Sound Devices MixPre-3 II 3-Channel / 5-Track Multitrack 32-Bit Field Recorder Review
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Our editorial take on the Sound Devices MixPre-3 II 3-Channel / 5-Track Multitrack 32-Bit Field Recorder
The Sound Devices MixPre-3 II solidifies its position as a benchmark for portable, high-fidelity audio recording. Its standout feature, 32-bit float recording, is genuinely transformative for creators. It effectively eliminates the risk of digital clipping, providing an enormous dynamic range that allows you to focus on performance and location instead of constantly monitoring levels. This 'set it and forget it' capability, combined with the company's renowned, ultra low-noise Kashmir preamps, delivers a level of audio purity that was once the exclusive domain of much larger and more expensive equipment. The result is consistently pristine, broadcast-ready sound that is incredibly forgiving in post-production.
Beyond its field recording prowess, the MixPre-3 II doubles as a premium USB audio interface, making it a versatile centerpiece for both location shoots and studio setups. Its rugged, professional-grade construction inspires confidence, and features like an internal timecode generator cater directly to serious video production workflows. However, this level of excellence comes at a cost. The premium price tag will be a significant hurdle for many, especially when compared to more budget-friendly 32-bit float recorders. Furthermore, with only three XLR inputs, it is best suited for smaller-scale productions like interviews, dialogue for indie films, or solo content creation. For those who demand uncompromising audio quality and can work within its channel limitations, the MixPre-3 II is a sound investment that could very well be the last recorder you need to buy.
- Game-changing 32-bit float recording prevents digital clipping
- Exceptional audio quality from pristine, low-noise Kashmir preamps
- Versatile design functions as both a field recorder and a USB audio interface
- Robust, professional-grade build quality
- Accurate internal timecode generator for video sync
- Intuitive user interface for a professional device
- Premium price point is a significant investment
- Limited to three XLR microphone inputs
- Can be power-hungry, often requiring external battery solutions
- Relatively compact screen may be difficult to read in some conditions
Synthesized by Geared editors from early expert reviews.
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About this product
The Sound Devices MixPre-3 II is a multitrack field recorder designed for independent filmmakers, field recordists, and podcasters. It supports recording up to three tracks of external sources plus a stereo mix at up to 32-bit / 192 kHz. This unit also functions as an audio interface with 32-bit floating point streaming over USB.
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
- Package Weight
- 2.59 lb
- 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
- Box Dimensions (Lxwxh)
- 10.7 x 8.1 x 3.6"
- 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
- Analog Audio I/O Detail
- 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
- Number Of Tracks Detail
- 5 (3 Inputs + Stereo Mix)
- 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
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