Exploring Digital Mixing Consoles in Berlin: A Professional Sound Engineer’s Independent Evaluation
As a seasoned live sound engineer based in Berlin, I am currently undertaking an independent technical assessment of various professional digital mixing consoles. This project aims to provide a nuanced comparison of prominent models by analyzing their audio performance in controlled conditions.
Project Overview
The objective is to evaluate different digital consoles by recording identical stereo test material, which includes drums, vocals, violin, saxophone, and reference signals. This approach ensures a consistent basis for comparison across multiple devices. The recordings will be captured using a Sony PCM-D10 recorder and processed through REAPER software for precise alignment and level matching.
Equipment and Key Features of Interest
The focus of the evaluation centers on the following console series and models:
– Yamaha: RIVAGE PM series, DM7, CL/QL series
– Allen & Heath: dLive series with 32-bit preamps (including DX32 with Prime input modules)
– Behringer: WING
– Midas: HD96, PRO series
– SSL: Live series
– Lawo: mc² series
– Calrec: various digital mixing consoles
Evaluation Focus
Special attention will be paid to the analog input stages, microphone preamps, analog-to-digital (A/D) conversion processes, and overall signal paths. The goal is to understand how each console handles these critical components under similar conditions.
Session Details
The ideal scenario involves conducting recordings during a single session or at the same location to ensure consistency. Alternatively, separate sessions at different venues would also be valuable. The testing requires only a brief interaction—access to the consoles’ analog inputs and outputs—since I will bring my own playback and recording equipment.
Potential Venues
I am seeking collaborations at studios, theaters, live venues, or rental facilities within Berlin that can accommodate these evaluations at convenient times.
Nature of the Project
This is an independent technical project aimed at providing objective insights into the audio performance of various digital mixing consoles. It is not a promotional or sponsored initiative.
If you have access to any of the mentioned consoles or know someone in Berlin who might be interested in supporting this endeavor, please contact me. Additionally, I am eager to hear from those with experience comparing these consoles in controlled settings.
Thank you for your interest and support in advancing knowledge within the professional audio community.