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Gear / Technical Help => Recording Gear => Topic started by: lubage on June 18, 2017, 12:01:50 AM

Title: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: lubage on June 18, 2017, 12:01:50 AM
Previous threads:

http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=181803.0
http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=182278.0
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: noahbickart on June 18, 2017, 01:15:07 AM
I wonder if people on this thread might be able to help, because my issue involves channels 5 and 6 on the mixpre6.

As I asked here: http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=182533.0, I had trouble with the Mixpre6 line in the other night. The source was
Schoeps mk4v> nbob KCY> Naiant littlebox (high power, 0 gain)> SD Mixpre6 aux 1/8 inch input to Channels 5 +6 with 22db gain.

Jon at Naiant confirms, via e-mail, that the clipping was likely at the AD stage after the littlebox.

It was loud onstage (soulive with scofield see for a matrix of the mk22 and mk3 sources: http://bt.etree.org/details.php?id=593684), but nothing the mixpre6 couldn't handle via its xlr ins. I've never had a problem feeding a m10 from the littlebox, but I admit to never having used it with any other recorder.

How might I prevent this in the future? It just seems so odd that the ad on the Mixpre6 would clip given that the littlebox was giving 0 gain! How could it not be possible to use this my kcy littlebox to use channels 5+6 of the Mixpre6?

Here are the images of the files

normal file: http://taperssection.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=182533.0;attach=126553;image
clipped file: http://taperssection.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=182533.0;attach=126555;image
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: rigpimp on June 18, 2017, 02:49:29 AM
Maiden voyage tonight.  When I turned my unit on it DID NOT retain the settings from when I had turned it off after tests at home.  Channels were unlinked and I couldn't get it to start a recording for the life of me.

I powered it down, set preset to default, and re-followed Todd's instructions to get the settings back under control.

I also powered down the unit in between sets. When I turned it back on all tracks were disarmed and USB-c was switched from power only to audio.  I noticed the green battery meter was low.  I had to re-set USB-c to power only and then unplug and re-plug the power cable on the USB-A end to get the MP6 to see the external power again.  This may have been an oversight in my part after changing settings to default.

 It took a couple of songs before I noticed the tracks were disarmed.  The meters bump and the knob LEDs light up whether it is rolling or not.  The only indication a track is armed is the tiny track number lit red on the touchscreen unless you press a channel knob and check there.  The Wingman app saved my ass as that is where I noticed that they were disarmed.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: johnw on June 18, 2017, 08:38:40 AM
I have found that in custom mode with basic gain and everything else advanced, it keeps the tracks armed when I power it on or change to that preset. When I switch to a preset with advanced mode or power on when the last state was in advanced mode, none of the channels are armed and the gain is reset back to 6, no matter where the gain was previously set. I'm not sure about the USB mode, why channels would be unlinked or not able to start a recording.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: johnw on June 18, 2017, 09:07:02 AM
I wonder if people on this thread might be able to help, because my issue involves channels 5 and 6 on the mixpre6.

As I asked here: http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=182533.0, I had trouble with the Mixpre6 line in the other night. The source was
Schoeps mk4v> nbob KCY> Naiant littlebox (high power, 0 gain)> SD Mixpre6 aux 1/8 inch input to Channels 5 +6 with 22db gain.

Jon at Naiant confirms, via e-mail, that the clipping was likely at the AD stage after the littlebox.

It was loud onstage (soulive with scofield see for a matrix of the mk22 and mk3 sources: http://bt.etree.org/details.php?id=593684), but nothing the mixpre6 couldn't handle via its xlr ins. I've never had a problem feeding a m10 from the littlebox, but I admit to never having used it with any other recorder.

How might I prevent this in the future? It just seems so odd that the ad on the Mixpre6 would clip given that the littlebox was giving 0 gain! How could it not be possible to use this my kcy littlebox to use channels 5+6 of the Mixpre6?

Here are the images of the files

normal file: http://taperssection.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=182533.0;attach=126553;image
clipped file: http://taperssection.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=182533.0;attach=126555;image

Anyway you could have had the aux in set to mic in? Mic in starts at +10dB...
The line in for the aux in starts at -10dB and I wouldn't think that would have clipped
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: noahbickart on June 18, 2017, 09:14:48 AM
I wonder if people on this thread might be able to help, because my issue involves channels 5 and 6 on the mixpre6.

As I asked here: http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=182533.0, I had trouble with the Mixpre6 line in the other night. The source was
Schoeps mk4v> nbob KCY> Naiant littlebox (high power, 0 gain)> SD Mixpre6 aux 1/8 inch input to Channels 5 +6 with 22db gain.

Jon at Naiant confirms, via e-mail, that the clipping was likely at the AD stage after the littlebox.

It was loud onstage (soulive with scofield see for a matrix of the mk22 and mk3 sources: http://bt.etree.org/details.php?id=593684), but nothing the mixpre6 couldn't handle via its xlr ins. I've never had a problem feeding a m10 from the littlebox, but I admit to never having used it with any other recorder.

How might I prevent this in the future? It just seems so odd that the ad on the Mixpre6 would clip given that the littlebox was giving 0 gain! How could it not be possible to use this my kcy littlebox to use channels 5+6 of the Mixpre6?

Here are the images of the files

normal file: http://taperssection.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=182533.0;attach=126553;image
clipped file: http://taperssection.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=182533.0;attach=126555;image

Anyway you could have had the aux in set to mic in? Mic in starts at +10dB...
The line in for the aux in starts at -10dB and I wouldn't think that would have clipped

Definitely set to line in.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dallman on June 18, 2017, 09:43:19 AM
I wonder if people on this thread might be able to help, because my issue involves channels 5 and 6 on the mixpre6.

As I asked here: http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=182533.0, I had trouble with the Mixpre6 line in the other night. The source was
Schoeps mk4v> nbob KCY> Naiant littlebox (high power, 0 gain)> SD Mixpre6 aux 1/8 inch input to Channels 5 +6 with 22db gain.

Jon at Naiant confirms, via e-mail, that the clipping was likely at the AD stage after the littlebox.

It was loud onstage (soulive with scofield see for a matrix of the mk22 and mk3 sources: http://bt.etree.org/details.php?id=593684), but nothing the mixpre6 couldn't handle via its xlr ins. I've never had a problem feeding a m10 from the littlebox, but I admit to never having used it with any other recorder.

How might I prevent this in the future? It just seems so odd that the ad on the Mixpre6 would clip given that the littlebox was giving 0 gain! How could it not be possible to use this my kcy littlebox to use channels 5+6 of the Mixpre6?

Here are the images of the files

normal file: http://taperssection.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=182533.0;attach=126553;image
clipped file: http://taperssection.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=182533.0;attach=126555;image

Anyway you could have had the aux in set to mic in? Mic in starts at +10dB...
The line in for the aux in starts at -10dB and I wouldn't think that would have clipped

Definitely set to line in.

When I ran my USB Pre 2 into 5/6, I started with no gain and watched my levels on the meter in the mixpre 5/6 menu as I turned the gain up. I had set my initial USB Pre settings the way I always do and that made the most sense as I was also running S/PDIF into my Tascam DR100MKIII. My Mix Pre Gain was at 20db and no issues. From that point, based on the bands playing, I made a few tweaks, but using the output of the USB Pre2, not the mix pre6. However since I watched my initial levels go from zero to 18 and watched the little meter that was at the top of the menu go from no signal to a nice but conservative signal, I knew there was no brickwalling.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dogmusic on June 18, 2017, 10:04:17 AM
Maiden voyage tonight.  When I turned my unit on it DID NOT retain the settings from when I had turned it off after tests at home.  Channels were unlinked and I couldn't get it to start a recording for the life of me.

I powered it down, set preset to default, and re-followed Todd's instructions to get the settings back under control.

I also powered down the unit in between sets. When I turned it back on all tracks were disarmed and USB-c was switched from power only to audio.  I noticed the green battery meter was low.  I had to re-set USB-c to power only and then unplug and re-plug the power cable on the USB-A end to get the MP6 to see the external power again.  This may have been an oversight in my part after changing settings to default.

 It took a couple of songs before I noticed the tracks were disarmed.  The meters bump and the knob LEDs light up whether it is rolling or not.  The only indication a track is armed is the tiny track number lit red on the touchscreen unless you press a channel knob and check there.  The Wingman app saved my ass as that is where I noticed that they were disarmed.

Have you saved all your settings as a preset? I've done that with my own setup, and then I re-load that preset each time I power up. Always works.

My headphone preset (so as to hear the ISO tracks when the LR MIX is not being recorded) is always retained and never has to be re-selected.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: voltronic on June 18, 2017, 10:18:45 AM
Maiden voyage tonight.  When I turned my unit on it DID NOT retain the settings from when I had turned it off after tests at home.  Channels were unlinked and I couldn't get it to start a recording for the life of me.

I powered it down, set preset to default, and re-followed Todd's instructions to get the settings back under control.

I also powered down the unit in between sets. When I turned it back on all tracks were disarmed and USB-c was switched from power only to audio.  I noticed the green battery meter was low.  I had to re-set USB-c to power only and then unplug and re-plug the power cable on the USB-A end to get the MP6 to see the external power again.  This may have been an oversight in my part after changing settings to default.

 It took a couple of songs before I noticed the tracks were disarmed.  The meters bump and the knob LEDs light up whether it is rolling or not.  The only indication a track is armed is the tiny track number lit red on the touchscreen unless you press a channel knob and check there.  The Wingman app saved my ass as that is where I noticed that they were disarmed.

Have you saved all your settings as a preset? I've done that with my own setup, and then I re-load that preset each time I power up. Always works.

My headphone preset (so as to hear the ISO tracks when the LR MIX is not being recorded) is always retained and never has to be re-selected.


So to be clear, all that it retains upon a power cycle is the saved preset file, which you have to manually re-load?  It otherwise defaults to factory settings, and doesn't simply restore the previous state like most other modern recorders?  That sounds annoying.  I like the preset idea, but it shouldn't default to factory unless you specifically tell it to.

I wonder if this is by design, and part of SD making these accessible to less-experienced people - i.e. if you set something incorrectly and don't know how to get it back, just power cycle and you're back to factory defaults.  IMO, that behavior should only happen if you're in Basic mode, if at all.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: noahbickart on June 18, 2017, 10:19:34 AM
When I ran my USB Pre 2 into 5/6, I started with no gain and watched my levels on the meter in the mixpre 5/6 menu as I turned the gain up. I had set my initial USB Pre settings the way I always do and that made the most sense as I was also running S/PDIF into my Tascam DR100MKIII. My Mix Pre Gain was at 20db and no issues. From that point, based on the bands playing, I made a few tweaks, but using the output of the USB Pre2, not the mix pre6. However since I watched my initial levels go from zero to 18 and watched the little meter that was at the top of the menu go from no signal to a nice but conservative signal, I knew there was no brickwalling.

Yes, this was precisely what I did. Worked fine at TTB, but got the clipped (brickwalled) files for the onstage Soulive.

I guess the explanation is that I overloaded the aux input, what is so strange to me is how this could be given that 0 gain was applied at the preamp, and the levels were good.

I suppose the solution is some kind of attentuating cable, unless anyone has any other bright ideas.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dogmusic on June 18, 2017, 11:11:51 AM
Maiden voyage tonight.  When I turned my unit on it DID NOT retain the settings from when I had turned it off after tests at home.  Channels were unlinked and I couldn't get it to start a recording for the life of me.

I powered it down, set preset to default, and re-followed Todd's instructions to get the settings back under control.

I also powered down the unit in between sets. When I turned it back on all tracks were disarmed and USB-c was switched from power only to audio.  I noticed the green battery meter was low.  I had to re-set USB-c to power only and then unplug and re-plug the power cable on the USB-A end to get the MP6 to see the external power again.  This may have been an oversight in my part after changing settings to default.

 It took a couple of songs before I noticed the tracks were disarmed.  The meters bump and the knob LEDs light up whether it is rolling or not.  The only indication a track is armed is the tiny track number lit red on the touchscreen unless you press a channel knob and check there.  The Wingman app saved my ass as that is where I noticed that they were disarmed.

Have you saved all your settings as a preset? I've done that with my own setup, and then I re-load that preset each time I power up. Always works.

My headphone preset (so as to hear the ISO tracks when the LR MIX is not being recorded) is always retained and never has to be re-selected.


So to be clear, all that it retains upon a power cycle is the saved preset file, which you have to manually re-load?  It otherwise defaults to factory settings, and doesn't simply restore the previous state like most other modern recorders?  That sounds annoying.  I like the preset idea, but it shouldn't default to factory unless you specifically tell it to.

I wonder if this is by design, and part of SD making these accessible to less-experienced people - i.e. if you set something incorrectly and don't know how to get it back, just power cycle and you're back to factory defaults.  IMO, that behavior should only happen if you're in Basic mode, if at all.

Actually, no, it doesn't go back to factory defaults. But there's no display of which preset I'm in, so I find it safer to reload the one I want from the list.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: MakersMarc on June 18, 2017, 12:31:34 PM
So I'm intrigued at the idea of one box that might sounds better than mics>warm mod 661, but is the mix pre 3 pocketable? I would  Be running nbobs>PFA>MP3. Just not a funny pack kind of guy.  ;D
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: voltronic on June 18, 2017, 03:23:58 PM
Maiden voyage tonight.  When I turned my unit on it DID NOT retain the settings from when I had turned it off after tests at home.  Channels were unlinked and I couldn't get it to start a recording for the life of me.

I powered it down, set preset to default, and re-followed Todd's instructions to get the settings back under control.

I also powered down the unit in between sets. When I turned it back on all tracks were disarmed and USB-c was switched from power only to audio.  I noticed the green battery meter was low.  I had to re-set USB-c to power only and then unplug and re-plug the power cable on the USB-A end to get the MP6 to see the external power again.  This may have been an oversight in my part after changing settings to default.

 It took a couple of songs before I noticed the tracks were disarmed.  The meters bump and the knob LEDs light up whether it is rolling or not.  The only indication a track is armed is the tiny track number lit red on the touchscreen unless you press a channel knob and check there.  The Wingman app saved my ass as that is where I noticed that they were disarmed.

Have you saved all your settings as a preset? I've done that with my own setup, and then I re-load that preset each time I power up. Always works.

My headphone preset (so as to hear the ISO tracks when the LR MIX is not being recorded) is always retained and never has to be re-selected.


So to be clear, all that it retains upon a power cycle is the saved preset file, which you have to manually re-load?  It otherwise defaults to factory settings, and doesn't simply restore the previous state like most other modern recorders?  That sounds annoying.  I like the preset idea, but it shouldn't default to factory unless you specifically tell it to.

I wonder if this is by design, and part of SD making these accessible to less-experienced people - i.e. if you set something incorrectly and don't know how to get it back, just power cycle and you're back to factory defaults.  IMO, that behavior should only happen if you're in Basic mode, if at all.

Actually, no, it doesn't go back to factory defaults. But there's no display of which preset I'm in, so I find it safer to reload the one I want from the list.

OK, that's a relief.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: edtyre on June 18, 2017, 03:53:41 PM
So I'm intrigued at the idea of one box that might sounds better than mics>warm mod 661, but is the mix pre 3 pocketable? I would  Be running nbobs>PFA>MP3. Just not a funny pack kind of guy.  ;D

It's not pocketable unless you have huge cargo shorts kinda pockets, but a small fanny pack is doable. I have stubby xlr's connected to the mp3 and the pfa's in a separate compartment on my setup.
The pfa's stick out too far when plugged straight into the mp3.
Here's a sample of my first show : https://soundcloud.com/edtyre/mojo-hand
What my pack looks like with Roland R-05 for size comp
Also.....you can pretty much get close on the gain after running once or twice. Just start and stop from phone app. No need to open the bag for pros :-)
(http://i931.photobucket.com/albums/ad159/edtyre2/IMG_3531_zpssjyjshd6.jpg) (http://s931.photobucket.com/user/edtyre2/media/IMG_3531_zpssjyjshd6.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: MakersMarc on June 18, 2017, 04:06:53 PM
Thanks man.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: edtyre on June 18, 2017, 04:20:34 PM
Thanks man.

Just run your ipa into the mp3, turn off P48. Let the ipa power the mics. Will run a long time on 4 AA's if no P48.
Just an idea, i'm going to use my Babynbox the same way as soon as i get a cable.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: if_then_else on June 19, 2017, 05:19:56 AM
Anybody here got the Wingman app for Android working with their mixpre-6?

I tried it out yesterday evening and got a "Couldn't pair with xxxx Because of an incorrect PIN or Passkey" on a BQ Aquaris X5+ (Android Nougat 7.1.1).
Already tried to clear the app cache but no luck. (The device is detected but, apparently, the Bluetooth devices cannot be paired.)
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: rigpimp on June 19, 2017, 09:33:34 AM
Anybody here got the Wingman app for Android working with their mixpre-6?

I tried it out yesterday evening and got a "Couldn't pair with xxxx Because of an incorrect PIN or Passkey" on a BQ Aquaris X5+ (Android Nougat 7.1.1).
Already tried to clear the app cache but no luck. (The device is detected but, apparently, the Bluetooth devices cannot be paired.)

I got it to work fine on my S7.  It seems to begin to have a hard time locking on once I get about 25-30 feet away.  I also don't use a pass key
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dallman on June 19, 2017, 09:54:40 AM
Anybody here got the Wingman app for Android working with their mixpre-6?

I tried it out yesterday evening and got a "Couldn't pair with xxxx Because of an incorrect PIN or Passkey" on a BQ Aquaris X5+ (Android Nougat 7.1.1).
Already tried to clear the app cache but no luck. (The device is detected but, apparently, the Bluetooth devices cannot be paired.)
Mine paired right up. I didn't bother with passwords or pins.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dallman on June 19, 2017, 10:01:13 AM
When I ran my USB Pre 2 into 5/6, I started with no gain and watched my levels on the meter in the mixpre 5/6 menu as I turned the gain up. I had set my initial USB Pre settings the way I always do and that made the most sense as I was also running S/PDIF into my Tascam DR100MKIII. My Mix Pre Gain was at 20db and no issues. From that point, based on the bands playing, I made a few tweaks, but using the output of the USB Pre2, not the mix pre6. However since I watched my initial levels go from zero to 18 and watched the little meter that was at the top of the menu go from no signal to a nice but conservative signal, I knew there was no brickwalling.

Yes, this was precisely what I did. Worked fine at TTB, but got the clipped (brickwalled) files for the onstage Soulive.

I guess the explanation is that I overloaded the aux input, what is so strange to me is how this could be given that 0 gain was applied at the preamp, and the levels were good.

I suppose the solution is some kind of attentuating cable, unless anyone has any other bright ideas.

FWIW, I had a similar situation some years back once, using my Marantz PMD 661. It just seemed that some early spike at setup overloaded the input, and as I didn't really notice, the entire show was ruined. However it never happened again, even in louder situations, so I will be curious to see if you will need attenuators. It does not sound like you should, and I can say I had plenty of headroom on my aux in using the USB Pre2 at above "0" gain.  Please keep us posted.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: MakersMarc on June 19, 2017, 11:45:53 AM
Thanks man.

Just run your ipa into the mp3, turn off P48. Let the ipa power the mics. Will run a long time on 4 AA's if no P48.
Just an idea, i'm going to use my Babynbox the same way as soon as i get a cable.

1/8 line
 input?
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: tgakidis on June 19, 2017, 12:30:06 PM
I wonder if people on this thread might be able to help, because my issue involves channels 5 and 6 on the mixpre6.

As I asked here: http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=182533.0, I had trouble with the Mixpre6 line in the other night. The source was
Schoeps mk4v> nbob KCY> Naiant littlebox (high power, 0 gain)> SD Mixpre6 aux 1/8 inch input to Channels 5 +6 with 22db gain.

Jon at Naiant confirms, via e-mail, that the clipping was likely at the AD stage after the littlebox.

It was loud onstage (soulive with scofield see for a matrix of the mk22 and mk3 sources: http://bt.etree.org/details.php?id=593684), but nothing the mixpre6 couldn't handle via its xlr ins. I've never had a problem feeding a m10 from the littlebox, but I admit to never having used it with any other recorder.

How might I prevent this in the future? It just seems so odd that the ad on the Mixpre6 would clip given that the littlebox was giving 0 gain! How could it not be possible to use this my kcy littlebox to use channels 5+6 of the Mixpre6?

Here are the images of the files

normal file: http://taperssection.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=182533.0;attach=126553;image
clipped file: http://taperssection.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=182533.0;attach=126555;image

I brickwalled a little on a SBD feed to 5/6 on the maiden run.  I have not used 5/6 since so not sure if it was isolated to the SBD feed I got or 5/6 needs attenuation.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: edtyre on June 19, 2017, 02:30:54 PM
Thanks man.

Just run your ipa into the mp3, turn off P48. Let the ipa power the mics. Will run a long time on 4 AA's if no P48.
Just an idea, i'm going to use my Babynbox the same way as soon as i get a cable.

1/8 line
 input?

No, i dont think that works as good as the xlr inputs (it might be just me, someone correct me then)
You can go line in via xlrs and shut off P48, i'll be trying it out very soon.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: Fatah Ruark (aka MIKE B) on June 19, 2017, 03:15:03 PM
I ran my IPA from the 1/8" out to the MP6 on my trial run. I figured that would be adequate, but still ordered a XLR cable from Jon to run the IPA into the XLR's of the MP6.

Running again for Panic on Friday. I'll report back if I can tell the difference (or not).

I mainly did that for a more reliable connection between the IPA and MP6, but it's also nice to open up the 1/8" in for other options. I might try to grab a patch from a neighbor at Panic with mics I like since I have that option now.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: hipporu on June 19, 2017, 04:55:15 PM
Maybe someone will be interested
MixPre 6 Internal Photos
https://fccid.io/2AKLX-739M6
https://fccid.io/document.php?id=3301068
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: MakersMarc on June 19, 2017, 04:56:20 PM
Form factor just doesn't cut it for me as a backup my 661s fit a pocket and only need to gaff one dial. Such a cool box though.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: jbell on June 19, 2017, 05:14:34 PM
I am almost positive the mp6 is smaller than a 661! 

Form factor just doesn't cut it for me as a backup my 661s fit a pocket and only need to gaff one dial. Such a cool box though.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dpower on June 19, 2017, 06:05:43 PM
Maybe someone will be interested
MixPre 6 Internal Photos
https://fccid.io/2AKLX-739M6
https://fccid.io/document.php?id=3301068

Amazing find!

Anyone else notice the following quote etched to the PCB? (Maybe only on the prototype?!)

"Pray that there's intelligent life somewhere off in space, because it's bugger all down here on earth."
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: aaronji on June 19, 2017, 06:18:35 PM
I am almost positive the mp6 is smaller than a 661! 

Form factor just doesn't cut it for me as a backup my 661s fit a pocket and only need to gaff one dial. Such a cool box though.

The MixPre-3 is a little shorter and a little wider (5.68” x 4.35” x 1.40”) than the PMD661 (6.5” x 3.7” x 1.4”).  The volumes are quite close (34.6 cubic inches vs. 33.7 cubic inches).  Buttons might be an issue, though. 
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: MakersMarc on June 19, 2017, 06:27:23 PM
Buttons are the issue. Thanks for the dimensions though.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: aaronji on June 19, 2017, 06:35:32 PM
Hopefully, there will be a hold function for the transport buttons in a future firmware update.  As for the knobs, Todd R's post here (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=182278.msg2230860#msg2230860) is pretty spot-on.  Once that transport hold update hits, it should be stealth-able if the 661 is no problem.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: noahbickart on June 19, 2017, 06:36:17 PM

I brickwalled a little on a SBD feed to 5/6 on the maiden run.  I have not used 5/6 since so not sure if it was isolated to the SBD feed I got or 5/6 needs attenuation.

Thanks. Seems like this might be a thing.

I'm going to run the line in at 0db and control gain from the littlebox and see if I can get this working.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: F.O.Bean on June 19, 2017, 06:55:55 PM
Maiden voyage tonight.  When I turned my unit on it DID NOT retain the settings from when I had turned it off after tests at home.  Channels were unlinked and I couldn't get it to start a recording for the life of me.

I powered it down, set preset to default, and re-followed Todd's instructions to get the settings back under control.

I also powered down the unit in between sets. When I turned it back on all tracks were disarmed and USB-c was switched from power only to audio.  I noticed the green battery meter was low.  I had to re-set USB-c to power only and then unplug and re-plug the power cable on the USB-A end to get the MP6 to see the external power again.  This may have been an oversight in my part after changing settings to default.

 It took a couple of songs before I noticed the tracks were disarmed.  The meters bump and the knob LEDs light up whether it is rolling or not.  The only indication a track is armed is the tiny track number lit red on the touchscreen unless you press a channel knob and check there.  The Wingman app saved my ass as that is where I noticed that they were disarmed.

Have you saved all your settings as a preset? I've done that with my own setup, and then I re-load that preset each time I power up. Always works.

My headphone preset (so as to hear the ISO tracks when the LR MIX is not being recorded) is always retained and never has to be re-selected.


BINGO, that's what I do! Reload the presets and its done in like 2 seconds :) Also, KEEP FRESH AA's INSIDE of your MP3/6! See below for reasons why!

I have found that in custom mode with basic gain and everything else advanced, it keeps the tracks armed when I power it on or change to that preset. When I switch to a preset with advanced mode or power on when the last state was in advanced mode, none of the channels are armed and the gain is reset back to 6, no matter where the gain was previously set. I'm not sure about the USB mode, why channels would be unlinked or not able to start a recording.

BINGO again :) I LEAVE MY MixPre6 set to CUSTOM MODE, with the Gain on BASIC, and I have had ZERO problems loading it and saving presets and stuff! Also, IMO, there is NO REASON to leave the MP6 in anything but Custom Mode with Gain@BASIC, because that's the only way I know of to have individual gain control for EVERY ISO Track ;) So I plan on NEVER taking my MP6 off of those settings!

And setup your main few taping scenarios in the presets and thank me later! Also, if you DO NOT have AA's inside of the Mp6, it won't save your settings and you'll have to keep re-setting them! Also, JUST LIKE THE Tascam DR-70D, if you are ONLY supplying USB-C Power and DO NOT have AA's inside, the MP6 WILL NOT SAVE YOUR LAST FILE! So if you happen to run out of battery or the USB-C power gets unplugged accidentally, then plan on LOSING your last recorded file! I thought a HQ company like SD would be able to save the last recorded file, regardless of where the power is coming from!

So IMO, even though the internal AA's are kinda useless for recording times, they ARE useful for saving your settings and presets, AND to make sure that your last recorded file IS SAVED! So even though the 4xAA Tray only gives me around 2 hours of recording, I ALWAYS plan on having some fresh AA's inside of my MP6! Also, if you have AA's inside, you can also HOT-SWAP USB-C Batteries ;) So there's 3 reasons to keep some fresh AA's inside right there ;)
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: F.O.Bean on June 19, 2017, 07:04:33 PM

I brickwalled a little on a SBD feed to 5/6 on the maiden run.  I have not used 5/6 since so not sure if it was isolated to the SBD feed I got or 5/6 needs attenuation.

Thanks. Seems like this might be a thing.

I'm going to run the line in at 0db and control gain from the littlebox and see if I can get this working.

Noah, I have some -12db Naiant MPD XLR Adapters/attenuators, JUST for something like that, or a hot PFA signal! For $15/each, it's worth throwing a couple in your bag for a rainy day ;)

http://naiant.com/studio-electronics-products/inline-devices/mpd-inline-attenuator-2/
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: F.O.Bean on June 19, 2017, 07:16:20 PM
Anybody here got the Wingman app for Android working with their mixpre-6?

I tried it out yesterday evening and got a "Couldn't pair with xxxx Because of an incorrect PIN or Passkey" on a BQ Aquaris X5+ (Android Nougat 7.1.1).
Already tried to clear the app cache but no luck. (The device is detected but, apparently, the Bluetooth devices cannot be paired.)

Yeah, Ive used the Wingman App on my Google Pixel Android device with great success! I can even go upstairs in my house and see the levels bouncing nicely, until I go to the other end of the house upstairs! So I'd imagine that the MP6 will do even better in big, open venues & rooms :)
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: edtyre on June 19, 2017, 07:45:06 PM
Hopefully, there will be a hold function for the transport buttons in a future firmware update.  As for the knobs, Todd R's post here (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=182278.msg2230860#msg2230860) is pretty spot-on.  Once that transport hold update hits, it should be stealth-able if the 661 is no problem.
I have stealthed with it a few times already. Just start it up, there's no way you can push the on/off switch to off. If you have a good idea about where
you should be on your gain, keep it zipped up in a pack then start and stop with the phone app. If you know your gear this is so easy :-)
https://archive.org/details/jr2017-06-18.mk6.edtyre
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: F.O.Bean on June 19, 2017, 08:06:12 PM
Hopefully, there will be a hold function for the transport buttons in a future firmware update.  As for the knobs, Todd R's post here (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=182278.msg2230860#msg2230860) is pretty spot-on.  Once that transport hold update hits, it should be stealth-able if the 661 is no problem.
I have stealthed with it a few times already. Just start it up, there's no way you can push the on/off switch to off. If you have a good idea about where
you should be on your gain, keep it zipped up in a pack then start and stop with the phone app. If you know your gear this is so easy :-)
https://archive.org/details/jr2017-06-18.mk6.edtyre


Exactly! And I think a HOLD function is needed as well! Or at least having to push STOP x2, instead of just once, to actually stop the recording! Anything that makes it not possible to accidentally hit stop to ruin your recording :)

And all of these new MixPre-6 recordings sound awesome so far! every mic combo Ive heard with it sounds really nice and with super low noise! Has a great dynamic bandwith and sounds really open and big IMO!

Keep em coming yinz guys! I don't know if I'll hit any shows with mine before Phish next month or not :( Anyone have any Chicago 7/17 or Dayton 7/18, Pittsburgh7/19 tapers or pavilion tix, or anyone who can help me get my gear into the OTS or FOB, please get at me 8)
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: noahbickart on June 19, 2017, 08:25:41 PM

I brickwalled a little on a SBD feed to 5/6 on the maiden run.  I have not used 5/6 since so not sure if it was isolated to the SBD feed I got or 5/6 needs attenuation.

Thanks. Seems like this might be a thing.

I'm going to run the line in at 0db and control gain from the littlebox and see if I can get this working.

Noah, I have some -12db Naiant MPD XLR Adapters/attenuators, JUST for something like that, or a hot PFA signal! For $15/each, it's worth throwing a couple in your bag for a rainy day ;)

http://naiant.com/studio-electronics-products/inline-devices/mpd-inline-attenuator-2/

Nice. But I'm going rca or 1/8th inch from the littlebox to 1/8th in hnon the mixpre6.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: celticrogues on June 19, 2017, 08:41:41 PM
And setup your main few taping scenarios in the presets and thank me later! Also, if you DO NOT have AA's inside of the Mp6, it won't save your settings and you'll have to keep re-setting them! Also, JUST LIKE THE Tascam DR-70D, if you are ONLY supplying USB-C Power and DO NOT have AA's inside, the MP6 WILL NOT SAVE YOUR LAST FILE! So if you happen to run out of battery or the USB-C power gets unplugged accidentally, then plan on LOSING your last recorded file! I thought a HQ company like SD would be able to save the last recorded file, regardless of where the power is coming from!

In the current firmware, if the MixPre loses power during recording, the last file will not be automatically closed, and thus will not be readable by a computer or another device. However once you insert new batteries and power the unit up again, the MixPre will then go ahead and close that last file so it will be readable. No information is lost as long as you power up the MixPre and let it close the file. I've heard that this will be fixed in the next firmware update so files are closed automatically.

-Mike
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: hi and lo on June 20, 2017, 12:28:36 AM
I wonder if people on this thread might be able to help, because my issue involves channels 5 and 6 on the ...

I've never had a problem feeding a m10 from the littlebox, but I admit to never having used it with any other recorder.

How might I prevent this in the future? It just seems so odd that the ad on the Mixpre6 would clip given that the littlebox was giving 0 gain! How could it not be possible to use this my kcy littlebox to use channels 5+6 of the Mixpre6?


I think we can probably figure out what happened here by reviewing the specification sheets.

The MixPre-6 has a Maximum Input (Clipping) Level of +10dB on the aux 5-6 line inputs. That's not very good... actually, I'd call it downright lousy for a "professional" line input. That said, it is an 3.5mm TRS input, so I'm not entirely surprised by this spec.

Anecdotally, +10dB maximum input is on-par with the original R-09. That unit overloaded easily and many recordings were ruined. A hot soundboard or pres with fixed gain were a nightmare.

Better recorders such as the M10, D100, R-09HR and R-05, the 7xx series, etc. all have maximum input clipping levels around +24 to +27dB, give or take, and much harder to overload.

If your rig's output at minimum gain is too hot at a loud show, attenuators cables are needed. Figuring out you need them on-the-fly is tough; monitoring the output with headphones can work, assuming it's post A/D. Sluggish meters can also offer and indication of digital A/D clipping, depending on the unit.

Instinctively, I wouldn't think a TB at zero gain would clip, but it you're positive all settings were correct then I would say it's the logical explanation. +10dB max input just isn't very good for hot condenser mics recording amplified music.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: noahbickart on June 20, 2017, 01:27:55 AM
I wonder if people on this thread might be able to help, because my issue involves channels 5 and 6 on the ...

I've never had a problem feeding a m10 from the littlebox, but I admit to never having used it with any other recorder.

How might I prevent this in the future? It just seems so odd that the ad on the Mixpre6 would clip given that the littlebox was giving 0 gain! How could it not be possible to use this my kcy littlebox to use channels 5+6 of the Mixpre6?


I think we can probably figure out what happened here by reviewing the specification sheets.

The MixPre-6 has a Maximum Input (Clipping) Level of +10dB on the aux 5-6 line inputs. That's not very good... actually, I'd call it downright lousy for a "professional" line input. That said, it is an 3.5mm TRS input, so I'm not entirely surprised by this spec.

Anecdotally, +10dB maximum input is on-par with the original R-09. That unit overloaded easily and many recordings were ruined. A hot soundboard or pres with fixed gain were a nightmare.

Better recorders such as the M10, D100, R-09HR and R-05, the 7xx series, etc. all have maximum input clipping levels around +24 to +27dB, give or take, and much harder to overload.

If your rig's output at minimum gain is too hot at a loud show, attenuators cables are needed. Figuring out you need them on-the-fly is tough; monitoring the output with headphones can work, assuming it's post A/D. Sluggish meters can also offer and indication of digital A/D clipping, depending on the unit.

Instinctively, I wouldn't think a TB at zero gain would clip, but it you're positive all settings were correct then I would say it's the logical explanation. +10dB max input just isn't very good for hot condenser mics recording amplified music.

This was precisely my fear. Thanks for chiming in everyone, it's such a pleasure to live here in the best little corner of the internet. I knew the tapers would feel my pain.

I suppose something like this could live in my bag for loud shows or hot sbd patches: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/971344-REG/microphone_madness_mm_at_1_attenuator_cable_13.html

I wonder if the input is harder to brickwall using 0db gain on the mp6 and using the variable gain on the littlebox. It would make sense that the headroom goes down.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: hipporu on June 20, 2017, 06:30:53 AM
Amazing find!

Anyone else notice the following quote etched to the PCB? (Maybe only on the prototype?!)

"Pray that there's intelligent life somewhere off in space, because it's bugger all down here on earth."
SD funny guys. I love them! ))
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dallman on June 20, 2017, 10:23:33 AM
I wonder if people on this thread might be able to help, because my issue involves channels 5 and 6 on the ...

I've never had a problem feeding a m10 from the littlebox, but I admit to never having used it with any other recorder.

How might I prevent this in the future? It just seems so odd that the ad on the Mixpre6 would clip given that the littlebox was giving 0 gain! How could it not be possible to use this my kcy littlebox to use channels 5+6 of the Mixpre6?


I think we can probably figure out what happened here by reviewing the specification sheets.

The MixPre-6 has a Maximum Input (Clipping) Level of +10dB on the aux 5-6 line inputs. That's not very good... actually, I'd call it downright lousy for a "professional" line input. That said, it is an 3.5mm TRS input, so I'm not entirely surprised by this spec.

Anecdotally, +10dB maximum input is on-par with the original R-09. That unit overloaded easily and many recordings were ruined. A hot soundboard or pres with fixed gain were a nightmare.

Better recorders such as the M10, D100, R-09HR and R-05, the 7xx series, etc. all have maximum input clipping levels around +24 to +27dB, give or take, and much harder to overload.

If your rig's output at minimum gain is too hot at a loud show, attenuators cables are needed. Figuring out you need them on-the-fly is tough; monitoring the output with headphones can work, assuming it's post A/D. Sluggish meters can also offer and indication of digital A/D clipping, depending on the unit.

Instinctively, I wouldn't think a TB at zero gain would clip, but it you're positive all settings were correct then I would say it's the logical explanation. +10dB max input just isn't very good for hot condenser mics recording amplified music.

This was precisely my fear. Thanks for chiming in everyone, it's such a pleasure to live here in the best little corner of the internet. I knew the tapers would feel my pain.

I suppose something like this could live in my bag for loud shows or hot sbd patches: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/971344-REG/microphone_madness_mm_at_1_attenuator_cable_13.html

I wonder if the input is harder to brickwall using 0db gain on the mp6 and using the variable gain on the littlebox. It would make sense that the headroom goes down.

All this makes me wonder...

I had no problems running the USB Pre2 into 5/6 as stated in my post above, BUT, I turned off the LR Mix track which pulls in the flaw that causes the recording to be artificially low. I did this knowingly and partly to see how well it would respond being boosted in post, but perhaps that is why my 5/6 did not brickwall or even come close to it. It sounds really good too, but of course my intention was based on the assumption 5/6 would best be served with a good preamp going in.

My point is that if this is the case, it would seem logical that firmware changes could make 5/6 much less sensitive at the low end.

Right now with all the bugs and tweaks needed, it really is hard to make final determinations on the best way to use the deck. I have no doubt that the bugs will be fixed, but until then, I will remain flexible in my set up and use.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: MakersMarc on June 20, 2017, 12:34:49 PM
Someone please correct me if I am wrong. With kcy nbobs I can run PFAs into the mic inputs. But if I want to avoid that bulk and power the Schoeps by IPA or Nbox, I run the risk of clipping the 1/8 line input due to the low max input. So I'd need to get a 1/8 to dual xlr or xlr to dual xlr cable?
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: willndmb on June 20, 2017, 01:07:33 PM
I wonder if people on this thread might be able to help, because my issue involves channels 5 and 6 on the ...

I've never had a problem feeding a m10 from the littlebox, but I admit to never having used it with any other recorder.

How might I prevent this in the future? It just seems so odd that the ad on the Mixpre6 would clip given that the littlebox was giving 0 gain! How could it not be possible to use this my kcy littlebox to use channels 5+6 of the Mixpre6?


I think we can probably figure out what happened here by reviewing the specification sheets.

The MixPre-6 has a Maximum Input (Clipping) Level of +10dB on the aux 5-6 line inputs. That's not very good... actually, I'd call it downright lousy for a "professional" line input. That said, it is an 3.5mm TRS input, so I'm not entirely surprised by this spec.

Anecdotally, +10dB maximum input is on-par with the original R-09. That unit overloaded easily and many recordings were ruined. A hot soundboard or pres with fixed gain were a nightmare.

Better recorders such as the M10, D100, R-09HR and R-05, the 7xx series, etc. all have maximum input clipping levels around +24 to +27dB, give or take, and much harder to overload.

If your rig's output at minimum gain is too hot at a loud show, attenuators cables are needed. Figuring out you need them on-the-fly is tough; monitoring the output with headphones can work, assuming it's post A/D. Sluggish meters can also offer and indication of digital A/D clipping, depending on the unit.

Instinctively, I wouldn't think a TB at zero gain would clip, but it you're positive all settings were correct then I would say it's the logical explanation. +10dB max input just isn't very good for hot condenser mics recording amplified music.

This was precisely my fear. Thanks for chiming in everyone, it's such a pleasure to live here in the best little corner of the internet. I knew the tapers would feel my pain.

I suppose something like this could live in my bag for loud shows or hot sbd patches: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/971344-REG/microphone_madness_mm_at_1_attenuator_cable_13.html

I wonder if the input is harder to brickwall using 0db gain on the mp6 and using the variable gain on the littlebox. It would make sense that the headroom goes down.
i have that cable (-20db) and used it a lot from my LB or m10 out into my camcorder mic in with good results
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: fobstl on June 20, 2017, 01:24:14 PM
Someone please correct me if I am wrong. With kcy nbobs I can run PFAs into the mic inputs. But if I want to avoid that bulk and power the Schoeps by IPA or Nbox, I run the risk of clipping the 1/8 line input due to the low max input. So I'd need to get a 1/8 to dual xlr or xlr to dual xlr cable?
For stealth, if it were me, I would run KCY NBobs > PFA > Sort right angle Stubby XLR interconnects > the deck. That way you are solidly locked in XLR all the way. And you don't have to mess with the IPA. I have some 6" right angle stubby XLR interconnects that Ted made that I love. Keeps the XLRs going into the deck flush and not sticking out for stealth situations. Little if any extra bulk this way since you are eliminating the IPA and potentially an in line attenuator if that 1/8 input is indeed prone to brickwalling.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: edtyre on June 20, 2017, 01:40:46 PM
For stealth, if it were me, I would run KCY NBobs > PFA > Sort right angle Stubby XLR interconnects > the deck.

That's exactly how i run mine, keep the pfa's in a separate compartment in my pack, keeps it smaller lengthwise.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dallman on June 20, 2017, 03:20:10 PM
Someone please correct me if I am wrong. With kcy nbobs I can run PFAs into the mic inputs. But if I want to avoid that bulk and power the Schoeps by IPA or Nbox, I run the risk of clipping the 1/8 line input due to the low max input. So I'd need to get a 1/8 to dual xlr or xlr to dual xlr cable?
MM,
Maybe I am misunderstanding this comment ^, but unless there are 2 other sets of mics in the mix, to run the mics into 5/6 (1/8 trs) is to not use the kashmir preamps which are only on inputs 1,2,3 and 4, which of course is the big reason for using the mixpre 3 or 6 to begin with. 
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: MakersMarc on June 20, 2017, 04:06:27 PM
Someone please correct me if I am wrong. With kcy nbobs I can run PFAs into the mic inputs. But if I want to avoid that bulk and power the Schoeps by IPA or Nbox, I run the risk of clipping the 1/8 line input due to the low max input. So I'd need to get a 1/8 to dual xlr or xlr to dual xlr cable?
MM,
Maybe I am misunderstanding this comment ^, but unless there are 2 other sets of mics in the mix, to run the mics into 5/6 (1/8 trs) is to not use the kashmir preamps which are only on inputs 1,2,3 and 4, which of course is the big reason for using the mixpre 3 or 6 to begin with.

You're right, I'd want to run the IPA just to power the mics and run mic in. Can't do that with the nbox I don't think.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: johnw on June 20, 2017, 05:20:43 PM
Someone please correct me if I am wrong. With kcy nbobs I can run PFAs into the mic inputs. But if I want to avoid that bulk and power the Schoeps by IPA or Nbox, I run the risk of clipping the 1/8 line input due to the low max input. So I'd need to get a 1/8 to dual xlr or xlr to dual xlr cable?
MM,
Maybe I am misunderstanding this comment ^, but unless there are 2 other sets of mics in the mix, to run the mics into 5/6 (1/8 trs) is to not use the kashmir preamps which are only on inputs 1,2,3 and 4, which of course is the big reason for using the mixpre 3 or 6 to begin with.

You're right, I'd want to run the IPA just to power the mics and run mic in. Can't do that with the nbox I don't think.

Do you have RCA to XLR cables? If so just run RCA out of the Nbox into the XLR on the MP6 channels 1-4. Just turn phantom off. Works fine for me
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: hi and lo on June 20, 2017, 06:30:21 PM
Someone please correct me if I am wrong. With kcy nbobs I can run PFAs into the mic inputs. But if I want to avoid that bulk and power the Schoeps by IPA or Nbox, I run the risk of clipping the 1/8 line input due to the low max input. So I'd need to get a 1/8 to dual xlr or xlr to dual xlr cable?

Correct. Running an nbox with fixed +20dB gain into the 5/6 aux input is a recipe for disaster. You will need to run into the XLR/TRS combo inputs and be absolutely sure not to engage phantom power on the recorder. Unless design changes have been made, the Nbox output is not DC protected.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: MakersMarc on June 20, 2017, 08:19:10 PM
Thanks all.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: willndmb on June 20, 2017, 08:55:12 PM
Does anyone know why, or think what the answer is as to why, the 5/6 is so low on its max input?
It just seems odd to me that it would be from a high end company/product
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dogmusic on June 20, 2017, 09:04:01 PM
Does anyone know why, or think what the answer is as to why, the 5/6 is so low on its max input?
It just seems odd to me that it would be from a high end company/product

Could it be because the input does double duty as time code input?
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: noahbickart on June 20, 2017, 09:44:03 PM
Does anyone know why, or think what the answer is as to why, the 5/6 is so low on its max input?
It just seems odd to me that it would be from a high end company/product

I had a problem once for brick walling with it. I'm still not sure why. Comparisons have been made to the specs of the R-09, which could brick wall with a hot sbd patch or a loud show.

Those of us with mp6 units should continue to experiment and report back with findings.

For me, I'm going to try to run the mixpre6 on 0db for 5/6, control gain with the littlebox and see what happens.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: hipporu on June 21, 2017, 09:41:21 AM
Those of us with mp6 units should continue to experiment and report back with findings.

For me, I'm going to try to run the mixpre6 on 0db for 5/6, control gain with the littlebox and see what happens.
In mp-6 you can adjust the signal strength to aux input:
In line mode -40 - +40 dB
In the microphone mode -20 - +60 db
This should suffice in most situations, without need external attenuator.
I applied -10 dBu from the mp-d to the 5 and 6 aux input of the mp-6, mode line
5 channel level 14 db set
6 channel level 20 db set
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B-M9vh-K8KZmSGF0R2NsRUp1aVE/view?usp=sharing
The same is in the microphone mode.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: justink on June 21, 2017, 10:03:52 AM
Does anyone know why, or think what the answer is as to why, the 5/6 is so low on its max input?
It just seems odd to me that it would be from a high end company/product

they built a four channel box and threw in 5/6 as an afterthought because they had the room?
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: hipporu on June 21, 2017, 10:51:47 AM
Does anyone know why, or think what the answer is as to why, the 5/6 is so low on its max input?
It just seems odd to me that it would be from a high end company/product
5/6 is aimed at connecting consumer products
There is an interview Paul where it says for whom these mixes are intended
YouTuber, Musician, Podcaster, Sound Designer, Videographer, Production Sound Mixer, Educator, or audio hobbyist ...
http://soundrolling.com/i-chat-to-paul-isaacs-about-the-new-sound-devices-mix-pre-series/
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: F.O.Bean on June 21, 2017, 03:28:27 PM
Someone please correct me if I am wrong. With kcy nbobs I can run PFAs into the mic inputs. But if I want to avoid that bulk and power the Schoeps by IPA or Nbox, I run the risk of clipping the 1/8 line input due to the low max input. So I'd need to get a 1/8 to dual xlr or xlr to dual xlr cable?

You could just very easily run IPA/NBox directly into the XLR INs on Channels 1-4 as well, eliminating the need to use the 1/8" input at all ;)

I plan on using my Channels 5/6 1/8" Input for SBD Patches, and I can EASILY attenuate the XLR signal with my Naiant MPD's :)

And thanks for the link for that 1/8" Attenuator, Noah! MUCH Appreciated! I'll DEF be grabbing one of those for my MP6 here soon :)
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: F.O.Bean on June 21, 2017, 03:31:13 PM
Someone please correct me if I am wrong. With kcy nbobs I can run PFAs into the mic inputs. But if I want to avoid that bulk and power the Schoeps by IPA or Nbox, I run the risk of clipping the 1/8 line input due to the low max input. So I'd need to get a 1/8 to dual xlr or xlr to dual xlr cable?
For stealth, if it were me, I would run KCY NBobs > PFA > Sort right angle Stubby XLR interconnects > the deck. That way you are solidly locked in XLR all the way. And you don't have to mess with the IPA. I have some 6" right angle stubby XLR interconnects that Ted made that I love. Keeps the XLRs going into the deck flush and not sticking out for stealth situations. Little if any extra bulk this way since you are eliminating the IPA and potentially an in line attenuator if that 1/8 input is indeed prone to brickwalling.

BINGO! Here's a couple of pics of my DarkTrain Rt Angle Stubby XLR Breakout Cables! Makes running 4 channels of 60v PFA's extremely compact and fool proof :)
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: hi and lo on June 21, 2017, 07:31:46 PM
Those of us with mp6 units should continue to experiment and report back with findings.

For me, I'm going to try to run the mixpre6 on 0db for 5/6, control gain with the littlebox and see what happens.
In mp-6 you can adjust the signal strength to aux input:
In line mode -40 - +40 dB
In the microphone mode -20 - +60 db
This should suffice in most situations, without need external attenuator.
I applied -10 dBu from the mp-d to the 5 and 6 aux input of the mp-6, mode line
5 channel level 14 db set
6 channel level 20 db set
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B-M9vh-K8KZmSGF0R2NsRUp1aVE/view?usp=sharing
The same is in the microphone mode.

I sent an email to Sound Devices to get more information, but my instinct tells me that the +10dB Maximum Input Clipping Level is an absolute spec and that the gain range will have no effect. In other words, setting the Aux Gain to -10dB would NOT mean the Aux 5/6 input can accept a +20dB signal.

Will follow-up when they respond.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: willndmb on June 21, 2017, 08:56:24 PM
Those of us with mp6 units should continue to experiment and report back with findings.

For me, I'm going to try to run the mixpre6 on 0db for 5/6, control gain with the littlebox and see what happens.
In mp-6 you can adjust the signal strength to aux input:
In line mode -40 - +40 dB
In the microphone mode -20 - +60 db
This should suffice in most situations, without need external attenuator.
I applied -10 dBu from the mp-d to the 5 and 6 aux input of the mp-6, mode line
5 channel level 14 db set
6 channel level 20 db set
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B-M9vh-K8KZmSGF0R2NsRUp1aVE/view?usp=sharing
The same is in the microphone mode.
i have a feeling you are right and in my situation, running 5/6is a must but if he t can't handle the signal from my tiny box there is no point

I sent an email to Sound Devices to get more information, but my instinct tells me that the +10dB Maximum Input Clipping Level is an absolute spec and that the gain range will have no effect. In other words, setting the Aux Gain to -10dB would NOT mean the Aux 5/6 input can accept a +20dB signal.

Will follow-up when they respond.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: tim in jersey on June 21, 2017, 09:59:57 PM
Thanks man.

Just run your ipa into the mp3, turn off P48. Let the ipa power the mics. Will run a long time on 4 AA's if no P48.
Just an idea, i'm going to use my Babynbox the same way as soon as i get a cable.

1/8 line
 input?

No, i dont think that works as good as the xlr inputs (it might be just me, someone correct me then)
You can go line in via xlrs and shut off P48, i'll be trying it out very soon.

Personally, I'd much rather use a balanced connection if at all possible...
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: Fried Chicken Boy on June 21, 2017, 11:29:42 PM
I suppose something like this could live in my bag for loud shows or hot sbd patches: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/971344-REG/microphone_madness_mm_at_1_attenuator_cable_13.html

FWIW, Naiant also makes RCA and TRS attenuator cables, not just XLR.  The link Bean posted earlier, for convenience. >
http://naiant.com/studio-electronics-products/inline-devices/mpd-inline-attenuator-2/ (http://naiant.com/studio-electronics-products/inline-devices/mpd-inline-attenuator-2/)
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: b_curl on June 22, 2017, 01:34:06 AM
This is probably very obvious to most, but I learned the hard way that channels need to be armed for them to be written to separate wav files .

I recorded an interview with a translator and mic'd them up separately only to discover they wrote to the one recording. The main issue being that one of the mics was quieter than the other but I didn't bother to correct it as the interview was halfway through and I intended to fix the separate wave file in post.

If anyone knows of a way in Adobe Audition to normalise the recording so that one subjects voice is the of the same loudness as the other, it would be greatly appreciated!

Very new to Sound Devices gear and multiple channel recording (apart from stereo recording) but I must say I am extremely happy with the results so far. I recorded a choir at a church service on a remote island in Melonesia with a pair of DPA 4060's and it sounds unreal!
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: hipporu on June 22, 2017, 02:40:40 AM
I sent an email to Sound Devices to get more information, but my instinct tells me that the +10dB Maximum Input Clipping Level is an absolute spec and that the gain range will have no effect. In other words, setting the Aux Gain to -10dB would NOT mean the Aux 5/6 input can accept a +20dB signal.

Will follow-up when they respond.
Perhaps, it depends on the circuitry.
Thank you for your request to SD.
It will be useful to know exactly.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dogmusic on June 22, 2017, 10:26:07 AM
This is probably very obvious to most, but I learned the hard way that channels need to be armed for them to be written to separate wav files .

I recorded an interview with a translator and mic'd them up separately only to discover they wrote to the one recording. The main issue being that one of the mics was quieter than the other but I didn't bother to correct it as the interview was halfway through and I intended to fix the separate wave file in post.

If anyone knows of a way in Adobe Audition to normalise the recording so that one subjects voice is the of the same loudness as the other, it would be greatly appreciated!

Very new to Sound Devices gear and multiple channel recording (apart from stereo recording) but I must say I am extremely happy with the results so far. I recorded a choir at a church service on a remote island in Melonesia with a pair of DPA 4060's and it sounds unreal!

Did you open the file in Waveagent? Maybe it was recorded in stereo in the LRMix.

How did you connect the DPA 4060's to the MixPre?
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: hi and lo on June 22, 2017, 02:54:40 PM
I sent an email to Sound Devices to get more information, but my instinct tells me that the +10dB Maximum Input Clipping Level is an absolute spec and that the gain range will have no effect. In other words, setting the Aux Gain to -10dB would NOT mean the Aux 5/6 input can accept a +20dB signal.

Will follow-up when they respond.
Perhaps, it depends on the circuitry.
Thank you for your request to SD.
It will be useful to know exactly.

Got a reply and it was pretty much what I expected.


Thank you for contacting Sound Devices.  Based on the output of the pre-amp that you are using, setting the AUX input to either MIC or LINE level should allow you to set proper gain for a condenser microphone.  The AUX input has a large gain range from that can be adjusted from -40db to +40db when this input is set to LINE and -20db to +60db when this input is set to MIC.  If your AUX input setting is MIC, per the manual, this input signal should not exceed -10dBu.  If set to LINE, please make sure the input signal does not exceed +10dBu.  Yes, these are maximum input levels and if they are exceeded, your input will be too hot.  We don't currently have a diagram of the AUX-IN signal processing.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: b_curl on June 22, 2017, 04:00:26 PM
This is probably very obvious to most, but I learned the hard way that channels need to be armed for them to be written to separate wav files .

I recorded an interview with a translator and mic'd them up separately only to discover they wrote to the one recording. The main issue being that one of the mics was quieter than the other but I didn't bother to correct it as the interview was halfway through and I intended to fix the separate wave file in post.

If anyone knows of a way in Adobe Audition to normalise the recording so that one subjects voice is the of the same loudness as the other, it would be greatly appreciated!

Very new to Sound Devices gear and multiple channel recording (apart from stereo recording) but I must say I am extremely happy with the results so far. I recorded a choir at a church service on a remote island in Melonesia with a pair of DPA 4060's and it sounds unreal!

Did you open the file in Waveagent? Maybe it was recorded in stereo in the LRMix.

How did you connect the DPA 4060's to the MixPre?

I opened it on Waveagent, but I had  stupidity centred the pan on both channels on the MP3.

I connect it via xlr. My only critique of the mics is their fragile connection points.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: hipporu on June 22, 2017, 04:08:25 PM
Got a reply and it was pretty much what I expected.

Thank you for contacting Sound Devices.  Based on the output of the pre-amp that you are using, setting the AUX input to either MIC or LINE level should allow you to set proper gain for a condenser microphone.  The AUX input has a large gain range from that can be adjusted from -40db to +40db when this input is set to LINE and -20db to +60db when this input is set to MIC.  If your AUX input setting is MIC, per the manual, this input signal should not exceed -10dBu.  If set to LINE, please make sure the input signal does not exceed +10dBu.  Yes, these are maximum input levels and if they are exceeded, your input will be too hot.  We don't currently have a diagram of the AUX-IN signal processing.

Exhaustively.
Thank you.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: hipporu on June 22, 2017, 04:24:44 PM
I opened it on Waveagent, but I had  stupidity centred the pan on both channels on the MP3.
You can use a compressor, this will help to some extent.
Perhaps a little EQ, depending of the voices.
You can make a double track, cut quiet phrases, boost the level and mix with the main track, if the recording is worth it.
...
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: mountaintaper on June 22, 2017, 10:22:37 PM
ok. I recorded an acoustic set last night with my MixPre-6.  Ch 1-2 were the SBD.. my levels looked great all night, think I even turned them down slightly at one point..came home to almost seeing a flatline wavform..levels peaked at -49db.  I've used it before and this didn't happen...what gives? anyone know?  on the plus side..I brought the levels up to 0 in Soundforge and still sounds great, I hear no hiss at all.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: willndmb on June 22, 2017, 10:33:58 PM
I sent an email to Sound Devices to get more information, but my instinct tells me that the +10dB Maximum Input Clipping Level is an absolute spec and that the gain range will have no effect. In other words, setting the Aux Gain to -10dB would NOT mean the Aux 5/6 input can accept a +20dB signal.

Will follow-up when they respond.
Perhaps, it depends on the circuitry.
Thank you for your request to SD.
It will be useful to know exactly.

Got a reply and it was pretty much what I expected.


Thank you for contacting Sound Devices.  Based on the output of the pre-amp that you are using, setting the AUX input to either MIC or LINE level should allow you to set proper gain for a condenser microphone.  The AUX input has a large gain range from that can be adjusted from -40db to +40db when this input is set to LINE and -20db to +60db when this input is set to MIC.  If your AUX input setting is MIC, per the manual, this input signal should not exceed -10dBu.  If set to LINE, please make sure the input signal does not exceed +10dBu.  Yes, these are maximum input levels and if they are exceeded, your input will be too hot.  We don't currently have a diagram of the AUX-IN signal processing.
thanks
So for me the mp is pretty much useless as I need to run 5/6 the way my mics are set up, i.e. Requiring the tinybox unless I bought all new cables which defeats the point for me :(
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: aaronji on June 23, 2017, 10:59:21 AM
^ For most mics and recording situations, the +10 dBu line input should be usable.  As an example, a Schoeps MK41 (14 mV/Pa) puts out +10 dBu at 139 dBSPL, which is insanely loud (Schoeps specs the max at 132 dB).  Even a few feet from the drums, it is unlikely to reach that level.  If you add gain, though, it's definitely possible.  I would think that a pre-amp with zero (or little) gain should almost always be OK, whereas something like an nbox (which I recall has 20 dB fixed gain) might cause problems.  I think in Noah's case, the issue was the 20 dB he added at the recorder.  I guess SD's specs could be off too (actually takes less than +10 dBu).

Soundboards are a different thing entirely, though...
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: vwmule on June 23, 2017, 11:51:12 AM
My second outing with the MP6:

https://archive.org/details/dco2017-06-22

I had AA batteries in for backup and it seemed to rely on those first as I got a low power warning in first set. My assumption is that I hadn't kicked on the USB battery pack first, so it defaulted to AA.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dallman on June 23, 2017, 12:08:38 PM
ok. I recorded an acoustic set last night with my MixPre-6.  Ch 1-2 were the SBD.. my levels looked great all night, think I even turned them down slightly at one point..came home to almost seeing a flatline wavform..levels peaked at -49db.  I've used it before and this didn't happen...what gives? anyone know?  on the plus side..I brought the levels up to 0 in Soundforge and still sounds great, I hear no hiss at all.
Did you have the LR mix shut off? There is a known flaw that will drop your levels way down but everything will look normal. As far as I know (and from my own experience) this will only happen if you do not record the Mix. As you said, you can boost and there is no loss of quality at all. I am tempted to try really boosting while recording so I am in the red, in this L/R mix off mode to see what happens, but I also don't want to take a chance that I'll get a low but when boosted distorted signal.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dogmusic on June 23, 2017, 12:32:59 PM
ok. I recorded an acoustic set last night with my MixPre-6.  Ch 1-2 were the SBD.. my levels looked great all night, think I even turned them down slightly at one point..came home to almost seeing a flatline wavform..levels peaked at -49db.  I've used it before and this didn't happen...what gives? anyone know?  on the plus side..I brought the levels up to 0 in Soundforge and still sounds great, I hear no hiss at all.
Did you have the LR mix shut off? There is a known flaw that will drop your levels way down but everything will look normal. As far as I know (and from my own experience) this will only happen if you do not record the Mix. As you said, you can boost and there is no loss of quality at all. I am tempted to try really boosting while recording so I am in the red, in this L/R mix off mode to see what happens, but I also don't want to take a chance that I'll get a low but when boosted distorted signal.

From my experience, this level drop when not recording LR Mix only occurs in Custom Mode. If you stay in Advanced Mode -- and set your channel levels from the menu rather than from the fader knobs -- this is not a problem. You can turn off the LR Mix record and get normal level in your channels.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: mountaintaper on June 23, 2017, 02:32:23 PM
ok. I recorded an acoustic set last night with my MixPre-6.  Ch 1-2 were the SBD.. my levels looked great all night, think I even turned them down slightly at one point..came home to almost seeing a flatline wavform..levels peaked at -49db.  I've used it before and this didn't happen...what gives? anyone know?  on the plus side..I brought the levels up to 0 in Soundforge and still sounds great, I hear no hiss at all.
Did you have the LR mix shut off? There is a known flaw that will drop your levels way down but everything will look normal. As far as I know (and from my own experience) this will only happen if you do not record the Mix. As you said, you can boost and there is no loss of quality at all. I am tempted to try really boosting while recording so I am in the red, in this L/R mix off mode to see what happens, but I also don't want to take a chance that I'll get a low but when boosted distorted signal.

Yes, i had the L/R record disabled.  well I guess I will record the useless mix in the future to avoid this.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dallman on June 23, 2017, 03:20:24 PM
ok. I recorded an acoustic set last night with my MixPre-6.  Ch 1-2 were the SBD.. my levels looked great all night, think I even turned them down slightly at one point..came home to almost seeing a flatline wavform..levels peaked at -49db.  I've used it before and this didn't happen...what gives? anyone know?  on the plus side..I brought the levels up to 0 in Soundforge and still sounds great, I hear no hiss at all.
Did you have the LR mix shut off? There is a known flaw that will drop your levels way down but everything will look normal. As far as I know (and from my own experience) this will only happen if you do not record the Mix. As you said, you can boost and there is no loss of quality at all. I am tempted to try really boosting while recording so I am in the red, in this L/R mix off mode to see what happens, but I also don't want to take a chance that I'll get a low but when boosted distorted signal.

From my experience, this level drop when not recording LR Mix only occurs in Custom Mode. If you stay in Advanced Mode -- and set your channel levels from the menu rather than from the fader knobs -- this is not a problem. You can turn off the LR Mix record and get normal level in your channels.

That's good to know. I like having the fader knobs control gain, but until the issue gets fixed, there really is no reason to not just set gain from the menu.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: jbell on June 23, 2017, 03:35:59 PM
Hopefully a firmware update will be released soon to fix this issue. 
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: F.O.Bean on June 23, 2017, 05:27:31 PM
My second outing with the MP6:

https://archive.org/details/dco2017-06-22

I had AA batteries in for backup and it seemed to rely on those first as I got a low power warning in first set. My assumption is that I hadn't kicked on the USB battery pack first, so it defaulted to AA.

Yeah I bet that's what happened Alex! If you DO NOT hit the USB Battery button to turn it ON, it WILL NOT kick ON by itself! Ive had that happen on my old 70D's, so I look for the powering option immediately when starting my decks now!

And as far as the 5/6 1/8" inputs, I haven't tested mine yet! I'm going to hook my VMS02IB up to it and see what happens! I also have those Naiant MPD XLR Attenuators, that I can run between the VMS02IB & the MixPre6, if the +20db of fixed gain is too much for the MP6 to handle! I'd imagine if you had Channels 5/6 set to LINE IN, and had it really low at like -40db, I'd think it would be pretty hard to clip!

Thanks for all of the good info in these threads, yinz guys ;D
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: F.O.Bean on June 23, 2017, 05:38:54 PM
ok. I recorded an acoustic set last night with my MixPre-6.  Ch 1-2 were the SBD.. my levels looked great all night, think I even turned them down slightly at one point..came home to almost seeing a flatline wavform..levels peaked at -49db.  I've used it before and this didn't happen...what gives? anyone know?  on the plus side..I brought the levels up to 0 in Soundforge and still sounds great, I hear no hiss at all.
Did you have the LR mix shut off? There is a known flaw that will drop your levels way down but everything will look normal. As far as I know (and from my own experience) this will only happen if you do not record the Mix. As you said, you can boost and there is no loss of quality at all. I am tempted to try really boosting while recording so I am in the red, in this L/R mix off mode to see what happens, but I also don't want to take a chance that I'll get a low but when boosted distorted signal.

From my experience, this level drop when not recording LR Mix only occurs in Custom Mode. If you stay in Advanced Mode -- and set your channel levels from the menu rather than from the fader knobs -- this is not a problem. You can turn off the LR Mix record and get normal level in your channels.

Hmmm, that's weird. Ive been recording the TV with realistic levels peaking around -8 to -12db, with 4 channels of 60v PFA's on Channels 1-4, with the LR Mix both ON & OFF, and I never had this issue! And fwiw, Ive been strictly using Custom Mode & adjusting the levels via the gain knobs ONLY ??? Wonder why I haven't experienced that yet?

So for right now, it's just better to give my 4 channels of 60v PFA's on Channels 1-4, and set it through the menu with like +20db of gain via the menu?

I'm setting everything up AGAIN and testing to see if my Hosa Y Cable works [Dual XLR_F to Single 1/8"] for a SBD Patch and I need to determine which channel is Left & Right, since the Hosa cable isn't marked :( And I also need to test out the runtimes of my new Anker PowerCore+ 20,100 USB C Battery and see how long she goes ;D
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: willndmb on June 23, 2017, 10:02:22 PM
^ For most mics and recording situations, the +10 dBu line input should be usable.  As an example, a Schoeps MK41 (14 mV/Pa) puts out +10 dBu at 139 dBSPL, which is insanely loud (Schoeps specs the max at 132 dB).  Even a few feet from the drums, it is unlikely to reach that level.  If you add gain, though, it's definitely possible.  I would think that a pre-amp with zero (or little) gain should almost always be OK, whereas something like an nbox (which I recall has 20 dB fixed gain) might cause problems.  I think in Noah's case, the issue was the 20 dB he added at the recorder.  I guess SD's specs could be off too (actually takes less than +10 dBu).

Soundboards are a different thing entirely, though...
ohh good to know and as typical I learn something new that I didn't know or misunderstood.
Thanks
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dogmusic on June 24, 2017, 03:31:44 PM
I'm experiencing a strange problem with time of day on the MixPre-6. When I insert my 64 GB SD card with MixPre recorded files into my Mac computer, the time of the creation of the recorded file is shown as four hours earlier than the actual time it was recorded.

I have changed the Time Zone in the MixPre settings but it has no effect on the time shown on the file. It's always four hours earlier.

Adding to the puzzle is that my 32 GB SD cards do not exhibit this problem. They show the actual time of recording -- and it doesn't matter what the Time Zone setting is.

Anyone else noticed this?

EDIT: I have the latest firmware installed in the MixPre.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: MIQ on June 24, 2017, 06:21:16 PM
^ For most mics and recording situations, the +10 dBu line input should be usable.  As an example, a Schoeps MK41 (14 mV/Pa) puts out +10 dBu at 139 dBSPL, which is insanely loud (Schoeps specs the max at 132 dB).  Even a few feet from the drums, it is unlikely to reach that level.  If you add gain, though, it's definitely possible.  I would think that a pre-amp with zero (or little) gain should almost always be OK, whereas something like an nbox (which I recall has 20 dB fixed gain) might cause problems.  I think in Noah's case, the issue was the 20 dB he added at the recorder.  I guess SD's specs could be off too (actually takes less than +10 dBu).

I'm thinking the same thing.  Shouldn't be a problem with most mics operating below their Max SPL ratings, with 0dB preamp/batt box gain.  I think DPA 4060s with a Batt Box into this input would be good to hear.  Here's a few Mic Outputs in dBu at their Max SPL:

     Mic                Sensitivity     Max SPL       Output @ Max SPL
________           ________     _______      ________________
DPA 4060            20 mV/Pa      134 dB               8.2 dBu
DPA 4061              6 mV/Pa      144 dB               7.7 dBu
Schoeps MK4       13 mV/Pa      132 dB               2.5 dBu
Schoeps MK41     14 mV/Pa      132 dB               3.1 dBu
MBHO KA200N     14 mV/Pa      130 dB               1.1 dBu
MBHO KA100DK   12 mV/Pa      132 dB               1.8 dBu
AKG CK61/62/63  20 mV/Pa      140 dB             14.2 dBu    with C480B

-MIQ
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: tom the taper on June 24, 2017, 11:20:26 PM
I'm experiencing a strange problem with time of day on the MixPre-6. When I insert my 64 GB SD card with MixPre recorded files into my Mac computer, the time of the creation of the recorded file is shown as four hours earlier than the actual time it was recorded.

I have changed the Time Zone in the MixPre settings but it has no effect on the time shown on the file. It's always four hours earlier.

Adding to the puzzle is that my 32 GB SD cards do not exhibit this problem. They show the actual time of recording -- and it doesn't matter what the Time Zone setting is.

Anyone else noticed this?

EDIT: I have the latest firmware installed in the MixPre.

YES!
Drivin me crazy.  The deck shows my current time, but regardless of what "GMT" setting, the .wav file shows 4 hours earlier.  (128 GB card)

~have to record the mix tracks, time is screwy, doesn't keep your last setting when you power up -- I'm READY for a Firmware Update!!
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: tom the taper on June 24, 2017, 11:22:36 PM
 :banging head:
But I love my mix pre 6
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: willndmb on June 24, 2017, 11:24:51 PM
^ For most mics and recording situations, the +10 dBu line input should be usable.  As an example, a Schoeps MK41 (14 mV/Pa) puts out +10 dBu at 139 dBSPL, which is insanely loud (Schoeps specs the max at 132 dB).  Even a few feet from the drums, it is unlikely to reach that level.  If you add gain, though, it's definitely possible.  I would think that a pre-amp with zero (or little) gain should almost always be OK, whereas something like an nbox (which I recall has 20 dB fixed gain) might cause problems.  I think in Noah's case, the issue was the 20 dB he added at the recorder.  I guess SD's specs could be off too (actually takes less than +10 dBu).

I'm thinking the same thing.  Shouldn't be a problem with most mics operating below their Max SPL ratings, with 0dB preamp/batt box gain.  I think DPA 4060s with a Batt Box into this input would be good to hear.  Here's a few Mic Outputs in dBu at their Max SPL:

     Mic                Sensitivity     Max SPL       Output @ Max SPL
________           ________     _______      ________________
DPA 4060            20 mV/Pa      134 dB               8.2 dBu
DPA 4061              6 mV/Pa      144 dB               7.7 dBu
Schoeps MK4       13 mV/Pa      132 dB               2.5 dBu
Schoeps MK41     14 mV/Pa      132 dB               3.1 dBu
MBHO KA200N     14 mV/Pa      130 dB               1.1 dBu
MBHO KA100DK   12 mV/Pa      132 dB               1.8 dBu
AKG CK61/62/63  20 mV/Pa      140 dB             14.2 dBu    with C480B

-MIQ
so akg at max would be too hot, correct?
And if I was running akg ck_ into a tinybox on low gain (+4db), at max it def would be
But the typical loud show would be approximately sayyyyyyyy 126 and in turn be 0dBu (+4 with the tb) and not cause a problem
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: johnw on June 25, 2017, 08:13:34 AM
I have a hard time figuring this out because the gain reported in dB is not the same thing as dBu. So mk41 (3.1dBu @ 132dB) + Nbox (fixed 20dB gain) does not mean that the output is 23.1 dBu since you can't sum dB and dBu as they aren't the same units of measurement.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: MIQ on June 25, 2017, 11:39:42 AM
Hi johnw,

You are right that it can be confusing.  In this case, since the preamp is applying a fixed amount of gain to the signal, it is ok to add the amount of gain it is adding in dB to the signal size in dBu to get the final signal size delivered to the recorder's 1/8" input in dBu. 

The confusing part is that gain is just multiplying the signal size (Volts) by a number like 10.  But when you express this in dB you ADD it (20 dB) to the signal size (also expressed in a dB scale: dBu).  You are right that you cannot mix dB scales that have different references like dBu and dBV.  In this case we are staying in the dBu scale from the input to the output.

The scenario you are describing is exactly the issue.  If you add (in dB) too much gain to the mic's signal, you will make the mic so sensitive, that even moderately loud sounds will overdrive the MixPre 1/8" input. 


Willndmb,

AKG at max SPL is too hot even if the preamp has gain=1 (0dB) but that doesn't mean you can't get a great recording since most shows are not going to be that loud at the mic location.   

Here's the dB-SPL that it takes to hit the +10dBu level for the AKG mics (or the DPA 4060, or any mic with sensitivity = 20 mV/Pa) and NO additional preamp gain.

Gain = 0 dB (Pre set to unity gain)
AKG SPL @ 10 dBu Output = 136 dB SPL

If you are adding gain (in dB) in the preamp, you will need to subtract the gain you are adding from the max SPL you can expose the mic to.  Adding gain makes the mics more sensitive so you can't expose them to as loud an environment.

Gain = +4dB (tb)
AKG SPL @ 10dBu Output = 136 dB SPL - 4 dB = 132 dB SPL. 
 
Gain = +20dB (Nbox)
AKG SPL @ 10dBu Output = 136 dB SPL - 20 dB = 116 dB SPL

The MixPre 1/8" input won't work in loud environments with many mics if you add too much gain between the mics and the 1/8" input.  But if you can keep the gain you are adding between the mics and the 1/8" input around unity, it should be ok for most mics.  I guess as more people try different combinations of mics, pres, and dB SPL into this input, we will see...

MIQ
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: johnw on June 25, 2017, 12:35:45 PM
Great explanation MIQ, thanks!
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: willndmb on June 25, 2017, 11:03:45 PM
Great explanation MIQ, thanks!
yes thanks

And John here is a chart that helped me http://www.sengpielaudio.com/calculator-transferfactor.htm
That's how I saw I would need to be at or below 130 to be safe, just so happens it is in blue to stand out.
Because that would give me 4dBu and if my tinybox adds 4db gain I'll actually be at 8dBu of the 10 allowed
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: hi and lo on June 26, 2017, 12:54:43 AM
... As an example, a Schoeps MK41 (14 mV/Pa) puts out +10 dBu at 139 dBSPL, which is insanely loud (Schoeps specs the max at 132 dB).  Even a few feet from the drums, it is unlikely to reach that level.

Maximum Sound Pressure Level specifications are provided as Peak Sound Pressure (Lpeak or Lpk), which can easily supersede the RMS Maximum SPL value by 20dB. If you're at a concert and the A-weighted SPL meter reads 100db+, Peak SPLs are actually very close to to the maximum and can hit 130-140dB, but you would need a Peak SPL meter to measure them. When close-miking drums Peak SPLs can exceed 145db!

Considering that the source of this issue was an on-stage Soulive recording, I have no doubt that the peak SPLs were in the danger zone for a +10dB rated input.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: noahbickart on June 26, 2017, 03:33:28 AM
mk41v:  http://bt.etree.org/details.php?id=593900

Dead & Company
BB&T Pavilion; Camden, NJ
June 25, 2017

Location: DFC behind the board at ~5 feet
Source: Schoeps mk41v (20cm PAS)> NBob KCY> Darktrain KCY Snake> Naiant PFA> Sound Devices Mixpre6 @ 24/48
Transfer: Mixpre> usb-c> Macbook> Reaper (DSP)> Sound Studio (Tracking and Fades)> xAct (Tagging and Flaccing)

mk22:  http://bt.etree.org/details.php?id=593904

Dead & Company
BB&T Pavilion; Camden, NJ
June 25, 2017

Location: DFC behind the board at ~5 feet
Source: Schoeps mk22 (NOS)> NBob KCY> Darktrain KCY Snake> Naiant PFA> Sound Devices Mixpre6 @ 24/48
Transfer: Mixpre> usb-c> Macbook> Reaper (DSP)> Sound Studio (Tracking and Fades)> xAct (Tagging and Flaccing)
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: hi and lo on June 26, 2017, 09:39:39 AM
2007? :o
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: noahbickart on June 26, 2017, 10:03:43 AM
2007? :o

oops. Edited. Thanks.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: aaronji on June 26, 2017, 11:12:53 AM
... As an example, a Schoeps MK41 (14 mV/Pa) puts out +10 dBu at 139 dBSPL, which is insanely loud (Schoeps specs the max at 132 dB).  Even a few feet from the drums, it is unlikely to reach that level.

Maximum Sound Pressure Level specifications are provided as Peak Sound Pressure (Lpeak or Lpk), which can easily supersede the RMS Maximum SPL value by 20dB. If you're at a concert and the A-weighted SPL meter reads 100db+, Peak SPLs are actually very close to to the maximum and can hit 130-140dB, but you would need a Peak SPL meter to measure them. When close-miking drums Peak SPLs can exceed 145db!

Considering that the source of this issue was an on-stage Soulive recording, I have no doubt that the peak SPLs were in the danger zone for a +10dB rated input.

It would be nice if it could take a hotter signal (especially since that’s at line level).  In most taping situations, however, with most microphones, +10 dBu should be OK.  If it’s not, you might as well forget about those nice Kashmir pre-amps on the MixPre-6, as you will be right in the danger zone with them also (+14 dBu).  Actually, you are probably in trouble with many Sound Devices products, such as a 702 or 744 (+10 dBu minimum, low gain mode, gain control fully down) or a 633 (0 dBu minimum, trim control fully down). 

As for the drums, "close-miking" versus "taper’s distance" (even on-stage) is a pretty huge difference.  Even a full-on rimshot on a metal shelled snare is in the 120 dB range at 1.5 or 2 meters.

Maybe it will prove to be the case that the consumer level input on a prosumer level box will be generally inadequate.  For now, we have only SD’s spec and one anecdote to work on, so, personally, I am not going to write it off quite yet…
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: sos on June 26, 2017, 11:32:53 AM
MixPre Series Firmware v. 1.11 is out, with major fixes. Also, an ASIO driver for Windows OS (v2.9.87.5) is now available for download:

https://www.sounddevices.com/support/downloads/mixpres-firmware
https://www.sounddevices.com/support/downloads/mixpres-asio-driver-download


Changes introduced in 1.11 include:

New

    When playing back a file, the file's remaining time is now shown in the Status Bar.

Changes

    The File List Number is now editable from 1 to 9999.
    The Current Project name is now displayed in the Menu>Project header.
    The Headphone output is briefly muted when Aux In Mode is changed to prevent loud audible pops.
    Various system improvements and enhancements.

Fixed

    In some custom setups, ISO Tracks were recorded low level when Tracks L and R were disarmed.
    File corruption when power was depleted mid-recording.
    Some custom mode settings were not retained after a power cycle; for instance, 40 Hz Low Cut Filter setting was set to 80Hz after a power cycle.
    After a power cycle, channel gain was not set correctly until the channel knob was slightly adjusted.
    Channel 5 and 6 did not correctly show limiter activity when Input Source was set to Aux In.
    Clip indicator showed twice for one clipping event.
    Changing headphone gain while in the Solo/Mute screen caused incorrect monitoring and routing of signals to the headphone output.
    Gain and pan controls were not grayed out on channel 2 when channels 1 and 2 were linked as a stereo or MS pair. (MixPre-3 Only)
    Engaging record with a full SD card inserted created small files.
    Incorrect message was displayed when attempting to record with a locked SD Card inserted. Now, 'SD Card is Locked' is reported.
    Camera Meters (C1, C2) did not display signal activity in Custom Mode with Advanced Headphone Settings.
    Camera and USB Meters didn’t show any activity during playback.
    USB Audio Routing was incorrect while playing back.
    The Open Project Menu list was displayed incorrectly when rapidly scrolling through it.
    Audio Delay could have been incorrect after changing sample rate.
    A recording's first sample could have been incorrect after changing sample rate.
    Improved stability of HDMI Timecode.
    USB Keyboard shortcut Ctrl + Z did not perform Undo.
    USB Keyboard shortcut F2 did not enter the File List.
    The Record/L&R Gain setting incorrectly altered the L&R track playback levels. The setting should only affect the L&R record levels, not the L&R playback levels.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: jbell on June 26, 2017, 12:34:28 PM
^thanks for the heads up!
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: tom the taper on June 26, 2017, 01:02:56 PM
MixPre Series Firmware v. 1.11 is out, with major fixes. Also, an ASIO driver for Windows OS (v2.9.87.5) is now available for download:

https://www.sounddevices.com/support/downloads/mixpres-firmware
https://www.sounddevices.com/support/downloads/mixpres-asio-driver-download


Changes introduced in 1.11 include:

New

    When playing back a file, the file's remaining time is now shown in the Status Bar.

Changes

    The File List Number is now editable from 1 to 9999.
    The Current Project name is now displayed in the Menu>Project header.
    The Headphone output is briefly muted when Aux In Mode is changed to prevent loud audible pops.
    Various system improvements and enhancements.

Fixed

    In some custom setups, ISO Tracks were recorded low level when Tracks L and R were disarmed.
    File corruption when power was depleted mid-recording.
    Some custom mode settings were not retained after a power cycle; for instance, 40 Hz Low Cut Filter setting was set to 80Hz after a power cycle.
    After a power cycle, channel gain was not set correctly until the channel knob was slightly adjusted.
    Channel 5 and 6 did not correctly show limiter activity when Input Source was set to Aux In.
    Clip indicator showed twice for one clipping event.
    Changing headphone gain while in the Solo/Mute screen caused incorrect monitoring and routing of signals to the headphone output.
    Gain and pan controls were not grayed out on channel 2 when channels 1 and 2 were linked as a stereo or MS pair. (MixPre-3 Only)
    Engaging record with a full SD card inserted created small files.
    Incorrect message was displayed when attempting to record with a locked SD Card inserted. Now, 'SD Card is Locked' is reported.
    Camera Meters (C1, C2) did not display signal activity in Custom Mode with Advanced Headphone Settings.
    Camera and USB Meters didn’t show any activity during playback.
    USB Audio Routing was incorrect while playing back.
    The Open Project Menu list was displayed incorrectly when rapidly scrolling through it.
    Audio Delay could have been incorrect after changing sample rate.
    A recording's first sample could have been incorrect after changing sample rate.
    Improved stability of HDMI Timecode.
    USB Keyboard shortcut Ctrl + Z did not perform Undo.
    USB Keyboard shortcut F2 did not enter the File List.
    The Record/L&R Gain setting incorrectly altered the L&R track playback levels. The setting should only affect the L&R record levels, not the L&R playback levels.

YES! - Thanks for the heads up!
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: johnw on June 26, 2017, 01:11:55 PM
Did this fix the ability to link channels in custom mode with basic gain on the Mix Pre 6? I don't see anything about that.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dallman on June 26, 2017, 01:23:28 PM
Did this fix the ability to link channels in custom mode with basic gain on the Mix Pre 6? I don't see anything about that.

Fixed

    In some custom setups, ISO Tracks were recorded low level when Tracks L and R were disarmed.

That was the issue. Linking them was not an issue, unless there was a specific situation you had. I was able to link under the situation you list above, but the levels were really low.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: hi and lo on June 26, 2017, 01:24:11 PM
...
If it’s not, you might as well forget about those nice Kashmir pre-amps on the MixPre-6, as you will be right in the danger zone with them also (+14 dBu).  Actually, you are probably in trouble with many Sound Devices products, such as a 702 or 744 (+10 dBu minimum, low gain mode, gain control fully down) or a 633 (0 dBu minimum, trim control fully down). 

Correct, which is why professional recorders have Line Inputs. Assuming phantom power is available, as it is on all the 7xx recorders and the Mix-Pre 3/6, bypassing the Mic Inputs and recording via the Line Inputs is the best practice. It will provide the proper headroom and sound better with less noise than a Kashmir microphone input stage that is overloading or running at minimum gain.

We shouldn't think twice or worry in the slightest about not using "Kashmir" preamps (or any preamp for that matter). When a condenser microphone provides an appropriately "hot" signal, using a microphone input stage will only risk overload and, usually, add noise as almost all microphone amplifier have the highest THD + Noise specifications at minimum gain. Running directly to the Line Inputs is one less gain stage with far less overall THD + Noise.

Pardon me for calling it a common misconception, but the idea running the signal through a preamp because it will somehow 'flavor' the sound beneficially is not a best practice. The theoretical best sound between the microphone capsule and recorder should be a "straight wire" and every device placed in between are additional source of noise and distortion. It's fine to 'enjoy the sound' of a preamp when it makes sense to use one for needed gain, but not if you are inserting it into the signal path and operating it at the setting that produces the least optimal THD + Noise.


As for the drums, "close-miking" versus "taper’s distance" (even on-stage) is a pretty huge difference.  Even a full-on rimshot on a metal shelled snare is in the 120 dB range at 1.5 or 2 meters.


When discussing SPLs, it's important to always differentiate between RMS and Peak. They are different measurements.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6WzAM_y2iWw

Here's a excellent video of snare-drum SPL measurements. Notice the SPL meter is an RMS meter and that 110 dB SPL is easily achieved by normal play style. Peak SPLs aren't indicated, but they are much higher than the RMS rating; probably 125-130 dB, easily.

Now imagine a heavy metal drummer using heavy sticks and really laying into it. The RMS SPLs will go up, let's say 120 dB, and the peak SPLs are going to exceed that of our favorite condenser mics. 140+ Peak SPL is no problem. It's loud enough to clip at the capsule and will easily produce a signal that can clip the mic input of any recorder. No preamp required... to say the least.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: noahbickart on June 26, 2017, 01:57:48 PM
Did this fix the ability to link channels in custom mode with basic gain on the Mix Pre 6? I don't see anything about that.

Fixed

    In some custom setups, ISO Tracks were recorded low level when Tracks L and R were disarmed.

That was the issue. Linking them was not an issue, unless there was a specific situation you had. I was able to link under the situation you list above, but the levels were really low.

I just updated the firmware, but I still can't link channels 1+2, 3+4, and 5+6 in "Custom" Mode with Gain at "Basic."

It would be so nice to create a preset for just that. A 6 channel, three pair recorder, no LR, each pair linked so that the odd channel is gain and the even channel balance.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: aaronji on June 26, 2017, 03:40:31 PM
MixPre Series Firmware v. 1.11 is out, with major fixes. Also, an ASIO driver for Windows OS (v2.9.87.5) is now available for download:

There's a new version of the manual as well.

As for the drums, "close-miking" versus "taper’s distance" (even on-stage) is a pretty huge difference.  Even a full-on rimshot on a metal shelled snare is in the 120 dB range at 1.5 or 2 meters.

When discussing SPLs, it's important to always differentiate between RMS and Peak. They are different measurements.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6WzAM_y2iWw

Here's a excellent video of snare-drum SPL measurements. Notice the SPL meter is an RMS meter and that 110 dB SPL is easily achieved by normal play style. Peak SPLs aren't indicated, but they are much higher than the RMS rating; probably 125-130 dB, easily.

Now imagine a heavy metal drummer using heavy sticks and really laying into it. The RMS SPLs will go up, let's say 120 dB, and the peak SPLs are going to exceed that of our favorite condenser mics. 140+ Peak SPL is no problem. It's loud enough to clip at the capsule and will easily produce a signal that can clip the mic input of any recorder. No preamp required... to say the least.

Yes, I was indeed referring to maximum, not RMS.  If you look at that video, they are measuring from a distance of ~ 5 cm, give or take.  Even if your beefy metal drummer was whaling away, hitting 150 dB SPL maximum at that distance, it would be down to 120 dB at 1.6 meters.

Point well taken about the pre-amps, though.  Actually, despite a fairly close reading of the manual, I missed that phantom power is available on the MixPre-6's line inputs.  I thought it was like one of it's close competitors, in which phantom is only available through the mic pres.  Very useful.  Although I suspect I will still need to use the pres sometimes, it is nice that I won't be forced to in order to get all-in-one functionality.  Thanks!   
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: johnw on June 27, 2017, 07:07:27 PM
In the new manual, I see that linking is not an option under custom mode. I'm not sure if it was ever listed in the prior versions, but I would really really like to see Sound Devices make this feature available if possible.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: noahbickart on June 27, 2017, 11:41:30 PM
In the new manual, I see that linking is not an option under custom mode. I'm not sure if it was ever listed in the prior versions, but I would really really like to see Sound Devices make this feature available if possible.

You can do it in custom, just not if the Gain is set to Basic.

Between this and the strange 96db gain issue in Basic, one has to begin to wonder why Sound Devices is trying so hard to prevent people from using this box as a simple 6 channel ISO recorder.

Are they trying to protect the 633's market share?
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: johnw on June 28, 2017, 12:05:13 AM
In the new manual, I see that linking is not an option under custom mode. I'm not sure if it was ever listed in the prior versions, but I would really really like to see Sound Devices make this feature available if possible.

You can do it in custom, just not if the Gain is set to Basic.

Between this and the strange 96db gain issue in Basic, one has to begin to wonder why Sound Devices is trying so hard to prevent people from using this box as a simple 6 channel ISO recorder.

Are they trying to protect the 633's market share?

What's the 96 dB gain issue?
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: MIQ on June 28, 2017, 01:34:08 AM

It was loud onstage (soulive with scofield see for a matrix of the mk22 and mk3 sources: http://bt.etree.org/details.php?id=593684), but nothing the mixpre6 couldn't handle via its xlr ins.

This is a nice sounding recording Noah. I'm enjoying the NOS imaging and spaciousness of the wide omnis. Good stuff!  Thank you for sharing it.

MIQ
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: b_curl on June 28, 2017, 02:45:59 AM
This. That's what I thought I was getting when I got my MP3. A simple replacement for my mixed-pre D > m10 setup. Simple ISO recorder. An all in one unit.

Perhaps I'm too much of an amatuer, but the inbuilt complexity and always needing to refer back to threads for which setting should be basic/advance blah blah, for simple two channel recording with dials that control the gain. My unit doesn't even remember the previous set up when I turn it off.

All teething problems, I hope, that can be solved or offered via firmware later.

Perhaps just a simple gain mode would do it? Just ISO tracks

In the new manual, I see that linking is not an option under custom mode. I'm not sure if it was ever listed in the prior versions, but I would really really like to see Sound Devices make this feature available if possible.

one has to begin to wonder why Sound Devices is trying so hard to prevent people from using this box as a simple 6 channel ISO recorder.

Are they trying to protect the 633's market share?
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: fanofjam on June 28, 2017, 07:29:48 AM
We shouldn't think twice or worry in the slightest about not using "Kashmir" preamps (or any preamp for that matter). When a condenser microphone provides an appropriately "hot" signal, using a microphone input stage will only risk overload and, usually, add noise as almost all microphone amplifier have the highest THD + Noise specifications at minimum gain. Running directly to the Line Inputs is one less gain stage with far less overall THD + Noise.

Pardon me for calling it a common misconception, but the idea running the signal through a preamp because it will somehow 'flavor' the sound beneficially is not a best practice. The theoretical best sound between the microphone capsule and recorder should be a "straight wire" and every device placed in between are additional source of noise and distortion. It's fine to 'enjoy the sound' of a preamp when it makes sense to use one for needed gain, but not if you are inserting it into the signal path and operating it at the setting that produces the least optimal THD + Noise.

I understand your point in terms of achieving optimal distortion/noise results, but that's not everyone's ultimate goal, so I wouldn't call it 'best practice'.  It's only a best practice when your goal is to minimize noise and distortion. 

To your point about flavor and the concept of 'best sound' there's the lab version of best sound that can be measured on oscilloscopes and sound meters (which you call theoretical best sound), but then there's the practical best sound.  I've always and will always rely more on my ears than theory to determine what sounds best to me.  We all know that preamps do indeed have different 'flavors' and that's a legitimate selection factor in the specific preamp to include in a chain...or whether to include one at all.  A great example is the 'silk' setting on the Neve Portico.  So, to the point, I wouldn't consider it 'best practice' to exclude a preamp to minimize noise if my recording doesn't sound as good to my ears because, say, I couldn't put it through the Portico's 'silk' magic. 
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: datbrad on June 28, 2017, 07:39:53 AM
I've been thinking that there are two things very unlike typical Sound Devices products going on with these recorders. The first thing is that since the first 7xx series recorders were released, the only other recorders they put out were true analog mixers with integrated recorders. None of these had anything close to the bumpy start the mixpre 3 & 6 are going through. It's only been out for 2 months and the number of corrections to documentation and firmware fixes is entirely unlike any product they've introduced before. Not to mention things that were discovered by users that should have been surfaced and resolved before going to market. I am confident SD will eventually clear up the bulk of odd issues being reported, but just imagine if these were made by Tascam. The level of disdain voiced from our corner of the market would be deafening. It's only because of their past products reliability that so much patience is being shown by tapers, historically a brutally critical bunch with little tolerance for crap like this. The second thing is it could be that for podcasters and videographers this unit is marketed for, few of these issues would even come up. I can't imagine SD ever intended the Mixpre recorders to face conditions the 7xx series are designed to withstand along with workflows are easy enough to follow while running from the path of an avalanche at 12000ft holding a boom pole. I'm sure these issues can mostly be resolved via firmware, but in hindsight they should have gotten a few units in the hands of some beta testers from our camp to field test them before the big unveiling. Just my .02.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: noahbickart on June 28, 2017, 08:29:22 AM
In the new manual, I see that linking is not an option under custom mode. I'm not sure if it was ever listed in the prior versions, but I would really really like to see Sound Devices make this feature available if possible.

You can do it in custom, just not if the Gain is set to Basic.

Between this and the strange 96db gain issue in Basic, one has to begin to wonder why Sound Devices is trying so hard to prevent people from using this box as a simple 6 channel ISO recorder.

Are they trying to protect the 633's market share?

What's the 96 dB gain issue?

When using Custom mode with Gain set to Basic, the range is 0 - 96 db, whereas in advanced it is 0 - 72. SD won't say where this extra gain is coming from (is it digital?), or whatever one can't just have access to the preamp gain to the ISO tracks.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: fanofjam on June 28, 2017, 08:30:03 AM
I've been thinking that there are two things very unlike typical Sound Devices products going on with these recorders. The first thing is that since the first 7xx series recorders were released, the only other recorders they put out were true analog mixers with integrated recorders. None of these had anything close to the bumpy start the mixpre 3 & 6 are going through. It's only been out for 2 months and the number of corrections to documentation and firmware fixes is entirely unlike any product they've introduced before. Not to mention things that were discovered by users that should have been surfaced and resolved before going to market. I am confident SD will eventually clear up the bulk of odd issues being reported, but just imagine if these were made by Tascam. The level of disdain voiced from our corner of the market would be deafening. It's only because of their past products reliability that so much patience is being shown by tapers, historically a brutally critical bunch with little tolerance for crap like this. The second thing is it could be that for podcasters and videographers this unit is marketed for, few of these issues would even come up. I can't imagine SD ever intended the Mixpre recorders to face conditions the 7xx series are designed to withstand along with workflows are easy enough to follow while running from the path of an avalanche at 12000ft holding a boom pole. I'm sure these issues can mostly be resolved via firmware, but in hindsight they should have gotten a few units in the hands of some beta testers from our camp to field test them before the big unveiling. Just my .02.

I agree with everything you said, except the part in the middle when comparing Tascam and Sound Devices.  SD has a proven track record of fantastic customer service.  People are patient with them because they've earned their reputation.  Tascam, not so much.  So, yeah when it comes to dealing with these types of issues, you're going to be much more patient with a company that actually listens and responds quickly. 
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: Jonmac on June 28, 2017, 08:32:06 AM
There's a good video by Curtis Judd,on setting up the Mix Pre 6 here.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H_fzuu0m7OE

Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: Todd R on June 28, 2017, 11:27:27 AM

When using Custom mode with Gain set to Basic, the range is 0 - 96 db, whereas in advanced it is 0 - 72. SD won't say where this extra gain is coming from (is it digital?), or whatever one can't just have access to the preamp gain to the ISO tracks.

It's probably simpler, though there isn't clarity from SD on how things are operating together.  But the trim gain stage in advanced mode provides 6db to 76db of gain.  The faders can provide an additional 20db of gain.  So it seems very likely that Basic gain, whether in basic mode or custom mode, is simply using both the trim gain stage and the fader gain stage controlled as one, so 76+20 = 96db of gain.  Whether the first 20db of gain in Basic gain mode comes from the fader stage or comes from the Kashmir trim gain stage doesn't seem to be addressed.

Someone here awhile back posted that Basic gain uses only 6db of analog gain and the rest of the available gain was stated to be digital, I took from the response that he was saying digital scaling (like normalizing with software in post).  I've never found anything on that coming from Sound Devices, but personally I find that really hard to believe.  Bad practice and seems very unlikely to meet signal to noise specs.  If I were to guess, this is misinformation based on a misunderstanding of analog-controlled (analog) gain vs digitally controlled (analog) gain.  That is gain from a typical analog transistor or op amp or whatever gain stage controlled by an analog trim pot (knobs on the front, e.g.) vs the same gain stage controlled digitally, which control aside is still analog gain.  Digital gain (scaling) to me seems very unlikely.

Sorry, last bit is fairly off track from the post about the 96db of gain, but the scuttlebutt on discussion boards seems to make people worried about what is going on with gain in basic gain mode.  It seems very likely that the gain is trim gain + fader gain yielding up to 96db of gain.  Beyond that, I think SD makes quality gear and wouldn't probably configure one of their products user modes in a way that can cause noise levels to go through the roof.  More input from them might calm fears, but I'd guess there's little to worry about. 
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: Todd R on June 28, 2017, 12:02:28 PM
I've been thinking that there are two things very unlike typical Sound Devices products going on with these recorders. The first thing is that since the first 7xx series recorders were released, the only other recorders they put out were true analog mixers with integrated recorders. None of these had anything close to the bumpy start the mixpre 3 & 6 are going through.

The new mixpre's seem to me to be very much a scaled back version of the 6-series mixer/recorders, so it doesn't seem like much of a departure from their previous products in that sense.  For cost reasons (probably, or market differentiation), they got rid of the separate trim control for each channel and used a single trim control (via menus or the side multi-function headphone knob) to control all of the channels.  Now as you say, they've made a bit of a leap and departed from having analog trim pots to having digitally-controlled gain.

What's going on seems to be a miss on their part of marketing coupled with an engineer's view of how users will respond.  Marketing in the sense that it seems they thought the serious users who had such fervent concerns about how they could control and use the mixpre would have instead opted for the 7xx series of recorders or the more professionally oriented 6-series mixer/recorders.

Engineer world view in that they needed to cut costs and differentiate these new mixpre recorders from their other stuff by simplifying the design (and cost) and doing things like removing the separate trim pots for each channel, leaving the separate knobs but requiring the trim to be controlled via menu or headphone knob.  From an engineering standpoint, this doesn't seem like a big deal.  The mixpre series is so unbelievably quiet that fine tuning trim gain doesn't seem very necessary.  Set it up so you're close with plenty of headroom and you're fine, even recordings that top out at -20dbFS won't have any noise concerns even after you normalize up to 0dbFS.  The self-noise of the microphones used in recording will be more of an issue in the recording chain than the noise of the mixpre, even when recorded at very low levels.  But this in an engineer's view it seems to me, and it turns out that actual users don't want to change the way they've done things, regardless of whether those old workflows matter at all with recorders such as these that are so clean. 
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: MakersMarc on June 28, 2017, 12:05:10 PM
Bless all you early adopters, this thing would have driven me batshit.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dallman on June 28, 2017, 12:25:07 PM
I've been thinking that there are two things very unlike typical Sound Devices products going on with these recorders. The first thing is that since the first 7xx series recorders were released, the only other recorders they put out were true analog mixers with integrated recorders. None of these had anything close to the bumpy start the mixpre 3 & 6 are going through. It's only been out for 2 months and the number of corrections to documentation and firmware fixes is entirely unlike any product they've introduced before. Not to mention things that were discovered by users that should have been surfaced and resolved before going to market. I am confident SD will eventually clear up the bulk of odd issues being reported, but just imagine if these were made by Tascam. The level of disdain voiced from our corner of the market would be deafening. It's only because of their past products reliability that so much patience is being shown by tapers, historically a brutally critical bunch with little tolerance for crap like this. The second thing is it could be that for podcasters and videographers this unit is marketed for, few of these issues would even come up. I can't imagine SD ever intended the Mixpre recorders to face conditions the 7xx series are designed to withstand along with workflows are easy enough to follow while running from the path of an avalanche at 12000ft holding a boom pole. I'm sure these issues can mostly be resolved via firmware, but in hindsight they should have gotten a few units in the hands of some beta testers from our camp to field test them before the big unveiling. Just my .02.

I would agree that Tascam would be vilified, but I don't agree with the assessment. I have a lot of Tascam decks and I really like each and every one of them, but you are on your own. I contacted them about an issue on my DR680MKII, and after 11 emails I finally got a response that said if they received my complaint from enough people they would consider a firmware upgrade.

In contrast I own 2 SD units, the USB Pre2 and the MixPre6. Any time I have emailed a question, I have received a personal response addressing my question within a day. So they are just very different types of company's with different philosophies on how they address their markets which may also be different.

As far as the bugs go on the MixPre6, I think it's great to be involved in the bugs and fixes. What a great way to learn and understand the deck. Now that is not for everybody, but this is a new deck that really can do a great deal and be many things to many people. I cannot see how the various issues could have been avoided when you have this broad of a range of users and uses. Not in todays firmware driven recording environment. That said, if someone is not happy with the deck, they can return it or just wait on purchase. Being involved in the initial stages is not for everyone. This deck can be Basic, Advanced, Custom Set and Preset. Each is probably not 100% developed yet, and could have flaws.

Lastly, these pages are filled with lots of great information. Todd R had posts that taught me the best way to set the deck for how I wanted to use it and I have recorded 6 channels without issue, and continue to learn about flexibility and capability. But there also are pages of incorrect information, speculations and outright errors in the posts. But this is a forum where we discuss this stuff, so the pages should have mistakes and speculations. I have posted incorrect information in error occasionally , not on purpose of course and in trying to be helpful, and again, I have learned much through others experience. The best advice I think is for each person to look at what is best for themselves in terms of plunging in now or waiting. In addition, reading these pages will give lots of answers to lots of questions, but read carefully and take opinions with a grain of salt. There often are topics that have no one right answer and there are topics that do have one correct answer.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dogmusic on June 28, 2017, 04:48:13 PM
Considering the deafening silence following the latest firmware revision, I figure I'm not alone in being very disappointed that the concerns of audio enthusiasts were hardly addressed. It's understandable since this unit is really geared for videographers and podcasters and so the fixes in the new FW v1.11 seem mainly for them.

We may have to wait awhile for even the simplest of additions. For example, even my Tascam DR-05 displays file information so I can see the size of the recorded file and the time I recorded it.

And when will I be able to turn off those loud beeps that occur when I start and stop recording and scare the bejeezus out of me?

But it comes down to this: what I really like about my MixPre-6 and why I will wait until these and other minor irritations are fixed is that it just sounds so good!
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: 2manyrocks on June 28, 2017, 05:48:28 PM
Setting aside the difference in the number of channels and HDMI control, what is your impression of the mixpre audio quality vs your experience with the tascam dr100mkIII? 
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: noahbickart on June 28, 2017, 06:00:25 PM
Setting aside the difference in the number of channels and HDMI control, what is your impression of the mixpre audio quality vs your experience with the tascam dr100mkIII?

I can't compare it to the dr100mkIII, but my subjective experience is that the Mixpre6 is far better than either my old Busman mod Dr70d or Littlebox>m10 rigs with Schoeps capsules.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: 2manyrocks on June 28, 2017, 07:55:01 PM
I think I read somewhere in this thread that the preamps in these new SD mixpres are on a par with the 7 series?  Any 7 series owners care to comment? 

Just trying to understand  where these mixpres rank on a scale relative to other recorder options.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: MakersMarc on June 28, 2017, 08:08:25 PM
I'd like to hear Schoeps user thoughts on the MS preamps compared to sound of Naiant IPA and nbox.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: noahbickart on June 29, 2017, 12:29:29 AM
I'd like to hear Schoeps user thoughts on the MS preamps compared to sound of Naiant IPA and nbox.

This might help, PM me for google drive if they don't seed quickly.

http://bt.etree.org/details.php?id=593529
2017- 06/08: Merriam Theater; Philadelphia, PA (mk3) **24bit**

Tedeschi Trucks Band
June 8, 2017
Merriam Theater; Philadelphia, PA

Location: Balcony Rail DFC
Source: Schoeps mk3 (6 foot split)> Nbob actives> Naiant PFA> Sound Devices Mixpre6 @ 24/48

2017- 06/08: Merriam Theater; Philadelphia, PA (mk22) **24bit**

http://bt.etree.org/details.php?id=593528
Tedeschi Trucks Band
June 8, 2017
Merriam Theater; Philadelphia, PA

Location: Balcony Rail DFC
Source: Schoeps mk22 (NOS)> Nbob KCY> Naiant Littlebox> Sound Devices Mixpre6 @ 24/48
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: voltronic on June 29, 2017, 06:10:53 AM
I think I read somewhere in this thread that the preamps in these new SD mixpres are on a par with the 7 series?  Any 7 series owners care to comment? 

Just trying to understand  where these mixpres rank on a scale relative to other recorder options.

I'm most interested to hear how they compare to the 788T preamps (and A/D) specifically, which are different from the rest of the 7-series and are still considered the best pres SD has made.

http://www.sounddevices.com/tech-notes/788t-microphone-preamplifiers (http://www.sounddevices.com/tech-notes/788t-microphone-preamplifiers)
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: fanofjam on June 29, 2017, 07:59:42 AM
I think I read somewhere in this thread that the preamps in these new SD mixpres are on a par with the 7 series?  Any 7 series owners care to comment? 

Just trying to understand  where these mixpres rank on a scale relative to other recorder options.

I'm most interested to hear how they compare to the 788T preamps (and A/D) specifically, which are different from the rest of the 7-series and are still considered the best pres SD has made.

http://www.sounddevices.com/tech-notes/788t-microphone-preamplifiers (http://www.sounddevices.com/tech-notes/788t-microphone-preamplifiers)

There's starting to be some samples out there on archive...every week another show or two shows are posted.  Search 'mixpre3' or 'mixpre6'.  In my limited sampling, I'm loving the sound of the mixpre preamps.  It's anecdotal sampling for sure, but the samples sound way more saturated in the lows and less sterile/tinny sounding than the early 7xx series, yet very clean and detailed.  I can't really say about the 788 but honestly that comparison doesn't hold any interest for me since I'm not going to ever get a 788T.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: vwmule on June 29, 2017, 11:18:45 AM
Here's a MP6 recording from Dead & Co. in Northern Virginia. I was pleased with results, though I'm sure it would have sounded just as fine with the Zoom F8.

https://archive.org/details/dco2017-06-22
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: rippleish20 on June 29, 2017, 01:37:04 PM

So I have used my Mixpre-6 for 8 shows so far. While I like it quite a bit in general, I would have to also say I've had a lot of issues also.

Even with firmware 1.01 I have trouble with the 128GB card I use (SanDisk Extreme Pro). I was happily using it for a run of shows, powered down between sets at one show and suddenly it's "I can't create the directory structure" issue. This happened twice before I switch back to 32GB cards. If I pull the batteries and power cycle it eventually worked again. I lost the beginning of a song one time while futzing around

I power off between sets and most of my settings have to be recreated, at least in custom mode. Yes I could reload a profile but, really, why is this necessary. I found using advanced mode instead works out much better

I ended up in a scenario where the only SBD connection I could get was RCAs. Dual RCA to the 1/8 inch 5/6 channels worked well but I missed a song trying to figure out how to enable the 5/6 channels. The other four channels use the arm/disarm touch screen items but 5/6 showed greyed out arm button. I eventually figured out that I needed to go in and select whether I wanted USB or AUX line in etc but why do something so out of the norm relative to the the other channels. Let me arm and disarm like normal and have menu option which changes between what I want the input to be. Yes I should have read the manual but I got this thing a day before a heavy run of shows. My F8 was intuitive enough to just use on the fly. Some parts of tyhe interface on this thing are totally non intuitive to me.

I also ran into the low recording issue...



I really do like this device but it has some real quirks and is not as straight forward as a recoder like the F8.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: gewwang on June 29, 2017, 01:48:06 PM
I just taped with the mixpre-3 for the first time last night, DPA 4023 > mixpre-3 @ 24/96 from 9th row center. I'm not experiencing any of the issues others have been reporting. But who knows if that will change after a few more times using it.

I'm happy with the results, but I am not ready to say it's definitely better than tapes I've made with 4023 > 744 or 4023 > Tascam dr100mkIII.

It does require stealthing with the fanny pack which is a con compared to the simplicity of stealthing with a true handheld.

sample:
https://soundcloud.com/user-499246530/small-town (https://soundcloud.com/user-499246530/small-town)
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: Todd R on June 29, 2017, 03:30:46 PM

So I have used my Mixpre-6 for 8 shows so far. While I like it quite a bit in general, I would have to also say I've had a lot of issues also...
... I found using advanced mode instead works out much better....


Thanks for the feedback.  I guess I can add some of mine too.  I've recorded using the MP6 for 4 shows now.  I will say, I've used advanced mode, and it seems like that is much more straight forward and has less hiccups.

I guess I should be test to be positive, but I'm pretty sure my previous settings are saved between power cycles (in advanced mode anyway).  Definitely saved between power cycles, not sure if they haven't even been saved when no power is available (4AA pack taken off briefly to access SD card, no USB power).

I have set up profiles:  one profile for 4 mics in all requiring phantom, one profile for 2ch mic recording with phantom, one profile for 4ch recording using 2 mics with phantom and 2 channels line in without phantom (all using XLR inputs).  I haven't set up a profile yet that includes channels 5-6 on the aux input.  Regarding configuration saving between power cycles, I've done on the fly adjustments to the profiles to change the gain levels compared to the saved profile, and the changed gain setting has been saved after power cycles.

You can set up the * key on the front for different functions.  I have mine set up to access the menus for Channels 5 and 6.  This makes it much quicker and easier to arm and use channels 5-6, much more like the menu availability for Channels 1-4.

Other than the first outing, I have been using a 20,000mah USB-C battery and using a USB-C to USB-C cable for the power connection.  (Mine is a Jackery USB battery, which seems like a lower cost ripoff of the Anker USB-C battery.) Powering with the USB-C battery has worked without problem, avoids the use of the bulky Sound Devices USB-A Y-cable, and still allows for the backup powering by the 4AA battery pack, though I've never bumped over to it as far as I can tell.

I will say, the Advanced mode has worked great for me.  As much difficulty people are having wrapping themselves around the Custom mode with Basic gain, I'd encourage more people to try it.  First time out without any experience I dialed in 18db of gain for one set of mics and 22db of gain for the other less sensitive pair.  My peak ISO levels for the 4 shows I've done across the 4 channels has been in the range of -14dbFS to -12dbFS.  I've just kept the fader levels at 0db gain (noon on the dial) for the LR mix track, which I've just ignored anyway.  Post-processing to add back (normalize) 12-14db of gain and it sounds great.

I'm sure I can dial back the gain beforehand for very loud expected shows (like on stage taping) and add in gain for amplified acoustic music and still guestimate to get myself into the -20db to -10db range.  Limiters are on just in case, but setting up the gain beforehand in Advanced mode, being conservative, and boosting a bit in post works great.  If I were to put it into custom mode with basic gain, I'd probably find myself needlessly riding my levels using the gain knob, and it would just sound worse due to all the level changes I'd have to endure during playback.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: nolamule on June 29, 2017, 03:42:22 PM
Here are my WSP pulls from last weekend, SoundCloud stream, torrents are on etree:

https://soundcloud.com/nolamule/sets/wsp-20170623-redrocks-mk41-nolamule
https://soundcloud.com/nolamule/sets/wsp-20170624-redrocks-mk41-nolamule
https://soundcloud.com/nolamule/sets/wsp-20170625-redrocks-mk41-nolamule

I love the recorder and think it sounds great! I had no issues running in custom mode and had great results with 8 AA Enloope Pro batteries. I am working on a L-Mount battery solution now for longer run time.  :guitarist: :headphones:
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: rigpimp on June 30, 2017, 10:34:10 AM
Here are my WSP pulls from last weekend, SoundCloud stream, torrents are on etree:

https://soundcloud.com/nolamule/sets/wsp-20170623-redrocks-mk41-nolamule
https://soundcloud.com/nolamule/sets/wsp-20170624-redrocks-mk41-nolamule
https://soundcloud.com/nolamule/sets/wsp-20170625-redrocks-mk41-nolamule

I love the recorder and think it sounds great! I had no issues running in custom mode and had great results with 8 AA Enloope Pro batteries. I am working on a L-Mount battery solution now for longer run time.  :guitarist: :headphones:

All three of those links are mostly tuning.  Anything with more music on them?
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: nolamule on June 30, 2017, 10:45:07 AM
That is just the first track, skip forward one! :cheers:

Here are my WSP pulls from last weekend, SoundCloud stream, torrents are on etree:

https://soundcloud.com/nolamule/sets/wsp-20170623-redrocks-mk41-nolamule
https://soundcloud.com/nolamule/sets/wsp-20170624-redrocks-mk41-nolamule
https://soundcloud.com/nolamule/sets/wsp-20170625-redrocks-mk41-nolamule

I love the recorder and think it sounds great! I had no issues running in custom mode and had great results with 8 AA Enloope Pro batteries. I am working on a L-Mount battery solution now for longer run time.  :guitarist: :headphones:

All three of those links are mostly tuning.  Anything with more music on them?
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: rippleish20 on June 30, 2017, 10:51:11 AM
I wish the photo were better but here is a Mixpre-6 specific case

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1340191-REG/strut_str_mp6_fit_field_case_for.html
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: nolamule on June 30, 2017, 11:17:40 AM
If you click on the main photo you can see three other views. Looks like a dummy MP6 by the gain knobs.

I wish the photo were better but here is a Mixpre-6 specific case

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1340191-REG/strut_str_mp6_fit_field_case_for.html
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: rippleish20 on June 30, 2017, 11:34:35 AM
If you click on the main photo you can see three other views. Looks like a dummy MP6 by the gain knobs.

I wish the photo were better but here is a Mixpre-6 specific case

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1340191-REG/strut_str_mp6_fit_field_case_for.html

Yeah but the photos are very dark, even in the larger sizes..
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: rigpimp on June 30, 2017, 02:56:22 PM
D'oh!  I didnt see the track list.  Thanks!

That is just the first track, skip forward one! :cheers:

Here are my WSP pulls from last weekend, SoundCloud stream, torrents are on etree:

https://soundcloud.com/nolamule/sets/wsp-20170623-redrocks-mk41-nolamule
https://soundcloud.com/nolamule/sets/wsp-20170624-redrocks-mk41-nolamule
https://soundcloud.com/nolamule/sets/wsp-20170625-redrocks-mk41-nolamule

I love the recorder and think it sounds great! I had no issues running in custom mode and had great results with 8 AA Enloope Pro batteries. I am working on a L-Mount battery solution now for longer run time.  :guitarist: :headphones:

All three of those links are mostly tuning.  Anything with more music on them?
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: acidjack on June 30, 2017, 05:41:47 PM
Thanks Todd, this is super helpful. I have one coming soon, and this seems to reflect my general experiences with SD (limited to owning a USBPre2 and playing with others' 744ts). If you're not willing to learn how the menus work, these aren't for you; it seems to me like a difference in actual pro gear and the prosumer stuff like the F8 (great deck, keeping mind) and R-44 (also great, even easier to use).

Sounds like I will just save a simple 2-mic config, a 4mic w/ 2 phantom, a 4mic w/ 4 phantom and maybe a 4mic + 5/6 and be done with it. Sounds awesome!
 

So I have used my Mixpre-6 for 8 shows so far. While I like it quite a bit in general, I would have to also say I've had a lot of issues also...
... I found using advanced mode instead works out much better....


Thanks for the feedback.  I guess I can add some of mine too.  I've recorded using the MP6 for 4 shows now.  I will say, I've used advanced mode, and it seems like that is much more straight forward and has less hiccups.

I guess I should be test to be positive, but I'm pretty sure my previous settings are saved between power cycles (in advanced mode anyway).  Definitely saved between power cycles, not sure if they haven't even been saved when no power is available (4AA pack taken off briefly to access SD card, no USB power).

I have set up profiles:  one profile for 4 mics in all requiring phantom, one profile for 2ch mic recording with phantom, one profile for 4ch recording using 2 mics with phantom and 2 channels line in without phantom (all using XLR inputs).  I haven't set up a profile yet that includes channels 5-6 on the aux input.  Regarding configuration saving between power cycles, I've done on the fly adjustments to the profiles to change the gain levels compared to the saved profile, and the changed gain setting has been saved after power cycles.

You can set up the * key on the front for different functions.  I have mine set up to access the menus for Channels 5 and 6.  This makes it much quicker and easier to arm and use channels 5-6, much more like the menu availability for Channels 1-4.

Other than the first outing, I have been using a 20,000mah USB-C battery and using a USB-C to USB-C cable for the power connection.  (Mine is a Jackery USB battery, which seems like a lower cost ripoff of the Anker USB-C battery.) Powering with the USB-C battery has worked without problem, avoids the use of the bulky Sound Devices USB-A Y-cable, and still allows for the backup powering by the 4AA battery pack, though I've never bumped over to it as far as I can tell.

I will say, the Advanced mode has worked great for me.  As much difficulty people are having wrapping themselves around the Custom mode with Basic gain, I'd encourage more people to try it.  First time out without any experience I dialed in 18db of gain for one set of mics and 22db of gain for the other less sensitive pair.  My peak ISO levels for the 4 shows I've done across the 4 channels has been in the range of -14dbFS to -12dbFS.  I've just kept the fader levels at 0db gain (noon on the dial) for the LR mix track, which I've just ignored anyway.  Post-processing to add back (normalize) 12-14db of gain and it sounds great.

I'm sure I can dial back the gain beforehand for very loud expected shows (like on stage taping) and add in gain for amplified acoustic music and still guestimate to get myself into the -20db to -10db range.  Limiters are on just in case, but setting up the gain beforehand in Advanced mode, being conservative, and boosting a bit in post works great.  If I were to put it into custom mode with basic gain, I'd probably find myself needlessly riding my levels using the gain knob, and it would just sound worse due to all the level changes I'd have to endure during playback.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: rippleish20 on June 30, 2017, 09:45:18 PM
Thanks Todd, this is super helpful. I have one coming soon, and this seems to reflect my general experiences with SD (limited to owning a USBPre2 and playing with others' 744ts). If you're not willing to learn how the menus work, these aren't for you; it seems to me like a difference in actual pro gear and the prosumer stuff like the F8 (great deck, keeping mind) and R-44 (also great, even easier to use).

Sounds like I will just save a simple 2-mic config, a 4mic w/ 2 phantom, a 4mic w/ 4 phantom and maybe a 4mic + 5/6


 

If you read through the comments, you will find that many all the issues I elicited were due to known bugs and others an
 indirect byproduct of trying to get around some of these bugs at shows. The fact that I (and others if you read the comments) happened to hit some of them was luck of the draw. I also own a SD702 an have never had any issues with it.  Most of the issues not indicative of me "not knowing the menus".  The 5/6 channel confusion was my fault, but due to me having to switch from XLRs to a 1/8 inch connection about a minute before the band started (the SE tried to give me a XLR connection but the board was old and having issues and could only give me RCAs out. I was not prepared to use 5/6.

As I indicated I like the device, but I , and others, have found the firmware to be very buggy.



When I received the Mixpre-6 it was at firmware 1.0. You really couldn't use SD cards larger than 32GB. A bug.
Firmware 1.01 came out before the first show I used it at. I successfully formatted a 128GB card and it looked like the problem was fixed.

First show, I used microphones and also had a sbd connection, XLRs. I used a 32GB card just in case. I used Custom Mode with gain set to simple, etc but turned also off the l/r recording. I ended up with the low recording gain issue. A bug.

Shows two and three, I used advanced mode, 32GB card and just recorded the SBD, XLRs. No problem except I turned off power between sets and the channel gain had reset to default.

Show four, I used microphones and had a SBD connection, XLRs. I used advanced. No problem except I turned off power between sets and the channel gain had reset to default.

Show five, I just had a SBD connection, RCAs. I used advanced mode. I attempted to use 128GB card. It worked correctly the first set but turning the power off and on again resulted in a "cant create directory structure" error.  I had to turn the power of and remove the battery pack to get it ot work again. I missed the first song. This, I assume is a bug, but I will have to report it to SD.

Show six and seven I went back to  32GB card, advanced, SBD only, XLRs. No problem except I turned off power between sets and the channel gain had reset to default.

Show seven. Advanced, SBD but the board with RCAs again. I was going to record with microphones instead but decided, at the last minute, to go for the SBD but try the 1/8 port instead (first time I had no choice to but use RCAs to XLRs). As I indicated, I found the way you turn on arm these ports strange. Within even the way SD does it on this device,as I said, arming them first nd then changing what the input source is makes more sense to me than showing a seemingly armed but greyed out icon in the menu. This is not a bug per se but what I think is a human interface issue.

I am an early adopter and don't consider it the end of the world that I had issues, especially things like me not knowing how to turn on 5/6 quickly. But for a "pro" device, its a lot buggier than my "Prosumer" F8, and that "Prosumer" device has a decent menuing system in my opinion. Ultimately I agree that SD is more in the Professional realm and that the Mixpre is superior in terms of Pre's etc. I like the device and Im sure my experience will get better with bug fixes and my better understanding how I want to use it.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: rigpimp on June 30, 2017, 11:58:27 PM
Firmware 1.11

I had two presets saved internally and 4 saved on my SD Card.  I just reformatted my SD card and now there are only two saved internally.  Note to self...
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: MakersMarc on July 01, 2017, 12:11:52 PM
I only ever get to do two channel and 90% $tealth, this thing makes no sense for me. Even if it sounds 10% better or whatever. The gear slut in me wants one but it will just sit there.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dallman on July 02, 2017, 10:15:55 PM
Anyone interested on a MixPre 6 channel 5/6 recording, this is with an SD USBPre2 as the pre...

Archive:
https://archive.org/details/PokeyLaFarge2017-06-15.FirstAveMixPre6Ch5_6SchoepsMK41 (https://archive.org/details/PokeyLaFarge2017-06-15.FirstAveMixPre6Ch5_6SchoepsMK41)

etree:
http://bt.etree.org/details.php?id=593991 (http://bt.etree.org/details.php?id=593991)
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: noahbickart on July 02, 2017, 11:51:58 PM
any reason this wouldn't work with the l-mount sled?

https://www.amazon.com/Indipro-Tools-2-5mm-Regulated-Battery/dp/B00TQEW9SC

Maybe use it with battery like this: http://www.ebay.com/itm/DC-5V-12V-2-In-1-USB-Rechargeable-20000Mah-Li-ion-Battery-Pack-US-Adapter-New-/142236866704?hash=item211dfa5890:g:xrEAAOSwEzxYcFoS

Think the tips match?
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: celticrogues on July 03, 2017, 01:27:15 AM
I have the Indipro adapter you linked to. Works perfectly with the L-Mount sled. I got mine at B&H - they are in stock there.  I run it from a Remote Audio BDS using NP1 batteries. There is an unregulated version as well that's a bit cheaper, but the MixPres can only handle a max of 8.4 V with the L-mount adapter so make sure you get the regulated version if you think your power supply may ever exceed that.

-Mike

any reason this wouldn't work with the l-mount sled?

https://www.amazon.com/Indipro-Tools-2-5mm-Regulated-Battery/dp/B00TQEW9SC

Maybe use it with battery like this: http://www.ebay.com/itm/DC-5V-12V-2-In-1-USB-Rechargeable-20000Mah-Li-ion-Battery-Pack-US-Adapter-New-/142236866704?hash=item211dfa5890:g:xrEAAOSwEzxYcFoS

Think the tips match?
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dogmusic on July 03, 2017, 09:16:01 AM
I'm experiencing a strange problem with time of day on the MixPre-6. When I insert my 64 GB SD card with MixPre recorded files into my Mac computer, the time of the creation of the recorded file is shown as four hours earlier than the actual time it was recorded.

I have changed the Time Zone in the MixPre settings but it has no effect on the time shown on the file. It's always four hours earlier.

Adding to the puzzle is that my 32 GB SD cards do not exhibit this problem. They show the actual time of recording -- and it doesn't matter what the Time Zone setting is.

Anyone else noticed this?

EDIT: I have the latest firmware installed in the MixPre.

YES!
Drivin me crazy.  The deck shows my current time, but regardless of what "GMT" setting, the .wav file shows 4 hours earlier.  (128 GB card)

~have to record the mix tracks, time is screwy, doesn't keep your last setting when you power up -- I'm READY for a Firmware Update!!

I contacted Sound Devices about this time of day problem and got this reply:

"Thanks for the report.  Although we don't have the SanDisk Ultra 64GB, SDXC I card, but have tested other SandDisk Extreme and Extreme Pro and Extreme Plus 64GB cards and 128 GB card successfully without this problem.   Thanks."

So the MixPre-6 is picky about memory cards. Anyone else notice that their recorded files are showing the wrong time of recording besides myself and Tom the taper?
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: mitchellm on July 03, 2017, 09:38:33 AM
Nope. I'm always getting correct time of day.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dogmusic on July 03, 2017, 10:20:53 AM
Nope. I'm always getting correct time of day.

Which brand and size of card are you using?
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: mitchellm on July 03, 2017, 10:34:38 AM
I'm using a card that I have several of (mainly for use in a camera).

This is 64 Gb Transcend, 300x (45 MB/s). I'm not sure it's anything special: it's seems very weird that your time coding is off.

You are very very very sure you put in the right basic info regarding timezone and the such?
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: tom the taper on July 03, 2017, 10:45:19 AM
I'm experiencing a strange problem with time of day on the MixPre-6. When I insert my 64 GB SD card with MixPre recorded files into my Mac computer, the time of the creation of the recorded file is shown as four hours earlier than the actual time it was recorded.

I have changed the Time Zone in the MixPre settings but it has no effect on the time shown on the file. It's always four hours earlier.

Adding to the puzzle is that my 32 GB SD cards do not exhibit this problem. They show the actual time of recording -- and it doesn't matter what the Time Zone setting is.

Anyone else noticed this?

EDIT: I have the latest firmware installed in the MixPre.

YES!
Drivin me crazy.  The deck shows my current time, but regardless of what "GMT" setting, the .wav file shows 4 hours earlier.  (128 GB card)

~have to record the mix tracks, time is screwy, doesn't keep your last setting when you power up -- I'm READY for a Firmware Update!!

I contacted Sound Devices about this time of day problem and got this reply:

"Thanks for the report.  Although we don't have the SanDisk Ultra 64GB, SDXC I card, but have tested other SandDisk Extreme and Extreme Pro and Extreme Plus 64GB cards and 128 GB card successfully without this problem.   Thanks."

So the MixPre-6 is picky about memory cards. Anyone else notice that their recorded files are showing the wrong time of recording besides myself and Tom the taper?

My time of day (on the .wav file) issue has resolved since the last firmware update.  At it had least the last time I checked.
I think I had to set the GMT to +4 hrs (I'm eastern time), but will check when I get home.  My card is a 128GB SanDisk, I'll check the "SDXC/Extreme" stuff also when I get home...
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: tom the taper on July 03, 2017, 04:02:22 PM
I'm experiencing a strange problem with time of day on the MixPre-6. When I insert my 64 GB SD card with MixPre recorded files into my Mac computer, the time of the creation of the recorded file is shown as four hours earlier than the actual time it was recorded.

I have changed the Time Zone in the MixPre settings but it has no effect on the time shown on the file. It's always four hours earlier.

Adding to the puzzle is that my 32 GB SD cards do not exhibit this problem. They show the actual time of recording -- and it doesn't matter what the Time Zone setting is.

Anyone else noticed this?

EDIT: I have the latest firmware installed in the MixPre.

YES!
Drivin me crazy.  The deck shows my current time, but regardless of what "GMT" setting, the .wav file shows 4 hours earlier.  (128 GB card)

~have to record the mix tracks, time is screwy, doesn't keep your last setting when you power up -- I'm READY for a Firmware Update!!

I contacted Sound Devices about this time of day problem and got this reply:

"Thanks for the report.  Although we don't have the SanDisk Ultra 64GB, SDXC I card, but have tested other SandDisk Extreme and Extreme Pro and Extreme Plus 64GB cards and 128 GB card successfully without this problem.   Thanks."

So the MixPre-6 is picky about memory cards. Anyone else notice that their recorded files are showing the wrong time of recording besides myself and Tom the taper?

My time of day (on the .wav file) issue has resolved since the last firmware update.  At it had least the last time I checked.
I think I had to set the GMT to +4 hrs (I'm eastern time), but will check when I get home.  My card is a 128GB SanDisk, I'll check the "SDXC/Extreme" stuff also when I get home...

My time issue corrected - set at GMT-4:00 for east coast time.
My card is a SanDisk Extreme Pro SDXC 128GB.
Really since the last firmware (1.11) my only main issue would be the inability to link channels.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dogmusic on July 03, 2017, 04:50:51 PM
I'm using a card that I have several of (mainly for use in a camera).

This is 64 Gb Transcend, 300x (45 MB/s). I'm not sure it's anything special: it's seems very weird that your time coding is off.

You are very very very sure you put in the right basic info regarding timezone and the such?

Absolutely. And I tried all the permutations, i.e., leaving GMT where it was; adding 4 hours; subtracting 4 hours. It made no difference. The time was always 4 hours early with my 64 GB cards.

And as I said in a previous post: whatever settings I tried made no difference to my 32GB cards. They always displayed the correct time.

All these cards were formatted in the MP6.

EDIT: I haven't had a chance to check with the new firmware so maybe it will be resolved for me too. I don't think there was any mention of this problem in the update notes so I didn't bother looking.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dallman on July 03, 2017, 06:07:30 PM
I'm using a card that I have several of (mainly for use in a camera).

This is 64 Gb Transcend, 300x (45 MB/s). I'm not sure it's anything special: it's seems very weird that your time coding is off.

You are very very very sure you put in the right basic info regarding timezone and the such?

Absolutely. And I tried all the permutations, i.e., leaving GMT where it was; adding 4 hours; subtracting 4 hours. It made no difference. The time was always 4 hours early with my 64 GB cards.

And as I said in a previous post: whatever settings I tried made no difference to my 32GB cards. They always displayed the correct time.

All these cards were formatted in the MP6.

EDIT: I haven't had a chance to check with the new firmware so maybe it will be resolved for me too. I don't think there was any mention of this problem in the update notes so I didn't bother looking.

The very fact that with either card whatever settings you put in made no difference would possibly indicate that your time was being pulled from your PC or whatever source you are using to look at what is on your card. If adding and subtracting gave you a 4 hour error on one card , then adding and subtracting gave you perfect time on another, than the card is not pulling time from the deck, because if it was than how would it give you correct time no matter what you set in the mix pre. It would seem to be an awfully strange coincidence that the mix pre set at all different times would somehow get your time zone correct, but perhaps your PC or whatever you use to read the card is set for your time zone. I understand that this does not explain the 4 hour error, but it seems to indicate that the issue is likely not the deck. Not to mention date created and date modified. Are you getting differences in those categories?
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dactylus on July 04, 2017, 09:00:29 AM
any reason this wouldn't work with the l-mount sled?

https://www.amazon.com/Indipro-Tools-2-5mm-Regulated-Battery/dp/B00TQEW9SC


Nice find Noah!

Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dogmusic on July 04, 2017, 09:02:01 AM
I'm using a card that I have several of (mainly for use in a camera).

This is 64 Gb Transcend, 300x (45 MB/s). I'm not sure it's anything special: it's seems very weird that your time coding is off.

You are very very very sure you put in the right basic info regarding timezone and the such?

Absolutely. And I tried all the permutations, i.e., leaving GMT where it was; adding 4 hours; subtracting 4 hours. It made no difference. The time was always 4 hours early with my 64 GB cards.

And as I said in a previous post: whatever settings I tried made no difference to my 32GB cards. They always displayed the correct time.

All these cards were formatted in the MP6.

EDIT: I haven't had a chance to check with the new firmware so maybe it will be resolved for me too. I don't think there was any mention of this problem in the update notes so I didn't bother looking.

The very fact that with either card whatever settings you put in made no difference would possibly indicate that your time was being pulled from your PC or whatever source you are using to look at what is on your card. If adding and subtracting gave you a 4 hour error on one card , then adding and subtracting gave you perfect time on another, than the card is not pulling time from the deck, because if it was than how would it give you correct time no matter what you set in the mix pre. It would seem to be an awfully strange coincidence that the mix pre set at all different times would somehow get your time zone correct, but perhaps your PC or whatever you use to read the card is set for your time zone. I understand that this does not explain the 4 hour error, but it seems to indicate that the issue is likely not the deck. Not to mention date created and date modified. Are you getting differences in those categories?

I'm not sure I follow your comments, but this time anomaly has only occurred with files recorded on the MixPre-6 and never on any of thousands of files recorded with multiple different recorders using the same computers and MacOSX.

Furthermore, the files were exactly 4 hours off the actual time of the recording to the minute. How could my computer know that? It had to have been written to the card by the MP6.

Anyway I will check with the new firmware and see if it fixed it.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: rigpimp on July 04, 2017, 11:57:09 AM
What SD cards is everyone using successfully?  I have a 32GB Sandisk Extreme (80MB/s) but want to find a 64GB card that is solid.  It sounds as if 128's are still a bit questionable.  ???
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dogmusic on July 04, 2017, 03:16:26 PM

Anyway I will check with the new firmware and see if it fixed it.

It did. Times are now correct on the same 64GB cards that had the problem.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: tom the taper on July 04, 2017, 06:51:02 PM

Anyway I will check with the new firmware and see if it fixed it.

It did. Times are now correct on the same 64GB cards that had the problem.
GREAT!
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: woodbine on July 05, 2017, 09:33:47 AM
Couldn't find anything on search, but Pinknoise UK have released a battery cover with voltage regulator and Hirose power in. It's deffo not cheap at £165, but I think anyone with a couple of ounces of solder skills could put this together themselves.
http://www.pinknoise-systems.co.uk/pinknoise-custom-sd-mix-pre-36-battery-eliminator.html
They say the high cost is mainly due to SD price for battery holder.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: GDfan on July 05, 2017, 10:09:20 AM
What SD cards is everyone using successfully?  I have a 32GB Sandisk Extreme (80MB/s) but want to find a 64GB card that is solid.  It sounds as if 128's are still a bit questionable.  ???
I bought the Sound Devices SD card from the Sound Devices website.
https://www.sounddevices.com/products/accessories/media/sam-32sd

It can be found on Amazon
https://www.amazon.com/Sound-Devices-SAM-32SD-32GB-Card/dp/B01MUS45W4
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: rigpimp on July 05, 2017, 11:31:37 AM
What SD cards is everyone using successfully?  I have a 32GB Sandisk Extreme (80MB/s) but want to find a 64GB card that is solid.  It sounds as if 128's are still a bit questionable.  ???
I bought the Sound Devices SD card from the Sound Devices website.
https://www.sounddevices.com/products/accessories/media/sam-32sd

It can be found on Amazon
https://www.amazon.com/Sound-Devices-SAM-32SD-32GB-Card/dp/B01MUS45W4

I'm good on 32's just looking for a 64GB or larger that is reliable.  I guess I will jump on one of these and see if it plays nicely. 

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01J5RHD58/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dallman on July 05, 2017, 12:51:06 PM
I'm using a card that I have several of (mainly for use in a camera).

This is 64 Gb Transcend, 300x (45 MB/s). I'm not sure it's anything special: it's seems very weird that your time coding is off.

You are very very very sure you put in the right basic info regarding timezone and the such?

Absolutely. And I tried all the permutations, i.e., leaving GMT where it was; adding 4 hours; subtracting 4 hours. It made no difference. The time was always 4 hours early with my 64 GB cards.

And as I said in a previous post: whatever settings I tried made no difference to my 32GB cards. They always displayed the correct time.

All these cards were formatted in the MP6.

EDIT: I haven't had a chance to check with the new firmware so maybe it will be resolved for me too. I don't think there was any mention of this problem in the update notes so I didn't bother looking.

The very fact that with either card whatever settings you put in made no difference would possibly indicate that your time was being pulled from your PC or whatever source you are using to look at what is on your card. If adding and subtracting gave you a 4 hour error on one card , then adding and subtracting gave you perfect time on another, than the card is not pulling time from the deck, because if it was than how would it give you correct time no matter what you set in the mix pre. It would seem to be an awfully strange coincidence that the mix pre set at all different times would somehow get your time zone correct, but perhaps your PC or whatever you use to read the card is set for your time zone. I understand that this does not explain the 4 hour error, but it seems to indicate that the issue is likely not the deck. Not to mention date created and date modified. Are you getting differences in those categories?

I'm not sure I follow your comments, but this time anomaly has only occurred with files recorded on the MixPre-6 and never on any of thousands of files recorded with multiple different recorders using the same computers and MacOSX.

Furthermore, the files were exactly 4 hours off the actual time of the recording to the minute. How could my computer know that? It had to have been written to the card by the MP6.

Anyway I will check with the new firmware and see if it fixed it.

I hope the new firmware fixed the time for you so you can operate in accurate time like the rest of us  ;D I use 128GB Lexar cards
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00VBNQ1LC/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00VBNQ1LC/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)
 and 128 GB Sony cards and those have worked great. Good luck!!
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: old and in the way on July 05, 2017, 01:01:36 PM
What SD cards is everyone using successfully?  I have a 32GB Sandisk Extreme (80MB/s) but want to find a 64GB card that is solid.  It sounds as if 128's are still a bit questionable.  ???

ive been using delkin device cards. they are an approved card by SD. Adorama has them ,a little pricey but made in the usa and lifetime warranty.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: rippleish20 on July 05, 2017, 01:17:39 PM
I've been using a 32GB Sandisk Extreme card with no problems but have had issues with the 128GB Sandisk Extreme Pro card but have not recorded anything since 1.11 came out.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: imightgotothebeach on July 05, 2017, 02:05:02 PM
Does anybody have info on when re-stocks are coming?

It looks like BHPhoto is delayed. I checked Gotham,too, and they weren't sure.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dallman on July 05, 2017, 02:25:10 PM
What SD cards is everyone using successfully?  I have a 32GB Sandisk Extreme (80MB/s) but want to find a 64GB card that is solid.  It sounds as if 128's are still a bit questionable.  ???

ive been using delkin device cards. they are an approved card by SD. Adorama has them ,a little pricey but made in the usa and lifetime warranty.

No problems with 128GB on multiple recordings using all six channels (But I do not record the mix), with the Lexar 128GB card. I have recorded with the first firmware upgrade, and now the current firmware upgrade, no issues at all.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00VBNQ1LC/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: waltmon on July 07, 2017, 09:04:03 AM
Saw this as well...very cool

https://www.amazon.com/Indipro-Tools-D-Tap-Power-Converter/dp/B018MW0E7G/ref=pd_day0_421_3?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B018MW0E7G&pd_rd_r=SM34H2WX0M6BXDFENJ2T&pd_rd_w=EZDm6&pd_rd_wg=rK766&psc=1&refRID=SM34H2WX0M6BXDFENJ2T
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dactylus on July 07, 2017, 02:16:39 PM
Saw this as well...very cool

https://www.amazon.com/Indipro-Tools-D-Tap-Power-Converter/dp/B018MW0E7G/ref=pd_day0_421_3?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B018MW0E7G&pd_rd_r=SM34H2WX0M6BXDFENJ2T&pd_rd_w=EZDm6&pd_rd_wg=rK766&psc=1&refRID=SM34H2WX0M6BXDFENJ2T

^
Noah found this:  https://www.amazon.com/Indipro-Tools-2-5mm-Regulated-Battery/dp/B00TQEW9SC

  http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=182573.msg2232948#msg2232948


The 2.5mm DC Power Cable to Regulated Sony L-Series Dummy Battery from Indipro Tools is a 2' cable that terminates in a 7.4V regulated Sony L-Series type dummy battery which fits into one of the battery-slots of a Power Pod Dual/Quad system (sold separately). The other end of the cable has a 2.5mm barrel connector. The cable is polarity tested with the Indipro Power Pod Dual & Quad Systems, preventing the risk of crossed polarity when powering your camera. Although you can use this cable to connect other optional power solutions with a 2.5mm connector to power your device, this cable has only been polarity tested with the Indipro Tools Power Pod Dual & Quad Systems. Works with Power Pod Dual & Quad systems to provide power to devices that accept Sony L-Series batteries

Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: nolamule on July 07, 2017, 02:27:50 PM
I ordered a Hawk-Woods custom dummy last week. I didn't want to spend another $40 on hirose cable so I decided to go with a 2.5mm RA plug to work with my RAVPower external. It is making the trip across the pond now. I'll post pictures when I get it. Hoping my L Mount sled arrives next week too and I will be good to go with a Sony NP-F570 in the other side.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dallman on July 07, 2017, 03:46:39 PM
Saw this as well...very cool

https://www.amazon.com/Indipro-Tools-D-Tap-Power-Converter/dp/B018MW0E7G/ref=pd_day0_421_3?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B018MW0E7G&pd_rd_r=SM34H2WX0M6BXDFENJ2T&pd_rd_w=EZDm6&pd_rd_wg=rK766&psc=1&refRID=SM34H2WX0M6BXDFENJ2T

^
Noah found this:  https://www.amazon.com/Indipro-Tools-2-5mm-Regulated-Battery/dp/B00TQEW9SC

  http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=182573.msg2232948#msg2232948


The 2.5mm DC Power Cable to Regulated Sony L-Series Dummy Battery from Indipro Tools is a 2' cable that terminates in a 7.4V regulated Sony L-Series type dummy battery which fits into one of the battery-slots of a Power Pod Dual/Quad system (sold separately). The other end of the cable has a 2.5mm barrel connector. The cable is polarity tested with the Indipro Power Pod Dual & Quad Systems, preventing the risk of crossed polarity when powering your camera. Although you can use this cable to connect other optional power solutions with a 2.5mm connector to power your device, this cable has only been polarity tested with the Indipro Tools Power Pod Dual & Quad Systems. Works with Power Pod Dual & Quad systems to provide power to devices that accept Sony L-Series batteries

DL,

Enlighten me if possible:
When you use a dummy Sony L connector are you losing your secondary source of power?

I would always prefer to run the MixPre6 with a backup power source just in case a battery dies or somehow the connecting cable gets violently yanked. I use my Rav Power battery or a few others into the mixpre via USB C. There really is no scenario where it gets yanked though, because it sits in a bag. Since I have a LG G6 phone that uses USB C, I really like that connector. I find there are lots of USB C ready batteries that were designed to work and output via USB C an they run the deck correctly at full power. Plus the USB C connector is very sturdy, it is not inclined to come out even if yanked hard. I have never liked the Sony Batteries but for sure if I did use them, I would not want to just run the deck on one source of power which would mean no swapping ability either. I am trying to see the advantage, but that may just be for those who are or have been using SD 7 series decks.

That said, you usually know what the heck you are doing... 8)
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dpower on July 07, 2017, 04:01:53 PM
Hey, Tapers.

I took delivery of my MixPre-6 earlier today. Early impressions are very positive.

Interestingly, it had already been updated to firmware v1.11.

I've configured it with knobs acting as gain controls and I've disabled L&R mix recording.

However, with L&R disabled, I don't hear anything through the headphones when I play a recorded file back UNLESS I solo the channel.

Is it possible to hear the file without soloing? Is there a configuration option I've somehow missed? Anyone know?

Thanks,
dp
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dallman on July 07, 2017, 05:25:14 PM
Hey, Tapers.

I took delivery of my MixPre-6 earlier today. Early impressions are very positive.

Interestingly, it had already been updated to firmware v1.11.

I've configured it with knobs acting as gain controls and I've disabled L&R mix recording.

However, with L&R disabled, I don't hear anything through the headphones when I play a recorded file back UNLESS I solo the channel.

Is it possible to hear the file without soloing? Is there a configuration option I've somehow missed? Anyone know?

Thanks,
dp
There is an entire Headphone (HP) menu. It is upper left on the home screen. You can set many options in Advanced mode and there are a few options in basic mode. You can set presets also.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: celticrogues on July 07, 2017, 05:27:47 PM
By default the headphone output is set to the L-R mix. So if you've disabled the L-R mix then you won't hear anything until you go in and adjust the headphones so you are listening to the individual tracks.

-Mike
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dactylus on July 08, 2017, 09:30:45 AM
I ordered a Hawk-Woods custom dummy last week. I didn't want to spend another $40 on hirose cable so I decided to go with a 2.5mm RA plug to work with my RAVPower external. It is making the trip across the pond now. I'll post pictures when I get it. Hoping my L Mount sled arrives next week too and I will be good to go with a Sony NP-F570 in the other side.

I have the Hawk-Woods dummy cell now.  I'll post pictures of it later in the L-Mount sled and with a Sony NP-F570 in the other side.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dactylus on July 08, 2017, 10:33:28 AM
Saw this as well...very cool

https://www.amazon.com/Indipro-Tools-D-Tap-Power-Converter/dp/B018MW0E7G/ref=pd_day0_421_3?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B018MW0E7G&pd_rd_r=SM34H2WX0M6BXDFENJ2T&pd_rd_w=EZDm6&pd_rd_wg=rK766&psc=1&refRID=SM34H2WX0M6BXDFENJ2T

^
Noah found this:  https://www.amazon.com/Indipro-Tools-2-5mm-Regulated-Battery/dp/B00TQEW9SC

  http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=182573.msg2232948#msg2232948


The 2.5mm DC Power Cable to Regulated Sony L-Series Dummy Battery from Indipro Tools is a 2' cable that terminates in a 7.4V regulated Sony L-Series type dummy battery which fits into one of the battery-slots of a Power Pod Dual/Quad system (sold separately). The other end of the cable has a 2.5mm barrel connector. The cable is polarity tested with the Indipro Power Pod Dual & Quad Systems, preventing the risk of crossed polarity when powering your camera. Although you can use this cable to connect other optional power solutions with a 2.5mm connector to power your device, this cable has only been polarity tested with the Indipro Tools Power Pod Dual & Quad Systems. Works with Power Pod Dual & Quad systems to provide power to devices that accept Sony L-Series batteries

DL,

Enlighten me if possible:
When you use a dummy Sony L connector are you losing your secondary source of power?

I would always prefer to run the MixPre6 with a backup power source just in case a battery dies or somehow the connecting cable gets violently yanked. I use my Rav Power battery or a few others into the mixpre via USB C. There really is no scenario where it gets yanked though, because it sits in a bag. Since I have a LG G6 phone that uses USB C, I really like that connector. I find there are lots of USB C ready batteries that were designed to work and output via USB C an they run the deck correctly at full power. Plus the USB C connector is very sturdy, it is not inclined to come out even if yanked hard. I have never liked the Sony Batteries but for sure if I did use them, I would not want to just run the deck on one source of power which would mean no swapping ability either. I am trying to see the advantage, but that may just be for those who are or have been using SD 7 series decks.

That said, you usually know what the heck you are doing... 8)

dallman,

I have a bunch of the Sony style batteries.  I also have the Sound Devices L-Mount sled.  The L-Mount sled has slots in it for two batteries, so you keep the hot-swappable option and you retain your backup battery with this setup.  I also have a bunch of Naztech PB15000 batteries that I'm already using with Hirose connectors.  So choosing the L-Mount sled + the Hirose dummy cell was a no brainer for me.  This option wouldn't be for all users but it will work for me. 

The main drawback for the L-Mount sled would be trying to use it with two Sony style 7800maH batteries.  The use of those large capacity, sony style batteries produces a heavy, unwieldy, monstrosity if you are running this setup in a bag.  Those 7800maH batteries are too tall to be used with the L-Mount sled and fit comfortably in a bag.  But with the much lower profile Sony NP-F570 battery + the Hawk-Woods LR-06, Hirose dummy cell you have what I consider a good powering option for the MixPre-6 or MixPre-3.

I will post photos today of my Hawk-Woods dummy cell & the Sony NP-F570 battery that I'll be using.

https://www.sounddevices.com/products/accessories/power-accessories/mx-lmount

Optional L-Mount battery sled for the Sound Devices MixPre-3 and MixPre-6 audio recorders. This sled holds two hot-swappable, Lithium-Ion batteries (not included). The sled is compatible with Sony® L-type batteries.

Hawk-Woods LR-06 dummy cell battery - http://www.hawkwoods.co.uk/Prods/Product/LR-06

 The Sony NP-F570 is 5/8" in height.

David



Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: waltmon on July 08, 2017, 11:47:47 AM
That was my question was how the batteries are oriented on the sled to fit in a bag comfortably.  I have 8800 cells now that are about the same size as the 7800s.
   Seems like that British vendor is pretty quick as well.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dactylus on July 08, 2017, 12:43:47 PM
That was my question was how the batteries are oriented on the sled to fit in a bag comfortably.  I have 8800 cells now that are about the same size as the 7800s.
   Seems like that British vendor is pretty quick as well.

Those large capacity Sony style batteries DO NOT fit well when you have two of them in the L-Mount sled.  The dummy cell + a smaller, Sony style battery are barely wider than the L-mount sled.  Photos later today.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: noahbickart on July 09, 2017, 02:11:51 AM
When you use a dummy Sony L connector are you losing your secondary source of power?

Not if you're also using a USB-C battery. My plan is to use the dummy cell linked above as a redundant power option, or for festival use. I'm really happy with the anker powercore+ usb-c battery as the main powering option. It's a very secure connection, the batteries themselves are inexpensive, they have 5v USB as well, they are very inexpensive, and run the Mixpre6 forever.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: digifish_music on July 09, 2017, 07:50:10 AM
Is it possible to pause/resume recording on the MixPre 3/6?
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: ts on July 09, 2017, 03:10:08 PM
Anyone try lithiums? I'm only getting a little over 3 hours. MP3. 2 channels. Phantom on. BT off. Naiant actives, AKG. 60V PFA.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: jbell on July 09, 2017, 03:53:18 PM
Turn off the mix track and turn the screen brithness down may help some!

Anyone try lithiums? I'm only getting a little over 3 hours. MP3. 2 channels. Phantom on. BT off. Naiant actives, AKG. 60V PFA.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: rigpimp on July 09, 2017, 04:20:34 PM
Is it possible to pause/resume recording on the MixPre 3/6?

No.  It is stop and record only as far as i know.  If you hit record a 2nd time while it is rolling it simply starts a new file.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: noahbickart on July 09, 2017, 05:32:37 PM
Anyone try lithiums? I'm only getting a little over 3 hours. MP3. 2 channels. Phantom on. BT off. Naiant actives, AKG. 60V PFA.

Owing to the lack of other habitable planets in our solar system, I use rechargeable batteries exclusively.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: johnw on July 09, 2017, 06:13:09 PM
Anyone try lithiums? I'm only getting a little over 3 hours. MP3. 2 channels. Phantom on. BT off. Naiant actives, AKG. 60V PFA.

4 or 8 batteries?
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: ts on July 09, 2017, 07:05:24 PM
Anyone try lithiums? I'm only getting a little over 3 hours. MP3. 2 channels. Phantom on. BT off. Naiant actives, AKG. 60V PFA.

4 or 8 batteries?

4. Sorry forgot to include that.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: ts on July 09, 2017, 07:14:17 PM
Anyone try lithiums? I'm only getting a little over 3 hours. MP3. 2 channels. Phantom on. BT off. Naiant actives, AKG. 60V PFA.

Owing to the lack of other habitable planets in our solar system, I use rechargeable batteries exclusively.

Thanks for your very helpful answer to my question.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: edtyre on July 09, 2017, 07:26:23 PM
Mixpre 3 Brightness turned to 1
P48 2 Channels 60 Volt PFA
Enelope Pro rechargeables 3.5 hours
Lithium 5 + hours (didn't let it run all the way down)
4 AA
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: noahbickart on July 09, 2017, 07:39:50 PM
Anyone try lithiums? I'm only getting a little over 3 hours. MP3. 2 channels. Phantom on. BT off. Naiant actives, AKG. 60V PFA.

Owing to the lack of other habitable planets in our solar system, I use rechargeable batteries exclusively.

Thanks for your very helpful answer to my question.

Sorry for being obnoxious. Given the wonderful rechargeable options, I really encourage you not to use disposable solutions, even if they give you a little more run time.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: MakersMarc on July 09, 2017, 07:43:51 PM
Yeah, I love my IPA but am,going to pick up a baby nbox, feel guilty throwing away A23 batteries.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: ts on July 09, 2017, 07:59:00 PM
If the LR isn't showing at the top of screen while recording, it's off, right?

Turn off the mix track and turn the screen brithness down may help some!

Anyone try lithiums? I'm only getting a little over 3 hours. MP3. 2 channels. Phantom on. BT off. Naiant actives, AKG. 60V PFA.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: jbell on July 09, 2017, 08:08:30 PM
If it isn't bouncing levels and is greyed out it is off!

If the LR isn't showing at the top of screen while recording, it's off, right?

Turn off the mix track and turn the screen brithness down may help some!

Anyone try lithiums? I'm only getting a little over 3 hours. MP3. 2 channels. Phantom on. BT off. Naiant actives, AKG. 60V PFA.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dpower on July 09, 2017, 08:17:00 PM
Hey, Tapers.

I took delivery of my MixPre-6 earlier today. Early impressions are very positive.

Interestingly, it had already been updated to firmware v1.11.

I've configured it with knobs acting as gain controls and I've disabled L&R mix recording.

However, with L&R disabled, I don't hear anything through the headphones when I play a recorded file back UNLESS I solo the channel.

Is it possible to hear the file without soloing? Is there a configuration option I've somehow missed? Anyone know?

Thanks,
dp
There is an entire Headphone (HP) menu. It is upper left on the home screen. You can set many options in Advanced mode and there are a few options in basic mode. You can set presets also.
That's the ticket!

With Headphones in Advanced mode, I'm able to select which channels get routed to the headphone mix.

Thanks for the lead.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: ts on July 09, 2017, 08:17:37 PM
I'm in basic mode. LR doesn't even show.

If it isn't bouncing levels and is greyed out it is off!

If the LR isn't showing at the top of screen while recording, it's off, right?

Turn off the mix track and turn the screen brithness down may help some!

Anyone try lithiums? I'm only getting a little over 3 hours. MP3. 2 channels. Phantom on. BT off. Naiant actives, AKG. 60V PFA.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: jbell on July 09, 2017, 08:47:16 PM
I'll have to check in basic mode.  I run mine in custom mode. 

I'm in basic mode. LR doesn't even show.

If it isn't bouncing levels and is greyed out it is off!

If the LR isn't showing at the top of screen while recording, it's off, right?

Turn off the mix track and turn the screen brithness down may help some!

Anyone try lithiums? I'm only getting a little over 3 hours. MP3. 2 channels. Phantom on. BT off. Naiant actives, AKG. 60V PFA.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dpower on July 09, 2017, 09:38:09 PM
If it isn't bouncing levels and is greyed out it is off!

If the LR isn't showing at the top of screen while recording, it's off, right?

Turn off the mix track and turn the screen brithness down may help some!

Anyone try lithiums? I'm only getting a little over 3 hours. MP3. 2 channels. Phantom on. BT off. Naiant actives, AKG. 60V PFA.

In my configuration, the L+R meters still register incoming signal levels.

But if the L and R indicators on the far left of the screen are grey (rather than red), they're not armed for recording.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: ts on July 10, 2017, 08:33:29 AM
Mixpre 3 Brightness turned to 1
P48 2 Channels 60 Volt PFA
Enelope Pro rechargeables 3.5 hours
Lithium 5 + hours (didn't let it run all the way down)
4 AA

Followed the above and still only getting a little over 3 1/2 on 4 Lithium AA's. Would love to get 5 hours. I'm in basic mode, so LR mix isn't armed. Could basic suck more juice? AKG>naiant 60v PFA.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: digifish_music on July 10, 2017, 10:13:39 AM
No.  It is stop and record only as far as i know.  If you hit record a 2nd time while it is rolling it simply starts a new file.

OK thanks, sometimes it's nice to pause a recording.

Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: rippleish20 on July 10, 2017, 10:23:43 AM
Mixpre 3 Brightness turned to 1
P48 2 Channels 60 Volt PFA
Enelope Pro rechargeables 3.5 hours
Lithium 5 + hours (didn't let it run all the way down)
4 AA

Followed the above and still only getting a little over 3 1/2 on 4 Lithium AA's. Would love to get 5 hours. I'm in basic mode, so LR mix isn't armed. Could basic suck more juice? AKG>naiant 60v PFA.

"The chemistry that eneloop batteries use is Nickel Metal Hydride. eneloop batteries are not lithium ..."

Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: ts on July 11, 2017, 08:07:39 AM
Mixpre 3 Brightness turned to 1
P48 2 Channels 60 Volt PFA
Enelope Pro rechargeables 3.5 hours
Lithium 5 + hours (didn't let it run all the way down)
4 AA

Followed the above and still only getting a little over 3 1/2 on 4 Lithium AA's. Would love to get 5 hours. I'm in basic mode, so LR mix isn't armed. Could basic suck more juice? AKG>naiant 60v PFA.

"The chemistry that eneloop batteries use is Nickel Metal Hydride. eneloop batteries are not lithium ..."

Yea, he got 3 1/2 on Enelop and over 5 on lithiums without letting the lithiums run out.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: rippleish20 on July 11, 2017, 10:40:01 AM
Mixpre 3 Brightness turned to 1
P48 2 Channels 60 Volt PFA
Enelope Pro rechargeables 3.5 hours
Lithium 5 + hours (didn't let it run all the way down)
4 AA

Followed the above and still only getting a little over 3 1/2 on 4 Lithium AA's. Would love to get 5 hours. I'm in basic mode, so LR mix isn't armed. Could basic suck more juice? AKG>naiant 60v PFA.

"The chemistry that eneloop batteries use is Nickel Metal Hydride. eneloop batteries are not lithium ..."

Yea, he got 3 1/2 on Enelop and over 5 on lithiums without letting the lithiums run out.

Ah, ok, I didnt realize he was talking about two different scenarios.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: edtyre on July 11, 2017, 11:42:02 AM
These
https://www.target.com/p/energizer-ultimate-lithium-aa-batteries-4-count-l91bp-4/-/A-13738752?ref=tgt_adv_XS000000&AFID=google_pla_df&CPNG=PLA_Electronics+Shopping&adgroup=SC_Electronics&LID=700000001170770pgs&network=g&device=m&location=9007330&gclid=Cj0KCQjw7pHLBRDqARIsAFyKPa5CpIXv82rjJ-W41y0vuaYzScrOe_LF5GI-33WcImOdSaPxhqi4OQ8aAqjMEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: improviser on July 11, 2017, 12:01:57 PM
I've been using the mixpre-6 with an Anker powercore+ 20100 USB c battery and it's been more than adequate so far.  I have a pelican 1120 case that I'd like to use for travel in suitcases etc... the mixpre-6 is just a hair too big with the battery sled attached (fits fine when I take the sled off).  I've been thinking of just leaving the sled at home.  Should I be concerned that the back of the recorder is exposed without the battery sled?  Any suggestions/thoughts?
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: ts on July 11, 2017, 12:58:08 PM
These
https://www.target.com/p/energizer-ultimate-lithium-aa-batteries-4-count-l91bp-4/-/A-13738752?ref=tgt_adv_XS000000&AFID=google_pla_df&CPNG=PLA_Electronics+Shopping&adgroup=SC_Electronics&LID=700000001170770pgs&network=g&device=m&location=9007330&gclid=Cj0KCQjw7pHLBRDqARIsAFyKPa5CpIXv82rjJ-W41y0vuaYzScrOe_LF5GI-33WcImOdSaPxhqi4OQ8aAqjMEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds

That's what I use. Maybe your a Schoeps caps draw less power. I'm getting less than 4 hrs on those batteries in a 4 battery sled with AKG CK>Naiant 60V PFA. 3:41 to be exact.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: Crumbo on July 11, 2017, 06:59:24 PM
any opinions on the preamp?

V3 like?

722 like?

own, new flavor?
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: hipporu on July 12, 2017, 09:31:47 AM
Received Vinsic 20000mAh QC 3.0 Quick Charge USB Type-C Power Bank
Like this http://www.ebay.com/itm/Vinsic-20000mAh-QC-3-0-Quick-Charge-USB-Type-C-Power-Bank-for-iPhone-Samsung-HTC/172578170151?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649
Cable usb-c - usb-c, runs at full power, the indicor is green.
Working time later...
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dactylus on July 12, 2017, 11:11:14 AM
These
https://www.target.com/p/energizer-ultimate-lithium-aa-batteries-4-count-l91bp-4/-/A-13738752?ref=tgt_adv_XS000000&AFID=google_pla_df&CPNG=PLA_Electronics+Shopping&adgroup=SC_Electronics&LID=700000001170770pgs&network=g&device=m&location=9007330&gclid=Cj0KCQjw7pHLBRDqARIsAFyKPa5CpIXv82rjJ-W41y0vuaYzScrOe_LF5GI-33WcImOdSaPxhqi4OQ8aAqjMEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds

^
I use these same lithium batteries in my OCM PMD661 when going low pro.  Great batteries!!

Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: thumper88 on July 12, 2017, 02:58:21 PM
So, I record almost entirely in mono on my current rigs, Marantz 620 and 661 mk2.
I was running a mixpre-D for certain uses in which I wanted to push audio straight into my Mac,  and loved it, now have a mixpre-3 on the way, and it looks like basically even with a single mic going its going to record in stereo, essentially two channels of exactly the same sound that I will then have to combine in software (Audition) into mono. That's not a big deal I guess but it is a useless additional step, seems like it may on rare occasions cause a hiccup or two and.... take up twice as much space on the memory chip.
Have I misunderstood how the machine works?
And is there any reason this isn't solvable with a firmware update if SD decides to change it and make true mono possible?

Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: hipporu on July 12, 2017, 04:06:25 PM
So, I record almost entirely in mono on my current rigs, Marantz 620 and 661 mk2.
I was running a mixpre-D for certain uses in which I wanted to push audio straight into my Mac,  and loved it, now have a mixpre-3 on the way, and it looks like basically even with a single mic going its going to record in stereo, essentially two channels of exactly the same sound that I will then have to combine in software (Audition) into mono. That's not a big deal I guess but it is a useless additional step, seems like it may on rare occasions cause a hiccup or two and.... take up twice as much space on the memory chip.
Have I misunderstood how the machine works?
And is there any reason this isn't solvable with a firmware update if SD decides to change it and make true mono possible?
You can record one channel ISO only =  mono track.
No need firmware update.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: nolamule on July 14, 2017, 01:02:46 PM
New topic I started for my npf/dummy external solution: http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=182854.0
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: noahbickart on July 14, 2017, 01:50:20 PM
New topic I started for my npf/dummy external solution: http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=182854.0

looks awesome.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dallman on July 14, 2017, 04:00:45 PM
So, I record almost entirely in mono on my current rigs, Marantz 620 and 661 mk2.
I was running a mixpre-D for certain uses in which I wanted to push audio straight into my Mac,  and loved it, now have a mixpre-3 on the way, and it looks like basically even with a single mic going its going to record in stereo, essentially two channels of exactly the same sound that I will then have to combine in software (Audition) into mono. That's not a big deal I guess but it is a useless additional step, seems like it may on rare occasions cause a hiccup or two and.... take up twice as much space on the memory chip.
Have I misunderstood how the machine works?
And is there any reason this isn't solvable with a firmware update if SD decides to change it and make true mono possible?
You can record one channel ISO only =  mono track.
No need firmware update.

If it is like the mixpre 6, you can record one channel by only arming the one channel you want to use, but you need to go into the menus and turn off the L,R Mix track. The L,R mix will still show, but it will not record.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: acidjack on July 16, 2017, 02:34:04 PM
Apologies in advance as this is no doubt covered in the thread somewhere. Running now so trying not to have to look at phone all show. I'm currently in Custom mode w/ everything but gain as "advanced"

I want the deck to record 2 pairs of tracks as 1/2 and 3/4 to the SD card, gain linked. I have REC L/R linked so I think that does that.

I'd like the 1/2 and 3/4 gains to link in "Basic" mode -- that is so the gain will be controlled by the knobs but I can also control L/R simultaneously. I for some reason can't find that.

Related, is there a way in "Advanced" to make the knobs control what is recorded to the card? As far as I can tell, the knob only controls the L/R Mix that is output. As everyone has said, doing gain by tapping the screen is not optimal.

Also, does Wingman let you do anything but rec//stop? All I can get it to do is that.

Thanks.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: johnw on July 16, 2017, 04:57:41 PM
Apologies in advance as this is no doubt covered in the thread somewhere. Running now so trying not to have to look at phone all show. I'm currently in Custom mode w/ everything but gain as "advanced"

I want the deck to record 2 pairs of tracks as 1/2 and 3/4 to the SD card, gain linked. I have REC L/R linked so I think that does that.

I'd like the 1/2 and 3/4 gains to link in "Basic" mode -- that is so the gain will be controlled by the knobs but I can also control L/R simultaneously. I for some reason can't find that.

Related, is there a way in "Advanced" to make the knobs control what is recorded to the card? As far as I can tell, the knob only controls the L/R Mix that is output. As everyone has said, doing gain by tapping the screen is not optimal.

Also, does Wingman let you do anything but rec//stop? All I can get it to do is that.

Thanks.

I believe you have hit on all major complaints. The answers are no,no and no. There is no way to do link gain in custom mode. In advanced mode, gain is controlled with the knob on the side and channels must be selected individually from the screen. All the wingman app does it lets you monitor the channels and start/stop recording.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: acidjack on July 16, 2017, 11:03:45 PM
Apologies in advance as this is no doubt covered in the thread somewhere. Running now so trying not to have to look at phone all show. I'm currently in Custom mode w/ everything but gain as "advanced"

I want the deck to record 2 pairs of tracks as 1/2 and 3/4 to the SD card, gain linked. I have REC L/R linked so I think that does that.

I'd like the 1/2 and 3/4 gains to link in "Basic" mode -- that is so the gain will be controlled by the knobs but I can also control L/R simultaneously. I for some reason can't find that.

Related, is there a way in "Advanced" to make the knobs control what is recorded to the card? As far as I can tell, the knob only controls the L/R Mix that is output. As everyone has said, doing gain by tapping the screen is not optimal.

Also, does Wingman let you do anything but rec//stop? All I can get it to do is that.

Thanks.

I believe you have hit on all major complaints. The answers are no,no and no. There is no way to do link gain in custom mode. In advanced mode, gain is controlled with the knob on the side and channels must be selected individually from the screen. All the wingman app does it lets you monitor the channels and start/stop recording.

Wow... OK, that's weird. So the only option for file output is also it outputs a 4ch WAV file? That's what it gave me when I recorded it with "OFF, LINKED."

Honestly the features of the thing are a bit bizarre. Ganging the channels isn't such a big deal but why not have 2 discrete WAVs for 1/2, 3/4 like the SD7xx series...? Weird.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dallman on July 17, 2017, 12:08:23 PM

Wow... OK, that's weird. So the only option for file output is also it outputs a 4ch WAV file? That's what it gave me when I recorded it with "OFF, LINKED."


This is not actually correct. What you actually have is a polywave file. The deck records polywave files, which I quickly learned makes life much easier. But the files need to be opened in an appropriate app like soundforge or reaper. I am sure there are many others. I use soundforge and opening the file gave me six channels, each stereo pair being a different color. So I could then easily separate them, but the beauty is, I could track each set identically and at the exact same time before splitting them up. It is effortless and beneficial to have the files set up this way. Yes if you just open the file like a regular .wav file, it will play all the tracks together, but the deck was designed it appears for the beginner (Basic Mode, 2 channels only, no polywave files) or Custom and Advanced, where most professionals are going to open their files to do some post work. And even if not it is effortless to then save each stereo pair separately.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: jbell on July 17, 2017, 12:22:22 PM
Sound devices Wave agent will help out with polywave files if you use wavelab!

https://www.sounddevices.com/products/accessories/software/wave-agent
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: noahbickart on July 17, 2017, 07:33:35 PM
The stop button on my mixpre6 has stopped working. Looks like the play button too. I can stop the recording from the wingman app but not from the button!!! Wtf????

Any ideas?

Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: johnw on July 17, 2017, 07:37:43 PM
That sucks. I'd send an email to SD. They tend to respond pretty quickly. If you don't hear back maybe pull the battery and reset to factory default. If that doesn't do it, try and return it for a replacement
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: rippleish20 on July 17, 2017, 07:46:36 PM
I agree with the idea of trying a factory reset
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: noahbickart on July 17, 2017, 07:57:18 PM
I agree with the idea of trying a factory reset

How do you do this?

I only see the "factory default" under "load preset" but that doesn't solve the problem.

Is there a button on the back near the ad card or something?
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: rippleish20 on July 17, 2017, 08:19:03 PM
Thats the only factory default as far as I know.

Have you tried turning off bluetooth - the idea is to make sure the app is not controlling anything (factory reset may do this I cant remember). How about reloading the newest firmware? How are you powering the device?



Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: noahbickart on July 17, 2017, 08:20:57 PM
Thats the only factory default as far as I know.

Have you tried turning off bluetooth - the idea is to make sure the app is not controlling anything (factory reset may do this I cant remember). How about reloading the newest firmware? How are you powering the device?

Yup. Tried turning off Bluetooth. I had to turn it off to get it to stop recording.

I'm powering using an anker powercore+ USB c battery.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: rippleish20 on July 17, 2017, 08:27:15 PM
Can you switch to the battery sled?
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: noahbickart on July 17, 2017, 08:34:02 PM
Can you switch to the battery sled?

Yup. Same problem. Record works. But not stop or play.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: rippleish20 on July 17, 2017, 08:37:52 PM
Bummer.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: noahbickart on July 17, 2017, 08:55:57 PM
Bummer.

Yeah. I think I can live with it through the baker's dozen, as I tend to use the wingman app anyway, but hopefully SD will respond, and I'll send it back after phish.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: Todd R on July 17, 2017, 09:52:23 PM
Maybe try it with a different SD card. What kind/size card are you using?  Someone was reporting some wonky behavior when using a 128gb card.

Seems like a stretch, but you seemed to have tried most else. Or try downgrading to an earlier firmware if you have a copy.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: noahbickart on July 18, 2017, 07:19:37 AM
Maybe try it with a different SD card. What kind/size card are you using?  Someone was reporting some wonky behavior when using a 128gb card.

Seems like a stretch, but you seemed to have tried most else. Or try downgrading to an earlier firmware if you have a copy.

I'm using a 64gb card which was recommended by paul. I think the 128gb issue was related to an erlier bug in the firmware. I actually don't own another card, but I need to make a B&H run for gaffers tape before the BD anyway.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: Todd R on July 18, 2017, 12:16:32 PM
Just trying to think of all the possibilities, though I doubt that a 64gb card recommended by SD would be an issue.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dogmusic on July 18, 2017, 12:56:31 PM
Maybe try it with a different SD card. What kind/size card are you using?  Someone was reporting some wonky behavior when using a 128gb card.

Seems like a stretch, but you seemed to have tried most else. Or try downgrading to an earlier firmware if you have a copy.

I'm using a 64gb card which was recommended by paul. I think the 128gb issue was related to an erlier bug in the firmware. I actually don't own another card, but I need to make a B&H run for gaffers tape before the BD anyway.

Are you anywhere you can plug in a USB keyboard? Just to see if keyboard commands will operate the transport.

Ctrl + R = Record

Ctrl + S = Stop

Spacebar = Play

Also, if you have some way of downloading and saving your current files, you could try re-formatting your memory card.

Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: thumper88 on July 18, 2017, 10:27:18 PM
And another powering option... mine runs just fine off my Macbook and Mackbook pro USB-C chargers. Def handy for mixing at the desk.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dpower on July 19, 2017, 10:22:27 AM
And another powering option... mine runs just fine off my Macbook and Mackbook pro USB-C chargers. Def handy for mixing at the desk.

When you say "mixing at the desk", are you using it as an interface? I ask because I'm unable to figure out how you get audio into and out of the MixPre with the USB-C port occupied by the charger.

Perhaps you're using it as a recorder "at the desk"?
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: gewwang on July 19, 2017, 01:31:53 PM
From last night, DPA 4023>mixpre-3, 23rd row center:

https://soundcloud.com/user-499246530/rogerwaters2017-07-18t02 (https://soundcloud.com/user-499246530/rogerwaters2017-07-18t02)
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: rigpimp on July 19, 2017, 01:34:44 PM
From last night, DPA 4023>mixpre-3, 23rd row center:

https://soundcloud.com/user-499246530/rogerwaters2017-07-18t02 (https://soundcloud.com/user-499246530/rogerwaters2017-07-18t02)

Nice sound!  Any plans on upping the whole show?  My buddy took his daughter and it was her first concert ever.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: gewwang on July 19, 2017, 01:43:42 PM
From last night, DPA 4023>mixpre-3, 23rd row center:

https://soundcloud.com/user-499246530/rogerwaters2017-07-18t02 (https://soundcloud.com/user-499246530/rogerwaters2017-07-18t02)

Nice sound!  Any plans on upping the whole show?  My buddy took his daughter and it was her first concert ever.

I'll have it up on Trader's Den in the next couple days. Glad your friend was able to get his daughter out to the show. I saw alot of kids in the crowd that were probably a few years too young to understand the greatness they were witnessing.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: thumper88 on July 19, 2017, 04:07:19 PM
And another powering option... mine runs just fine off my Macbook and Mackbook pro USB-C chargers. Def handy for mixing at the desk.

When you say "mixing at the desk", are you using it as an interface? I ask because I'm unable to figure out how you get audio into and out of the MixPre with the USB-C port occupied by the charger.

Perhaps you're using it as a recorder "at the desk"?


It seems to run fine for vocal tracking in via the USB-A port on the MixPre. So, power into MixPre through USB-C port, either from a Mac charger or Anker-type battery etc..... Then data out of USB-A port on MixPre-3 though a USB-A/USB-C cable, with the C end run intone of  the MacBook Pro USB-C ports.
I'm using a phantom powered mic (not that it matters but in this case a Sennheiser 8060) run into 1st XLR on MixPre and tracking directly from the MixPre without recording  into Adobe Audition with no issues that I can discern.
This very minute I'm using an Anker to do exactly this.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: rippleish20 on July 19, 2017, 04:38:36 PM
And another powering option... mine runs just fine off my Macbook and Mackbook pro USB-C chargers. Def handy for mixing at the desk.

When you say "mixing at the desk", are you using it as an interface? I ask because I'm unable to figure out how you get audio into and out of the MixPre with the USB-C port occupied by the charger.

Perhaps you're using it as a recorder "at the desk"?


It seems to run fine for vocal tracking in via the USB-A port on the MixPre. So, power into MixPre through USB-C port, either from a Mac charger or Anker-type battery etc..... Then data out of USB-A port on MixPre-3 though a USB-A/USB-C cable, with the C end run intone of  the MacBook Pro USB-C ports.
I'm using a phantom powered mic (not that it matters but in this case a Sennheiser 8060) run into 1st XLR on MixPre and tracking directly from the MixPre without recording  into Adobe Audition with no issues that I can discern.
This very minute I'm using an Anker to do exactly this.

This is the second time someone has suggested that you can use the mixpre's USB-A port when you want to use it as an audio interface. I thought the USB-A port was for keyboards...
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: celticrogues on July 19, 2017, 04:43:40 PM
And another powering option... mine runs just fine off my Macbook and Mackbook pro USB-C chargers. Def handy for mixing at the desk.

When you say "mixing at the desk", are you using it as an interface? I ask because I'm unable to figure out how you get audio into and out of the MixPre with the USB-C port occupied by the charger.

Perhaps you're using it as a recorder "at the desk"?


It seems to run fine for vocal tracking in via the USB-A port on the MixPre. So, power into MixPre through USB-C port, either from a Mac charger or Anker-type battery etc..... Then data out of USB-A port on MixPre-3 though a USB-A/USB-C cable, with the C end run intone of  the MacBook Pro USB-C ports.
I'm using a phantom powered mic (not that it matters but in this case a Sennheiser 8060) run into 1st XLR on MixPre and tracking directly from the MixPre without recording  into Adobe Audition with no issues that I can discern.
This very minute I'm using an Anker to do exactly this.

I asked Sound Devices twice if it was possible to use the USB-A port for audio interface connection to a computer and got a resounding "no" both times. But you're saying it's working?

Edit: It is NOT working for me. Have my MP6 powered by AA batteries and USB A connection to my MacBook Air USB A port and nothing shows up on the computer.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: rigpimp on July 20, 2017, 12:20:18 AM
I used my MP-6 as a USB interface today to record a NPR re-broadcast.  USB-A to USB-C.  I had to set channel 1 & 2 both to USB 1 input, that was it and change USB-C from "Power Only" to "Audio".  After getting everything set I created a preset for it.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: waltmon on July 20, 2017, 08:36:02 AM
Ok...finally have mine ordered...delivering in time for Baker's doz      :guitarist: :headphones:
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: thumper88 on July 20, 2017, 06:53:05 PM

I asked Sound Devices twice if it was possible to use the USB-A port for audio interface connection to a computer and got a resounding "no" both times. But you're saying it's working?

Edit: It is NOT working for me. Have my MP6 powered by AA batteries and USB A connection to my MacBook Air USB A port and nothing shows up on the computer.
[/quote]

Unless I was having a flashback, yes, I am saying it worked. The connections were exactly as I described. I was running USB-a to the Mac into adobe audition, and the signal was from an XLR mic run into the mixPre...I was just doing test tracks to get a sense of the faders, but it sounded good.
I will set it up again maybe tomorrow and double-check. I was pretty excited to see the USBc from the Mac charger power the mixpre so I wouldn't have to buy a charger and posted that immediately...... then came the question back, about  whether I actually use it as an interface at the desk given the USBc was occupied... the only way I can think of that I could have been mistaken was if I had the usb/c to usb/c cable running from mixpre to Mac as well as the usb-a to usb/c run between them. but thats not the way I had it set up... I had the usb c port on mixpre run to anker.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: waltmon on July 22, 2017, 02:18:22 PM
Linking channels...can channels 3 & 4 be linked like you can with channels 1 & 2 where 1 is volume and 2 is balance?
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: acidjack on July 22, 2017, 02:59:34 PM

Wow... OK, that's weird. So the only option for file output is also it outputs a 4ch WAV file? That's what it gave me when I recorded it with "OFF, LINKED."


This is not actually correct. What you actually have is a polywave file. The deck records polywave files, which I quickly learned makes life much easier. But the files need to be opened in an appropriate app like soundforge or reaper. I am sure there are many others. I use soundforge and opening the file gave me six channels, each stereo pair being a different color. So I could then easily separate them, but the beauty is, I could track each set identically and at the exact same time before splitting them up. It is effortless and beneficial to have the files set up this way. Yes if you just open the file like a regular .wav file, it will play all the tracks together, but the deck was designed it appears for the beginner (Basic Mode, 2 channels only, no polywave files) or Custom and Advanced, where most professionals are going to open their files to do some post work. And even if not it is effortless to then save each stereo pair separately.

I'm running the latest version of Audition on Mac. I assume it can handle it correctly, though I'm not sure what settings to use. Anyone have experience with that particular program?
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: F.O.Bean on July 23, 2017, 09:58:44 PM
With all of this speaking about the Mixpre6 1/8" mini input and overloading it at 0db gain, can't you just run the 1/8" 5/6 input at something like -20db in the settings, and then the Mixpre6 settings would act as a -20db attenuator, right?

So what I'm asking is, if I run my 1/8" 5/6 input from a SBD Patch, can't I turn the Mixpre6 5/6 settings to -20db and have it act as a -20db attenuator? So if people kept running their Mixpre6 @-20db gain on the 5/6 input vs @0db gain, wouldn't that save the end file from clipping the +10db prosumer input?
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: edtyre on July 23, 2017, 10:45:15 PM

Wow... OK, that's weird. So the only option for file output is also it outputs a 4ch WAV file? That's what it gave me when I recorded it with "OFF, LINKED."


This is not actually correct. What you actually have is a polywave file. The deck records polywave files, which I quickly learned makes life much easier. But the files need to be opened in an appropriate app like soundforge or reaper. I am sure there are many others. I use soundforge and opening the file gave me six channels, each stereo pair being a different color. So I could then easily separate them, but the beauty is, I could track each set identically and at the exact same time before splitting them up. It is effortless and beneficial to have the files set up this way. Yes if you just open the file like a regular .wav file, it will play all the tracks together, but the deck was designed it appears for the beginner (Basic Mode, 2 channels only, no polywave files) or Custom and Advanced, where most professionals are going to open their files to do some post work. And even if not it is effortless to then save each stereo pair separately.

I'm running the latest version of Audition on Mac. I assume it can handle it correctly, though I'm not sure what settings to use. Anyone have experience with that particular program?

Audition can open polywave files, from the Edit Menu > Enable Channels  Just disable the channels you don't want to save. You can then either copy and paste
into a new audio file, or export as a new file. You can export single channels as mono tracks or stereo pairs,
then import them into the multitrack editor. This is fantastic and allows you a lot of different ways to work on the files.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: nolamule on July 24, 2017, 08:15:00 AM
Gain can't be linked. Only the faders while in advanced mode.

Linking channels...can channels 3 & 4 be linked like you can with channels 1 & 2 where 1 is volume and 2 is balance?
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: Paul Isaacs on July 24, 2017, 01:09:27 PM
Linking channels...can channels 3 & 4 be linked like you can with channels 1 & 2 where 1 is volume and 2 is balance?

Yes - they can.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: waltmon on July 24, 2017, 01:13:02 PM
I used the mixpre vid on You tube to figure it out...so I have it set for 4 channels phantom power with 1&2 linked and 3&4 linked - I run my 744T with 1&2 linked...I like it.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: nolamule on July 24, 2017, 01:23:01 PM
Your talking linking the faders not the gain correct? Or did I miss something?

I used the mixpre vid on You tube to figure it out...so I have it set for 4 channels phantom power with 1&2 linked and 3&4 linked - I run my 744T with 1&2 linked...I like it.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: hipporu on July 24, 2017, 04:03:10 PM
With all of this speaking about the Mixpre6 1/8" mini input and overloading it at 0db gain, can't you just run the 1/8" 5/6 input at something like -20db in the settings, and then the Mixpre6 settings would act as a -20db attenuator, right?

So what I'm asking is, if I run my 1/8" 5/6 input from a SBD Patch, can't I turn the Mixpre6 5/6 settings to -20db and have it act as a -20db attenuator? So if people kept running their Mixpre6 @-20db gain on the 5/6 input vs @0db gain, wouldn't that save the end file from clipping the +10db prosumer input?
No.
http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=182573.msg2231794#msg2231794
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: tom the taper on July 24, 2017, 06:01:16 PM
Your talking linking the faders not the gain correct? Or did I miss something?

I used the mixpre vid on You tube to figure it out...so I have it set for 4 channels phantom power with 1&2 linked and 3&4 linked - I run my 744T with 1&2 linked...I like it.
You did not miss something nolamule - you are correct that you can link the faders, but not the gain (gain meaning the front channel knobs adjust the Gain on each isolated track).
To setup the front channel knobs for gain, Record has to be set to Advanced under Custom Setup (which is under the System menu)
That said, as of now you cannot link channels 1-2 or 3-4 and still use channel knobs as gain for the ISO tracks.

THIS IS MY MAIN feature WISH FOR A FIRMWARE UPDATE.   
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: nolamule on July 24, 2017, 08:58:27 PM
I agree 100%! Everyone needs to send a feature request to makes this happen.

https://www.sounddevices.com/support/inquiry

That said, as of now you cannot link channels 1-2 or 3-4 and still use channel knobs as gain for the ISO tracks.

THIS IS MY MAIN feature WISH FOR A FIRMWARE UPDATE.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: F.O.Bean on July 24, 2017, 09:08:46 PM
With all of this speaking about the Mixpre6 1/8" mini input and overloading it at 0db gain, can't you just run the 1/8" 5/6 input at something like -20db in the settings, and then the Mixpre6 settings would act as a -20db attenuator, right?

So what I'm asking is, if I run my 1/8" 5/6 input from a SBD Patch, can't I turn the Mixpre6 5/6 settings to -20db and have it act as a -20db attenuator? So if people kept running their Mixpre6 @-20db gain on the 5/6 input vs @0db gain, wouldn't that save the end file from clipping the +10db prosumer input?
No.
http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=182573.msg2231794#msg2231794


+T Thanks for the info buddy
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: noahbickart on July 24, 2017, 09:54:25 PM
With all of this speaking about the Mixpre6 1/8" mini input and overloading it at 0db gain, can't you just run the 1/8" 5/6 input at something like -20db in the settings, and then the Mixpre6 settings would act as a -20db attenuator, right?

So what I'm asking is, if I run my 1/8" 5/6 input from a SBD Patch, can't I turn the Mixpre6 5/6 settings to -20db and have it act as a -20db attenuator? So if people kept running their Mixpre6 @-20db gain on the 5/6 input vs @0db gain, wouldn't that save the end file from clipping the +10db prosumer input?
No.
http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=182573.msg2231794#msg2231794


+T Thanks for the info buddy

I had no trouble running line in from the mk4v pair> naiant littlebox into 5/6 last night. I even had the mixpre6 at +20db gain, with just a touch from the naiant. It was perfect: http://bt.etree.org/details.php?id=594263
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: acidjack on July 25, 2017, 11:03:22 AM

Wow... OK, that's weird. So the only option for file output is also it outputs a 4ch WAV file? That's what it gave me when I recorded it with "OFF, LINKED."


This is not actually correct. What you actually have is a polywave file. The deck records polywave files, which I quickly learned makes life much easier. But the files need to be opened in an appropriate app like soundforge or reaper. I am sure there are many others. I use soundforge and opening the file gave me six channels, each stereo pair being a different color. So I could then easily separate them, but the beauty is, I could track each set identically and at the exact same time before splitting them up. It is effortless and beneficial to have the files set up this way. Yes if you just open the file like a regular .wav file, it will play all the tracks together, but the deck was designed it appears for the beginner (Basic Mode, 2 channels only, no polywave files) or Custom and Advanced, where most professionals are going to open their files to do some post work. And even if not it is effortless to then save each stereo pair separately.

I'm running the latest version of Audition on Mac. I assume it can handle it correctly, though I'm not sure what settings to use. Anyone have experience with that particular program?

Audition can open polywave files, from the Edit Menu > Enable Channels  Just disable the channels you don't want to save. You can then either copy and paste
into a new audio file, or export as a new file. You can export single channels as mono tracks or stereo pairs,
then import them into the multitrack editor. This is fantastic and allows you a lot of different ways to work on the files.

Thanks, that is super helpful.

Obvious dumb question -- I assume if a polywave file is 4-6 tracks, you still get the 2GB limit? Or in other words, if it's recording a 4ch polywave at 24/48, it doesn't make it cut a new track every 1hr, does it?
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dallman on July 25, 2017, 11:33:47 AM

Obvious dumb question -- I assume if a polywave file is 4-6 tracks, you still get the 2GB limit? Or in other words, if it's recording a 4ch polywave at 24/48, it doesn't make it cut a new track every 1hr, does it?
File splits are 4gb, not 2gb

http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=182278.msg2231046#msg2231046 (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=182278.msg2231046#msg2231046)
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: tom the taper on July 25, 2017, 02:00:12 PM

Obvious dumb question -- I assume if a polywave file is 4-6 tracks, you still get the 2GB limit? Or in other words, if it's recording a 4ch polywave at 24/48, it doesn't make it cut a new track every 1hr, does it?
File splits are 4gb, not 2gb

http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=182278.msg2231046#msg2231046 (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=182278.msg2231046#msg2231046)

Recording 4 tracks/channels at 24/48 cuts a new file at about 1:22
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dallman on July 25, 2017, 02:54:07 PM

Obvious dumb question -- I assume if a polywave file is 4-6 tracks, you still get the 2GB limit? Or in other words, if it's recording a 4ch polywave at 24/48, it doesn't make it cut a new track every 1hr, does it?
File splits are 4gb, not 2gb

http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=182278.msg2231046#msg2231046 (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=182278.msg2231046#msg2231046)

Recording 4 tracks/channels at 24/48 cuts a new file at about 1:22
That's what I got recording 6 channels at 24/48. That said, putting the files together is simple and takes a few seconds.
Four channels yielded just about 2 hours at 4gb, which is similar to what the typical time yield is on a 2 channel file with a 2gb file limit at 24/48.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: tom the taper on July 25, 2017, 05:08:39 PM

Obvious dumb question -- I assume if a polywave file is 4-6 tracks, you still get the 2GB limit? Or in other words, if it's recording a 4ch polywave at 24/48, it doesn't make it cut a new track every 1hr, does it?
File splits are 4gb, not 2gb

http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=182278.msg2231046#msg2231046 (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=182278.msg2231046#msg2231046)

Recording 4 tracks/channels at 24/48 cuts a new file at about 1:22
That's what I got recording 6 channels at 24/48. That said, putting the files together is simple and takes a few seconds.
Four channels yielded just about 2 hours at 4gb, which is similar to what the typical time yield is on a 2 channel file with a 2gb file limit at 24/48.

Yes yes 6 channels. I forgot about the LR Mix - thanks Dallman
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: acidjack on July 26, 2017, 05:43:18 PM
Anyone have a semi-accurate count for the runtime with 8xNiMH like the Eneloop Pro? With 2 channels? With 4?

It seems that 4 channels w/ 4 alkalines is a measly 1hr, so I'm hoping the bigger sled and more advanced batteries can improve on that substantially....
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: ts on July 26, 2017, 06:46:54 PM
Anyone have a semi-accurate count for the runtime with 8xNiMH like the Eneloop Pro? With 2 channels? With 4?

It seems that 4 channels w/ 4 alkalines is a measly 1hr, so I'm hoping the bigger sled and more advanced batteries can improve on that substantially....

I got 5:20 on 8 Eneloop Pros with 2 channels.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: rippleish20 on July 26, 2017, 06:54:11 PM
Anyone have a semi-accurate count for the runtime with 8xNiMH like the Eneloop Pro? With 2 channels? With 4?

It seems that 4 channels w/ 4 alkalines is a measly 1hr, so I'm hoping the bigger sled and more advanced batteries can improve on that substantially....


I have been getting 5+ hours with them for 2-4 channels plus the l/r, no phantom, LEDs etc on low settings. I did 6 channels last weekend, two with phantom plus l/r (2 of them were because I forgot to disarm 5/6) and they were drawn down much faster - i switched to USB-c after 2 hours because the power meter was still green but 3/4 drained. An accurate estimate is tough because its going to depend on channels, phantom or not, etc.

The monoprice USB-c battery abd reaming time in the 8 aa sled gave me 7+ hours and was still going when I stopped recording.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: waltmon on July 29, 2017, 06:00:01 PM
Am I missing something? How do I get 4 mono channels to mix in post plus the on the fly mix?
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dpower on July 29, 2017, 06:06:00 PM
Am I missing something? How do I get 4 mono channels to mix in post plus the on the fly mix?

What you've described is the default behavior when you've set up your device in Custom mode with Record in Advanced. That should get you all 4 mic channels (assuming they've been armed) and the L/R mix (unless you disable it.)
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: waltmon on July 30, 2017, 03:41:07 PM
Ok...so I put it in advanced mode...armed channels 1-4, phantom on,  set gain of each to 20 db - faders are set to 0...will this yield the 4 mono tracks plus the on the fly mix?
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: nolamule on July 30, 2017, 04:35:18 PM
As long as you have the L/R mixes active. The will be red in the display like the armed ISO channels.

Ok...so I put it in advanced mode...armed channels 1-4, phantom on,  set gain of each to 20 db - faders are set to 0...will this yield the 4 mono tracks plus the on the fly mix?
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: waltmon on July 30, 2017, 06:55:15 PM
I will check...I reset to factory settings walked back through - now everything is armed correctly - Thanks!
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: rippleish20 on July 31, 2017, 01:02:57 PM
I ordered a Hawk-Woods custom dummy last week. I didn't want to spend another $40 on hirose cable so I decided to go with a 2.5mm RA plug to work with my RAVPower external. It is making the trip across the pond now. I'll post pictures when I get it. Hoping my L Mount sled arrives next week too and I will be good to go with a Sony NP-F570 in the other side.

Did you get this dummy yet? How did you order it?
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: nolamule on July 31, 2017, 11:27:10 PM
I got it and ran the setup for a festival a couple weeks ago. I started a thread here:

http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=182854.0

I contacted Hawk-Woods through there website and worked with Dan: dan@hawkwoods.com

I ordered a Hawk-Woods custom dummy last week. I didn't want to spend another $40 on hirose cable so I decided to go with a 2.5mm RA plug to work with my RAVPower external. It is making the trip across the pond now. I'll post pictures when I get it. Hoping my L Mount sled arrives next week too and I will be good to go with a Sony NP-F570 in the other side.

Did you get this dummy yet? How did you order it?
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: rippleish20 on July 31, 2017, 11:41:38 PM
I got it and ran the setup for a festival a couple weeks ago. I started a thread here:

http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=182854.0

I contacted Hawk-Woods through there website and worked with Dan: dan@hawkwoods.com

I ordered a Hawk-Woods custom dummy last week. I didn't want to spend another $40 on hirose cable so I decided to go with a 2.5mm RA plug to work with my RAVPower external. It is making the trip across the pond now. I'll post pictures when I get it. Hoping my L Mount sled arrives next week too and I will be good to go with a Sony NP-F570 in the other side.

Did you get this dummy yet? How did you order it?

Thank you; I completely forgot you posted a thread about it.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: justink on August 01, 2017, 11:15:28 PM
Been reading these threads and I want to buy one but man...  This recorder seems way more  complicated than it should be.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: mitchellm on August 02, 2017, 06:17:50 AM
Been reading these threads and I want to buy one but man...  This recorder seems way more  complicated than it should be.

Perhaps for your particular usage you are correct. I'm finding it all super simple to use. Especially to move between different kinds of setups. But I only need the basics with the MixPre-3: direct to computer (one or two mics), 1 stereo mic (phantom) on locations (i.e. not connected to computer) for music or ambiance, 2 mics (dynamic) for location interviews, 2 mics (phantom) for interviews. Simple as can be and a joy to work with. Quality is fantastic.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: noahbickart on August 02, 2017, 07:31:55 AM
I don't find it complicated at all.

I have a number of setups saved as presets, which makes setup very easy.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: ero3030 on August 02, 2017, 09:45:45 AM
Been reading these threads and I want to buy one but man...  This recorder seems way more  complicated than it should be.
[/q
I'm with Justink.  The mixpre' s seem great as a mixer or for going into a PC,  but not as easy 2 channel recorder.  Am I off the mark?
With soooo many peeps going to small active set ups ( no adc's or even pre's )  is a multi channel deck really needed?  Nice for a sound board patch for a diff mix,  but using it too fly 2 sets even 3 sets of Mics??!!  Not sure what that is all about other than to show off what u own.  Maybe peeps should look at one good pre amp that matches well with the mics they own,  iMO.    Love the size and looks of the new units for sure,  but the battery thing is deff a PITA just by what I've been reading.  Should be able push on a higher MAH L battery on the back of the dam thing without having to buy ANYTHING extra to run one of these things.  I do hope everyone that is using one is having fun with it,  because we all love new gear!!  Tape on,  ed
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: jbell on August 02, 2017, 09:55:18 AM
IMO the deck is very easy to use the menus are very intuitive.  Not anymore difficult to figure out than any other multichannel deck I have used.  It is smaller for me to run the mixpre-6 for 2 channels then running my VMS 5U> M10. 
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: johnw on August 02, 2017, 10:26:48 AM
Been reading these threads and I want to buy one but man...  This recorder seems way more  complicated than it should be.
[/q
I'm with Justink.  The mixpre' s seem great as a mixer or for going into a PC,  but not as easy 2 channel recorder.  Am I off the mark?
With soooo many peeps going to small active set ups ( no adc's or even pre's )  is a multi channel deck really needed?  Nice for a sound board patch for a diff mix,  but using it too fly 2 sets even 3 sets of Mics??!!  Not sure what that is all about other than to show off what u own.  Maybe peeps should look at one good pre amp that matches well with the mics they own,  iMO.    Love the size and looks of the new units for sure,  but the battery thing is deff a PITA just by what I've been reading.  Should be able push on a higher MAH L battery on the back of the dam thing without having to buy ANYTHING extra to run one of these things.  I do hope everyone that is using one is having fun with it,  because we all love new gear!!  Tape on,  ed

I used it with 2 sets of actives and liked the mix recording better than either of the pairs alone. I found matrix recordings frustrating to do with the 744 so I stopped. This makes it pretty easy. Also 8AA and USB C battery was easy to power. I had trouble keeping a stable blue tooth connection at the recent phish show I tried it with. This was from maybe 8-10 feet away. All in all, I really like it and will continue to use it when I don't want to bring my larger bag.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dogmusic on August 02, 2017, 10:32:36 AM
I like the recording quality of the MixPre-6 and find it easy to load my preset when I power it up. There are certain features I wish it had and have sent this request to SD today:

"There need to be buttons displayed on the screen or on the Wingman App to make it easy to fast forward and rewind ("scrub") within a recorded file. The present system using the headphone volume button is awkward and inexact.  Also, we could use the same virtual buttons to move from file to file which would be so much easier than going into the menu. These features are available on even the simplest of voice recorders as well as all field recorders that I've ever used. And once again, can you please add a method to turn off that annoying BEEP that occurs when starting or stopping record as well as when a new file is created. It's awfully loud when monitoring through headphones. "
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dallman on August 02, 2017, 11:21:12 AM
Been reading these threads and I want to buy one but man...  This recorder seems way more  complicated than it should be.

I think the word versatile is what should be in place of complicated. I think any deck has a learning curve, but many of them are designed for the exact same functionality, so perhaps the learning curve is shorter after one becomes comfortable with basic taping terms and techniques. If anyone owns a Sound Devices USB Pre 2, there are (I think) 17 DIP switches to set, so it might take a little time to figure it out. Same with the Marantz PMD 661 and the PMD 620  which allows three very detailed presets. This deck is a breeze, but has lots of usage options. I have not learned them all (for instance I do not podcast so I have paid no attention to that), but I know how to record 2 track, 4 track, 6 track with or without the L and R mix, and I know how to use the knobs on front for gain or for fade. I know how to do the functions that I want to use and I have set 3 presets., At 62 years of age :yikes:, I will forget much of what I learned over time, especially as I like to rotate through different decks.

I would say this deck is no more complicated than any other of the popular decks often mentioned on this site. It is one of the more versatile. It also is not for everyone, it seems that taping styles, music tastes venues and local customs are some of the variables that best determine the right deck for each of us.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: gewwang on August 02, 2017, 11:34:47 AM
Once unboxed, it took about 15 minutes to set mine up for my purposes. I set it up to do 3 channels: Input 1: Left, Input 2: Right, Input 3: mono. So now the only change I make is turning Input 3 on or off depending on if I'm stealthing in 2 channel or open taping with 3 channels.

For powering, I'm not even using the USB power option. Just the 8AA sled for stealth and the L-mount sled for open.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: rippleish20 on August 02, 2017, 11:43:33 AM
I don't think these are complicated but they are really designed as mixers and the mixpre-6 has some short comings as a four track recorder. They were also fairly buggy firmware wise at first although I have had no trouble since 1.11 (perhaps some people had no issues but I ran into almost every bug). At the same time, the mixpre-6 is pretty versatile, with the 1/8 inch 5/6 channels..
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: willndmb on August 02, 2017, 10:01:06 PM
It seems complicated to me too but that's reading everything here and not actually having one in hand.
I think if you have one in hand it would be much simpler because you can actually see everything and play with it
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: justink on August 03, 2017, 12:36:13 AM
It seems complicated to me too but that's reading everything here and not actually having one in hand.
I think if you have one in hand it would be much simpler because you can actually see everything and play with it

Yeah. Makes sense. I need to see one in the field and ask some questions.

Still, no hold button and lack of linked gain is kind of the two obvious things need fixing before I buy.

My R-44 works fine for now (even without linked gain it's self).
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: larrysellers on August 03, 2017, 10:22:42 AM
I purchased a mixpre-3 last week and I love it. I was able to transfer the presets from EdTyre's recorder by having him send me his preset folder and loading them through the sd card. How long were the mixpre-d and usbpre2 on the market before SD increased the price of both? I am assuming the same thing will happen with these units. Maybe I rationalized it so I would purchase one sooner than later?
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: tom the taper on August 03, 2017, 11:09:07 AM
I purchased a mixpre-3 last week and I love it. I was able to transfer the presets from EdTyre's recorder by having him send me his preset folder and loading them through the sd card. How long were the mixpre-d and usbpre2 on the market before SD increased the price of both? I am assuming the same thing will happen with these units. Maybe I rationalized it so I would purchase one sooner than later?
CONGRATULATIONS!! :cheers:
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: gewwang on August 03, 2017, 11:19:48 AM
If it was that complicated to use, we'd be seeing alot of people selling them in the used gear section or returning them to their original point of sale.

I think people post here when they have questions about how to use it instead of watching the youtube videos or reading the manuals. Once they have it figured out, they don't come back to the thread.

It took me 15 minutes to figure mine out and I've taped 6 shows since then without any issues or need to change my configuration.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: rigpimp on August 03, 2017, 01:16:11 PM
I'm trying to figure out the best used for 5 and 6 on mini.  I'm thinking about using it for my ccm4 / tinybox rig.  What are most people using 5 and 6 for?
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: willndmb on August 03, 2017, 02:04:52 PM
I'm trying to figure out the best used for 5 and 6 on mini.  I'm thinking about using it for my ccm4 / tinybox rig.  What are most people using 5 and 6 for?
thats what I was going to do then I read it overloads easier then the xlr, at least for a board patch, and I held off.
In fairness someone then posted a chart and it doesn't seem like it would overload in most situations that I would be doing anyway
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: jbell on August 03, 2017, 03:40:38 PM
You can link 1/2 and 3/4 as stereo pairs on the Mixpre-6.  You can't currently link all 4 channels.  I have owned and used a DR680, DR-70d, and R-44 and none of them come close to the quality of the Mixpre-6.  With the button placement on the front(there aren't many) and most features activated throught the touch menu a hold button isn't needed for me.  The R-44 has alot of switches on the top of the deck so I could see needing to use hold.  I never like that about the R-44.   I didn't like the R-44 gain sturcture either, but off topic.  If you buy a Mixpre-6 you won't be disappointed I'm 100% sure of that.   

It seems complicated to me too but that's reading everything here and not actually having one in hand.
I think if you have one in hand it would be much simpler because you can actually see everything and play with it

Yeah. Makes sense. I need to see one in the field and ask some questions.

Still, no hold button and lack of linked gain is kind of the two obvious things need fixing before I buy.

My R-44 works fine for now (even without linked gain it's self).
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: F.O.Bean on August 03, 2017, 04:21:01 PM

Wow... OK, that's weird. So the only option for file output is also it outputs a 4ch WAV file? That's what it gave me when I recorded it with "OFF, LINKED."


This is not actually correct. What you actually have is a polywave file. The deck records polywave files, which I quickly learned makes life much easier. But the files need to be opened in an appropriate app like soundforge or reaper. I am sure there are many others. I use soundforge and opening the file gave me six channels, each stereo pair being a different color. So I could then easily separate them, but the beauty is, I could track each set identically and at the exact same time before splitting them up. It is effortless and beneficial to have the files set up this way. Yes if you just open the file like a regular .wav file, it will play all the tracks together, but the deck was designed it appears for the beginner (Basic Mode, 2 channels only, no polywave files) or Custom and Advanced, where most professionals are going to open their files to do some post work. And even if not it is effortless to then save each stereo pair separately.

I'm running the latest version of Audition on Mac. I assume it can handle it correctly, though I'm not sure what settings to use. Anyone have experience with that particular program?

Audition can open polywave files, from the Edit Menu > Enable Channels  Just disable the channels you don't want to save. You can then either copy and paste
into a new audio file, or export as a new file. You can export single channels as mono tracks or stereo pairs,
then import them into the multitrack editor. This is fantastic and allows you a lot of different ways to work on the files.

Thanks, that is super helpful.

Obvious dumb question -- I assume if a polywave file is 4-6 tracks, you still get the 2GB limit? Or in other words, if it's recording a 4ch polywave at 24/48, it doesn't make it cut a new track every 1hr, does it?

I'm about 90% sure its @2gb! The Poly WAV files when I recorded Phish@24/96 were split @4gb each though.

And having to deal with the Poly Wavs is really easy if you download the SD Wave Agent v1.20 program that is JUST meant to convert Poly>Mono or Mono>Poly files ;)

And it tells you which channels are which! IF you're recording the LR Mix, then THAT'S Mono Channels 1&2 in SD Wave Agent v1.20, then followed by Channels 1&2 as Mono Tracks 3/4 in Wave Agent, and then Channels 3&4 would be Tracks 5&6 in Wave Agent, and Channels 5/6 would be Tracks 7/8. However, if you're ONLY recording ISO Tracks and NOT the LR Mix as well, then the channels are the same, meaning Channels 1&2 are Channels 1&2, Channels 3&4 are Tracks 3/4 in Wave Agent, etc.

Then you can easily open the mono WAVs in ANY editing software like WL6 & SF and save them as stereo pairs! It's just a SLIGHT new workflow for me! Here's my new workflow since I got my MP6 ;)

Processing:
SD Wave Agent v1.20[Poly>Mono WAVs] > WaveLab v6.11[Fades/Gain] > [WAV@24/96] >
SoundForge Pro v10.0a[iZotope 64-Bit SRC(Highest) & MBIT+ Dither(Ultra/High)] > [WAV@16/44.1] >
CD Wave v1.98[Tracking/Cue Sheets] > CKRename v1.08[Name Files] >
Traders Little Helper v2.7.0[FLAC/Level 8/Fix SBE's/Verify/FFP/MD5/ST5] > [FLACs@16/44.1] >
MP3Tag v2.83[Tag FLACs] > .FLAC16 Folder
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: justink on August 04, 2017, 02:26:20 AM
You can link 1/2 and 3/4 as stereo pairs on the Mixpre-6.  You can't currently link all 4 channels.  I have owned and used a DR680, DR-70d, and R-44 and none of them come close to the quality of the Mixpre-6.  With the button placement on the front(there aren't many) and most features activated throught the touch menu a hold button isn't needed for me.  The R-44 has alot of switches on the top of the deck so I could see needing to use hold.  I never like that about the R-44.   I didn't like the R-44 gain sturcture either, but off topic.  If you buy a Mixpre-6 you won't be disappointed I'm 100% sure of that.   

It seems complicated to me too but that's reading everything here and not actually having one in hand.
I think if you have one in hand it would be much simpler because you can actually see everything and play with it

Yeah. Makes sense. I need to see one in the field and ask some questions.

Still, no hold button and lack of linked gain is kind of the two obvious things need fixing before I buy.

My R-44 works fine for now (even without linked gain it's self).

Stop it. I'm trying to talk myself OUT.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: rigpimp on August 04, 2017, 09:57:53 AM
Stop it. I'm trying to talk myself OUT.

Do it!  All of the cool kids are trying it.   >:D
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: johnw on August 04, 2017, 02:07:29 PM
Is there any way to compress a polywave file for archiving? It seems flac doesn't work
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: rigpimp on August 04, 2017, 07:09:21 PM
I'm trying to figure out the best used for 5 and 6 on mini.  I'm thinking about using it for my ccm4 / tinybox rig.  What are most people using 5 and 6 for?
thats what I was going to do then I read it overloads easier then the xlr, at least for a board patch, and I held off.
In fairness someone then posted a chart and it doesn't seem like it would overload in most situations that I would be doing anyway

I think that I might try to run my PSP-2 mini out into 5 & 6 and try it out.  I can run XLR SBD into 1 & 2 or 3 &4 with another set of mics.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: F.O.Bean on August 05, 2017, 12:58:35 AM
Is there any way to compress a polywave file for archiving? It seems flac doesn't work

Not that I have found John :( I tried TLH and FLAC Frontend, and nothing worked on the 6 channel polywavs

And you currently CANNOT Link Channels 1/2 and 3/4 with the v1.11 FW and using the MP6 in Custom Mode, with the Gain@Basic! That's really the ONLY FW Update that I can think of that I personally want done! Once I can run in Custom[Gain@Basic] and link Channels 1/2 and 3/4 I'll be a very happy camper :) That said, it's not very hard to get my levels damn near perfect just using the individual gain knobs! But I'd love to be able to Link 1/2 & 3/4 like my old SD722, where Channel 1 controls gain, and Channel 2 controls balance between the two linked channels!
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: F.O.Bean on August 05, 2017, 01:11:01 AM
I'm trying to figure out the best used for 5 and 6 on mini.  I'm thinking about using it for my ccm4 / tinybox rig.  What are most people using 5 and 6 for?
thats what I was going to do then I read it overloads easier then the xlr, at least for a board patch, and I held off.
In fairness someone then posted a chart and it doesn't seem like it would overload in most situations that I would be doing anyway

I have some Naiant -12db MPD XLR Attenuators that will work perfectly for Channels 5/6 of my rig! Whether I'm running VMS02IB>5/6 of the MP6, or a SBD Patch>5/6, I can run the -12db [I might get some -20db MPD's made just for the 5/6 inputs of my MP6] MPD's in-between that and the MP6 and run a pretty damn hot signal into 5/6 after that :) The -20db MPD's would be strictly for 5/6 of my MP6. Since the MPD's are only around $16/each, that's a relatively cheap way IMO [$32+Shipping from Naiant] to get around the hotter signals for 5/6 and never have to worry about it again! I'll be using the XLR MPD's to go from XLR [VMS or SBD]->Hosa Y Cable [Dual Female XLR->Single Rt Angle 1/8" Mini Cable]>1/8" Mini Jack of my MP6! That way, I won't EVER have to worry about frying an expensive SBD or external preamp by accidentally sending Phantom Power to it, so the 5/6 Jack will be STRICTLY for a SBD Patch or VMS outs! Does that make sense? So for UNDER $40, you can get [2] -20db Naiant MPD's and NEVER have to worry about your 5/6 jack and a hot signal ever again when running LINE IN, as well as EVER frying a SBD or preamp because of sending it Phantom Power :) That's pretty reasonable IMO after spending as much as I have on my rigs!
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: vwmule on August 05, 2017, 01:39:00 PM
> I was able to transfer the presets from EdTyre's recorder by having him send me his preset folder and loading them through the sd card.

That's a good idea. Can you share with all? How about a 2 channel, 4 channel and 4 mic/2 sbd set up?
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: aaronji on August 08, 2017, 10:14:24 AM
I'm about 90% sure its @2gb! The Poly WAV files when I recorded Phish@24/96 were split @4gb each though.

Per Paul Isaacs (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=182278.msg2231046#msg2231046), it's 4 GB.

For powering, I'm not even using the USB power option. Just the 8AA sled for stealth and the L-mount sled for open.

Which batteries are you using with the L-mount sled?  The big ones (like the Sony NP-F970) are really bulky, but the mid-size ones (like Sony NP-F770) aren't so huge.  I am really curious what sort of run-time you could get with the 770s (or even the 570 size)...

Also, for archiving the polywaves, you can probably just use a standard zip utility.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: nolamule on August 08, 2017, 11:52:59 AM
Testing setup: Firmware 1.11, Custom Mode w/ Basic Gain, Brightness 1 & 1, Monitor gain at 40, 2 channel phantom, and recording ISOs and L/R Mixes, Bluetooth on
Source: MK41s > KCY 250/5 > JT inters > +60V PFA > MP6

Sony NP-F570 - 1.5 hours


For powering, I'm not even using the USB power option. Just the 8AA sled for stealth and the L-mount sled for open.

Which batteries are you using with the L-mount sled?  The big ones (like the Sony NP-F970) are really bulky, but the mid-size ones (like Sony NP-F770) aren't so huge.  I am really curious what sort of run-time you could get with the 770s (or even the 570 size)...

Also, for archiving the polywaves, you can probably just use a standard zip utility.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: gewwang on August 08, 2017, 12:01:32 PM
Testing setup: Firmware 1.11, Custom Mode w/ Basic Gain, Brightness 1 & 1, Monitor gain at 40, 2 channel phantom, and recording ISOs and L/R Mixes, Bluetooth on
Source: MK41s > KCY 250/5 > JT inters > +60V PFA > MP6

Sony NP-F570 - 1.5 hours


For powering, I'm not even using the USB power option. Just the 8AA sled for stealth and the L-mount sled for open.

Which batteries are you using with the L-mount sled?  The big ones (like the Sony NP-F970) are really bulky, but the mid-size ones (like Sony NP-F770) aren't so huge.  I am really curious what sort of run-time you could get with the 770s (or even the 570 size)...

Also, for archiving the polywaves, you can probably just use a standard zip utility.

I've only used a pair of the NP-F970 size with mine but haven't run a full test to get the max time. I have a petrol bag with the dividers removed so when the batteries allow the recorder to stand upright and then i put a preamp on top of one of the batteries and put all the extra mic cable slack over the other battery.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: aaronji on August 08, 2017, 06:43:30 PM
Sony NP-F570 - 1.5 hours

Was that one or a pair?  The NP-F770 is twice the mAh, so likely about twice the time (for similar settings and mic draw, of course).

I've only used a pair of the NP-F970 size with mine but haven't run a full test to get the max time. I have a petrol bag with the dividers removed so when the batteries allow the recorder to stand upright and then i put a preamp on top of one of the batteries and put all the extra mic cable slack over the other battery.

Thanks!  I think that would work in my bag also.  If you ever do a full test, I would be curious to hear the results!
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: nolamule on August 09, 2017, 01:06:19 AM
That was a single NP-F570, I'm using it as backup for my Hawk-Woods dummy cell.

Sony NP-F570 - 1.5 hours

Was that one or a pair?  The NP-F770 is twice the mAh, so likely about twice the time (for similar settings and mic draw, of course).

Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: aaronji on August 09, 2017, 10:57:41 AM
^ That's very helpful; thank you.  I guess it is not unreasonable to assume that you'd get ~ 3 hours with two of them, ~ 6 hours with two NP-F770s, and ~ 8.5 hours with a pair of 970s.  Assuming the same settings and mic draw...
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: rippleish20 on August 10, 2017, 03:05:09 PM

https://www.trewaudio.com/product/hawk-woods-sd-1/
 
https://www.trewaudio.com/product/hawk-woods-sd-2/
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: jbell on August 10, 2017, 03:40:29 PM
I might have to grab the Hawk-woods sd2 when it is available!!  I like the orientation of the battery better than the SD L mount sled


https://www.trewaudio.com/product/hawk-woods-sd-1/
 
https://www.trewaudio.com/product/hawk-woods-sd-2/
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: lerond on August 10, 2017, 03:44:49 PM

I'd love to be able to Link 1/2 & 3/4 like my old SD722, where Channel 1 controls gain, and Channel 2 controls balance between the two linked channels!

This is one of the biggest things I would like to see changed!
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: waltmon on August 10, 2017, 09:35:24 PM
It's easy to link channels like that no issues
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: nolamule on August 10, 2017, 09:37:14 PM
Those are both great solutions!! But neither allow for hot swapping without a USB-C battery.


https://www.trewaudio.com/product/hawk-woods-sd-1/
 
https://www.trewaudio.com/product/hawk-woods-sd-2/

It is easy to link the faders, not the gain like the 7-series recorders.

It's easy to link channels like that no issues
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dactylus on August 11, 2017, 08:26:42 AM
Those are both great solutions!! But neither allow for hot swapping without a USB-C battery.


https://www.trewaudio.com/product/hawk-woods-sd-1/
 
https://www.trewaudio.com/product/hawk-woods-sd-2/

Agreed on both of these Hawk-Woods products being great powering solutions. 
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: Todd R on August 11, 2017, 11:55:14 AM
I guess I keep reading these threads with posts and frustrations about channel linking, setting up the Mixpre with custom mode using basic gain, etc., and feel like I should try to make a plea for people to re-think their old work flow.

I have recorded 25-30 sets now with the Mixpre-6 in a number of different venues, with a large variety of types of music (from acoustic duets to more louder jam-grass to more typical rock sets), using different sets of mics.  I've never used anything but advanced mode, and I've always pre-set my gain before the show started and never changed the gain settings during a set.  Even using a couple sets of new-to-me mics in venues I've never used them at, every set I've recorded has ended with peaks in the range of -18dbFS for the quietest recording to -7dbFS for the loudest recording.

Bottom line, I don't think it is very hard with our level of experience as tapers to guess beforehand approximately how much gain you need.  And the Mixpre series is incredibly quiet, even my acoustic stuff that ended up at -20dbFS shows no hint of noise once I've boosted/normalized the recording in post.  Short of incredibly quiet studios or nature recording, for concert recording in almost any setting we can imagine, if you ended up with way too little gain and a recording that topped out at -40dbFS, you won't notice any noise hit once you normalize the levels up in post, at least based on SD's published specs.  This seems to have been borne out when the earlier firmware resulted in recordings at -40db or -45db if you had turned off the LR mix tracks in the set up (now fixed).  People who had that problem reported no issues once they boosted/normalized their -40db recordings up to 0dbFS.

I'd really recommend folks trying to record with this new thought process/workflow.  If you set up gain beforehand and don't touch it, there's no need for to get into the custom mode with basic gain, no worries about channel linking or 4-ch linking since they will be "linked" at the same gain up front.  The Mixpre series allows you to set a precise level of gain on all channels, if for example you're using a 4ch ambisonic mic and set up and match the gain beforehand and never change gain during the set, there is no need for channel linking.

I guess I'm just missing the reasons people have for wanting to control gain during the set, but with incredibly quiet preamps (noise at -130dbV) and an unbelievably wide dynamic range (120db), the Mixpre can be easily used with gain set very low and conservative (leading to very low recording levels) and then boosted in post with no discernible penalties.  Guessing what gain levels you need beforehand when you are just shooting for peaks at -30dbFS (but willing to accept -1dbFS) leaves a wide target and doesn't require much knowledge and experience to achieve.

If people are willing to try this as a new workflow, it sure seems to avoid many of the complaints folks have about this recorder.  That's my long-winded public service plea.  Sorry, not trying to lecture experienced tapers on how to approach their recordings, just trying to emphasize that new technologies and vastly improved recorders and preamps allow for new ways of doing things which didn't work before.  (Compare for example the recording I made years ago with a Sony D7 DAT using phantom power supplies and the internal D7 preamps.  Peaks at -16db, oh god the noise on that recording, sounded like listening to music on a boom box by the ocean.)
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dallman on August 11, 2017, 12:27:37 PM
^^^
=T, great and very true post. I couldn't agree more.

I set mine a bit differently because I still like having the knobs control gain, but I preset my gain and I have not needed to touch it. The real proof of the value of these preamps can be seen with the first firmware update, which still left one glitch. That glitch was that if you turned off the mix track, your recording would look right, but would be very low, so much so that you had to add about 15db of gain, which is a really really large amount of gain, but the recording was still absolutely quiet in the quiet parts and rich and full sounding musically. 

Go conservative and edit in post. This is an amazing deck for staying careful and conservative, no loss of quality. For anyone that does not make any changes in post, it is like recording with one arm tied behind your back.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: rippleish20 on August 11, 2017, 12:39:32 PM
I've adapted to the workflow. I use my Mixrpre in advanced mode and its not that hard to set gain and be happy. I like my Mixpre quite a bit - there are many nice aspects to it But getting used to the workflow doesn't translate to the workflow being ideal, or for everyone. It still strikes me as a mixer marketed as a recorder.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: jbell on August 11, 2017, 12:48:48 PM
The mix track issues was fixed with firmware 1.11!!  I have been recording with mine turned off without issue.

^^^
=T, great and very true post. I couldn't agree more.

I set mine a bit differently because I still like having the knobs control gain, but I preset my gain and I have not needed to touch it. The real proof of the value of these preamps can be seen with the first firmware update, which still left one glitch. That glitch was that if you turned off the mix track, your recording would look right, but would be very low, so much so that you had to add about 15db of gain, which is a really really large amount of gain, but the recording was still absolutely quiet in the quiet parts and rich and full sounding musically. 

Go conservative and edit in post. This is an amazing deck for staying careful and conservative, no loss of quality. For anyone that does not make any changes in post, it is like recording with one arm tied behind your back.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: rippleish20 on August 11, 2017, 01:02:16 PM
All the bugs I encountered seem to have been fixed as of 1.11.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: waltmon on August 13, 2017, 01:39:51 PM
That's the first I am reading of the SD-2 version of Hawkwoods...that's bad ass...I have 3 - 8800ma  cells and 3 - 6600ma cells
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dallman on August 13, 2017, 03:36:45 PM
The mix track issues was fixed with firmware 1.11!!  I have been recording with mine turned off without issue.

^^^
=T, great and very true post. I couldn't agree more.

I set mine a bit differently because I still like having the knobs control gain, but I preset my gain and I have not needed to touch it. The real proof of the value of these preamps can be seen with the first firmware update, which still left one glitch. That glitch was that if you turned off the mix track, your recording would look right, but would be very low, so much so that you had to add about 15db of gain, which is a really really large amount of gain, but the recording was still absolutely quiet in the quiet parts and rich and full sounding musically. 

Go conservative and edit in post. This is an amazing deck for staying careful and conservative, no loss of quality. For anyone that does not make any changes in post, it is like recording with one arm tied behind your back.
Exactly, but it was a great opportunity to see what the preamps could do being pushed. The next update fixed the issue which I should have been more clear about.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: jbell on August 13, 2017, 03:38:17 PM
I'm planning on grabbing one once they are available.  Looks like a much better orientation for the battery.  I'm only running one at a time with the SD L mount sled and haven't needed to hot swap.

That's the first I am reading of the SD-2 version of Hawkwoods...that's bad ass...I have 3 - 8800ma  cells and 3 - 6600ma cells
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: jbell on August 13, 2017, 03:39:44 PM
Okay, I was thinking you didn't realized it had been fixed.  You were just addressing the quality of the pres.   :coolguy:

The mix track issues was fixed with firmware 1.11!!  I have been recording with mine turned off without issue.

^^^
=T, great and very true post. I couldn't agree more.

I set mine a bit differently because I still like having the knobs control gain, but I preset my gain and I have not needed to touch it. The real proof of the value of these preamps can be seen with the first firmware update, which still left one glitch. That glitch was that if you turned off the mix track, your recording would look right, but would be very low, so much so that you had to add about 15db of gain, which is a really really large amount of gain, but the recording was still absolutely quiet in the quiet parts and rich and full sounding musically. 

Go conservative and edit in post. This is an amazing deck for staying careful and conservative, no loss of quality. For anyone that does not make any changes in post, it is like recording with one arm tied behind your back.
Exactly, but it was a great opportunity to see what the preamps could do being pushed. The next update fixed the issue which I should have been more clear about.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: larrysellers on August 13, 2017, 04:17:38 PM
Here is my Mixpre-3 rig in a Lowepro Adventura 170 that I bought new (w/ tags) from eBay for $11.50. The first pic is the rig displayed: Manfrotto Superclamp, six inch Manfrotto extension with Manfrotto mini-ballhead, Rycote INV-HG mkIII shockmount, large DPA screens. MP-3, nbox, Schoeps mk4 + actives (red case) and 2 batteries (Naztech shown, anker usb-c in front punch). Second pic is a closer shot of what's running in the bag. Pics 3 & 4 show the packed rig (superclamp in side pouch) and packed/closed. Not shown (other side pouch) are ortf and din bars plus a Shure a53mm for backup.

(https://preview.ibb.co/h5W4ga/20170813_154739.jpg) (https://ibb.co/cgSc1a)
(https://preview.ibb.co/f3qx1a/20170813_154753.jpg) (https://ibb.co/i0J6uv)
(https://preview.ibb.co/d10muv/20170813_154849.jpg) (https://ibb.co/kTXc1a)
(https://preview.ibb.co/mNTjga/20170813_155108.jpg) (https://ibb.co/mzKqMa)


Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: willndmb on August 13, 2017, 10:03:22 PM
Here is my Mixpre-3 rig in a Lowepro Adventura 170 that I bought new (w/ tags) from eBay for $11.50. The first pic is the rig displayed: Manfrotto Superclamp, six inch Manfrotto extension with Manfrotto mini-ballhead, Rycote INV-HG mkIII shockmount, large DPA screens. MP-3, nbox, Schoeps mk4 + actives (red case) and 2 batteries (Naztech shown, anker usb-c in front punch). Second pic is a closer shot of what's running in the bag. Pics 3 & 4 show the packed rig (superclamp in side pouch) and packed/closed. Not shown (other side pouch) are ortf and din bars plus a Shure a53mm for backup.

(https://preview.ibb.co/h5W4ga/20170813_154739.jpg) (https://ibb.co/cgSc1a)
(https://preview.ibb.co/f3qx1a/20170813_154753.jpg) (https://ibb.co/i0J6uv)
(https://preview.ibb.co/d10muv/20170813_154849.jpg) (https://ibb.co/kTXc1a)
(https://preview.ibb.co/mNTjga/20170813_155108.jpg) (https://ibb.co/mzKqMa)
nice
Who made your cables and where did you get the safety cable?
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: larrysellers on August 14, 2017, 10:07:11 AM
It is actually 2 cables matted together but I believe Ted made both of them. See here for the superclamp cables ---> http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=151303.msg2230154#msg2230154 .
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dallman on August 14, 2017, 10:21:28 AM

Who made your cables and where did you get the safety cable?
Amazon has a wide selection and they are not expensive.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MDNQMB1/ref=sxr_pa_click_within_right_2?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_p=3163805422&pf_rd_r=G5KK6CCNHMZ0CQYFMSKB&pd_rd_wg=rJN2J&pf_rd_s=desktop-rhs-carousels&pf_rd_t=301&pd_rd_w=gzyo7&pf_rd_i=safety++lighting+cable&pd_rd_r=27X0HH35DE95VNR2RC81&psc=1 (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MDNQMB1/ref=sxr_pa_click_within_right_2?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_p=3163805422&pf_rd_r=G5KK6CCNHMZ0CQYFMSKB&pd_rd_wg=rJN2J&pf_rd_s=desktop-rhs-carousels&pf_rd_t=301&pd_rd_w=gzyo7&pf_rd_i=safety++lighting+cable&pd_rd_r=27X0HH35DE95VNR2RC81&psc=1)
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: ts on August 15, 2017, 04:27:57 PM
Anyone using a 128gb card? Any issues? Thinking about a sandisk extreme pro uhs-1.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: rippleish20 on August 15, 2017, 05:42:55 PM
Anyone using a 128gb card? Any issues? Thinking about a sandisk extreme pro uhs-1.

I use 128GB cards. I had issues before firmware 1.11 but none after 1.11. I have use both Sandisk Extreme and Extreme Pro cards.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: ts on August 15, 2017, 07:27:55 PM
Anyone using a 128gb card? Any issues? Thinking about a sandisk extreme pro uhs-1.

I use 128GB cards. I had issues before firmware 1.11 but none after 1.11. I have use both Sandisk Extreme and Extreme Pro cards.

Thanks!
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dallman on August 16, 2017, 02:21:48 PM
Anyone using a 128gb card? Any issues? Thinking about a sandisk extreme pro uhs-1.
I have 128gb Sony and Lexar and both have performed flawlessly. I too am on the latest firmware.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: rigpimp on August 21, 2017, 12:29:16 PM
While recording Steve Kimock on Friday night I shut my Mixpre-6 down in between sets.  When I fired it back up it defaulted to the 4AA battery pack.  Luckily I glanced down a couple of songs into the 2nd set to see the battery indicator about half depleted.  I had to unplug and re-plug the USB cable to get it switch back to USB-C power again.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: rippleish20 on August 21, 2017, 12:38:46 PM
While recording Steve Kimock on Friday night I shut my Mixpre-6 down in between sets.  When I fired it back up it defaulted to the 4AA battery pack.  Luckily I glanced down a couple of songs into the 2nd set to see the battery indicator about half depleted.  I had to unplug and re-plug the USB cable to get it switch back to USB-C power again.

I noticed the same thing although it may be the USB batteries shutting themselves down versus the Mixpre purposely going back to the battery sled. With the batteries I have you can also press the button on them to turn them back on
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dallman on August 21, 2017, 01:21:45 PM
While recording Steve Kimock on Friday night I shut my Mixpre-6 down in between sets.  When I fired it back up it defaulted to the 4AA battery pack.  Luckily I glanced down a couple of songs into the 2nd set to see the battery indicator about half depleted.  I had to unplug and re-plug the USB cable to get it switch back to USB-C power again.

I noticed the same thing although it may be the USB batteries shutting themselves down versus the Mixpre purposely going back to the battery sled. With the batteries I have you can also press the button on them to turn them back on
I concur, most batteries will shut down when they stop supplying power and most have a button you push to turn them back on. It also is the button that shows how much power is remaining by displaying how many bars or LED's you have remaining That is fairly normal and I find that is the process with all my decks and many (but not all) of my external batteries. Like many here, I am somewhat of a battery junkie. It would be easy to know if this is the issue if the battery type and model was listed in the post. Thanks!
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: rigpimp on August 22, 2017, 12:37:11 PM
I concur, most batteries will shut down when they stop supplying power and most have a button you push to turn them back on. It also is the button that shows how much power is remaining by displaying how many bars or LED's you have remaining That is fairly normal and I find that is the process with all my decks and many (but not all) of my external batteries. Like many here, I am somewhat of a battery junkie. It would be easy to know if this is the issue if the battery type and model was listed in the post. Thanks!

Anker Powercore+ 26800.  This was my maiden run with the new battery so it is likely it turned itself off.  Would unplugging and plugging the USB cable back in turn it back on?  I think that this was also the moment (in a mild panic) that I also discovered the button on the battery could be pushed in.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: yug du nord on August 22, 2017, 12:44:21 PM
^Happy you taped Kimock!!....  hope someone caught his Total Eclipse set in OR.
 :guitarist:

....sorry for stretching off topic.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: larrysellers on August 22, 2017, 12:48:49 PM
To the best of my knowledge, there is no handshake between the recorder and the battery. I made this mistake on Saturday. I loaded the sled with AA batteries and plugged my Anker battery into the usb-c port after setting up. I checked my bag about 90 minutes in and, sure enough, the internals were powering it. Once I actually pushed the button on the battery, it took over seamlessly. Just one more thing to remember.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: goodcooker on August 22, 2017, 12:51:26 PM
My MixPre6 is on the way from Dale Pro Audio. I was a little apprehensive at first since there seemed to be a lot of confusion about the functionality of the deck but you early users have pretty much discovered a solution to all the questions I had.

Did anyone ever put a file with commonly used presets anywhere for public use?
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: vwmule on August 22, 2017, 02:13:52 PM
> I checked my bag about 90 minutes in and, sure enough, the internals were powering it. Once I actually pushed the button on the battery, it took over seamlessly. Just one more thing to remember.

Same happened with me first time out deck (Wilco). Glad I checked the bag.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dallman on August 22, 2017, 03:04:54 PM
I have the RAVPower 26800mAh Portable Charger with 30W Type-C Port battery, which has USB C to USB C, and turning on the MixPre6 does wake up and turn on the battery, I just tested it for I'll be using it tonight. I had the battery connected, and when I turned on the mixPre6 it immediately showed external power. For some batteries, it may depend on the sequence of plugging in the battery and turning on the deck. For sure pressing the button is a wise move always, and I am in that habit from some other deck and battery combinations. 
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: Kamen on August 22, 2017, 04:04:10 PM
FYI, here's Jeff Towne's review of the MixPres over at Transom. As usual, a good read:

https://transom.org/2017/sound-devices-mixpre-3-mixpre-6/
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: tim in jersey on September 07, 2017, 07:33:29 AM
Joining the Team. My MP6 should be here this evening... ;D
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: larrysellers on September 07, 2017, 08:20:43 AM
You're going to love it.

Joining the Team. My MP6 should be here this evening... ;D
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: tom the taper on September 07, 2017, 09:24:08 AM
Joining the Team. My MP6 should be here this evening... ;D

 :yahoo:
Oh boy oh boy.
maybe you should bring it saturday.  we can setup & compare presets, and draft your features request to send to SD: ;D

https://www.sounddevices.com/support/inquiry


Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: adrianb on September 08, 2017, 02:45:28 PM
For a few days now I've had my mouse hovering over the buy button on a MixPre-3 and just wonder if somebody can answer me a question. Does the 3.5 line-in provide Plug In Power when using mics, and if so any idea how much voltage?
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: mnm207 on September 08, 2017, 04:35:58 PM
According to the specs in the user guide, it provides 3V PiP. I don't see an option in the menus to turn it on or off; if you set Aux-In to "Mic" PiP appears to be on.

I just plugged some a pair of Microphone Madness BSM7 lavs to my MP3. They get power but are pretty quiet compared to a pair of EM172 lav through the XLR inputs.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: adrianb on September 08, 2017, 04:45:17 PM
According to the specs in the user guide, it provides 3V PiP. I don't see an option in the menus to turn it on or off; if you set Aux-In to "Mic" PiP appears to be on.

I just plugged some a pair of Microphone Madness BSM7 lavs to my MP3. They get power but are pretty quiet compared to a pair of EM172 lav through the XLR inputs.

Thanks.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: Chilly Brioschi on September 10, 2017, 06:37:46 PM
MixPre-6 back in stock at B&H Photo ...      :hmmm:
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: yug du nord on September 10, 2017, 07:35:08 PM
They are rarely if ever mentioned..  but Full Compass usually has had them in stock since release.
Straight from the motherland!

http://www.fullcompass.com/prod/529700-Sound-Devices-MixPre-6 (http://www.fullcompass.com/prod/529700-Sound-Devices-MixPre-6)
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: vwmule on September 12, 2017, 11:26:49 AM
Ran the MP6 at an outdoor festival in Cali on Saturday ... man, it heats up in the bag. We've known that but it really does get hot.
The Zoom F8, however, stays pretty cool. What's the technical reason why?
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: rippleish20 on September 12, 2017, 12:04:30 PM
Ran the MP6 at an outdoor festival in Cali on Saturday ... man, it heats up in the bag. We've known that but it really does get hot.
The Zoom F8, however, stays pretty cool. What's the technical reason why?

I haven't noticed mine getting unusually warm although the F8 does indeed stay super cool.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: larrysellers on September 12, 2017, 12:07:26 PM
My MP3 gets hot in the bag. It doesn't matter if phantom is engaged, if the machine is recording or in standby, it gets really warm.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: jbell on September 12, 2017, 01:24:40 PM
Mine gets warm, but nothing like the 722,744t, 788t. 
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: datbrad on September 12, 2017, 02:27:21 PM
My understanding is that heat is generated by the battery and the CPU. Just like a laptop, they get hot when the processor is hard at work. Batteries get hot when they are discharging, but the CPU is the suspect with so much of it's operation driven by the processor that it's likely all it is. More reliance on pots and switches may explain the cooler Zoom F8.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: nolamule on September 12, 2017, 02:28:50 PM
+1 on this

Mine gets warm, but nothing like the 722,744t, 788t.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: ben_r_ on September 12, 2017, 05:20:03 PM
Just ordered a MixPre-6 from B&H. Whats everyone using for powering it off the wall outlet? Surely there is something cheaper than the Sound Devices MX-Charge.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: Fatah Ruark (aka MIKE B) on September 12, 2017, 05:57:21 PM
Just ordered a MixPre-6 from B&H. Whats everyone using for powering it off the wall outlet? Surely there is something cheaper than the Sound Devices MX-Charge.

I would think any USB-C charger would work that puts out 3 Amps.

I have one at home that I can try when I get back from work.

This is what I have. Doesn't look like it's available now:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B017BVLLC6/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: ben_r_ on September 12, 2017, 06:02:44 PM
Just ordered a MixPre-6 from B&H. Whats everyone using for powering it off the wall outlet? Surely there is something cheaper than the Sound Devices MX-Charge.

I would think any USB-C charger would work that puts out 3 Amps.

I have one at home that I can try when I get back from work.

This is what I have. Doesn't look like it's available now:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B017BVLLC6/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

That's what I was thinking, as long as it has a high enough current output and a correct/compatible USB-C cable is used, any USB charger should work. I just couldn't find anyone mentioning that they use one and it worked. I guess that's because most are more concerned with using the MixPres on portable power. I will be using mine for a for person podcast and it'll be plugged into the AC outlet most of its life along with the other gear we use. I just like it small and portable as I have to carry all the gear in and out from the location.

Im wondering if anyone has tried this combo:

https://www.amazon.com/Anker-Delivery-Charger-PowerPort-Samsung/dp/B06Y427WT7

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B071XYBPMN

Same prices as the MX-Charge, but is at least a bit more universal.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: aaronji on September 12, 2017, 06:57:26 PM
Ran the MP6 at an outdoor festival in Cali on Saturday ... man, it heats up in the bag. We've known that but it really does get hot.
The Zoom F8, however, stays pretty cool. What's the technical reason why?

From my admittedly limited knowledge of the topic, the relatively poor efficiency of the MixPre's class A discrete pre-amps should generate a lot of excess heat compared to the F8's IC pre-amps (?)...
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dogmusic on September 12, 2017, 09:52:44 PM
Just ordered a MixPre-6 from B&H. Whats everyone using for powering it off the wall outlet? Surely there is something cheaper than the Sound Devices MX-Charge.

I've been using this:

https://www.amazon.com/Charger-Samsung-Microsoft-Supported-Devices/dp/B01MFCGR0C/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1505267323&sr=8-1-fkmr0&keywords=USB-C+Wall+Charger%2C+Volutz+27W

and this:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01GGKZ1VA/ref=twister_B06W2PMP6C?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

No problems so far.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: acidjack on September 13, 2017, 09:30:57 AM
Honestly, until the Sound Devices bozos figure out how to get a decent powering solution that doesn't involve only one or two brands of battery via unstable USB-C, or their giant and ungainly L-mount solution, not to mention some basic firmware upgrades, this thing is an embarrassing bust. Reality is that for recording PA systems, these fancy pres really don't matter. What does matter is the lousy battery life, lack of a standard professional HiRose connector, and ridiculous user experience of the "polyWAV" which is a giant time-waster.

I loved my USBPre2 and found that intuitive, and even the SD7xx I think are pretty simple once you get the hang of them. This thing so far to me is pretty weak other than just looking cool. Of course, once you've added on the silly looking batteries, etc. just to get it to last longer than an hour, it doesn't look as cool.

I know the herd has flocked to it, but I kind of wish I had not joined that herd. The Zoom F8 does everything I needed and more and runs beautifully on AAs if it has to.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: Ronmac on September 13, 2017, 09:54:01 AM
So, you bought the wrong bit of kit for your usage and you are calling the company the bozo? Sorry, but that doesn't make much sense.

I have been researching extensively this product and haven't yet decided to buy. I agree that some of the powering options don't work for everyone, but there seem to be a few that work just fine. Will I buy it? Probably, but I haven't pulled the trigger yet.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: noahbickart on September 13, 2017, 10:26:42 AM
Honestly, until the Sound Devices bozos figure out how to get a decent powering solution that doesn't involve only one or two brands of battery via unstable USB-C, or their giant and ungainly L-mount solution, not to mention some basic firmware upgrades, this thing is an embarrassing bust. Reality is that for recording PA systems, these fancy pres really don't matter. What does matter is the lousy battery life, lack of a standard professional HiRose connector, and ridiculous user experience of the "polyWAV" which is a giant time-waster.

1. Users are reporting that this works just fine with multiple brands of usb-c battery packs. Can you point to a properly designed usb-c battery which doesn't work with the mixpre? Further, why do you claim that it is "unstable." Mine works just fine, and is at least as secure as the mini usb port used on multiple recorders. A hirose connector doesn't help me, the USB-C batteries are far less expensive and run longer than any 12v battery I've found.

2. What "basic firmware upgrades" are you referring to? As SD has posted in multiple places, channel linking can be done in "Advanced mode."

3. I record PA systems, but I also record string quartets and small Jazz ensembles. I like the preamps, the form factor, and the user interface.

4. Don't all the other SD multitrack recorders use Polywave files? Wave Agent splits and combines these files however you like quickly and for free.

SD had to cut some features out to get the price down to $899. Thankfully they didn't compromise on sound quality.

I'm sorry that the product doesn't meet your needs, perhaps you shouldn't buy it.

Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: nolamule on September 13, 2017, 10:48:34 AM
No issues powering mine!

http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=182854.0

Honestly, until the Sound Devices bozos figure out how to get a decent powering solution that doesn't involve only one or two brands of battery via unstable USB-C, or their giant and ungainly L-mount solution, not to mention some basic firmware upgrades, this thing is an embarrassing bust.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: heathen on September 13, 2017, 10:56:49 AM
4. Don't all the other SD multitrack recorders use Polywave files? Wave Agent splits and combines these files however you like quickly and for free.

I'm not jumping into the fray in terms of arguing about the MixPre3/6 (I don't own either, but as far as I can tell they're pretty badass), but I just want to point out that some recorders give you the option of polywave or a bunch of individual mono files.  Not that it's necessarily all that important of a feature either way.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: gewwang on September 13, 2017, 11:06:32 AM
this thing is an embarrassing bust. Reality is that for recording PA systems, these fancy pres really don't matter. What does matter is the lousy battery life, lack of a standard professional HiRose connector, and ridiculous user experience of the "polyWAV" which is a giant time-waster.


I don't know, I've run the 744, 722, Tascam DR100mkIII, and mixpre-6 mic in with 4023s and 4028s and the mixpre-6 results have been a considerable upgrade vs all of the others whether stealth or open taping.

Because the preamps are so good, I haven't missed leaving my V3 and Sonosax at home and so I'm also not bothered by having 2 L-mount batteries sitting in my bag instead of the extra space taken by external preamps and the DVD batteries needed to power them.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: tom the taper on September 13, 2017, 11:09:36 AM
Honestly, until the Sound Devices bozos figure out how to get a decent powering solution that doesn't involve only one or two brands of battery via unstable USB-C, or their giant and ungainly L-mount solution, not to mention some basic firmware upgrades, this thing is an embarrassing bust. Reality is that for recording PA systems, these fancy pres really don't matter. What does matter is the lousy battery life, lack of a standard professional HiRose connector, and ridiculous user experience of the "polyWAV" which is a giant time-waster.

1. Users are reporting that this works just fine with multiple brands of usb-c battery packs. Can you point to a properly designed usb-c battery which doesn't work with the mixpre? Further, why do you claim that it is "unstable." Mine works just fine, and is at least as secure as the mini usb port used on multiple recorders. A hirose connector doesn't help me, the USB-C batteries are far less expensive and run longer than any 12v battery I've found.

2. What "basic firmware upgrades" are you referring to? As SD has posted in multiple places, channel linking can be done in "Advanced mode."

Just to clarify, channel linking can be done when the front channel knobs are set as FADERS (Advanced mode).  NOT when channel knobs are set as GAIN (Custom mode, Record set to Advanced) which is basic to recorders.  Isn't Linking FADERS more for the mixer?...

I prefer using those nice front channel knobs as GAIN for the isolated tracks I'm recording (like the 7xx series Recorders)!  NOT FADERS for those ISO tracks levels in the LRMix!!!
I do believe (hope and pray) Sound Devices will correct this linking issue w/ a future firmware update.
That said, I Still love my MP-6
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: noahbickart on September 13, 2017, 11:24:30 AM
Honestly, until the Sound Devices bozos figure out how to get a decent powering solution that doesn't involve only one or two brands of battery via unstable USB-C, or their giant and ungainly L-mount solution, not to mention some basic firmware upgrades, this thing is an embarrassing bust. Reality is that for recording PA systems, these fancy pres really don't matter. What does matter is the lousy battery life, lack of a standard professional HiRose connector, and ridiculous user experience of the "polyWAV" which is a giant time-waster.

1. Users are reporting that this works just fine with multiple brands of usb-c battery packs. Can you point to a properly designed usb-c battery which doesn't work with the mixpre? Further, why do you claim that it is "unstable." Mine works just fine, and is at least as secure as the mini usb port used on multiple recorders. A hirose connector doesn't help me, the USB-C batteries are far less expensive and run longer than any 12v battery I've found.

2. What "basic firmware upgrades" are you referring to? As SD has posted in multiple places, channel linking can be done in "Advanced mode."

Just to clarify, channel linking can be done when the front channel knobs are set as FADERS (Advanced mode).  NOT when channel knobs are set as GAIN (Custom mode, Record set to Advanced) which is basic to recorders.  Isn't Linking FADERS more for the mixer?...

I prefer using those nice front channel knobs as GAIN for the isolated tracks I'm recording (like the 7xx series Recorders)!  NOT FADERS for those ISO tracks levels in the LRMix!!!
I do believe (hope and pray) Sound Devices will correct this linking issue w/ a future firmware update.
That said, I Still love my MP-6

with 130db of dynamic range, I think SD thinks that you can set gain low, link the channels, and do what you need to do in post.

The point is, they did this on purpose. It isn't like they messed up.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: tom the taper on September 13, 2017, 11:35:08 AM
this thing is an embarrassing bust. Reality is that for recording PA systems, these fancy pres really don't matter. What does matter is the lousy battery life, lack of a standard professional HiRose connector, and ridiculous user experience of the "polyWAV" which is a giant time-waster.


I don't know, I've run the 744, 722, Tascam DR100mkIII, and mixpre-6 mic in with 4023s and 4028s and the mixpre-6 results have been a considerable upgrade vs all of the others whether stealth or open taping.

Because the preamps are so good, I haven't missed leaving my V3 and Sonosax at home and so I'm also not bothered by having 2 L-mount batteries sitting in my bag instead of the extra space taken by external preamps and the DVD batteries needed to power them.

AGREED. I can power with AA's, L-mount using various sized batteries from small to large, or 1 of 2 USB-C batteries I own...hot swapping options galore!!
All with 1 box that is smaller than a 744 or V3, let alone the 2 of them...
All with excellent sound!
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: tom the taper on September 13, 2017, 11:49:37 AM
Honestly, until the Sound Devices bozos figure out how to get a decent powering solution that doesn't involve only one or two brands of battery via unstable USB-C, or their giant and ungainly L-mount solution, not to mention some basic firmware upgrades, this thing is an embarrassing bust. Reality is that for recording PA systems, these fancy pres really don't matter. What does matter is the lousy battery life, lack of a standard professional HiRose connector, and ridiculous user experience of the "polyWAV" which is a giant time-waster.

1. Users are reporting that this works just fine with multiple brands of usb-c battery packs. Can you point to a properly designed usb-c battery which doesn't work with the mixpre? Further, why do you claim that it is "unstable." Mine works just fine, and is at least as secure as the mini usb port used on multiple recorders. A hirose connector doesn't help me, the USB-C batteries are far less expensive and run longer than any 12v battery I've found.

2. What "basic firmware upgrades" are you referring to? As SD has posted in multiple places, channel linking can be done in "Advanced mode."

Just to clarify, channel linking can be done when the front channel knobs are set as FADERS (Advanced mode).  NOT when channel knobs are set as GAIN (Custom mode, Record set to Advanced) which is basic to recorders.  Isn't Linking FADERS more for the mixer?...

I prefer using those nice front channel knobs as GAIN for the isolated tracks I'm recording (like the 7xx series Recorders)!  NOT FADERS for those ISO tracks levels in the LRMix!!!
I do believe (hope and pray) Sound Devices will correct this linking issue w/ a future firmware update.
That said, I Still love my MP-6

with 130db of dynamic range, I think SD thinks that you can set gain low, link the channels, and do what you need to do in post.

The point is, they did this on purpose. It isn't like they messed up.

I agree Noah that it isn't like SD messed up.
But after talking to SD both by phone and email Contact Support https://www.sounddevices.com/support/inquiry (https://www.sounddevices.com/support/inquiry) I think they will make that option available like the 7xx recorders.
I prefer to use those Nice front channel knobs like it is a recorder - as GAIN (that can be linked)!!  YMMV

Two other features that the 7xx recorders offer, record pre-roll and record pause, are also on my wish list for the MixPre...recorder features.  YMMV
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: acidjack on September 13, 2017, 12:08:40 PM
So, you bought the wrong bit of kit for your usage and you are calling the company the bozo? Sorry, but that doesn't make much sense.

I have been researching extensively this product and haven't yet decided to buy. I agree that some of the powering options don't work for everyone, but there seem to be a few that work just fine. Will I buy it? Probably, but I haven't pulled the trigger yet.

No, I bought the battery they require. Indeed, it's more of an issue than I thought.

For $1000, having "a few options" that "work just fine" is not acceptable, not in today's market. Sorry.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: acidjack on September 13, 2017, 12:09:46 PM
Honestly, until the Sound Devices bozos figure out how to get a decent powering solution that doesn't involve only one or two brands of battery via unstable USB-C, or their giant and ungainly L-mount solution, not to mention some basic firmware upgrades, this thing is an embarrassing bust. Reality is that for recording PA systems, these fancy pres really don't matter. What does matter is the lousy battery life, lack of a standard professional HiRose connector, and ridiculous user experience of the "polyWAV" which is a giant time-waster.

1. Users are reporting that this works just fine with multiple brands of usb-c battery packs. Can you point to a properly designed usb-c battery which doesn't work with the mixpre? Further, why do you claim that it is "unstable." Mine works just fine, and is at least as secure as the mini usb port used on multiple recorders. A hirose connector doesn't help me, the USB-C batteries are far less expensive and run longer than any 12v battery I've found.

2. What "basic firmware upgrades" are you referring to? As SD has posted in multiple places, channel linking can be done in "Advanced mode."

3. I record PA systems, but I also record string quartets and small Jazz ensembles. I like the preamps, the form factor, and the user interface.

4. Don't all the other SD multitrack recorders use Polywave files? Wave Agent splits and combines these files however you like quickly and for free.

SD had to cut some features out to get the price down to $899. Thankfully they didn't compromise on sound quality.

I'm sorry that the product doesn't meet your needs, perhaps you shouldn't buy it.
I already bought it, and it's already obviously unstable. If you barely hit it, the USB-C will fall out. Unlike a HiRose, it is not a locking connector.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: acidjack on September 13, 2017, 12:10:58 PM
this thing is an embarrassing bust. Reality is that for recording PA systems, these fancy pres really don't matter. What does matter is the lousy battery life, lack of a standard professional HiRose connector, and ridiculous user experience of the "polyWAV" which is a giant time-waster.


I don't know, I've run the 744, 722, Tascam DR100mkIII, and mixpre-6 mic in with 4023s and 4028s and the mixpre-6 results have been a considerable upgrade vs all of the others whether stealth or open taping.

Because the preamps are so good, I haven't missed leaving my V3 and Sonosax at home and so I'm also not bothered by having 2 L-mount batteries sitting in my bag instead of the extra space taken by external preamps and the DVD batteries needed to power them.

I bought it because I liked the USBPre2 sound and generally wanted exactly the result you're describing. I'm just frustrated that the powering, in particular, is not very well handled, and it is better handled by cheaper and lesser recorders.

You tell me -- when I look at it, that L-mount thing looks really ungainly and like it kind of ruins the form factor. Maybe the photos don't properly represent it?
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: gewwang on September 13, 2017, 12:32:14 PM
this thing is an embarrassing bust. Reality is that for recording PA systems, these fancy pres really don't matter. What does matter is the lousy battery life, lack of a standard professional HiRose connector, and ridiculous user experience of the "polyWAV" which is a giant time-waster.


I don't know, I've run the 744, 722, Tascam DR100mkIII, and mixpre-6 mic in with 4023s and 4028s and the mixpre-6 results have been a considerable upgrade vs all of the others whether stealth or open taping.

Because the preamps are so good, I haven't missed leaving my V3 and Sonosax at home and so I'm also not bothered by having 2 L-mount batteries sitting in my bag instead of the extra space taken by external preamps and the DVD batteries needed to power them.

I bought it because I liked the USBPre2 sound and generally wanted exactly the result you're describing. I'm just frustrated that the powering, in particular, is not very well handled, and it is better handled by cheaper and lesser recorders.

You tell me -- when I look at it, that L-mount thing looks really ungainly and like it kind of ruins the form factor. Maybe the photos don't properly represent it?


Without a doubt, the L-mount is not a great design. However when you don't have anything else in the bag, two big batteries mounted into the bracket provide a nice "stand" so the mixpre stands up straight if your bag can fit it. My preference for open taping is to use the L-mount setup over external USBs because I prefer the stability of the connection as opposed to the moving part introduced by the USB cable. The L-mount is locked in and is never coming loose in the field.

And for stealth, I've been using the 8-AA mount which is locked in as well and will power 2 48V mics for around 6 hours or more.

Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: rippleish20 on September 13, 2017, 12:43:47 PM
At this point all of the firmware issues that affected me are solved and powering is not any more of an issue to me than it is with my F8. The 8 battery sled gives me 5 hours and for festivals Ive been using a USB-c battery with no issues. I also have the Lmount sled with a dummy battery and plan on using it in the future. While some things are not perfect, I can just as easily list things I dont like about the F8 - like having to use 1/4 for line input. All it does it add to the amount of stuff I have to carry. I quite typically end up with board feeds - where you might need 1/4 but it could be XLR etc. Having a scenario where I might need 1/4 or XLR on both ends of the cable is annoying. The mixpre at least lets me always use XLRs on the deck end. I do think the Mixpre wasn't thought out carefully enough. Its strikes me as a mixer being marketed as a recorder but decks have their quirks, chose the one that works best for you...
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: tom the taper on September 13, 2017, 12:59:57 PM
Honestly, until the Sound Devices bozos figure out how to get a decent powering solution that doesn't involve only one or two brands of battery via unstable USB-C, or their giant and ungainly L-mount solution, not to mention some basic firmware upgrades, this thing is an embarrassing bust. Reality is that for recording PA systems, these fancy pres really don't matter. What does matter is the lousy battery life, lack of a standard professional HiRose connector, and ridiculous user experience of the "polyWAV" which is a giant time-waster.

1. Users are reporting that this works just fine with multiple brands of usb-c battery packs. Can you point to a properly designed usb-c battery which doesn't work with the mixpre? Further, why do you claim that it is "unstable." Mine works just fine, and is at least as secure as the mini usb port used on multiple recorders. A hirose connector doesn't help me, the USB-C batteries are far less expensive and run longer than any 12v battery I've found.

2. What "basic firmware upgrades" are you referring to? As SD has posted in multiple places, channel linking can be done in "Advanced mode."

Just to clarify, channel linking can be done when the front channel knobs are set as FADERS (Advanced mode).  NOT when channel knobs are set as GAIN (Custom mode, Record set to Advanced) which is basic to recorders.  Isn't Linking FADERS more for the mixer?...

I prefer using those nice front channel knobs as GAIN for the isolated tracks I'm recording (like the 7xx series Recorders)!  NOT FADERS for those ISO tracks levels in the LRMix!!!
I do believe (hope and pray) Sound Devices will correct this linking issue w/ a future firmware update.
That said, I Still love my MP-6

with 130db of dynamic range, I think SD thinks that you can set gain low, link the channels, and do what you need to do in post.

The point is, they did this on purpose. It isn't like they messed up.

Not to play Devil's Advocate too much here, but if I'm gotting to fix my low levels in post, can't I fix my unbalanced channels levels in post? :shrug:
I use it as a multi track recorder, not primarily as a mixer.  The less basic processing I have to do in post the better! 

Again, I think SD knows and plans to address the lacking recorder features.

We can send our feature requests to Sound Devices here https://www.sounddevices.com/support/inquiry (https://www.sounddevices.com/support/inquiry)

I would think being able to link the GAIN channels, having a Record Pre-roll and record Pause would benefit many and hurt none.

TS community support for feature requests is appreciated https://www.sounddevices.com/support/inquiry (https://www.sounddevices.com/support/inquiry) ;)

Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: datbrad on September 13, 2017, 01:55:00 PM
Don't forget that the only way to realize 130db dynamic range in a PCM recording is to run 24 bit at almost full digital scale. If your recording peaks are just reaching -8, then you are only recording at 16 bit depth. You'll still get 96 db of dynamic range which is more than most recording situations have anyway. Just don't put too much weight on 130 db analog dynamic range when running full digital scale is the only way to actually get it.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: aaronji on September 13, 2017, 02:25:20 PM
I would think being able to link the GAIN channels

You can link the gain; you just can't adjust it with the front panel knobs.  So it's "push-tap-twist" instead of just "twist" to change gain.  Slightly more cumbersome, but still pretty fast to do.  It also has the advantage of acting kind of like a "hold", since you can't inadvertently change the gain by bumping one of the knobs...
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: noahbickart on September 13, 2017, 02:33:29 PM
Don't forget that the only way to realize 130db dynamic range in a PCM recording is to run 24 bit at almost full digital scale. If your recording peaks are just reaching -8, then you are only recording at 16 bit depth. You'll still get 96 db of dynamic range which is more than most recording situations have anyway. Just don't put too much weight on 130 db analog dynamic range when running full digital scale is the only way to actually get it.

Yes, and actually playing back music at 130db would render you unable to ever hear anything ever again. The point remains that the mixpre is never going to be the limiting factor in terms of noise. So running levels conservatively will allow for capture of full signal.

I understand and respect that tapers wish to use the knobs on the mixpre to set gain. I'm just reminding everyone that you might consider using "advanced mode" and leave the gain at +10db, never peak over at -20 and normalize in post.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: tom the taper on September 13, 2017, 02:47:25 PM
Don't forget that the only way to realize 130db dynamic range in a PCM recording is to run 24 bit at almost full digital scale. If your recording peaks are just reaching -8, then you are only recording at 16 bit depth. You'll still get 96 db of dynamic range which is more than most recording situations have anyway. Just don't put too much weight on 130 db analog dynamic range when running full digital scale is the only way to actually get it.

Yes, and actually playing back music at 130db would render you unable to ever hear anything ever again. The point remains that the mixpre is never going to be the limiting factor in terms of noise. So running levels conservatively will allow for capture of full signal.

I understand and respect that tapers wish to use the knobs on the mixpre to set gain. I'm just reminding everyone that you might consider using "advanced mode" and leave the gain at +10db, never peak over at -20 and normalize in post.


AGREED.  But.
I would think being able to link the GAIN channels, having a Record Pre-roll and record Pause would benefit many and hurt none.

TS community support for feature requests is appreciated https://www.sounddevices.com/support/inquiry ;)
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: Todd R on September 13, 2017, 03:01:36 PM
Don't forget that the only way to realize 130db dynamic range in a PCM recording is to run 24 bit at almost full digital scale. If your recording peaks are just reaching -8, then you are only recording at 16 bit depth. You'll still get 96 db of dynamic range which is more than most recording situations have anyway. Just don't put too much weight on 130 db analog dynamic range when running full digital scale is the only way to actually get it.

I've been trying to think through the real world consequences of noise and recording level, so this is a bit off track from what I've been contemplating.  But I think this is off a bit.  True, in theory for PCM each bit can capture 6db of dynamic range.  So a theoretically perfect 16 bit recorder can capture a dynamic range of 96db, and a 24 bit recorder can capture 144db of dynamic range.  To capture a dynamic range of 130db (or up to 132db), you only need 22 bits.  But if you capture at -8dbFS, it is only a hit of 2 bits.  But even at 22-bits, 132db of dynamic range can be captured, which is more than the 130db dynamic range of the recorder in your example. 

I don't know how recording at -8dbFS in a real world recorder plays out.  Recording at -8dbFS effectively makes the recorder a 22-bit recorder, which should be able to capture 132db of dynamic range.  I don't believe that a real-world recorder that provides 130db of dynamic range would be reduced to 122db of dynamic range when recording at -8dbFS since it isn't necessarily a linear thing (e.g., there is an amount of self-noise within the ADC).  But even if that were the case, 122db of dynamic range would require 21 bits of information.  I'm not sure why you assume this situation means you're only recording at 16 bits.  Seems like you're treating the -8dbFS as a shift of 8 recording bits (24 to 16), but I'm not getting why that is.

BTW, the MixPre-6's ADC has a dynamic range of 120db according to their specs, not 130db.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: johnw on September 13, 2017, 03:20:35 PM

4. Don't all the other SD multitrack recorders use Polywave files?


My 744 does mono files. Still requires wave agent  for my workflow.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: Todd R on September 13, 2017, 03:26:30 PM
Thinking more about the noise of the Mixpre-6 and not the dynamic range, I've been trying to work through what it means to record at close to 0dbFS (by actively riding gain levels presumably, and thus the need for configuring for gain knobs and not fader knobs) vs just setting and forgetting and maybe getting peaks of -12dbFS, or -24dbFS.  Trying to understand how it affects your recordings after you normalize in post to bring the -24dbFS peaks to 0dbFS.

You need to think about the overall noise in the system, which would include the internal noise of the MixPre-6 and the noise of the microphones you're using (among other sources of noise).  The specs of the MP-6 put the noise at -128dBu (or -130dBV).  Noise of a gain stages (op amps, whatever) are largely independent of gain levels.  So the noise at -128dBu spec'd by SD at 76db of gain, is probably something close to -128dBu at only 20db of gain, or whatever.

The MP-6 has noise of -128dBu and a max input level of 14dBu.  A very low noise mic like the Shure KSM-141 has a signal to noise level of 80db.  For comparison, the Schoeps cmc6/mk4 has a S/N level of 79db and the DPAs have a S/N level of 74db.  With a somewhat typical mic sensitivity of 10mA/Pa (-38dBu at 94db SPL), you'd have noise levels from the mic of about -92dBu at concert SPLs (~120db say).  This mic noise level gets amplified whether you use the mic pre of the MP-6 to amplify it or whether you amplify it in post by normalizing.

In this example, say you will need about 26db of gain to reach 0dbFS.  If you provide 26db of gain at the MP-6, the noise of the KSM-141 mic once amplified is about -66dBU, and the recorder has a noise floor of -128dBu (so the mic noise swamps the MP-6 recorder noise).  If you provide no gain, you get peaks of -26dbFS, and you need to add 26db of digital gain in post to get to 0dbFS.  Your mic noise once amplified in post is once again -66dBu, but the noise of the MP-6 (-128dBu) once normalized to get to 0dbFS is now -102dBU.  So the noise of the MP-6 is much higher by recording lower and adding gain in post, but it doesn't matter and you won't hear it, since the mic noise is at -66dBu and still swamps the noise of the MP-6.

Not the case if you do the same thing with the Tascam DR-70d.  It's specs put it at -92dBu of noise (and a max mic input of 0dBu).  With the same Shure mic with an 80db S/N ratio and the same concert SPL, if you add gain at the recorder to get to 0dbFS, the recorder noise floor will be below the mic noise floor.  But record at -12dbFS or less, once you add digital gain in post, the noise of the DR70d once amplified in post is now louder than the mic noise of the Shure mic. 

So with the MP-6 and the noise level of its preamps, you can add 25-30db of gain (or more) in post and the recorder noise floor is still below the noise floor of the mics.  Not the same for the DR70d, record at peaks of -12dbFS or less and normalize in post, and the noise of the recorder becomes worse than the noise of the mics.

Of course, there's also the noise at the venue (HVAC, people shuffling feet, whatever), which is probably easily at a SPL of 55-60db.  This noise will swamp both the mic noise and the recorder noise, regardless of which recorder you use and regardless of whether you record at -18dbFS or 0dbFS.

At any rate, there really is no need with the MP-6 to try to record at say -2dbFS is you're planning on boosting in post anyway.  Add 2db in post, add 20db in post, really doesn't make a difference.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: noahbickart on September 13, 2017, 04:06:55 PM
Don't forget that the only way to realize 130db dynamic range in a PCM recording is to run 24 bit at almost full digital scale. If your recording peaks are just reaching -8, then you are only recording at 16 bit depth. You'll still get 96 db of dynamic range which is more than most recording situations have anyway. Just don't put too much weight on 130 db analog dynamic range when running full digital scale is the only way to actually get it.

Yes, and actually playing back music at 130db would render you unable to ever hear anything ever again. The point remains that the mixpre is never going to be the limiting factor in terms of noise. So running levels conservatively will allow for capture of full signal.

I understand and respect that tapers wish to use the knobs on the mixpre to set gain. I'm just reminding everyone that you might consider using "advanced mode" and leave the gain at +10db, never peak over at -20 and normalize in post.

That's true. I'm certainly not opposed to having those feature added and might even use them.

Also, people have different sonic and ergonomic preferences. The zoom machine might work better for some users. I bet recent Purchases of mixpre6 and mixpre3 recorders won't lose much value.

AGREED.  But.
I would think being able to link the GAIN channels, having a Record Pre-roll and record Pause would benefit many and hurt none.

TS community support for feature requests is appreciated https://www.sounddevices.com/support/inquiry ;)
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: dallman on September 13, 2017, 06:43:08 PM
We can send our feature requests to Sound Devices here https://www.sounddevices.com/support/inquiry (https://www.sounddevices.com/support/inquiry)

I would think being able to link the GAIN channels, having a Record Pre-roll and record Pause would benefit many and hurt none.

TS community support for feature requests is appreciated https://www.sounddevices.com/support/inquiry (https://www.sounddevices.com/support/inquiry) ;)
Based on the above link and note, I reached out to Sound Devices and I explained how I use the deck and that it'd be nice to link channels when the front knobs are being used for gain. I also asked for pause with pre-record and record lock. I received a very nice personal note in a fairly short amount of time that stated many others are requesting the same things and while they make no promises my request is being added to the list for future firmware updates.

So anyone else who might want software changes, I suggest letting Sound Devices know. I couldn't hurt and at least they are listening.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: tom the taper on September 13, 2017, 07:31:15 PM
We can send our feature requests to Sound Devices here https://www.sounddevices.com/support/inquiry (https://www.sounddevices.com/support/inquiry)

I would think being able to link the GAIN channels, having a Record Pre-roll and record Pause would benefit many and hurt none.

TS community support for feature requests is appreciated https://www.sounddevices.com/support/inquiry (https://www.sounddevices.com/support/inquiry) ;)
Based on the above link and note, I reached out to Sound Devices and I explained how I use the deck and that it'd be nice to link channels when the front knobs are being used for gain. I also asked for pause with pre-record and record lock. I received a very nice personal note in a fairly short amount of time that stated many others are requesting the same things and while they make no promises my request is being added to the list for future firmware updates.

So anyone else who might want software changes, I suggest letting Sound Devices know. I couldn't hurt and at least they are listening.

THANK YOU Dallman!!!
That's the spirit and support I value from the TS community!!




Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: justink on September 13, 2017, 11:11:44 PM
Don't forget that the only way to realize 130db dynamic range in a PCM recording is to run 24 bit at almost full digital scale. If your recording peaks are just reaching -8, then you are only recording at 16 bit depth. You'll still get 96 db of dynamic range which is more than most recording situations have anyway. Just don't put too much weight on 130 db analog dynamic range when running full digital scale is the only way to actually get it.

This.

And I've found that my recordings sound better when I push the levels hot while recording as opposed to running super conservative (-12db peaks) and normalizing in post.

The hotter recording always sounds more full and beefy (for lack of a better term).
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: tom the taper on September 14, 2017, 12:16:58 PM
Don't forget that the only way to realize 130db dynamic range in a PCM recording is to run 24 bit at almost full digital scale. If your recording peaks are just reaching -8, then you are only recording at 16 bit depth. You'll still get 96 db of dynamic range which is more than most recording situations have anyway. Just don't put too much weight on 130 db analog dynamic range when running full digital scale is the only way to actually get it.

This.

And I've found that my recordings sound better when I push the levels hot while recording as opposed to running super conservative (-12db peaks) and normalizing in post.

The hotter recording always sounds more full and beefy (for lack of a better term).

Agreed! :clapping:

I've thought the same but always believed it was just all in my head, which has been wrong before!

I started taping on cassettes, there was no post!  Had to get it right live :headphones:
Title: Re: Sound Devices MixPre-3 and 6, Part 3
Post by: larrysellers on September 14, 2017, 12:38:37 PM
This one has hit it's limit. New thread here ---> http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=183580.0