Sound Devices MixPre II Series Audio Recorders Review
ฝัง
- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 3 ต.ค. 2024
- Index:
00:11 Summary
01:03 How does it sound compared to Zoom F6?
01:58 Wide Dynamic Range 32-bit Float Recording
09:53 Other new features
11:55 What if you’re sending audio from your recorder to your camera?
13:09 MixPre II vs Zoom F6 - Advantages of each
23:25 Should I buy a Zoom F6 or MixPre II?
Sound Devices has a strong history of providing high end audio field recorders for film and TV production., having won several prestigious technical awards. In 2017, Sound Devices first made their high quality audio recorders available to a larger pro-sumer audience with the introduction of the MixPre-3, 6, and 10T recorders. And now, in 2019, they have updated the MixPre line with their new II Series of recorders - The MixPre-3 II, MixPre-6 II, and MixPre-10 II. In this episode, we cover the new features on the II series of recorders, including the wide dynamic range and 32-bit float recording features and compare it to a similar recorder, the Zoom F6.
#SoundDevices #MixPre #Recorder
If you’d like to learn how to make great dialogue audio for your film and video projects, please have a look at my courses at school.learnli... including processing dialogue audio in Adobe Audition and DaVinci Resolve/Fairlight, recording sound, how to use the Zoom F4, F8, and F8n, and how to get the most from the Sound Devices MixPre series of recorders.
Gear used or mentioned in this episode:
Sound Devices MixPre II Series recorders - B&H, Sweetwater geni.us/O8e0
Sandisk SD card I use with my MixPre recorders for several years now - Amazon geni.us/zOCzF9
Zoom F6 Audio Field Recorder - B&H bhpho.to/2HE7HsT Amazon geni.us/pCFS
USB Power Bank I use to Power MixPre-3 and 6 II: geni.us/WbByF8
DPA 4017b Shotgun Microphone - B&H bhpho.to/2m0N3HA
Aputure C120T - B&H bhpho.to/2yUWD4z
Aputure C120DII - B&H bhpho.to/2T7FtcR Amazon geni.us/deg3
Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema Camera 6K - B&H bhpho.to/2oeIXA1
Sigma ART 24-70mm f/2.8 EF Mount Lens - B&H bhpho.to/2kjsI2x Amazon geni.us/bhOWVlW
Take your films to the next level with music from Musicbed. Sign up for a free account to listen for yourself: geni.us/G7by
Copyright 2019 by Curtis Judd
Ethics statement: Some of the links above are Amazon.com, B&H Photo, or other affiliate links.
No one on TH-cam comes close to the quality, depth and clarity of your gear reviews and demos. I've recently bought a mix pre 6ii to help me improve my video/audio quality and your videos have been tremendously helpful to me! I seem to have no trouble getting a great recording of most instruments but I've found dialogue recording and editing to always be challenging. Many thanks, Michael :)
Thanks so much Michael! And let me say that I've learned so much from you in the music recording and mixing domain.
@@lisan_al-ghaib honestly there are few better devices for recording. It’s going to lack the “tone” of a desiccated pre amp or mixer but for clarity this just can’t be beaten
Your BEST review ever. In truth ALL your reviews are "perfect", it's just that for me this is the most relevant! Big THANKS for making this.
Thanks! 👍
@@curtisjudd Thank you! Your review is just the best! I can listen to real preamp sound without shitty background music.
The Return of the Judd. May the sound be with us. (Thanks man. Fantastic review).
May the Sound be with you, my Jedi friend.
The honesty and objectivity of the videos on this channel are very much appreciated. Specifically regarding this video, I don't understand why someone would click the Dislike button. Seriously, what is not to like with this one?
Thanks Daniel!
Echo this 100%
Technology is getting so amazing that I could not imagine before. Thanks for the review!
👍
Hi Curtis, I just got a Mixpre 3 ii. I watched a basic intro first and came here for the nitty gritty!
Congrats, Patrick! Happy recording!
*Correction*: The MixPre pre-roll time also decreases when you record at higher sample rates (5 seconds at 96kHz & 2 seconds at 192kHz)
Jump ahead:
00:11 Summary
01:03 How does it sound compared to Zoom F6?
01:58 Wide Dynamic Range 32-bit Float Recording
09:53 Other new features
11:55 What if you’re sending audio from your recorder to your camera?
13:09 MixPre II vs Zoom F6 - Advantages of each
23:25 Should I buy a Zoom F6 or MixPre II?
@Curtis Judd
Curtis, THANK YOU for the excellent and informative comparison & review! 👍
For my personal workflow, one other significant feature of the MixPre units vs the Zoom F6 are the separate TA3/mini-XLR BALANCED Output jacks on the MixPre units.
But I realize that this might not be as important to others and when used within their more common use case scenarios.
*QUESTION* ...
I already own & want to use some of my high-quality analog outboard Microphone Preamplifiers, such as the Millennia HV-3D-8 and AEA RPQ2 with the MixPre-10-II (mostly for location music production with passive & active ribbon mics & high-quality/low noise studio condenser mics)...
@Paul Isaacs
...If I route the analog, line level, balanced output signals from my outboard mic preamps into the balanced analog combi XLR/TRS Input jacks on a MixPre 10-II, does the Line Input signal path completely BYPASS the built-in Kashmir mic preamp circuitry and feed directly into the ADC's in the MixPre???
Or would my outboard mic preamp's line level signal still route through the MixPre's Kashmir mic preamp circuitry before hitting the ADC???
^Especially in regards to using the 32-bit Float recording format for wide dynamic range Classical music, drums/percussion, and EFX recording.
THANKS!
Thanks!
Thanks I just got mine and noticed that 🙂. It’s not a deal breaker for me, but until I came back to read the comments I thought it was 10 across the board. Too good to be true I guess!
This is the best 32 bit demo and analysis video I’ve seen to date.
Thanks RallenMan!
This is exactly the review I was looking for. I’m now decided on the Mix Pre 10 2. I’ll be primarily using it for recording music with field recording later. Thank you so much for your review. Very helpful!!
Thanks Andrea and happy recording!
I am going to add in the MP10II and the Zoom F6 in my recording in Special effects and music recording soon.. Thanks
It's been about 2 hours since I last used my original Mix-Pre 3, and I still thoroughly enjoyed this video. I've got a lot to learn before I need to upgrade, but I am fascinated with the new hardware. I also enjoy watching someone deliver a review without a stumble or a flub up. It's been about 2 hours since I stumbled through my own video, LOL. Well done, Curtis.
Thanks Joe. There were plenty of flub-ups that got cut. 😀
Great comprehensive coverage! Thanks! One thing I think is worth noting. In my extensive experience with high end audio recording and playback, the added warmth of the MixPre is likely a consequence of lower distortion rather than a coloration itself. It actually reveals more detail but less aggressively. Thanks again for your even handed attention to detail!
Thanks, Tim, appreciate the insight!
I'm a simple man.* I see a Curtis Judd episode, I click it, I watch the ads** (to support his channel), and I thumbs up the video (even before watching it).
* Because I think he is a nice person, with the bonus that he provides such an in-depth, honest opinions on products. And I love the fact he gets right to it with the PROs and CONs right at the beginning!
** Huh, seems like no ads in this one. Interesting! That's okay. I just watch another video. Saramonic gave me a juicy ad at 2 minutes 59 seconds... And that's just one of two ads. Haha! Oh, another one now (chgardens) at a minute 56. :) I make sure not to skip the ads. Tricky TH-cam, with your blank few seconds at the end so that people impatiently press skip.
Just finished watch the video. Curtis, you freakin' rock. What a great overview. When I have "extra" money, I'll probably get the Mix Pre 6 II. Money is going towards a Skydio 2 at the moment. xD Haha!
Thanks huyked! 👍
Thanks I’ve been waiting for this review !!!
You got it!
Excellent review! My F6 is on the way and it’s really helpful to see the comparison with the MixPre II. Thanks, Curtis!
Thanks Matt! Congrats on the new F6!
Great review. Now with this wide dynamic range of the recorder, we will need to take a closer look at the dynamic range of the microphone. This is especially true for effects recording.
*QUESTION:* what file formats does the Sound Devices recorder support with the floating point format? I'm a bit out of touch with that, if things have changed. For example, How many tracks can be recorded in a single file? Are they limited to ether one mono track or one stereo track? (I'm assuming uncompressed or lossless compression data in this files too.) I took a look for floating point audio file formats but only found two; WavPack Lossless in WAV files and ALS in MPEG-4 files.
Hi Robert, the MixPre II Series and Zoom F6 both record 32-bit float to broadcast wav format in poly wav configuration. This means that the MixPre-10 II, for example, can record up to 12 tacks within a single wav file (8 mic/line inputs plus stereo mix).
@@curtisjudd Thanks Curtis.
I love listening to your reviews Curtis.
Thanks Saud.
How honest can you be in a video? I'm definitely going to post it in my group as a reference. And thanks for spending some money :-)
Thanks Rudy!
I just received my Mixpre 10 ii! I sound tested it with my lav mic, Shure TL48, and wow what a difference!
That's excellent news! Congratulations and happy recording!
You know it's a perfect review when the questions you ask in your head while watching are being answered as if the presenter is a mind-reader.
👍
Thanks for your great review, Curtis. Your reviews are always informative and trustworthy. Thanks for the detailed comparison of these and pointing out the importance of the headphone amps. When I switched over to Sound Devices products, I was immediately impressed with the quality of the headphone amp, and think it's a critical part of the recording process in the field.
Thanks Dave, always appreciate the feedback and your thoughtful comments. Happy recording!
Alhamdulillah tq so much, i decided to get zoom H6
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Great review as always! Looking forward to upgrading from my H4N to the Mix Pre-3 ii.
That’s a big upgrade. Happy recording!
Incredible review Curtis! Thank you! Definitely gotta pick this one up 👍
👍
Great review as always, should be noted you can plug the Zoom F6 into a computer for a backup recording, not as convenient as the USB backup though.
Fair point, thanks Ari.
Great info! Nice to see such a in depth comparison of these highend mid range recorders. Decisions, decisions, still up in the air about my next recorder. Thx Curtis
Thanks Richard.
Hi Curtis,
Great Review! In my opinion the biggest problem with the MixPre II series is the lack of outputs. If I remember correctly none of them even have a standard XLR L&R Output. Right now, I am liking the 833 a lot. It has a lot more common sense features like more outputs, 2 SD cards, and larger file sizes. I also like the SL-2 a lot; especially since Sound Devices and Audio Limited merged. The SL-2 allows the wireless receiver to transfer the signal digitally to the 833 recorder.
Cheers,
Mathew
Yes, if you are working on a production set where you need the outputs for IFBs or coms, yes, but of course that's not the market for which the MixPre is intended. The MixPre is made for situations where you don't need more than one 3.5mm output or, on the MixPre-10, 2 TA3 and one 3.5mm output.
How do you not have 30 trillion followers. Such a resource. Thank you!
Hahaha! We focus on quality of subscriber rather than quantity. 😀
Thank you!
You're welcome!
My second or third viewing. Currently I use the Rodecaster. I pull my audio off of that device, and add it to my video in post production. I have focused more on video. But I’m trying to bring my audio skills up more.
👍 your audience is lucky that you care.
exactly informative to what i’m looking for . amazing video man keep it up
trying to figure out my audio system, coming form the cine world
👍 Thanks!
Thanks for the clear, informative review. I'd be interested in your tutorials.
Thanks bobtom reed. You can find the courses over at school.learnlightandsound.com and there are also several tutorials here on my TH-cam channel. Happy recording!
Brilliant review - will def consider buying MixPre
Thanks Norm. Happy recording, regardless of the recorder you choose!
Hello, thank you very very interesting, I have the gen1 MixPre6 model, I don't think I need to change it because for clipping I'm not afraid because limitier does a fantastic job, to increase the gain, your test is in a soundproof room, in a real environment, increased the gain of 50db would also increase the ambient sound (even if it will be clean)... Normally I increase the sound from 5 to 15 db maximum in postproduction, I don't see any noticeable difference in 24bits, The most important I think is to always remember that the distance between and axis the microphone and the soundproofing of the room are the most important :)
Yes, I agree, microphone placement and recording space are some of the two most important factors in recording audio.
Full marks for using MDR 7506 cans!
👍🎧
Thanks for checking.
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Loved !!! 👍 Thanks Curtis ! I'll buy a course soon ! 😉
Thanks Phil!
Hi Curtis, love your videos BTW. Keep it up. I just purchased the Mixpre-10 II. Love it! Have you ever had a corrupt file take on any MixPre? I'm concerned the lack of dual card recording might bite me in the butt.
Hi, congrats! I haven’t had any corrupt files. I use SanDisk SD cards which were on the Sound Devices approved media list.
@@curtisjudd Thanks for the quick reply!
I picked up the MixPre 3 II a couple of weeks ago and could not be happier. I was using a Tascam DR-70D for the field and a MOTU Ultralite-mk3 in the studio. The MixPre is such a step up from both! The self noise is much better than both. The ergonomics is significantly better than the Tascam and of course the wide dynamic range is a game changer!
👍 Happy recording!
As far as sound goes, I think the Zoom sounds great with Rode and the Sound Design better for Sennheiser. Either is a nice balance of bassiness and cleanliness of sound. I'm going with the Mixpre-6ii for the better quality line out, the hdmi triggering, and the ability to control gain while recording 32 bit float mode and build quality. I didn't get the Sony L adapter because it's funky, and I plan to try using the AA's as a backup to the usb powering. If I need anything more than this then there's probably a sound crew with their own.
👍 Happy recording!
Great review!!!!
Thanks Winston.
Couple notes and questions:
- Voice sounding different at +76db: Since gain is still technically being applied, is it possible that by running the mic "hotter" than the others, its bass response is stronger and that's why you think it sounds different/better? (Or am I totally off-base?)
- If I just have 1 camera (specifically the UMP since you have that) there's nothing wrong with just using the MixPre II as a generator FOR the camera, too, right? Instead of buying one for it.
- Worth nothing that the pre-roll buffer drops to like 2 seconds (on MixPre-3 II) when in 32-bit mode. (Or at least 32-bit + 192khz)
I do wish the MixPre-3 could do USB backup while taking USB power - I refuse to futz with the NPF sled anymore and am only using USB batteries, but would love to give it a big flash drive to keep backups running.
Hi Adam, yes, the difference in sound is most likely the preamps changing in character at different gain settings. This is not unusual at all. You wouldn't get this on the Zoom F6 in 32-bit wide dynamic range mode because the gain level is hard set to unity (whatever that happens to be for that preamp.) There is nothing wrong with using the MP II as the timecode gen for the UMP. Thanks for the correction on the pre-roll time, my mistake there.
@@curtisjudd Thanks for the comparison! Lots I didn't know, and helping prep me to play with the F6 that I'm testing atm :)
You should try a Battery distribution system with an NP1 battery cup. It powers through the input on bottom and frees up your USB port.
Compared to the Zoom F6, the Mix Pre 6 II interface has 32 bit float, and FPS/400ms audio delay in interface mode, but the Zoom F6 does not. I say this for anyone who is using this for live podcasting because you may need the audio delay for video sync. Also true 32 bit into your workflow/DAW without having to remove the SD card for those home projects is really nice.
Thanks CaliJoshua.
Thanks for the very informative review/comparison. You mention a word I do not recognise and I can't find it on google. I may not be spelling it correctly. The word sounded like, "ampasonic".
Ambisonics. This refers to a special type of surround recording using specialized, multi-capsule microphones.
Curtis I really like your videos they are very informative. Wondering if you could make a video that shows how much budget is required for a beginner, intermediate, and pro level location sound bag kit. Thanks!
Thanks Sean. Good idea, I'll think about how to approach that.
@@curtisjudd Thanks so much for the reply Curtis! I'm very curious to know because quite frankly, you could easily spend just $10k on the field mixer/recorder but I've also seen options to buy an entire (beginner) kit for $10k inclusive. Hope that makes sense?
Insightful review, thank you. But I already bought my MixPre-6 II and love it. My typical use case is single-shooter using a BlackMagic UMP, so I am experimenting with affixing the MixPre to my camera and synch recording using the MixPre as an external timecode source. (I specialize in ENG style shooting of often chaotic situations.) I’ve been upping my image game with the UMP and an Angenieux zoom, so it is time that I capture audio to the same standard.
The MixPre II delivers. Saturday was my first practical use, in service to a reproductive rights group. This was a confrontation and blocking action that was kinetic at times. I sometimes stood two meters away from a radical marching band. Recording at 24bits (because Resolve doesn’t understand 32bit float), the MixPre and an Audio-Technica BP4025 nevertheless picked up the audio in full fidelity. (I also used my trusty Sure dynamic mic for an interview, and a Rode NTG-2 for one clip.) Other than levels and minimal compression, there was no fixing in post.
In case anybody wants to listen, here is the result:
vimeo.com/364931377
Glad its working well for you, Owen!
I would like a demo of this in a live music situation. That's where I record and am always worried about clipping. I assume it will be fine though given your demo
That would be a fine demo.
I'm so glad I saw this before making a purchase decision between the two recorders. And I think it's probably wise to register for your online course on the Premix II as well before buying. It looks like an amazing tool and I'm looking forward to learning more. (Although I do think it's a little cheesy that the battery sled is a separate purchase.) One question, does the Premix II suffer the same line out to camera noise problem as the F6?
Hi Chris, thanks! The MixPre series does NOT suffer from the same line out issue as the F6.
Hi Curtis, Do you have a MixPre10? If yes, what bag do you recommend? I have a PortaBrace bag but the mixer sinks too far in and isn't level. Tx
Great video. I was just wondering if someone could clue me in as to why we're not recording 32 bit float all the time if it can salvage almost anything?
Hi Linus, it also requires two or more analogue to digital converters and a way to effectively merge the output of the 2+ converters and THEN put that in a 32-bit float file. Many recorders are focused on hitting a specific price point so they'd rather forgo the additional hardware and R&D required to make it work well.
Nice review Curtis! I particularly enjoyed the freq plot comparisons of the 3 gain structures. Damn, those Pres are good! Oddly.I found myself liking the 6db gain setting one the best.
I did notice at one point (10:25) that the Batt indicator says EXT with an internal battery symbol. That seeems to be a departure from the way the older MixPre displaed it, with a power input symbol instead. Am i misplaced?
Yes, it looks like that was changed. I think the change was actually in a firmware prior to the MixPre II but not positive on that. Or maybe it is just the 10T and 10 II which do that.
Thanks man! Very helpful.
👍
Always very accurate videos! Just a question: which recorder has the best preamps in term of self noise? I need to buy one for ambisonic ambient recordings. Ambient sounds can be very quite and a silent preamp is welcome. Should I go Sound Devices or Zoom?
If you can find one in stock, I like the MixPre II series. But if not, the ZOOM F8n Pro and F3, and F6 a pretty good as well.
Hi Curtis, received my MixPre3 and after translating the Martian language in the manual to English I figured out how to add a Stereo mic into XLR input 1 & 2 and adding 48V into both channels as well to make it come alive :) And now my problem: I want to name the individual files as a date and NOT MixPre-007.wav +++ This is the same as the H6 does with ZOOM007 ZOOM008 etc creating tons of equally named files in your archive, they changed this with the H5. Hope you have a twist around this name-filing in your mind! SoundDevices manage dates with the folder but not the file itself??
A couple of details experienced: Overnight/continuous recordings creates 4.2 Gb files and with 32 bit float and 96Khz this means 1 hour 33 minutes each file. My 2x 6600 mAh batterypack had no problem handling 6 hours of recording at 0C, snowy weather and a Sennheiser ME-64 and a Behringer C-2 (both 48V) for test purpose :) Looking forward to get some real birds in front of my Telinga dish!
Hello Stein, congratulations on your new recorder. As far as I am aware, you can change the name of each file but you cannot automatically set it to name the files based on the recorder's RTC clock. Thanks also for confirming the details and best wishes on your recordings!
Great review, best i found about mix-pre II.
One question if you can advise me, i own a Zoom H6 and a S. MKH-416 for field recordings while doing interviews with lavs (mke2gold) on the EW100 G4 also plugged to the recorder. While the H6 is light and very portable, i actually find the sound not really what i want because of the preamps and the hiss it produces. Do you think both mics will improve the quality sound in the final tracks with the Sound Devices over the H6?
Thanks for all the good info and your channel.
Hi Oscar, yes, the MixPre is in a completely different league than the Zoom H series recorders, including the H6. Much cleaner preamplifiers.
So good, thank you. One question - You can’t set the limiters if you’re using float, right… because you don’t need it. However if you’re recording primary audio in-camera, and using the MixPre recording as a backup, can you set limiters for the output to the camera?
Hi PhotoJoseph, unfortunately, I don't believe the MixPre has output limiters. However, for live, I'd probably use 24-bit mode and turn those limiters on there.
@@curtisjudd thanks mate!
One thing to mention as I felt this section might of been a little misleading: the Mixpre ii’s Pre-roll function also decreases in time when choosing the higher sample rate / bit depth’s, just like the Zoom f6.
I’m not sure what the F6 ends up with when maxed out but I believe the Mixpre ii at 192khz, 32bit float, will only Pre-roll 2 Seconds.
Thanks Gavin, oversight on my part.
Great explanation 👍 what software do you use?
Adobe Audition, Pro Tools, Logic, and DaVinci Resolve. Depends on the project. 😀
@@curtisjudd thank you for your reply 👍
Chris, what an incredible review. I'm a Texas high school video teacher that teaches A/V as a moving operating filmset rather than your typical high school news cast. I'm looking at the mix pre for one of my new line items for this new 20-21 school year. I love this video to the point that my students will watch it next week and answer discussion questions over it. Great way of breaking down 32bit and its benefits. I find it difficult to help students understand the nuisances of bit depth and this does a great job.
If you could answer a quick question, what outboard mixers would you recommend for the Mix Pre. I want my student who's our Production Sound Mixer on set to have real faders over knobs. How does this piece of equipment plug into the Mix Pre 10 and what would you recommend?
Hi Randy, thanks! Here's a video where we demo the use of a USB MIDI controller with the MixPre: th-cam.com/video/nRNykAonevw/w-d-xo.html Best wishes!
Hi, I watched this and decided I'd prefer the MixPre, because I don't need many features but just want a high quality dependable device. BUT here in Australia, the Zoom F6 is $1050 AUD and the MixPre is $1250 AUD. These are the lowest prices here for both devices. With a $200 price difference, is the MixPre worth it?
That would definitely be my preference - MixPre II.
Hey Curtis, is it possible to set up a Mix-Pre so that the fader knob is assigned to adjust to channel gain (instead of the level sent to mix). I am trying to find a way to easily adjust input levels using these knobs. Thanks!
Yes, basic mode or custom mode with the channel knob mode set to basic.
At the 16:24 mark, I was anticipating you mentioning Sound Devices' Wingman iOS App for Mix Pre and 6-series product lines. (you later showed it at the 17:45 mark - my bad!)
That was at 18:18
Can I use this cable for my mixpre10ii TA3? Cable Techniques CT-CVX-324 ConnvertX-3 Selectable Gender Cable
www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/859613-REG/Cable_Techniques_CT_CVX_324_CONVERTEX_3_GROUND_CHANGER_cable.html
Hi Bryan, it should work, yes.
Are you sure Cary Judd wasn't just you, with a wig? Haha. Very good review, .man!
Hahaha! If only I were that cool!
Great review. Would love to see How-To to push Time code from Mix Pre II or 633 to RED (Gemini). What cables, setup additional hardware required, etc.. Thanks.
Hi Blair, There are different types of timecode inputs on the RED cameras depending on the module attached to the brain. You should be able to get the type of input on the specific camera from the owner/rental house. I assume you will be using some sort of timecode box/generator? The other end of the cable will need to be compatible with the I/O port on the TC generator. And then, of course, you'll need a cable to jam the TC generator to the mixer (3.5mm for MixPre-3 and 6 II, BNC for MixPre-10, 5-pin lemo for 633. This video shows the general workflow (not with RED specifically - I'll need access to a RED to do that.): th-cam.com/video/o36XYOPp0BE/w-d-xo.html
@@curtisjudd Excellent. I was familiar with Tentacle Sync, just not the E. I'd like to trigger start/stop on the SoundDevices but I know RED doesn't set the start stop flag in HDMI (yet), is there a way to do this with the TC or AUX input? Looking at upgrading, I use a Mix Pre-D to feed RED, with Sennheisser shotgun, and G3 with Sanken COS11-D lav. I want to use a SANKEN CSS-50 STEREO SHOTGUN and two COS11-D lavs with Letrasonics to feed a Sounddevices recorder in a sound bag and have wireless start/stop on Sounddevices. The 633 only has 3 mic inputs, I need 4. Which Sounddevices can handle my needs?
You can start/stop recording on the 633 or MixPre using the Wingman app. I’m not aware of a way to do that with a timecode box. The 633 also has 3 line inputs to which you can feed pro level wireless receivers so it is fine.
What kind of microphone should one use with the Mix Pre II series? What criteria should you use in choosing a mic for the Mix Pre II series? What kind of mic would "fill" the dynamic range of the Mix Pre II? Do you need to "turn off" any limiting features that a mic may have? Thanks for your great reviews!
Any microphone with an XLR output should work (99.9% of modern XLR mics). I think it really depends on what and how and where you're recording. There are SO many microphone options.
@@curtisjudd Thanks for your reply.
What a fantastic review - many thanks. Will be ordering a MixPre II this week :)
Thanks Dan. I hope the MixPre works well for you!
Thank you always
👍
The lesson I **really** need to take home from this: "You can make absolutely great recordings with all of them, it really comes down to YOUR skill level and putting the tool set to use in an effective way."
Spot on. However, I have discovered an issue with the ZOOM F6 which is problematic for some workflows. The line output works fine into cameras or other devices with a line level input but is extremely noisy when feeding the audio to cameras with microphone level only inputs. That's where the F4, F8n, or MixPre are probably a better fit.
Thanks for that one.
You're welcome.
Great video as always ... which one would you choose: Sound Devices 663 bought second hand or Sound Devices MixPre 10 II purchased new? Mainly oriented to the cinema. I have that big question right now. Thank you!
Tough one. What will you need to support in terms of outputs and routing? If not a lot, the 10 II would be my choice. But If you will be working with larger crews, the flexibility of the 664 may be good.
Another excellent review Curtis! I am currently in the market for a new recorder and have found myself stuck between getting a mixpre 6 ii and the 633. I am fairly new to working in the industry out of studying but I am starting to get good work on location recording for film. I know I will only ever need a max of 4-6 inputs for the jobs I am doing but I am unsure if I should put in the extra money now if I was only going to upgrade in a few years time potentially anyway. I was wondering which one you would recommend?
Hi Gregor, That's a tough one. Is there a reason you're looking at the 633 instead of the 833? What the 8xx and 6xx series give you is more robust power connection (locking hirose which all of the battery distribution systems can feed), more flexible routing, multiple recording cards, a bigger (non-touch) screen, and more inputs. Keep in mind that the MixPre-6 II has 4 XLR inputs and one unbalanced 3.5mm stereo input so it isn't 6 inputs in the same way that the 633 is. The more flexible routing on the 6xx and especially 8xx recorders make it feasible to send different wireless feeds to camera, director, script supervisor, and other crew as well as com systems for sound department. I'm not sure what your specific needs are, but the MixPre is not a bad place to start for small location jobs - mostly independent film or small budget docs, commercial, corporate. If you're aiming for bigger budget work, I'd look at the 8xx series or a used 633.
Curtis Judd mainly price point sadly for the 833 however after watching your review of the 833 it looks as though I might have a recorder to work towards! I think I might have a more thorough look at the MixPre then and it’ll always be good to have one as a backup in the future. Many thanks for your recommendation, it is much appreciated
Coming back to this having tried the zoom F6 and then bought an F8N for the slightly larger input count and the more ergonomic controls. However, the zoom F6 sounds spectacular - I believe better than zoom F8n. There is an airiness and effortlessness about the zoom F6 audio in 32 bit mode and I have to say I’m slightly regretting my decision in going for the F8n as I very seldom use all 8 inputs and ergonomics aside, the F6 would be better for my purposes, which is mainly location, music recording, and the odd ambisonic recording at home and away.
I used the F6 for a location music video recording in a very difficult remote environment with very little power, and I don’t know if you cover this in your video, but you can also power it all day long using a power bank via the USB-C, something you can’t do with the F8n. This was using several phantom powered mics simultaneously for many hours of continuous use. It was very good indeed and because I had lighting and cameras to deal with as well, it was fantastic having one less thing to worry about.
By the way, in my research, I discovered the mix pre-2 models will allow you to use it as an interface in 32-but float, whereas the F6 / F8n is limited to 24. However, if you are using it as an interface, it’s more likely in my case to be at home where I can be more in control of levels, whereas on location, it’s fantastic to have the assurance that the recording will work, come what may.
👍 These things are very dependent on individual use cases.
I’m not sure if this changed in the last 2 years, but I noticed that the Mix Pre series has a plug-in called auto mix now, so that’s not an advantage of the zoom anymore
Yes, and NoiseAssist, too. But also far more expensive today than back then. The gap in price is even bigger now than in 2019.
So nice to watch and listen to. You have a good energy. Very inviting and relaxing. My mind is not overloaded but inspired and made curious. And that's quite unique in TH-cam-land imo. Thanks!
Thanks Giorgo!
Hi, I just purchased a mixpre-3II but I don’t know how to get the most from it. And I have noticed your mixpre course in your website, does it also work for mixpre II series?
Hi Michael. I am in the process of updating the MixPre course to also cover the MixPre II Series. I completed the first new video just a few minutes ago and will add the remainder over the coming 2-3 weeks.
Very interesting review, thank you. I'm currently looking at both the mixpre 10 II and the 633 for field recording. What I like about the mixpre 10 is that it can be used as an audio interface for recording music as well, while the 633 seems to be the one most professionals (on a budget) would go for. But is there really that big of a sound quality difference? I'm really unsure which one to go for.
Hi Hannah, the 633 and MixPre sound a little different, but not a lot. Here's a sample: th-cam.com/video/Hnvq-6M1adE/w-d-xo.html Note that the MixPre-10 II uses the same preamps as the original MixPre 6 which I recorded with here. The bigger difference and the reason pros often go for the 633 or 833 instead of the MixPre is all of the additional outputs and routing features and powering options.
Very nice video. Can't wait for the next video on mixpre 6 II timecode options. If possible could you also cover the mixpre setup and details about connecting to various TC units (ambient, tentacle, etc...)
Thanks Alis.
Hi Curtis, Thanks for all the awesome videos. they have helped me tremendously since I'm just learning about sound.
I'm a little curious about the difference between the MixPre 3 II and a Zoom H5 ( price difference aside. I'm looking to upgrade from the H5, but am only doing tutorial videos so far)
Any advise would be much appreciated. Thanks again.
The H5 doesn’t have the 32-bit float wide dynamic range recording capability, does not have analogue limiters (which are far more effective than the H5’s digits limiters), and the MixPre supplies far mar clean gain than the H5 for microphones which need a little more. It also has an in-built timecode generator to make syncing in post to pro cameras much easier. MixAssist can help make much cleaner recordings when you are recording 2+ people at the same time. The list goes on and on. They’re really in completely different leagues. I hope that helps!
What's your average gain setting on your MixPre10II ??? I found me cranking mine up to about mid 40's.... about 45db .... how about you??
I don't usually look at the number because it depends on which mic you're using, where it is positioned, and the voice you are recording. But for condenser microphones, I'm usually somewhere between 35 and 55dB of gain.
Great review! In your opinion, would you buy the f6 or mixpre 3 ii for dialog?
In most circumstances, I'd opt for the MixPre-3 II.
Another great review, especially for being unbiased, as you deal with the obvious elephant in the room, comparing to the Zoom F6. I still went for the F6 because of the feature distinctions from smaller footprint to pricing to powering options, but still find it baffling why Zoom only develops for iOS and not Android.
Yeah, leaving out android sends some message to a significant portion of their customer base.
Yes, that seems a pretty big gap on the Zoom side.
Hi Curtis, awesome video ! thanks for that. May I ask if the MixPre series II limiter is still a nice analogue one? Greetings
Yes it is. Thanks!
@@curtisjudd thanks a lot :-)
Thank you Curtis! It is always a great pleasure listening to and learning from your reviews.
Thanks Andrew!
Thank you so much. Very helpful. I need a new recorder and mic for a low budget Indy film. Would the Rode NTG5 be a good pairing for the MixPre II, or is that a mismatch of quality? I need mics for dialogue and ambient nature sounds and I’m incredibly overwhelmed with the options. Your videos have been amazingly helpful. Thank you again.
That would make a great combination! Best wishes on your film!
Hi great review! Just to be sure can the MixPre 2 record with sd card as well as recording into a pc at the same time?
Yes it can.
@@curtisjudd HI Curtis, great review. I was wondering if the Mix Pre II can be used as an audio interface for a live stream via Zoom/TH-cam etc. in 32 bit float mode while simultaneously recording in multitrack mode to an SD card.
My MixPre 6 II arrived 2 days ago ; I did a quick test in BASIC mode... which sounded great. Then I got the dreaded stuck XLR jack syndrome on inputs 1 and 2 ... they will not unlock... I'm going to have to send it back rather than risk damage... pity. I don't like the on off switch, the headphone knob touches the headphone mini-jack ; the USB-C jack seems better with a 90- degree USB-C cable. The 4x Battery pack bulges with Duracell rechargeables but with Energizer batteries it's just about okay. Getting decent power on the field requires some serious after-thought.... anyway at least it sounds nice. We'll see if "they" can get my XLR cables out ( now my NT4 is without its proprietary cable )... ugh
Oleander, do your cables have Neutrik connectors? If not, I highly recommend them. This is not a unique problem to the MixPre, it is the case with many non-Neutrik XLR connectors.
@@curtisjudd No, the ones that got stuck are the ones that come with the NT4... most of my other cables are Neutrik
Have a question. If I understand correctly, the mixpre can work as an external sound card with PC or Mac. What about iPhone? Can the mixpre work as an external sound card with iphone?
I've heard yes, just two channels.
@@curtisjudd Cool
Hello Curtis! I just got myself a Mix Pre 3 II and i got stumbled in a setup issue. I want to record each of the 3 channels independently in advanced mode but all I get is a single file with all ch mixed. If I import that file in Reaper does not get separated automatically. It does get separated only in Audacity. Is there any way I could do this inside Sound Devices? maybe even monitor the channels individually after recording? Thanks!
Hi Nadayana, Yes, this is a poly wav file. Each microphone is recorded to its own track plus the stereo mix are on two separate tracks. I am not familiar with Reaper so I'm not sure how to split them apart but I would imagine that asking how to split a poly wav file apart in the Reaper forums may get you the help you need. Best wishes!
@@curtisjudd Thanks for replying! But isn't there a way to split the poly wav file into individual tracks inside Sound Devices? I would like to verify them after recording and before importing them on my laptop
@@Nadayana There is not a way to split the file apart in the recorder, but on playback, you can solo each microphone by going into the channel menu for that microphone.
Thank you so much for the Great review again , I am using Sennheiser MKE 600 for on-camera mic mainly and booming sometime ( already bought Rycote shockmount and basic softie for it ) , I am always looking for a better booming mic , Do you think NTG 5 is a good choice for this price range ?
Yes, definitely. Here’s my review of the NTG5: th-cam.com/video/bv1xUShuUY0/w-d-xo.html
This 32 bit audio is going to be a part of every reputable prosumer-pro mixer from here on forward. Just my opinion
It is a new bar for sure.
Professor hello. Just a quick word. I now have the Sound Devices mix pre 6ii. Well I don't actually have it but it's been on back order and should ship out next week sometime. I purchased mine thru Broadcast Supply Worldwide. .my equipment list is growing exponentially!!! I now own a total of 32 mics and counting. Thank you sir for being the best..
Rev. Bailey
Thanks and I hope the MixPre works well for you and that impressive collection of mics. Happy recording!
@@curtisjudd :)
thanks for your reply to my question earlier, quick followup if you don't mind, if using the preii with say the rode video mic pro + (via 3.5 jack) what are the drawbacks/limitations on quality compared to using a xlr shotgun mic? thanks again.
I don't think it is worth the price if you'll just be using a VideoMic Pro. The VM Pro has its own preamp which will clip before it gets the audio signal to the MixPre so you lose the 32-bit float benefit.
Would it be possible to do a video demonstrating a mid side recording on a MixPre as well as taking the files into a DAW? There are no videos that do this that show setting up the mics, using the options on a MixPre and following into an edit process. Tech support at Sound Devices says there is a disadvantage to using the MS Decoder to ISO & Mix vs. Mix Only as far as options. For example if you do not like how your recording comes out. I'm still trying to wrap my brain around what MS Decoding does physically. I just ordered a mic with a Figure-8 option and would like to record say…an acoustic guitar as a mid side recording but would really love to see the entire process. Especially being very new to DAW editing. Anyway, it would be fantastic if you can make a video on this for beginners of mid side recording. Thank you.
Would like to do that but I’ve never done M/S recording so I’ll need to learn first. 😀
@@curtisjudd Completely understand. Thank you.
I'm not sound engineer, i'm a musician. I have Blackmagic pocket cinema camera 4k and i just bought an MixPre 3 II. I hear that i can synchronize this devices via timecode for audio but i don't know how it works. You can give some tips? Thank you!
Hi Sergiu, we do cover this in our MixPre Course over at School.LearnLightAndSound.com. In short, you use a 3.5mm stereo mini jack cable from the MixPre's aux output into the P4K's 3.5mm mic input. You do need to configure the MixPre to send timecode out via the 3.5mm aux output.
@@curtisjudd It's working! :) th-cam.com/video/mfckDcZDwNA/w-d-xo.html
Great video!
Thanks!
Does the Bluetooth of the MixPre II allow in-ear monitors to connect? If not, is there a device that you can recommend that can connect to the monitor jack and that can send the signal to in-ear monitors? Thanks so much for a great video
Hi Gilad, no, the bluetooth is to connect to the Wingman app to control the MixPre. I don't use wireless bluetooth for monitoring, but DSLR Video Shooter did a video where he did. A search for DSLR Video Shooter wireless audio should bring it up.
I was wondering if you know if sound device is coming out with an upgraded form of the premix iii, like mixpre iii? I'm asking because I did not want to purchase the 10ii with an upcoming new premix iii, if they are doing that. Thanks!
Hi Bryan, I don't have any insight into what Sound Devices is doing with new products. The MixPre II series just came out last year so my guess is that it will be at least another year, probably longer, before we see an update. Is there something you wish the MixPre II series had but doesn't? Or something you'd like changed?
@@curtisjudd I'm not an expert, but I do agree with your advice for sound device to take. But, however, I'm just going with the 10ii just in case I do go with higher modes of a production.
Do you know if the custom limiter parameters are available in music mode? Thanks for the thorough review!
Hi Joe, I'm sorry, I don't know. SD Support should be able to confirm for you. Best wishes!
Hi, Curtis. I'm not sure if you've covered this elsewhere, but on this video, at about the 10 minute mark, you talk about timecode. You mention that since the MixPre's have timecode built in, you only have to buy timecode for your camera and not the recorder. Do you have a video describing how to do that? It was my impression you need a timecode generator for each piece of equipment that was in the chain (I'm learning about timecode now, so I don't know for sure). Basically, I'm considering purchasing a MixPre II and would like to use timecode with my BMPCC 6k. Would I only need to buy a generator/receiver for my camera? Thanks for any information.
If you have a MixPre II series, then yes, you only need external timecode generators for each camera. At the start of the filming session, you’ll jam sync the external timecode generator to the MixPre’s internal TC generator, then connect the external generator to the camera and leave it connected through the filming session.
Thank you!@@curtisjudd
Listening on Sony 1AM2 headphones (3Hz to 100KHz specs), plugged to SoundBlaster X G6 with all the effects turned off, (32bit 192KHz audio settings on Windows 10).
I can hear every sound your body and clothes make, even when your hands touch off-camera when you're talking, and the reflectons of your voice from the walls of your room. And also a noise floor, but I'm not sure if it's from the DPA 4017b, the XLR cable or the MixPre II, I can tell it's definetly not room noise though.
At 5:52 I can clearly hear the difference on the recording levels too. The +6dB definetly sounds the cleanest and most pleasant, (I would describe this recording as the one with the most dynamic range and least noise/distortion). While the +45dB sounds boosted and the +76dB almost sounds clipped, and I can tell it definely was brough back in post from clipping levels.
But this is exteme scenario, you probably wouldn't be able to tell the difference listening on normal speakers and all of these recordings would sound great.
So, even though Sound Devices tells us that the knobs are useless in 32bit, turning these physical potentiometers up, probably introduces some sort of current on the preamps and meses with the signal. So I would keep these knobs at the minimum setting of +6dB at all times when recording in 32bit and bring it up in post.
Great review.
Thanks for sharing.