WOOT! Now I can't wait till it gets here (wednesday probably)!
 :cheers: :cheers: :cheers: :cheers: :cheers:
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: F.O.Bean on May 25, 2017, 10:45:12 PM
I have been waiting for this recorder for a while!  This crushes the competition for me personally.  Big upgrade from my DR-70d

^ I'm drooling a little...

Thanks for the comments and I can't wait to hear more!

Kind of tempted to order from the States and have family re-ship, but I should probably exercise some patience for a change...

Exactly! I already know its about the size of a DR-70D! And I knew this would be a Tascam DR70D/701D and Zoom F4/F8 KILLER :) Hopefully I can order my MixPre6 SOON :)
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: F.O.Bean on May 25, 2017, 10:48:27 PM
I got ahold of someone from SD, and they said that the USB-C port draws NO MORE than 1.5A@MAX ;) So ANY USB Battery with a 2.1A output SHOULD work beautifully!
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: justink on May 25, 2017, 11:44:52 PM
After some googling, the USB-C cable situation is more complicated than one might think. Many companies appear to skip the specs although thanks to one Google Engineer many of them are no up to spec. And some companies, ie Apple, introduce their own solutions that go above spec...



https://www.engadget.com/2015/11/04/google-pixel-engineer-vs-shoddy-usb-type-c-cables/

http://www.androidauthority.com/usb-type-c-and-3-1-explained-656552/

https://www.reddit.com/r/NintendoSwitch/comments/5x948s/answering_your_questions_about_usb_typec/


Although I have bought some, random Chinese cables bought off Ebay make me a little nervous. The Mixpre presumably only draws 1.5 amp so cables lacking the resistors specified in the standard might not be a problem, but I would prefer to have cables that provide protection.

This cable looks good

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B010VFFU1W/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A3MG5HP7HSRMFL


I would be interested in comments from those who build cables etc and know more about some of the issues...

thanks for doing the legwork. 

this is why i'm not an early adopter of any tech.  i like to read up and watch things shake out.  also, still hoping for that mixpre-10.

post plenty of tapes!
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: jcable77 on May 25, 2017, 11:46:31 PM
Who's taping what this weekend so we can keep an eye out for some samples of what these sound like and how user friendly they are?
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: F.O.Bean on May 25, 2017, 11:54:15 PM
After some googling, the USB-C cable situation is more complicated than one might think. Many companies appear to skip the specs although thanks to one Google Engineer many of them are no up to spec. And some companies, ie Apple, introduce their own solutions that go above spec...



https://www.engadget.com/2015/11/04/google-pixel-engineer-vs-shoddy-usb-type-c-cables/

http://www.androidauthority.com/usb-type-c-and-3-1-explained-656552/

https://www.reddit.com/r/NintendoSwitch/comments/5x948s/answering_your_questions_about_usb_typec/


Although I have bought some, random Chinese cables bought off Ebay make me a little nervous. The Mixpre presumably only draws 1.5 amp so cables lacking the resistors specified in the standard might not be a problem, but I would prefer to have cables that provide protection.

This cable looks good

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B010VFFU1W/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A3MG5HP7HSRMFL


I would be interested in comments from those who build cables etc and know more about some of the issues...

thanks for doing the legwork. 

this is why i'm not an early adopter of any tech.  i like to read up and watch things shake out.  also, still hoping for that mixpre-10.

post plenty of tapes!

Thanks a BUNCH Rippleish :) I have already bought these 2 cheapos from Ebay, so I'll definitely let yinz all know if they work ok once I get my MP6!

http://www.ebay.com/itm/162327537413?_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649&var=461341515785&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT

http://www.ebay.com/itm/381770102038?_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT

Also, if anyone wants the BEST USB Chargers/Accessories/Batteries, then look no further than ANKER ;) I have bought all kinds of Anker stuff recently and LOVE all of it so far! I'll also be buying Anker USB batteries to STRICTLY run with my MP6! No more cheap, no brand USB batteries lol! Those will be used with my backup DR-70D from now on!

http://www.ebay.com/itm/331934645975?_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT

Also, if anyone wants some Micro B>C Adapters, I would ONLY buy these Anker ones! They work AMAZING with the Anker Powerline series USBA>Micro B cables that I just bought to replace ALL of my old USB cables! Anyway, these Anker Micro C Adapters have the 56k resistor that makes them work perfectly with the Anker cables I linked above! They allow my Google Pixel phone to be charged at MAXIMUM speed with the Anker USB Chargers I have, and the Anker Powerline USB A>Micro B Cables with the Anker Micro B>C Adapters! So basically what I'm saying is, if you want the BEST USB quality stuff, buy Anker ;) Their prices are MORE than reasonable too!

http://www.ebay.com/itm/222207138721?_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Jhurlbs81 on May 26, 2017, 08:37:53 AM
These decks are going to decimate the resale value of the 7xx series IMO.  Anyone got a crappy old 702 sitting around that they want to part with?  ;) :P
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: johnw on May 26, 2017, 10:13:37 AM
Anyone know which resellers are getting stock? I'd like to try and pick one up for a show on 7/8. I figure B&H is probably a safe bet as I'm sure they are a high volume reseller but I could go with Trew or Sweetwater if someone else is more likely to get them in sooner.

Also I'm going to hang on to my 744. It still has at least 2-3 key features that these don't have and remains a reliable 4 channel recorder for our purposes.

EDIT: Found a reseller that had 3 in stock. Should have it in hand next week
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: willndmb on May 26, 2017, 11:28:19 AM
These decks are going to decimate the resale value of the 7xx series IMO.  Anyone got a crappy old 702 sitting around that they want to part with?  ;) :P
agreed as a whole but like johnw said there are a few features the older boxes have that if you use them are of value
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: tgakidis on May 26, 2017, 11:32:17 AM
One thing that threw me for a loop is that this records in poly wave files.  I have only had experience with a wave file for each channel or stereo pair.  So, when I saw there was only one file for each dry run test I did, I was like, WTF?  Called SD support and they educated me on poly wave files. Popped it up in audicity and all became clear.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dallman on May 26, 2017, 11:34:06 AM
Got mine in hand.  Two of the three USB C cables I ordered don't send enough power from a USB battery to power more then 2 channels of phantom. The stock one from SD only works on 4 channels if both USB A plugs are plugged in. This is the one that can power 4 phantom channels off a USB battery. https://www.ebay.com/itm/162439366511

Most of the newer 5v batteries have greater output and 2 usb outputs. I would think using the 2 outputs from the same battery will allow powering of all 4 channels with the supplied USB cable,if the battery has sufficient amp output. Here is one I use now:

https://www.monoprice.com/Product?p_id=15124 (https://www.monoprice.com/Product?p_id=15124)

Output Power (Port 1 / Port 2) 1.5 / 2.4 amps
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: tgakidis on May 26, 2017, 11:41:34 AM
I bought one like this to try out.  I will probably build a dual right angle > USB C this weekend.

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41fkjt914HL._SL500_AC_SS350_.jpg)
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Jhurlbs81 on May 26, 2017, 11:53:42 AM
Can anyone help me out here on the 3?  I am confused on how many channels it can record.  The manual says, "The MixPre-3 can record up to five audio tracks at 96kHz, 24-bit to SD cards
(SD, SDHC, or SDXC) using the industry standard .WAV file format."

I would like to use 2 of the XLR inputs for mics and the stereo mini in for a stereo soundboard.  Can it record 4 separate tracks? 

Jesse
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: goodcooker on May 26, 2017, 11:55:10 AM
One thing that threw me for a loop is that this records in poly wave files.  I have only had experience with a wave file for each channel or stereo pair.  So, when I saw there was only one file for each dry run test I did, I was like, WTF?  Called SD support and they educated me on poly wave files. Popped it up in audicity and all became clear.

Boo. I use Wavelab and I don't think it plays nice with poly files. At least it didn't on version 5 when I accidentally recorded 4 channels as poly when I had the R4.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: johnw on May 26, 2017, 11:55:34 AM
What run times are people getting/expecting using only 8 AA batteries with 4 channels of phantom power?
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Gordon on May 26, 2017, 11:56:50 AM
One thing that threw me for a loop is that this records in poly wave files.  I have only had experience with a wave file for each channel or stereo pair.  So, when I saw there was only one file for each dry run test I did, I was like, WTF?  Called SD support and they educated me on poly wave files. Popped it up in audicity and all became clear.

no option for standard wave files?  anyone know if wavelab 6 can handle these?  found some old post saying it couldn't.  Then found some that maybe in montage it will open them.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: johnw on May 26, 2017, 11:57:31 AM
Poly wave files are not too bad. Just use the free Sound Devices wave agent program to make stereo tracks if that's what your editing program requires. It takes about 5-10 seconds to make a stereo track for a 90 minute recording
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: sos on May 26, 2017, 12:00:12 PM
I've just encountered an issue with a Transcend 64GB SDXC card, in the MixPre-6. Obviously, as Murphy's Law would have it, it was the first card I attempted to use with it. While sending off a short video to Sound Devices tech support, I tested another card (a 32GB SanDisk Extreme Pro) that seems to work just fine. While Sound Devices has not yet put up a fully approved media list for the new MixPre recorders, it would be wise to heed Paul Isaacs' previous suggestion in this thread:

"I would highly recommend these Sound Devices one's as they have been optimized for use in our gear ...
https://www.amazon.com/Sound-Devices-SAM-32SD-32GB-Card/dp/B01MUS45W4/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1495225059&sr=8-2&keywords=sound+devices+sam

There is no approved media list as of yet. Having said that most SanDisk and Delkin SD cards with minimum specs of class 10 have proven to work fine so far".



This, was the offending card:

https://www.amazon.com/Transcend-Class-UHS-1-Memory-TS64GSDXC10U1/dp/B00AFTV3FC

...and, this one works fine for me:

https://www.amazon.com/SanDisk-Extreme-UHS-I-Memory-SDSDXPA-032G-AFFP/dp/B007NDL56A/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1495820158&sr=8-1&keywords=sandisk+32gb+sdhc+95mb%2Fsec

Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Paul Isaacs on May 26, 2017, 01:45:54 PM
Pretty much any DAW these days can work with poly files - Protools, Cubase, Logic, Reaper, Audacity, Adobe blah blah. If Wavelab still can't handle polys, then as someone mentioned,
you can easily de-interleave using our free Wave Agent application   
https://www.sounddevices.com/products/accessories/software/wave-agent

Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Paul Isaacs on May 26, 2017, 01:47:28 PM
I've just encountered an issue with a Transcend 64GB SDXC card, in the MixPre-6.


What is the issue? Make sure the card is formatted using the MixPre-6.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: aaronji on May 26, 2017, 01:59:42 PM
Pictured below, with a SD MixPre-D, inside a Sachtler #SN607 (small) audio bag

Thanks for posting that! I have the same bag (actually, the Petrol PS607, which I understand is basically identical except for some cosmetic details). I figured from the measurements that it would be a good fit, but nice to see a picture. I assume you had the 4 x AA sled attached? Looks like there is enough room to accomodate the 8 x AA as well?
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: sos on May 26, 2017, 02:27:10 PM

What is the issue? Make sure the card is formatted using the MixPre-6.

It was formatted in the MP-6. It seemed like it was hesitating, initializing the unit. The LED rings and SD logo would take turns blinking, but it would not go into the menu screen, til the card was popped out. All ok, now. Obviously a card issue.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: sos on May 26, 2017, 02:36:14 PM

...I assume you had the 4 x AA sled attached? Looks like there is enough room to accomodate the 8 x AA as well?

Yes, that's right. Plenty of room, for larger sled and/or rechargeable(s). Super nice, minimalist bag. I used to have the much larger PS617, but that's overkill unless you need to carry lots of additional stuff. Sound Devices also makes the CS-3:

https://www.sounddevices.com/products/accessories/carrying-cases/cs-3

... which they say is "for use with 302, 7-Series recorders and MixPre-D". Maybe Paul can chime in, whether a dedicated bag is in the works, but I'm all set!
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: aaronji on May 26, 2017, 02:45:46 PM
^ Thanks again!

Can anyone help me out here on the 3?  I am confused on how many channels it can record.  The manual says, "The MixPre-3 can record up to five audio tracks at 96kHz, 24-bit to SD cards
(SD, SDHC, or SDXC) using the industry standard .WAV file format."

I would like to use 2 of the XLR inputs for mics and the stereo mini in for a stereo soundboard.  Can it record 4 separate tracks? 

I am pretty sure the 3 can only record three individual tracks plus a LR mix (totaling 5).  The 6 can record 6 individual tracks plus the LR mix (8 in total), so you could use the 1/8" input like you describe on the 6 but not the 3.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Jhurlbs81 on May 26, 2017, 03:56:32 PM
^ Thanks again!

Can anyone help me out here on the 3?  I am confused on how many channels it can record.  The manual says, "The MixPre-3 can record up to five audio tracks at 96kHz, 24-bit to SD cards
(SD, SDHC, or SDXC) using the industry standard .WAV file format."

I would like to use 2 of the XLR inputs for mics and the stereo mini in for a stereo soundboard.  Can it record 4 separate tracks? 

I am pretty sure the 3 can only record three individual tracks plus a LR mix (totaling 5).  The 6 can record 6 individual tracks plus the LR mix (8 in total), so you could use the 1/8" input like you describe on the 6 but not the 3.

Thank you! I am really thinking about grabbing one of these decks.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: jbell on May 26, 2017, 04:00:46 PM
I had the same problem with a 64gig PNY card.  Used a 32gig Transend and it works.  Anyone having success with a 64gb or larger card?  If so, what model?? 


What is the issue? Make sure the card is formatted using the MixPre-6.

It was formatted in the MP-6. It seemed like it was hesitating, initializing the unit. The LED rings and SD logo would take turns blinking, but it would not go into the menu screen, til the card was popped out. All ok, now. Obviously a card issue.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Papa G on May 26, 2017, 04:21:56 PM
Hi All!  I've been a lurker here for awhile mainly to get tips on audio.  I'm a filmmaker and not an audio professional.  But obviously, audio is a big issue for me.  I did a quick record between the Zoom F8 and the Mixpre-3 here in case you're interested.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IFj4FocN8mA

Also a shout-out to TED who's actually made an AES cable for me when I was fiddling with the MixPre-D and a Marantz recorder.  I ended up buying the Zoom F8, which I wouldn't have if Sound Devices came out with the MP3/6 back then.  LOL.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: jbell on May 26, 2017, 05:30:20 PM
 Anyone having success with a 64gb or larger card?  If so, what model??
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: rippleish20 on May 26, 2017, 05:39:55 PM
Anyone having success with a 64gb or larger card?  If so, what model??

Seems odd if these didn't support the same cards as the 6xx mixers. The list generally vets Sandisk and Delkin cards

https://www.sounddevices.com/support/approved-media/6-series-approved-media-list


I was planning on using a Sandisk Extreme Pro 128GB card
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: old and in the way on May 26, 2017, 05:48:36 PM
a good stylus sure helps navigating around
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: pohaku on May 26, 2017, 06:04:03 PM
I've just encountered an issue with a Transcend 64GB SDXC card, in the MixPre-6. Obviously, as Murphy's Law would have it, it was the first card I attempted to use with it. While sending off a short video to Sound Devices tech support, I tested another card (a 32GB SanDisk Extreme Pro) that seems to work just fine. While Sound Devices has not yet put up a fully approved media list for the new MixPre recorders, it would be wise to heed Paul Isaacs' previous suggestion in this thread:

"I would highly recommend these Sound Devices one's as they have been optimized for use in our gear ...
https://www.amazon.com/Sound-Devices-SAM-32SD-32GB-Card/dp/B01MUS45W4/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1495225059&sr=8-2&keywords=sound+devices+sam

There is no approved media list as of yet. Having said that most SanDisk and Delkin SD cards with minimum specs of class 10 have proven to work fine so far".



This, was the offending card:

https://www.amazon.com/Transcend-Class-UHS-1-Memory-TS64GSDXC10U1/dp/B00AFTV3FC

...and, this one works fine for me:

https://www.amazon.com/SanDisk-Extreme-UHS-I-Memory-SDSDXPA-032G-AFFP/dp/B007NDL56A/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1495820158&sr=8-1&keywords=sandisk+32gb+sdhc+95mb%2Fsec

Interesting.  That Transcend card is an approved card for the F8 and has worked flawlessly for me in that recorder.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: sos on May 26, 2017, 06:57:04 PM
Interesting.  That Transcend card is an approved card for the F8 and has worked flawlessly for me in that recorder.

Me too!
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: willndmb on May 26, 2017, 08:10:17 PM
Can anyone help me out here on the 3?  I am confused on how many channels it can record.  The manual says, "The MixPre-3 can record up to five audio tracks at 96kHz, 24-bit to SD cards
(SD, SDHC, or SDXC) using the industry standard .WAV file format."

I would like to use 2 of the XLR inputs for mics and the stereo mini in for a stereo soundboard.  Can it record 4 separate tracks? 

Jesse
i believe it does...
2 via xlr
1 via the 1/8
2 mixdown of the three
So you could get an aud/sbd recording like you asked about but it would be mono sbd
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: rippleish20 on May 26, 2017, 08:18:38 PM
Can anyone help me out here on the 3?  I am confused on how many channels it can record.  The manual says, "The MixPre-3 can record up to five audio tracks at 96kHz, 24-bit to SD cards
(SD, SDHC, or SDXC) using the industry standard .WAV file format."

I would like to use 2 of the XLR inputs for mics and the stereo mini in for a stereo soundboard.  Can it record 4 separate tracks? 

Jesse
i believe it does...
2 via xlr
1 via the 1/8
2 mixdown of the three
So you could get an aud/sbd recording like you asked about but it would be mono sbd

Mixpre-3 (3 XLR inputs)
Maximum Record Tracks
5 Tracks: Stereo mix + 3 ISOs


Mixpre-6 (4 XLR inputs)
Maximum Record Tracks
8 Tracks: Stereo mix + 6 ISOs
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: justink on May 26, 2017, 10:33:57 PM
I'm thinking this battery looks pretty good. Same length at the recorder (about 6.5"). Anyone else pick up one of these? Anyone know how long this battery should run this sucker with 4 channels going?

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00X5RV14Y/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A294P4X9EWVXLJ

i have one of these.  it's freaking awesome.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: Əkoostikal on May 27, 2017, 12:09:24 AM
I'm thinking this battery looks pretty good. Same length at the recorder (about 6.5"). Anyone else pick up one of these? Anyone know how long this battery should run this sucker with 4 channels going?

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00X5RV14Y/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A294P4X9EWVXLJ

i have one of these.  it's freaking awesome.

Same here, this updated version has dual charger input for faster charging. It's also less expensive using the following promo code: ANK3USB2 $33:49 is a steal.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LQ7MQG6?tag=slicinc-20&ascsubtag=c51eaabe429111e7ab492ed1168216e50INT
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: F.O.Bean on May 27, 2017, 01:02:59 AM
One thing that threw me for a loop is that this records in poly wave files.  I have only had experience with a wave file for each channel or stereo pair.  So, when I saw there was only one file for each dry run test I did, I was like, WTF?  Called SD support and they educated me on poly wave files. Popped it up in audicity and all became clear.

Boo. I use Wavelab and I don't think it plays nice with poly files. At least it didn't on version 5 when I accidentally recorded 4 channels as poly when I had the R4.

A quick run through SD's Wave Agent allows you to switch between Poly And Mono WAVs ;)

Also, WL has an "Audio Montage" feature that I use to do my Matrixing!
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: F.O.Bean on May 27, 2017, 01:08:36 AM
I'm thinking this battery looks pretty good. Same length at the recorder (about 6.5"). Anyone else pick up one of these? Anyone know how long this battery should run this sucker with 4 channels going?

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00X5RV14Y/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A294P4X9EWVXLJ

i have one of these.  it's freaking awesome.

My MP6 batteries are STRICTLY going to be Anker brand batteries ;) They're the BEST and most reliable USB company IMO!

Also, who has the MP6 in stock? I need to order one ASAP and if some place has them in stock, then please LMK ;)
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: F.O.Bean on May 27, 2017, 01:34:08 AM
Got mine in hand.  Two of the three USB C cables I ordered don't send enough power from a USB battery to power more then 2 channels of phantom. The stock one from SD only works on 4 channels if both USB A plugs are plugged in. This is the one that can power 4 phantom channels off a USB battery. https://www.ebay.com/itm/162439366511

Thanks Ted, I just bought the LAST one left :) I think the guy keeps listing them one at a time, so that you're forced to buy "the last one" lol ;)

Also yinz guys, I sent SD an email awhile back asking about MP6 USB powering, and they told me some current draw numbers for the different powering methods! This is a quote directly from Dennis Witt@SD ;)

"Hello Brandon,

Thank you for contacting Sound Devices!

Via the USB-C amperage, we do not have any information as this varies depending on USB source capability. The unit will pull 5v, but depending on the USB amperage, the MixPre Series will determine if it will be in "Low Power" or "Standard Power" mode. The MixPre Series will automatically determine what mode to run in and will be indicated on the home screen. Additionally, any USB port which doesn't put out 1.5A would be considered "low power."

However, I do have some information about current with the MixPre-6:

    4-cell AA ? 660 mA @ 6v
    Li-ion L-Mount: 530 mA @ 8v
        550 mA @ 8v (with all channels with +48v)

Thank you,
Dennis Witt
Sound Devices, LLC"

So according to that, running the L-Series Lithium Batteries will provide the longest runtimes, because it draws less power than the other powering options! The 4xAA Pack only runs @660mah, and he wasn't sure of the 8xAA Pack! What's weird is that those draw UNDER 1A@MAX, but the USB-C Port draws DOUBLE that @1.5A ??? Whatever though! As long as you have a sufficient USB-C cable, you should be just fine powering the MP3/6 with a SINGLE USB-A power source from a 2.1A or 2.4A USB-A Output! Like I said above, I'll be buying a few different Anker 5v USB Batteries to run STRICTLY with my MP6!

That said, I have already bought [3] different USB-C cables recently for my MP6, so one of them has got to do the job! Thanks again for the link, Ted 8) Plus, I have an extra Google Pixel USB-A->Micro C Cable that came with my phone, that I KNOW will supply enough power to the MP6, because it can charge my Pixel phone@1A Max ;D
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: dactylus on May 27, 2017, 07:43:14 AM

We're on page 26 of this thread - time to lock this one up and start part 2.

 :cheers:
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: mitchellm on May 27, 2017, 08:02:44 AM
I have had success with a Transcend 64 Gb card. Not newish, probably a couple years old and reformatted in the MixPre-3.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: mitchellm on May 27, 2017, 08:05:49 AM
I received my MixPre-3 last night. I ran it through some initial tests and all went well. When I got up this morning I turned on the MixPre-3 and it won't fully start up. It may be something stupid that I'm missing. Specifically knob lights will turn green, basic screen will show (just giving version number), then all blinks off. About 3 seconds later the knobs turn green, a second later the screen shows, then all blinks off again for 3 seconds. Rinse and repeat.

I've tried using both the AA batteries and USB connection. Neither changes this behavior.

Anyone have ideas about what is causing this or how to get out of the loop? Unfortunately Sound Devices is closed for 3 days.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: mitchellm on May 27, 2017, 08:20:02 AM
Solved problem somewhat. It turns out the card I used last night, and had reformatted by the MixPre-3, is no longer read by the device. (My computer can read it just fine.) So it looks like the Transcend 64 Gb (45MB/s, 300x) also does not work well with the device.

I have reformatted another card (32 Gb) and I'll see how it holds up.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: vanark on May 27, 2017, 08:30:46 AM
I received my MixPre-3 last night. I ran it through some initial tests and all went well. When I got up this morning I turned on the MixPre-3 and it won't fully start up. It may be something stupid that I'm missing. Specifically knob lights will turn green, basic screen will show (just giving version number), then all blinks off. About 3 seconds later the knobs turn green, a second later the screen shows, then all blinks off again for 3 seconds. Rinse and repeat.

I've tried using both the AA batteries and USB connection. Neither changes this behavior.

Anyone have ideas about what is causing this or how to get out of the loop? Unfortunately Sound Devices is closed for 3 days.

jbell had a similar issue. Try a different SD card. I suspect the 64 GB card works once and then you have a problem. Not sure why.
Title: Re: Sound Devices New MixPre Series
Post by: lubage on May 27, 2017, 10:52:39 AM
New thread:

http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=182278.0