Sound Devices

Sound Devices MixPre-3 II Review

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MSRP $950
Released
January 2021

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Sound Devices MixPre-3 II
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Our take
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Our editorial take on the Sound Devices MixPre-3 II

The Sound Devices MixPre-3 II is a compact field recorder offering 3-channel input and 5-track recording at up to 32-bit / 192 kHz resolution. Designed for mobile production, its feature set, including USB audio interface functionality, suggests suitability for independent filmmakers, field recordists, and podcasters. The device supports various power options and includes an integrated touchscreen display for operation.

Key specifications like a 142 dB dynamic range and -128 dBu EIN (A-Weighted) indicate a focus on audio quality, while features such as timecode I/O and Bluetooth remote control via the Wingman app enhance its utility in professional workflows. Its compact dimensions and light weight, even with four included AA batteries, suggest portability.

While offering robust recording and interface capabilities, users should note the absence of a built-in speaker and internal storage, requiring external SD card media for recording. The inclusion of an AC/DC power adapter and AA batteries, alongside support for L-series batteries (with optional equipment), provides flexible power management.

Best for: This recorder is best for independent filmmakers, field recordists, and podcasters seeking high-quality, portable audio capture and interface capabilities.
What's great
  • 32-bit float recording allows for wide dynamic range capture
  • Functions as a 5-input / 2-output USB audio interface
  • SMPTE timecode input and output for synchronization
  • Multiple power options including AA, L-series (optional), USB bus, and AC/DC
  • Compact and lightweight design (0.5 kg without batteries)
Watch outs
  • No built-in speaker for immediate audio monitoring
  • No internal storage, requires an SD card (up to 512 GB)
  • L-series battery support is optional and requires additional equipment

Synthesized by Geared editors from early expert reviews.

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Overview

About this product

The Sound Devices MixPre-3 II is a 3-channel / 5-track multitrack 32-bit field recorder designed for independent filmmakers, field recordists, and podcasters. It can record up to three external sources plus a stereo mix at up to 32-bit / 192 kHz and also functions as a 5-input / 2-output USB audio interface.

Specs

USB
1x USB-C (Host Connection) 1x USB-A (Control, Thumb Drive, Text Entry)
Gain
Up to 76 dB (Mic Inputs) Up to 30 dB (Line Inputs) Up to 40 dB (Mic/Aux Inputs) Up to 20 dB (Line/Aux Input, Fader)
Weight
16.8 oz / 0.5 kg (without Batteries)
Display
Backlit LCD Touchscreen
App Name
Wingman
Sync I/O
1x 1/8" / 3.5 mm SMPTE Input 1x 1/8" / 3.5 mm SMPTE Output 1x Micro-HDMI SMPTE Input
Timecode
In & Out
Wireless
Bluetooth 4.0
Bit Depth
24/16-Bit, 32-Bit Float
SNR/Noise
-128 dBu EIN (A-Weighted)
Analog I/O
1/8" (3.5 mm) / XLR / 1/8" (3.5 mm) Headphone
Dimensions
5.7 x 1.4 x 4.3" / 144 x 36 x 110 mm
Microphone
No
Form Factor
Field Recorder
Network I/O
No
Battery Type
4x AA (Included) 2x L Series (Requires Optional Equipment, Hot-Swappable, Not Included)
Sample Rates
44.1 to 192 kHz
Dynamic Range
142 dB (A/D Converters )
Functionality
Remote Control
Power Options
Battery, USB Bus Power, AC/DC Power Adapter
THD/Distortion
≤ 0.005% THD+N
Built-In Speaker
No
Internal Storage
No
Mounting Options
1/4"-20 Male (Top) 1/4"-20 Female (Bottom)
Number Of Tracks
5
Special Features
Pre-Record Buffer, Remote Control Capable
Digital Audio I/O
No
Audio File Formats
WAV
Frequency Response
10 Hz to 80 kHz ±0.5 dB (at 192 kHz)
Number Of Channels
3
AC/DC Power Adapter
5 VDC (Included)
Maximum Input Level
+14 dBu (Mic Input) +28 dBu (Line Input) -10 dBu (Mic/Aux Input) +10 dBu (Line/Aux Input)
Operating Conditions
-4 to 140°F / -20 to 60°C up to 90% Humidity
Frame Rates Supported
23.976 / 24 / 25 / 29.97 / 29.97 DF / 30 / 30 DF
Maximum Sampling Rate
192 kHz / 32-Bit
Mobile App Compatible
Yes: Android & iOS
Headphone Output Power
300 mW per Channel
Media/Memory Card Slot
Single Slot: SD/SDHC/SDXC [512 GB Maximum]
Signal Processing & FX
Delay, Limiter, Low-Cut Filter
Number Of Input Channels
3
Primary Use Applications
Audio-for-Video
Audio Interface Capability
Multi-Track:
Number Of Microphone Inputs
3
Bias/Plug-In & Phantom Power
3 V Bias/Plug-In Power 48 V Phantom Power
Analog Audio I/O Descriptions
3x XLR 3-Pin Mic/Line Input 1x 1/8" / 3.5 mm TRS Line Output 1x 1/8" / 3.5 mm TRS Aux Input 1x 1/8" / 3.5 mm TRS Headphone Output
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