Very happy with my MixPre-3. My only beef I haven't seen mentioned elsewhere is that playback is a bit of a chore. There is no option to play files consecutively, so you have to keep going into the menu and selecting the next file and not forgetting the file number and choosing the wrong one. For me this means deleting out the bad files has to wait until I'm on a pc, while on my old recorder I'd just run though all the files at the end of the session.
Delicious overview of the SD MixPre-6/3! and I appreciate the (initial) comparison with the Zoom F Series. I was completely sold on the Zoom F4 (which your reviews helped greatly as well), but now thinking that the SD MixPre-3 carries a better feature set for remote field sound recordings, i.e. backpacking/ climbing/ skiing trips in the back county. The analog pre-amps are a huge bonus, as is the small size/weight and the ability to power + interface with USB C simplify the accessory gear that may be needed on trips where every ounce counts. The Zoom F units carry some really nice added features, however, the tiny little SD MixPre-3, paired with a couple small mics. and DSLR will make for a VERY light, portable and powerful recording system.
The Zoom F4 seems to have better physical construction, especially in terms of jacks. Trying to use a USB port for external power is a deal-breaker. It's flimsy and prone to disconnection. On the Tascam DR-70D, this renders external power useless because any disruption of the USB connection will stop your recording (even with batteries in the unit). The F4 has a nice locking power connector and comes with an adapter for standard DC power plugs. The F4 also has balanced XLR outputs and a 1/4" headphone jack that can take more strain than a 1/8" jack. And finally the F4 has SDI connectors for timecode (which it can generate), which is important for more-professional cameras that don't even have HDMI.
Curtis Judd The Zoom F4 and MixPre-3 are a similar price here in Canada. Curious how those two compare, as well as compared to on camera solutions like the Panasonic DMW-XLR1.
Excellent video. Thank you for a comprehensive look at the feature set of the Mix Pre-6. I'll be picking up a mix pre-3 to pair with my gh4. It will be a welcomed upgrade from my DR-40 which is causing me all kinds of issues right now.
Warranty help with Sound Devices is mixed. I bought three devices and had three problems. They took care of me good on the first two problems, but the third problem was a bad cable that came with one of the Mixpre-3ii's. It didn't work. I contacted support and they just told me to buy a new one because it was inconvenient for them to get one. So now I've got one substandard (?) cable that cost me an extra $25, and had to tell all the people I've recommended them to saying "they will take good care of you" that I was wrong but they still make the best devices.
Based on your video Curtis, I have just made up my mind and ordered MP6. I mean... It's already paid for and I am eagerly awaiting DHL courier :) I thought about Mixpre-3 and almost bought it, but looks like having combo xlr/trs, higher frequency recording (I do a lot of nature and soundscapes) and few more tracks, will make it a great work companion. I can actually hook it up with MixPre-d to have 2 more limiters. I hope to progress to 633 type of recorder soon, but even then mp6 will be a great backup. Keep up a good work!
Took delivery of the Mix pre 6 yesterday, and hoped to be taking it on a job today but won't risk it. First, the unit is really as good as all the reviews suggest. So far I've tried an NTG-2, a pair of Berhinger C-2s, and old Fender D3 drum mike (my old raido interviewing mike) and a pair of Rode filmmakers. All posed posed absolutely no problem level wise and the quality is breathtaking. The big challenge (so far) is that the unit is really, really power hungry; and running it from duracell AAs isn't going to be an option for very long (and I mean you're seeing battery levels halve 30 minutes in with 4 AAs running everything at full pelt); it just eats power. The AAs last very little time and the USB brick (or at least the one I've got, which does output at 2.1A) will only run it in restricted mode. When it does this, the unit only then records the L-R mix and not the individual channels. So for my use - run-and-gun. light documentary, the Sony battery sled will be an absolute must, pushing up the cost and the weight. And the power button is really hard to access when the USB C slot is in use ... But, wow, that sound ...
Hi Jonathan, congrats on the MixPre. Good call to get more experience before jumping in to a job with new gear. I agree on all fronts - I really see the AAs as bridge power and generally use the NP-F sled for all but the shortest recording clips. With its small form factor, the power switch is definitely hard to change with that USB-C port occupied but I suppose that's good as well - not likely to get bumped off. I also find the headphone/menu encoder/knob difficult to adjust when headphones are plugged in, especially when the MixPre is in a bag. All that said, I've been very happy with the MixPre in terms of audio quality and features. People just need to understand the ergonomic realities and assess whether that will work for the types of projects they do.
Really useful video Curtis, many thanks. I never quite have the time to Fire up my studio gear but still need to indulge some songwriting when the moment takes me. This should de-clutter the process and help me get the ideas down quickly but still allow post tinkering in my DAW. Sound quality of the device is really good as was your analysis!
Thanks Bernard. If your main use case is recording music, you might have a look at the MixPre M series which are very similar in terms of hardware but have a different software interface that allows overdubbing and other such features for music recording. Here was an interview from NAB earlier this year where Paul from Sound Devices talks about the 10T (they also have 3 and 6 input versions as well): ruclips.net/video/5DCoYBsdglI/видео.html
Bravo, thanks for another informative video. I love the mixpre6 and use it daily. I have the same experience with firmware 1.11, in that a sudden power loss does not corrupt the files. Good stuff.
Thanks Curtis. I'm seriously considering getting this MixPre-6 for my youtube videos. I have a Canon XA30 video camera, so I will be checking compatiblity, etc. Your evaluations on audio have been very helpful. Regards, Solomon
For me at least, 2 additional cons are the quirky Li-Ion battery caddy, where the batteries jut out at 90 degrees on either side of the recorder, and the limited gain staging options for ISOs (discussed in depth elsewhere). Just my 5c.
Thorough review, nicely done as always. It amazes me how when watching your videos I will think of something I wish you would touch on and BAM you cover it. Nothing much gets by you. Here's one for you, you did not mention using a USB-C battery pack. That seems like the best way to go right now. Would be nice to know how long you can run all four XLR mic inputs on one of those packs. Also, I saw yesterday that a Dutch company is making a modified SD 4 AA battery sled with a Hirose 14 volt power 4 pin connector on the sled itself, not on an outboard box attached to it. 110 Euros, hopefully that unit will make its way to the USA soon. Even better if SD made one!
+RallenMan thanks Allen. Good point on the USB-C power bank. I included a link to one in the description after forgetting to mention it. :) interesting news on that alternative sled!
I have a MixPre3 that primarily gets used for field recording material for SFX and sound design material. I found the touch screen a bit small for my fingers, but solve the issue happily by using a touch screen stylus, which stays in a pocket on my recorder bag. While I have used it with a USB-C battery, I tend to power it with the L-Mount batteries.
Outstanding video. Now here is my question. In your professional opinion, which is the best choice for field recorder? 1. Zoom F4 2. Sound Devices 633 3. SD 4 It’s not the $$$, just don’t want to regret the purchase in a year or two. So of these three, which one gets the nod. Thank you James
Hi James, thanks for the question. The answer depends heavily on the intended types of jobs you'll do with the recorders. I have all three (actually, I upgraded my MixPre-6 to the newer MixPre-10T) and if I could only keep one, I'd keep the 633. But the reason I'd keep it is not that it is the most expensive or has the best sound (though both of those are true). It has to do with some of the other features such as AES digital output, size and weight, and ergonomics. How will you be using your recorder, what types of jobs? Max number and type of inputs you need? Paid or passion jobs?
Curtis, I've been a fan of your reviews for years--they're some of the best on RUclips. This review of the Mix-pre is an exception---it's too involved, too complicated, and assumes too much of the viewer in regard to background. I've searched RUclips and there's not a single basic tutorial on the Mix-pre 3 on the entire web. There are a LOT of people giving "reviews" that is a huge waste of time. Would you consider a basic tutorial on this item? It's needed and I, for one, would really appreciate it.
Hi William, I have a full course on the MixPre at school.learnlightandsound.com. Also, on the RUclips channel associated with my online courses - Curtis Judd Audio - there are several tutorials. Just search for "Curtis Judd Audio MixPre". Best wishes.
I found some information on manufacturer's website. They do not say how long 4 AA batteries are expected to power this device. What they do say is; on a pack of 8 AA batteries, you can expect to get 80 minutes of run time. There is a very important note there, although misleading, it states: "Using 4 alkaline batteries in the MX-4AA to power the MixPre will give much less than half the runtime listed above for 8 alkaline batteries in the MX-8AA...." It would be up to any one individual to interpret the meaning behind "much less than half the runtime" phrase. Turns out the actual meaning of this phrase is - 4 batteries will power MixPre-6 less than 10 min!!! I wish they would just come out and say it, instead of playing the numbers game. Here I am all stressing out about the supposed 2 hours and 20 minutes of run time that I should be getting, but it turns out non-rechargeable lithium batteries is what you need to get longest run times when powering it via AA batteries. I know it's not the least expensive option, and that's fine by me, I just hope the company would be more forthcoming. To add to the injury, they want $70 for the 8 battery caddy. Urghhhh!!!! Great device, lots to love about it, but that left a sour taste in my mouth... lol :)
Thanks Serge. I’m not suggesting I know what Sound Devices was thinking but I suspect there can still be differences from alkaline battery to alkaline battery. Nevertheless, a statement along the lines of, “We do not recommend alkaline AA batteries as they supply very short powering times...”
Great video review Curtis. One pro that I think you overlooked is that I don't think any other device at this price point can be a USB interface and record at the same time? (I could be wrong but I think that's the case?)
The MixPre6 NPF mount have issues if you bump it slightly whole device turns off. USB C and powerbank seem to be the best method to power but its afraid the Type C could break over time.
Thanks for sharing. I haven't run into that problem. Some have said they needed to gently pull out on the tab which holds the sled in place, just a little, and that it fit more snugly and didn't have that issue.
I know it's not totally related to this video but I've recently finished gathering for my first sound kit, shich runs a Sound Devices 442 (which I already owned with a Zoom H5 combo) and a new Zoom F8. I work as a boom operator from time to time and one of my bosses made me feel kinda dumb I went for the F8 over this Sound Devices... that yes would have lightened my bag but the 442 runs 4 AA batteries as well l, but for 6 hours with one phantom and the F8 runs with 8 AA (haven't tested it's full limits yet because I have it powered by power bank external batteries to its DC input or via Hirose cable). I have the analogue limiters and the Sound Devices preamps plus dual recording (I've never had a problem with single slots but once I was asked for an mp3 and wav files but couldn't provide it). The F8 can also give out TC as well as receive it (though can't turn it off if it is giving it from what I heard that may mess up the clock). Other than that I'm asked for Comteks often, and my combination allows me to even have spare outputs after that and running a hop to the camera. The MixPre6 is amazing and I am fascinated by it but I'm also glad I did't get it. Thanks for the excellent reviews. :)
Hi Freddie, Everyone has their personal preferences for how they like to work so I would happily ignore the chiding from your boss. Enjoy recording with your new kit which should work great!
Pink noise UK have come up with a Hirose piggyback on a battery sled, with dc converter. This is something SD could do and make it seamless. Perhaps simpler is the Sony battery sled with a coupler to Hirose or DC socket.
Yet another excellent and authoritative review. May have to get one of these as an amateur videographer/ semi pro musician. One question... i see you have the new Focal Shape monitors.. what do you think of them? I just bought a pair of the Focal Alpha 80s for the music studio i'm currently setting up. Haven't used them in anger, but a quick setup shows that they will do the trick for me. But the Shapes look rather interesting!
+Tim Beaton the Shapes are probably the best I've used thus far. The bass response is impressive yet controlled and the inverted dome tweeters articulate the higher frequencies very well. I need to do some room response testing but I'll likely buy them (on loan at the moment)
Hi Curtis, Love your videos. It helped me make up my mind buying the MixPre6. FWIW, I managed to use a wireless keyboard to enter metadata. I have large hands and found it very difficult to use the rotary encoder, especially when the recorder is in my Orca OR28 and the headphone connected. Just my 2 cents. Cheers.
Just looked around there site and Problem at 22:40 was solved in Firmware update 2.2, . It's awesome to see what they have already integrated. Im definitely getting one of these :)
I recently picked up the Zoom H6 along with the Fethead pre-amp and have found it to really be a fantastic all in one solution for film field recording, podcasting, and even audio interfacing. However, I still have a return window and have definitely been eyeing the MixPre3 or 6. For run and gun situations and also having a device that can service podcasting and voice over production, would you recommend this as a worthwhile step up from the H6 or, for the price point, stick with the H6? Are the pre-amps significantly better? Thanks for all the great work you do!
I think it might be the case that when the limiters are engaged continually you get a better result than intermittent highs. It just brings the gain down so the audio is unharmed by being limited and unlike with periodic peaks you don't get the pumping of the background sounds rising and falling and the just about detectable spike in volume before the limiter catches it. I was recording some bird song and distant high explosive artillery firing the other day, as you do, when a tank drove past and blasted it's engine as it changed down a gear. Because the sound built up gradually and was a constant high level there was no pumping, and as far as i can tell it was not distorted by being limited, the mixpre just smoothly brought the gain level down to a manageable level and kept it there until it had passed. Have a listen soundcloud.com/oundscapes/a-soundscape-from-an-active-day-on-salisbury-plain-uk There's an Apache helicopter manoeuvring around towards the end as well.
It seems it doesn't need to be very constant, as long as its fairly smooth changes (ie not going quickly from loud to quiet and loud again which would give the pumping effect) it seems to just keep adjusting the level up and down to keep things in check with no apparent harm. If you listen to that clip with the tank its already limiting and then it revs up much louder but i guess it just brought the level down a bit more and it handled it. It would be interesting if Paul Isaacs would give a really in depth explanation of how the limiters operate. I guess the main negative effect of relying on the limiters as "automatic gain control" could be that the apparent volume of the recording could end up flat, but then that could be adjusted in post, to make the loud things louder than the quiet things. For the recording i linked there i didn't do that though and somehow even though it was limited already, when the tank revs up it's apparent that it's got louder. So maybe the limiter brings it to a level where there is still spare headroom for the sound to increase rather than bringing it to a level just below the clipping point and it has to keep adjusting the limiting amount. Either way these limiters work in a very clever and subtle way that make using the mixpre almost idiot proof. Clearly some genius level thinking has gone into making this thing.
Hi Curtis, really great that you reply to a lot of your viewers. Just wanted to ask, between the Mixpre 6 and Mixpre 6M, with the Mixpre 6M being $100 cheaper, would you recommend the Mixpre 6 over the 6M for youtube video production (as recommended by Sound Devices marketing)? I know the 6M is marketed towards musicians but I see no reason it can't be used as a recorder for youtubers, podcasters, streamers. Hope you can give your valuable insight on this. Thank you
Hi Fil Trans, I would definitely recommend the MixPre 6, and not the 6M for RUclips video production. The 6M’s UI is made ONLY for music tracking and overdubbing. You would have to create an entirely new project for each take. You can always add the music plugin to the 6 if you also record multitrack music. Good luck. Here’s a video where we cover the difference between the MixPre and MixPre M series: ruclips.net/video/xdcKjASBAZ4/видео.html
Ola Curtis, great review. I decided to buy mixpre-6 and also an audio bag. Do You have any recommendation which one? I'm looking at Orca OR-28 Mini, but since i'll have at least 2 lavs, shotgun, cables and batteries I'm not sure its big enough or it is?. So what do You use and recommend? Thanks.
Hi receptxful, I have an Orca OR-30 and OR-34. The MixPre-3 is big even in the OR-30. I have found that I do NOT like to carry everything in the audio bag all the time because it gets too heavy when booming and mixing with the shoulder strap or even the harness. So I would encourage you to consider getting a separate bag for mixing and carrying stuff. The MixPre-6 will certainly fit in the OR-28. I'll be doing a Sound for Video Session on audio bags later this week on my other channel (Curtis Judd Audio). Good luck and happy recording!
Mixpre 3 is on the way! I am just wondering if I should have got the 6... the main thing that bugs me is the 3 can't record the aux in +3 mic channels. It seems you have to assign it to 1 or 2 of the main channels. The XLRs aren't combo TRS either!
Congrats, I hope it works well for you! The lack of TRS inputs just means you may need different cables when taking line level audio from a mixing board. And three channels is often enough. Note that the bonus is that the 3 is tiny, tiny, tiny!
Can I just get the line out signal, put into my camera? The quality would be the same as if I would get the audio file from the recorder and use it in post production?
@@miguel_chain Ok, so the MixPre-6 has an unbalanced 3.5mm output and you can run that into the 3.5mm input on the C200. From what I can tell, the C200's 3.5mm input cannot be set to line level so you'll have to send tone to the camera and adjust the output fader. There most likely will be an audio quality hit with that approach. Another option is to use a DI box to convert the MixPre-6 output to balanced and then run that into one of the XLR inputs on the C200 at line level. with a good DI the audio quality should be better that way, in theory. But it is a potentially awkward setup with that extra DI box.
@@curtisjudd Man, thanks for taking time to explain that. It seems that it doesn´t worth . It might be easier get Video file from the camera, get the audio file from the recorder and sinc them on post... Thank you again! I´m watching a lot of your videos today. I own a Zoom H6 right now - for everything - podcasts etc... but when I used the phones (not the line out) the phone jack - I get an annoing noise. As far as I researched - there´s no solutiion for it, since it may happen due to unproper sealing for that module ( or something like that). I´m thinking about getting or the Zoom F4 or MixPre-3 mkII . Your videos are helping a lot! Thanks again
One thing I can't find mentioned in this excellent review, or in the comments, is the poorly designed attachment for connecting a camera on top of this unit. It is a spring loaded screw which must be accessed from beneath the recorder. If you have this recorder mounted beneath your camera and wish to take the camera off ( say to change cameras or just use a microphone) you have to take the tripod plate off of the bottom to access that screw. Would it really have been too much for them to offer a mounting plate on the top like is available for the MixPre D ?
Looks like you have just called that out for those who attach their cameras atop the MixPre. Thank you! Every review comes from the perspective and workflow of the reviewer. So your perspective is very helpful. As you gathered, I don’t mount my camera on the recorder all that often so it wasn’t a pain point for me. Thanks again!
Hi Curtis, thanks for the in-depth review. I'm having a difficult time deciding between the MixPre-3 and MixPre-6. I mostly shoot wedding, corporate, and narrative. My main focus with the MixPre will be for weddings and corporate as I'll just hire a sound mixer / boom op for narrative projects. Would the combo XLR ports on the MixPre-6 make it easier to plug into a DJ Board? Do you think the MixPre-6 makes more sense for wedding videos? It's tough because I really dig the small size of the MixPre-3!
Hi Alex, the MixPre-3 would work fine for recording from sound boards as long as you have a good selection of the right cables on hand. You'll want 2 sets of cables: 1) XLR-3M for the end that plugs into the MixPre and XLR-3F for the feed from the board. 2) XLR-3M for the end that plugs into the MixPre and 1/4" TRS for the feed from the board. That should cover most sound boards. I'm also assuming that 3 inputs will do the job which in my experience is usually enough for weddings and corporates. Best wishes!
Amazing vid as always. Making my decision between Zoom Fs and MixPres even harder:) can't wait for the showdown video either. Quick question, do the MixPres or Zoom Fs generate 1Khz tone to calibrate levels on your camera?
Thanks Casey Li, yes, they both generate tone. We demonstrated that in depth on the MixPre over here when showing how to send audio from the MixPre to camera and use the tone to set the input level on the camera: ruclips.net/video/bsUeXtxsa50/видео.html
Maplestone followup: I think it might have something to do with the Output settings on the MixPre-3. I fiddled around with them a bit without really understanding how they work. A visit back to the owner's manual might clear things up for me.
Just FYI it looks like SD did an update with "a new automatic copying facility duplicates the data recorded on the internal SD card directly to an external USB thumb-drive inserted into the machine's USB-A port." (SOS)
Thanks again Curtis. My research continues to find the best on location recorder for acoustic instrument (classical guitar). I noticed with the Tascam d60 mk 2 you mentioned right at the beginning that it is not suitable for musicians, while in this one you say the opposite. You haven't made a similar comparison with the zoom f4 so I am not sure where that fits in. I want to know what makes a decide more suitable for music rather than 'field sound' or dialogue vocals? I am pairing my future recorder with Rode nt5 matched pairs and AKG p170 matched pairs as well. I will be doing some interviews so vocals matter as well but most of my work is on classical guitar and acoustic instruments. I am understanding the specs more now but my brain is telling me that both the sound devices and zoom f4 are capable of driving my condenser microphones, so what makes one more suitable than the other (I am not really asking which one is better as that's subjective. I am more asking for what spec, or feature I should be looking for). If you're wandering why not laptop and interface: I'll be flying around and want a portable solution to video, lighting, and audio gear. thanks again and happy new year!
Hi Mustafa, The Tascam's fader is a digital stepping fader so you'll get a "stair stepping" effect if you change its setting while recording. Not a nice sound. The Sound Devices would be my recommendation for music recording because not only can you record dialogue and effects for film, but they also offer a software add-on that allows you to do overdub recording for music as well: ruclips.net/video/xdcKjASBAZ4/видео.html Specifically, since you will be recording both for film and music, you want the non-M version of the MixPre and to purchase the Music plugin after. Good luck!
@@curtisjudd Thanks Curtis, The video link pretty much answered my question right away. I am not interested in overdubbing since I run my own audio studio and if clients want multi track overdub recording then I'll just do it at home. I want a 'live' take device that I can record audio with top quality preamps. My sound target is mostly solo classical guitar. The musicians I'll be working with usually won't need over dubbing. I am also a professional musician so working with a music score I can sketch out takes of different parts of the solo track and edit them in post. I'm more interested now in the mixpre 6 than the zoom f 4 but sadly the price is almost double in Canadian $ for the mixpre 6. Thanks for your videos, I've spent quiet a bit of time watching and then re-watching the different recorders and mics you use!
Just heard back from Joel at Sound Devices about the timecode compatibility for Canon DSLRs. He says: "I believe we don't support HDMI Timecode and record triggers due to Canon not opening up the protocol for 3rd party products. Unfortunately this is true of both our audio and video products. I couldn't say for sure if that protocol will be opened up for 3rd party products such as ours in the future, but I will definitely pass this on to our engineering team and let them know we're getting requests for it." Now, it should be noted that the Canon C100 (Original version, not the Mark II) is working as far as accepting timecode ONLY. But no triggering and from what I can tell, It was just a lucky fluke. The good news is Tentacle Sync bridges that issue for now. (Thank the Gods for Tentacle Sync!)
One thing which you didn't mention which viewers might find useful, you can't change the gain levels from the Wingman app which is a huge shame especially for stealth recording with the mixpre in a backpack. I can see because the faders are not continuous knobs it would get confusing to adjust the fader position off the unit but maybe changes on the wingman app could engage a remote set gain option and when you come back to the machine a press of the faders re-engages the faders as the determining adjustment for gain. Any slight clunkiness in implementation would be worth bearing for the benefit of being able to remotely adjust the gain..............And as you did mention you can't stereo link channels when the gain is in basic mode which to expand on that if you want only the the ISOs and don't want to waste card space with a mix track and want to use the faders to adjust the levels on the go you can't do it with a stereo linked pair. If you link a pair you can only easily adjust levels of the mix track which i have no interest in having if using more than 2 mics and the side knob is really not user friendly. Press fader, select gain, hunt for knob in bag, adjust and before you have a chance to listen it's timed out and reset to headphone gain control on that knob. For field recording thats a huge bummer. I think they miss fired a little with the basic mode idea, beginners will need some of the advanced features and its maybe a bit more complicated to work out the custom mode way of adding those features, it's groups of features really which as in the gain group can cause loss of other functions. I think they should have just had the more advanced options available in the deeper menu screens so people could leave it as it comes or delve deeper as required. I hope they'll work on these things. It still destroys the competition as a compact field recorder as it is but these things would make it significantly better for me anyway.
Thanks for a really useful review. I already ordered Mixpre6....but have to wait for a week or two to arrive. Currently I'm using two field mixers (SQN-4S and SQN2 + Tascam DR-100 mk2) for audio recording. I have two questions: 1) can you compare SD preamps to SQN preamps? Will I be disappointed with SD? (comparing to SQN) 2) did you try Mixpre6 with 600 ohms headphones? Is headphone amplifier strong enough to drive them loud and clear? Thanks Željko
Hi Zeljko, Thanks and I hope you enjoy your MixPre. I don't have an SQN available to compare. I've used many different recorders and I am very happy with the quality of the MixPre's Kashmir preamps. I used a variety of Sony and Beyerdynamic headphones with the MixPre ranging from 70 to 250 ohms. Even with the 250 ohm headphones, I only had to drive the gain to about 55 out of 100. I am hopeful that you won't have problems with 600 ohm headphones. Best wishes!
Curtis, great video as always. I do have a question I have not been able to get the answer for. I have a MixPre6 and want to input 4 XLR inputs in ISO tracks, then an additional 3.5mm mic input also in an ISO track. I cannot figure it out. I've tried most things. None of my tracks are stereo linked currently. When I bring the file into Adobe Audition or FCPX, the tracks are merged and I cannot isolate the tracks. Help! Thank you.
Curtis, this is great. I appreciate all the details you put into your reviews and has greatly help me improve my audio. I had one question - does this device support adding plugins ?
Hi Sandeep, thank you! Short answer: Yes, but only plugins from Sound Devices. Also, this is an older review for the first generation MixPre recorders. Here is a review of the newer II series and a link to the MixAssist plugin review: ruclips.net/video/8lRVnMO14k8/видео.html ruclips.net/video/oTLfgQ3qSek/видео.html
@@curtisjudd Thank you for your response. I like the short answer. Let me put my question in a different way-- I have couple of mics and my main requirement is to connect them to my computer via some interface and use it on Zoom, Teams and Skype calls. I also want to add couple of plugins via OBS so that my voice sounds a little better and clearer. Right now I use SSL2 with macbook 13 and the issue with this setup is that macbook fans run very loud just to handle the plugins. I was looking at some device which could handle couple of simple plugins or have their inbuilt EQ where i can i achieve the same same result without using my computer-- any suggestions will be of great help.
@@sukhoi01 Maybe a processor like the dbx286S will do the job for you. It has a compressor, de-esser, enhancer (both low and high frequency - sort of an EQ), and a noise gate. You would then feed that live level into your SSL2. That would at least offload the audio processing from the MacBook.
@@curtisjudd wanted to update you on what I did for my issue. I could not get dbx fast enough so I researched a way of processing obs plugins in another computer ( which I had handy). Then I am bringing in the audio via network to my macbook13 as an audio stream in Obs, which I am using un processed in my skype and teams calls. Thanks once again.
I am a RUclips creator and a total NEWB when it comes to video/audio equipment. Since I started my channel a couple years ago, I've embraced the "fake it until you make it" moto. Having said that, I am trying to learn as much as possible to make the sound quality of my videos the best I can. Right now, I record into my GH4 camera that faces me using a Shure Lavalier Mic (this one: www.shure.eu/products/wireless_systems/pg-wireless-presenter-set) that feeds into my gh4 interface unit. However, since I film by myself there are times when I forget to turn on the mic :( So...I am trying to set up another microphone to my 2nd Gh4 camera (that is over my head to capture my hands in my videos) that I can rely on for those unfortunate times. I've purchased a Rode VideoMic Go and mounted it to the camera...but I am getting terrible hissing in the video. So here are my questions: 1. Would this equipment that you are showing here be a better option for me to get audio? 2. Or, do you have a suggestion to get better sound from the Rode mic I already have? 3. I sometimes have a guest on my videos but can't figure out how to connect a second Shure Lavalier to my GH4 Interface...do you have any suggestions? Am I just being daff? Is it even possible for me to record two people with two different lav's into one interface? Honestly, I am really just looking for some sort of help. Anything you are able to offer me would be great! I love the sound quality of your videos and would love to know how to get that. Thanks. P.S. I do knitting and crochet videos.
Hi Marly! This could definitely help but might also be overkill at $900 USD. I had a quick look at a couple of your videos and the sound is quite good! Lavaliers are always a little tricky and I prefer the sound of a boom microphone but I'm wondering if that would work well given that you'll be looking down while teaching the knitting/crochet techniques. The VideoMic Go is not the greatest so it is not surprising that you're getting a hissing noise with that one. The RODE VideoMic Pro does quite a lot better without the hiss and sounds quite nice when you boom it. In your case it might make sense to position it at the front of the table you're working from aimed up at your mouth, as close as you can get it. Here's a sample of the sound quality you might expect with that: ruclips.net/video/TUEmQBZKoBs/видео.html I hope that helps and good luck!
Curtis Judd thank you so much for your reply. I will try to place the Rode mic on the table in front of me and see how that goes. I will need to purchase an extension cable though. Do you have a suggestion for which one I should get? I use Amazon Prime for nearly everything so if you have an affiliate code, let me use it. If I were to get another mic, would you recommend the Rode Pro or is there another one that would be better for my needs? Again. Thank you so much ;) if I can ever help you with knitting or crochet just let me know *wink*
This is very helpful. Thank you for your reply. I've been watching more of your videos and I think that I want to get a Zoom F4 and a RODE NTG2 or NTG4+ Shotgun Microphone or would a Electro-Voice RE20 Microphone work for my needs? Also, I am looking for a video to show how to use two audio inputs into my GH4 interface. I want it to accept sound from my wireless lav receivers (I have two for when I have a guest in the video). Right now, I have the wireless lav receiver (only one) linked to a XLR adapter and plugged into the camera. Why you ask? I can't figure out how to have the XLR go directly into the interface and record...the camera defaults to in camera sound (boo)! Again, I am a total newb and appreciate all your help. If you're available to ever do a facetime in my studio to see my set-up, I would totally pay you to do that and help me...if you are available for that, of course.
Okay, I figured out why my camera is only recording from the body...there is actually a control that I have to switch in the camera setting under the interface unit that tells it to accept audio from the body or XLR. Might seem really simple and not worthy of a video...but if there are others like me out there...they won't know that. Anyway, wahoo! I am so proud of myself for figuring that out after 1.5 years. LOL.
Curtis, thanks for the superb tutorials. I enrolled in your series of courses on the Mix Pre 6 and this has been helpful resource for learning technique and craft. I am still working to clear a couple hurdles: a) When sending timecode from the C300MKII to the MixPre 6 via HDMI I am having a latency issue that sounds like a delay. b) When sending the mix from the Mix Pre 6 into the C300MKII via 8th" stereo mic jack, I'm getting bad hiss. If you have any suggestions, I'd appreciate the advice. Thank you.
Hi Steve, camera HDMI signals generally involve some amount of latency so you may need to apply an offset to compensate. You’ll need to experiment to find that offset. You can use the free Wave Agent app from sound devices to apply the offset. As for the hiss, I’d check your cable first. Also, what do you have the output set to - mic/line, fader? And is the camera’s input switchable between mic and line and if so, do you have it set the same as the MixPre’s output?
Main differences: MixPre has 3 XLR inputs (no 1/4" TRS inputs), can record up to 5 tracks (3 XLR inputs plus stereo mix or 5 isolated tracks) and the sample rate on the MixPre-3 tops out at 96kHz.
Hi Curtis! Im looking at obtaining one of these. The enviroment would be shotgun on channel 1, with channels 2-4 for direct plug in of radio scanners for Tower, Ground, and air to air aviation frequencies. Channels 2-4 being ISO tracks. After setting levels, will channels 2-4 be routed to headphone out on the Mixpre6 if monitoring channel 1? I wish not to hear them. Nor for them being recorded with the Mix. With Channel 1 set to stereo track. Keep up the great work! Brian
Hi Brian, you can set up a custom headphone preset that only monitors channel 1. If you are interested, I have a MixPre course available over at school.learnlightandsound.com where we cover some of the settings in more depth. Best wishes!
Hi Curtis, Fantastic video on the mix pre 6. Is there any way you can review the mix pre 10? I would like to know if it specifically overcomes the mix pre 6 limitations for pro Sound recordists.
+Curtis Judd - What would be some reasons someone chooses the MixPre 3 or MixPre 6? I am a videographer who currently owns an F4 however the interface is a bit too much for me to deal with, especially when it comes to mixing on the fly (I am still learning audio). Aside from that I hardly ever output to camera or output to any device on the F4. I have a boom and two wireless lavs with the intent of getting an indoor dialogue mic. I like the simplicity of the MixPre and want to get the best one for me.
Hi Zanin, in addition to the "Pros" listed in the summary at the start, I think the main reasons are that they are both very, very small, their preamps sound great, and they have several features which make it easier to record such as limiters and very nice gain/level knobs. Also, you can switch the MixPre in to "Basic" mode which makes them even easier to use to just record however many microphones into a stereo track. Good luck!
Curtis Judd Thank you! I got the MixPre3 and was the best decision I made in terms of audio. This thing is TINY. I was confused at first and thought someone gave me a toy. Much more easier to use. However I might return it to get the MixPre6 for the additional inputs and features.
Hi Curtis, you're reviews and discussions about audio are amazing! I was about to purchase a mixpre-3 and then realized: if I have it mounted between a tripod and my camera (GH5) and I have to change the GH5 battery, do I have to then remove the tripod plate and then unscrew the mixpre from the camera to get to the battery door?
Hi Steve, thanks! You are correct. I don't usually attach my audio recorder to my camera but if you do, then you'll either need an external battery solution for your camera or remove it from the rig to change the battery. Or you can use a camera cage to rig the MixPre above the camera. Best wishes!
I find it very difficult to find a right level on the four channels. I either have them set too low or too high. Ruined a lot of sessions trying to guess the right level... never had that problem with the ZoomH5. When it is set too high, an equalizer kicks in to counteract the high levels that makes the recording unusable. Any advice on how to set the levels? I record on four channels so they add up.
Hi Balint, I usually set the levels so that the peaks hit around -18dB on the meters. Then in post, I have freedom to compress the peaks and set the loudness where I want it. If set this way, the limiter - what you refer to as an equalizer - only kicks in slightly and helps prevent very occasional clipping events.
@@curtisjudd Thank you for your response. I watched one of the MixPre reviews in which you stated that it is almost "not important" to set the levels on this because it is not going to clip if an amateur recording engineer accidentally sets the level too high... but instead of clipping there is a limiter, which is very annoying and makes organ recordings unusable. I am thinking of going back to my good old Zoom H5, because I a making too many mistakes and setting errors on this device.:-(
Hello, you have been super helpful and just want to thank you!! Watching your videos has helped me a ton and I am starting to build my channel and it’s finally starting to grow and just want to thank you for the inspiration! I also have another question, I am trying to record the audio and the guitar into the camera. I have a mix pre 6 and I run both mics into that and stereo out into the Canon 80 D now my question is I usually take it into LumaFusion or final cut and edit it. When I do this it is far superior but is there a piece of gear or software that will allow me to some how filter the lapel mic out when I play my guitar. Or vise versus. That way there is the guitar and or the vocal isolated. Usually I just cut those parts out in post but I am trying to do multiple videos a day and it is super time consuming to edit all of it out. There has to be a way to do this. It’s killing me. Lol Thank you so much for your time!
Do you have any recommendations for sound devices that allows you to skip the syncing audio process in post? Would like high quality audio recorded straight to a DSLR or cinema camera like the c200. SM7b is the mic that’s used. Thank you
Yes, you can run the audio from the output of the MixPre into one of the XLR inputs on the C200 set to line level with very good results. I do this for my livestreams and and very happy with the sound quality.
Curtis thank you for your review. I bought this unit and have tried using it. I've put in a fresh set of 4 alkaline batteries, and was amazed when the unit has drained my batteries within about 10 minutes. I plugged it to my computer and carried on with my recording to finish what I was recording. A few days later, I pulled out the "dead" batteries, grabbed a fresh pack of 4 - same story unit shut down due to low juice within 10 minutes. Would you have any idea why? First time I was using Sennheiser AVX Digital Wireless Microphone System - ME2 Lavalier Set. The second time I used Audio-Technica AT4053B Hypercardioid Condenser Microphone. I am at a loss as to why it chews through brand new batteries in less than 10 minutes flat!
Hi Serge, Sound Devices actually advises against using AA alkaline batteries and instead recommends NiMH or Lithium AA batteries. I don't fully understand the differences but I understand that the different battery chemistries behave differently. In any case, you'll probably want to go with NiMH rechargeables or Lithium AAs. Best wishes!
Thank you sir. Will switch. As long as they last for 2 hours and 20 minutes like you mentioned. I guess I assumed it would last this long on plain alkaline batteries... :)
Hi Curtis, love your reviews. I am an amateur concert recorder who would like to possibly ease into a part time professional gig doing field recordings. In your opinion, would you consider this a good choice as opposed to the more expensive SD633? Would prefer to spend the money on good mics. What do you think?
Hi teddy G, I think it is but it depends on how much of an audiophile you and your potential clients are. Will this be for large professional orchestras? Sometimes the producer/directo will require higher grade gear, but not always. but for smaller, semi-pro and volunteer orchestras, I think the MixPre-6 is definitely up to the job.
Hi Curtis, Great review. Only thing I'm unclear of is how you're attaching the MixPre to the tripod and GH5. I'm looking at getting this exact setup (except with a MixPre and GH5s when it comes out), do you think I should be able to operate both of these on the Zhiyun Crane 2 gimbal? Would be a great combination in terms of quality I think if I could get it working.
Hi Neil, I don't typically connect the two of them together, but if I need to, the MixPre has a 1/4-20 screw on the top of the recorder that connects to the GH5. There is a screw on the bottom of the MixPre that you use to tighten the 1/4-20 screw. I don't think that the Crane 2 will support the weight of both but you could attach the MixPre to the bottom of the Crane's handle but that will be an incredible workout for your arms. Also, where would you put the microphone? (or would you be using wireless)? Definitely good that you're thinking this trough before diving in! Good luck!
Hey Curtis. Great video. Do you know if you can route the stereo output and the headphone out independently of each other? Example, I want to use the stereo out as a playback out of my computer and also continue to monitor my two track mix via phones out. Also did you do any tests with going usb3 to usb C?
Hi Aaron, yes, you can monitor with the headphones and main out at the same time with separate routing setups for each. I used the USB C out for audio interface work. I have heard that the USB A port can work but only in class compliant mode (2 in 2 out) but I haven’t tested that.
Hi Curtis, great review :-) do you have any experience if the MixPre-3/6 timecode and start/stop function works with canon 70d over the hdmi output? In the sound devices list of supported cameras only the canon c100 is listed as inhouse-tested.
Thanks MJ. Unfortunately I don't have a 70D on hand to test that. You might submit a support email to Sound Devices to see if they can test that for you. Best wishes!
Great video! How on earth did you manage to fit 4 eneloop pros in the battery sled? I have a mixpre-6 ii and any battery with a high enough capacity will not fit flush in the battery sled and will stick out of the recorder in a funny way.
Hi Curtis. I am going to purchase the L mount sled for my Mixpre6 but I am a tad confused about the charge base for the 2 batteries offered on Amazon. It does come with the USB cable but what do I need for the wall plug that the USB cable interfaces with? Thank you in advance.
Hi teddy G, you'd need to plug the USB-A into a USB to AC adapter like those for most mobile phones. You can also plug them into most computer USB ports or outlets with USB ports. It'll generally charge faster with larger phone AC adapters or wall outlets with USB ports.
Curtis thanks for this great review! Thanks for clarifying the unbalanced issue. I owner a Sound Device 302 and comparing this mixer with the new Kashimir which one has better quality. What is your view about it?
Hi Marcelo, I have not used the 302 in particular, but the Kashmir sounds very similar to the SD 633: ruclips.net/video/Hnvq-6M1adE/видео.html My guess is that the 302 and MixPre-3/6 will sound very similar. The self-noise performance might be better on the MixPre, but I'm not certain of that.
Possible to connect multiple 3.5 mm mics? Is there some adaptor you would recommend that will enable a 3.5 mm mono (plug in power) mic to be connected, and also a 3.5 stereo (plug in power) to be connected to the PreMix 6 at the same time? Ideally connected into the XLR inputs so I could connect a number of them. Ideally an adaptor that does not increase the noise floor? Can the stereo 3.5 mm mic somehow be split into 2 separate channels? Mics will be used to record audio speech, with many silences so don’t want hiss during the silences. Someone mentioned a Rode VXLR+ but it appears to increase noise floor considerably? Your reviews are excellent and have led me to the PreMix6... Thanks!
Hi Dave, I just received the RODE VXLR+ last week and haven’t had a chance to try it yet so I’m not sure how much noise it adds. You can use a splitter to feed two lava into the Aux input. They will then share the plugin power and cannot be adjusted in terms of gain independently. But should technically be possible.
Hi Curtis! Thanks for the great video! Question that I can't seem to find the answer too in the manual - if you record in basic mode with four channels for example, does it only record as a stereo file rather then a poly wave of those four channels? Or do you need to record in advanced fr that to come in to play? Thanks!
Hi Joshua, No, basic mode will only record a stereo mix. To get a poly wav file with the four isolated channels you'll want to go to advanced. mode. If you are interested, I have a MixPre course over at school.learnlightandsound.com. Best wishes!
Hi curtis, Hare Krishna Very nice video with many important information. I do have H1, H4NPro and thinking to have a sound device premix 6. Do you have any video of H4NPro VS Sound Device Premix 6. Or can u plz let me know why Sound Device is better than H4NPro ?
Hi Madhava, the MixPre is far superior to the Zoom H series in terms of audio quality. It is really no comparison. I don’t have any specific videos comparing samples from the two but the MixPre is much much better. Best wishes!
Hare Krishna, Madhava. Since I own both the H4n Pro and H5 apart from the Mixpre 6; the Mixpre 6 wins hands-down on audio quality. I'd strongly recommend the Mixpre 6.
I hope you're getting commission for those links, I'm about to order one :) x As an aside, do you sell 'one-on-one' workshop sessions? I think my sound is pretty good, but it would be great to have a teardown from a pro (particularly as your advice helped me build it)
Haha! Oh yes, the links are affiliate links but only for those who genuinely find the review helpful. Thanks! I don't normally do a lot of consulting just because time is tight right now and you are right, your sound is already great! Keep it up!
I am curious if you have ever considered making a video that compares the top preamps to a scientific level. Are Cashmere better than Onyx or another manufacturer? Where can one find the "cleanest" preamp?
Hi Joseph, my approach is usually more practical and I don't have the type of measurement equipment necessary for such a video. But I would highly recommend Julian Kraus's channel for that type of info. Best wishes!
Just got my Mix-Pre-6 and it's a spectacular piece of kit. Bought it based on your review Curtis.
+Gary Stockton glad you're happy with it. It's a lot of value in a very small package.
Gary Stockton I can use this for sling studio right sir?
Very happy with my MixPre-3. My only beef I haven't seen mentioned elsewhere is that playback is a bit of a chore. There is no option to play files consecutively, so you have to keep going into the menu and selecting the next file and not forgetting the file number and choosing the wrong one. For me this means deleting out the bad files has to wait until I'm on a pc, while on my old recorder I'd just run though all the files at the end of the session.
Delicious overview of the SD MixPre-6/3! and I appreciate the (initial) comparison with the Zoom F Series. I was completely sold on the Zoom F4 (which your reviews helped greatly as well), but now thinking that the SD MixPre-3 carries a better feature set for remote field sound recordings, i.e. backpacking/ climbing/ skiing trips in the back county. The analog pre-amps are a huge bonus, as is the small size/weight and the ability to power + interface with USB C simplify the accessory gear that may be needed on trips where every ounce counts. The Zoom F units carry some really nice added features, however, the tiny little SD MixPre-3, paired with a couple small mics. and DSLR will make for a VERY light, portable and powerful recording system.
Thanks Troy! On backpacking trips, I would definitely prefer to carry a MixPre-3 over the Zoom F4.
My gosh, Troy, your comment makes me want to go over to Denny’s!
I finally decided on mixpre3 II, can't wait to use it 🎉 after days of pondering and research. Many thanks to you and your videos! U rock
I hope it works well for you. Happy recording!
By the way, I can't wait for the showdown with the Zoom F series.
Same here!
The Zoom F4 seems to have better physical construction, especially in terms of jacks. Trying to use a USB port for external power is a deal-breaker. It's flimsy and prone to disconnection. On the Tascam DR-70D, this renders external power useless because any disruption of the USB connection will stop your recording (even with batteries in the unit). The F4 has a nice locking power connector and comes with an adapter for standard DC power plugs.
The F4 also has balanced XLR outputs and a 1/4" headphone jack that can take more strain than a 1/8" jack.
And finally the F4 has SDI connectors for timecode (which it can generate), which is important for more-professional cameras that don't even have HDMI.
Curtis Judd The Zoom F4 and MixPre-3 are a similar price here in Canada. Curious how those two compare, as well as compared to on camera solutions like the Panasonic DMW-XLR1.
Thanks for this excellent review - i'd say your reviews are the best in their class on RUclips.
Thanks Chris!
Excellent video. Thank you for a comprehensive look at the feature set of the Mix Pre-6. I'll be picking up a mix pre-3 to pair with my gh4. It will be a welcomed upgrade from my DR-40 which is causing me all kinds of issues right now.
That should be a nice step up from the DR-40!
Warranty help with Sound Devices is mixed. I bought three devices and had three problems. They took care of me good on the first two problems, but the third problem was a bad cable that came with one of the Mixpre-3ii's. It didn't work. I contacted support and they just told me to buy a new one because it was inconvenient for them to get one. So now I've got one substandard (?) cable that cost me an extra $25, and had to tell all the people I've recommended them to saying "they will take good care of you" that I was wrong but they still make the best devices.
Thanks for sharing your experience.
Based on your video Curtis, I have just made up my mind and ordered MP6. I mean... It's already paid for and I am eagerly awaiting DHL courier :) I thought about Mixpre-3 and almost bought it, but looks like having combo xlr/trs, higher frequency recording (I do a lot of nature and soundscapes) and few more tracks, will make it a great work companion. I can actually hook it up with MixPre-d to have 2 more limiters. I hope to progress to 633 type of recorder soon, but even then mp6 will be a great backup. Keep up a good work!
Congratulations Karol! I hope it works well for you!
Your video on the Saramonic Smartrig+ saved my neck on recording audio on the go! Absolutely love this channel.
Thanks!
Took delivery of the Mix pre 6 yesterday, and hoped to be taking it on a job today but won't risk it. First, the unit is really as good as all the reviews suggest. So far I've tried an NTG-2, a pair of Berhinger C-2s, and old Fender D3 drum mike (my old raido interviewing mike) and a pair of Rode filmmakers. All posed posed absolutely no problem level wise and the quality is breathtaking. The big challenge (so far) is that the unit is really, really power hungry; and running it from duracell AAs isn't going to be an option for very long (and I mean you're seeing battery levels halve 30 minutes in with 4 AAs running everything at full pelt); it just eats power. The AAs last very little time and the USB brick (or at least the one I've got, which does output at 2.1A) will only run it in restricted mode. When it does this, the unit only then records the L-R mix and not the individual channels. So for my use - run-and-gun. light documentary, the Sony battery sled will be an absolute must, pushing up the cost and the weight.
And the power button is really hard to access when the USB C slot is in use ...
But, wow, that sound ...
Hi Jonathan, congrats on the MixPre. Good call to get more experience before jumping in to a job with new gear. I agree on all fronts - I really see the AAs as bridge power and generally use the NP-F sled for all but the shortest recording clips. With its small form factor, the power switch is definitely hard to change with that USB-C port occupied but I suppose that's good as well - not likely to get bumped off. I also find the headphone/menu encoder/knob difficult to adjust when headphones are plugged in, especially when the MixPre is in a bag. All that said, I've been very happy with the MixPre in terms of audio quality and features. People just need to understand the ergonomic realities and assess whether that will work for the types of projects they do.
I just bought the pre-3. It looks like it will be a bigger learning curve than the Tascam DR60.
I have a MixPre course over at school.learnlightandsound.com if you're interested.
Really useful video Curtis, many thanks. I never quite have the time to Fire up my studio gear but still need to indulge some songwriting when the moment takes me. This should de-clutter the process and help me get the ideas down quickly but still allow post tinkering in my DAW. Sound quality of the device is really good as was your analysis!
Thanks Bernard. If your main use case is recording music, you might have a look at the MixPre M series which are very similar in terms of hardware but have a different software interface that allows overdubbing and other such features for music recording. Here was an interview from NAB earlier this year where Paul from Sound Devices talks about the 10T (they also have 3 and 6 input versions as well): ruclips.net/video/5DCoYBsdglI/видео.html
Curtis, your presentations are A class.
Thanks Pete!
Bravo, thanks for another informative video. I love the mixpre6 and use it daily. I have the same experience with firmware 1.11, in that a sudden power loss does not corrupt the files. Good stuff.
You're welcome and thanks for confirming!
WOW! This thing is amazing. I know what I'm getting when I upgrade from my Tascam DR-40 or add to my audio kit!
I think you'll find this a nice step up!
Thanks for this, very helpful. I ended up ordering one after watching all your recorder reviews.
Good luck, I hope it works well for you!
Thanks Curtis. I'm seriously considering getting this MixPre-6 for my youtube videos. I have a Canon XA30 video camera, so I will be checking compatiblity, etc. Your evaluations on audio have been very helpful. Regards, Solomon
BTW, in this video, what do you have the MixPre-6 and camera mounted on?
+Life After Work thanks and good luck. The MixPre is just mounted on an old Manfrotto video head on my tripod.
For me at least, 2 additional cons are the quirky Li-Ion battery caddy, where the batteries jut out at 90 degrees on either side of the recorder, and the limited gain staging options for ISOs (discussed in depth elsewhere). Just my 5c.
+kipling1957 thanks for the input!
Another great information filled review. Thank you!
+Carlos Quintero thanks Carlos!
Another great (and very in depth) review - thanks!
Thanks Edward!
Excellent job, thanks! Planning to get the mix 3 as a backup for the 633!
+Firewerkz Films good choice, I hope you like it!
Thank you for this review and all your other great videos! This helps a lot!
👍
Superb appraisal Judd- really help me make my mind up!
Thanks Bernard.
Thanks so much. You do amazing reviews and I learn a ton every time I watch!
Thanks Joe!
This is a really interesting product, I've been eyeing the 3 pretty closely. Great review!
Thanks Tomas! It'd be a nice addition to your VideoDevices Pix-E recorder. :)
Thorough review, nicely done as always. It amazes me how when watching your videos I will think of something I wish you would touch on and BAM you cover it. Nothing much gets by you.
Here's one for you, you did not mention using a USB-C battery pack. That seems like the best way to go right now. Would be nice to know how long you can run all four XLR mic inputs on one of those packs.
Also, I saw yesterday that a Dutch company is making a modified SD 4 AA battery sled with a Hirose 14 volt power 4 pin connector on the sled itself, not on an outboard box attached to it. 110 Euros, hopefully that unit will make its way to the USA soon. Even better if SD made one!
+RallenMan thanks Allen. Good point on the USB-C power bank. I included a link to one in the description after forgetting to mention it. :) interesting news on that alternative sled!
Another great video Curtis, thank you!
Thanks Christopher!
I have a MixPre3 that primarily gets used for field recording material for SFX and sound design material. I found the touch screen a bit small for my fingers, but solve the issue happily by using a touch screen stylus, which stays in a pocket on my recorder bag. While I have used it with a USB-C battery, I tend to power it with the L-Mount batteries.
Thanks for that, Mike. Good idea on the stylus.
Do you keep your old reviews up if they fix stuff in the firmware?
Yes, but I add annotations or comments pinned at the top with the corrections.
RIP: Annotations.
This was really informative! Thanks a lot for making this video.
+Nathan Bailey you're welcome and thanks for the feedback!
Yup. These are epic. Will have. Probably the Pre-3, though.
I hope you like it. The 3 is tiny which is great.
Thanks for the review! I will order one.
You're welcome and happy recording!
Outstanding video. Now here is my question. In your professional opinion, which is the best choice for field recorder?
1. Zoom F4
2. Sound Devices 633
3. SD 4
It’s not the $$$, just don’t want to regret the purchase in a year or two.
So of these three, which one gets the nod.
Thank you
James
Hi James, thanks for the question. The answer depends heavily on the intended types of jobs you'll do with the recorders. I have all three (actually, I upgraded my MixPre-6 to the newer MixPre-10T) and if I could only keep one, I'd keep the 633. But the reason I'd keep it is not that it is the most expensive or has the best sound (though both of those are true). It has to do with some of the other features such as AES digital output, size and weight, and ergonomics.
How will you be using your recorder, what types of jobs? Max number and type of inputs you need? Paid or passion jobs?
Curtis, I've been a fan of your reviews for years--they're some of the best on RUclips. This review of the Mix-pre is an exception---it's too involved, too complicated, and assumes too much of the viewer in regard to background.
I've searched RUclips and there's not a single basic tutorial on the Mix-pre 3 on the entire web. There are a LOT of people giving "reviews" that is a huge waste of time.
Would you consider a basic tutorial on this item? It's needed and I, for one, would really appreciate it.
Hi William, I have a full course on the MixPre at school.learnlightandsound.com. Also, on the RUclips channel associated with my online courses - Curtis Judd Audio - there are several tutorials. Just search for "Curtis Judd Audio MixPre". Best wishes.
Excellent review. The gain variation procedure is still a little complicated and not immediate (even in custom mode).
Yes, that there is no meter in the menu where you set the gain is a little troublesome but ok otherwise.
Excellent review, such concise info. I’m buying one on a clear out price. It will do the trick perfectly for me 08/21
Thanks Steve and happy recording!
@@curtisjudd As it turns out it was the M they had on sell out. Had to buy version bought version ii, ouch!
@@SuperNova-Steve It hurts now, but I have not regretted the purchase. Hopefully it will work well for you!
Great review Curtis!
+Narek Avetisyan thanks Narek!
Great Quality review!!!!
Thanks Jorge!
Love the new rings red/green
👍
Fantastic review Cutis Sir.
Thanks rk
I found some information on manufacturer's website. They do not say how long 4 AA batteries are expected to power this device. What they do say is; on a pack of 8 AA batteries, you can expect to get 80 minutes of run time. There is a very important note there, although misleading, it states: "Using 4 alkaline batteries in the MX-4AA to power the MixPre will give much less than half the runtime listed above for 8 alkaline batteries in the MX-8AA...." It would be up to any one individual to interpret the meaning behind "much less than half the runtime" phrase. Turns out the actual meaning of this phrase is - 4 batteries will power MixPre-6 less than 10 min!!! I wish they would just come out and say it, instead of playing the numbers game. Here I am all stressing out about the supposed 2 hours and 20 minutes of run time that I should be getting, but it turns out non-rechargeable lithium batteries is what you need to get longest run times when powering it via AA batteries. I know it's not the least expensive option, and that's fine by me, I just hope the company would be more forthcoming. To add to the injury, they want $70 for the 8 battery caddy. Urghhhh!!!! Great device, lots to love about it, but that left a sour taste in my mouth... lol :)
Thanks Serge. I’m not suggesting I know what Sound Devices was thinking but I suspect there can still be differences from alkaline battery to alkaline battery. Nevertheless, a statement along the lines of, “We do not recommend alkaline AA batteries as they supply very short powering times...”
Great video review Curtis. One pro that I think you overlooked is that I don't think any other device at this price point can be a USB interface and record at the same time? (I could be wrong but I think that's the case?)
+Gen Kanai yes, true! Thanks!
The MixPre6 NPF mount have issues if you bump it slightly whole device turns off. USB C and powerbank seem to be the best method to power but its afraid the Type C could break over time.
Thanks for sharing. I haven't run into that problem. Some have said they needed to gently pull out on the tab which holds the sled in place, just a little, and that it fit more snugly and didn't have that issue.
I know it's not totally related to this video but I've recently finished gathering for my first sound kit, shich runs a Sound Devices 442 (which I already owned with a Zoom H5 combo) and a new Zoom F8. I work as a boom operator from time to time and one of my bosses made me feel kinda dumb I went for the F8 over this Sound Devices... that yes would have lightened my bag but the 442 runs 4 AA batteries as well l, but for 6 hours with one phantom and the F8 runs with 8 AA (haven't tested it's full limits yet because I have it powered by power bank external batteries to its DC input or via Hirose cable). I have the analogue limiters and the Sound Devices preamps plus dual recording (I've never had a problem with single slots but once I was asked for an mp3 and wav files but couldn't provide it). The F8 can also give out TC as well as receive it (though can't turn it off if it is giving it from what I heard that may mess up the clock). Other than that I'm asked for Comteks often, and my combination allows me to even have spare outputs after that and running a hop to the camera. The MixPre6 is amazing and I am fascinated by it but I'm also glad I did't get it. Thanks for the excellent reviews. :)
Hi Freddie, Everyone has their personal preferences for how they like to work so I would happily ignore the chiding from your boss. Enjoy recording with your new kit which should work great!
Pink noise UK have come up with a Hirose piggyback on a battery sled, with dc converter. This is something SD could do and make it seamless. Perhaps simpler is the Sony battery sled with a coupler to Hirose or DC socket.
Good info, thanks for that!
Yet another excellent and authoritative review. May have to get one of these as an amateur videographer/ semi pro musician.
One question... i see you have the new Focal Shape monitors.. what do you think of them? I just bought a pair of the Focal Alpha 80s for the music studio i'm currently setting up. Haven't used them in anger, but a quick setup shows that they will do the trick for me. But the Shapes look rather interesting!
+Tim Beaton the Shapes are probably the best I've used thus far. The bass response is impressive yet controlled and the inverted dome tweeters articulate the higher frequencies very well. I need to do some room response testing but I'll likely buy them (on loan at the moment)
Hi Curtis,
Love your videos. It helped me make up my mind buying the MixPre6.
FWIW, I managed to use a wireless keyboard to enter metadata.
I have large hands and found it very difficult to use the rotary encoder,
especially when the recorder is in my Orca OR28 and the headphone connected.
Just my 2 cents.
Cheers.
Thanks madsmix, good work on the keyboard setup and best wishes on your recordings!
Thanks. Although the MixPre has stellar recording quality, I totally get why the 633 is your favourite.
Damn these big hands!😄
Haha! These hands have cost me a pretty penny more than once. 😉
Great video. Thanks
Thanks Manoj.
Just looked around there site and Problem at 22:40 was solved in Firmware update 2.2, .
It's awesome to see what they have already integrated.
Im definitely getting one of these :)
👍
I recently picked up the Zoom H6 along with the Fethead pre-amp and have found it to really be a fantastic all in one solution for film field recording, podcasting, and even audio interfacing. However, I still have a return window and have definitely been eyeing the MixPre3 or 6. For run and gun situations and also having a device that can service podcasting and voice over production, would you recommend this as a worthwhile step up from the H6 or, for the price point, stick with the H6? Are the pre-amps significantly better? Thanks for all the great work you do!
I think it might be the case that when the limiters are engaged continually you get a better result than intermittent highs. It just brings the gain down so the audio is unharmed by being limited and unlike with periodic peaks you don't get the pumping of the background sounds rising and falling and the just about detectable spike in volume before the limiter catches it. I was recording some bird song and distant high explosive artillery firing the other day, as you do, when a tank drove past and blasted it's engine as it changed down a gear. Because the sound built up gradually and was a constant high level there was no pumping, and as far as i can tell it was not distorted by being limited, the mixpre just smoothly brought the gain level down to a manageable level and kept it there until it had passed. Have a listen soundcloud.com/oundscapes/a-soundscape-from-an-active-day-on-salisbury-plain-uk There's an Apache helicopter manoeuvring around towards the end as well.
+Soundscapes UK interesting. As long as the sound source is constant or nearly so. Hadn't thought of it in those terms. Thanks!
It seems it doesn't need to be very constant, as long as its fairly smooth changes (ie not going quickly from loud to quiet and loud again which would give the pumping effect) it seems to just keep adjusting the level up and down to keep things in check with no apparent harm. If you listen to that clip with the tank its already limiting and then it revs up much louder but i guess it just brought the level down a bit more and it handled it. It would be interesting if Paul Isaacs would give a really in depth explanation of how the limiters operate. I guess the main negative effect of relying on the limiters as "automatic gain control" could be that the apparent volume of the recording could end up flat, but then that could be adjusted in post, to make the loud things louder than the quiet things. For the recording i linked there i didn't do that though and somehow even though it was limited already, when the tank revs up it's apparent that it's got louder. So maybe the limiter brings it to a level where there is still spare headroom for the sound to increase rather than bringing it to a level just below the clipping point and it has to keep adjusting the limiting amount. Either way these limiters work in a very clever and subtle way that make using the mixpre almost idiot proof. Clearly some genius level thinking has gone into making this thing.
I have chosen not to use the zoom due to the digital limiter vs the sound device analogue which make a world of difference
Fair enough! Happy recording!
Hi Curtis, really great that you reply to a lot of your viewers. Just wanted to ask, between the Mixpre 6 and Mixpre 6M, with the Mixpre 6M being $100 cheaper, would you recommend the Mixpre 6 over the 6M for youtube video production (as recommended by Sound Devices marketing)? I know the 6M is marketed towards musicians but I see no reason it can't be used as a recorder for youtubers, podcasters, streamers. Hope you can give your valuable insight on this. Thank you
Hi Fil Trans, I would definitely recommend the MixPre 6, and not the 6M for RUclips video production. The 6M’s UI is made ONLY for music tracking and overdubbing. You would have to create an entirely new project for each take. You can always add the music plugin to the 6 if you also record multitrack music. Good luck.
Here’s a video where we cover the difference between the MixPre and MixPre M series: ruclips.net/video/xdcKjASBAZ4/видео.html
Ola Curtis, great review. I decided to buy mixpre-6 and also an audio bag. Do You have any recommendation which one? I'm looking at Orca OR-28 Mini, but since i'll have at least 2 lavs, shotgun, cables and batteries I'm not sure its big enough or it is?. So what do You use and recommend? Thanks.
Hi receptxful, I have an Orca OR-30 and OR-34. The MixPre-3 is big even in the OR-30. I have found that I do NOT like to carry everything in the audio bag all the time because it gets too heavy when booming and mixing with the shoulder strap or even the harness. So I would encourage you to consider getting a separate bag for mixing and carrying stuff. The MixPre-6 will certainly fit in the OR-28. I'll be doing a Sound for Video Session on audio bags later this week on my other channel (Curtis Judd Audio). Good luck and happy recording!
Great video as always.
Thanks Shaheed.
Mixpre 3 is on the way! I am just wondering if I should have got the 6... the main thing that bugs me is the 3 can't record the aux in +3 mic channels. It seems you have to assign it to 1 or 2 of the main channels. The XLRs aren't combo TRS either!
Congrats, I hope it works well for you! The lack of TRS inputs just means you may need different cables when taking line level audio from a mixing board. And three channels is often enough. Note that the bonus is that the 3 is tiny, tiny, tiny!
Got it yesterday it rocks! Thanks your channel has been really helpful!
Can I just get the line out signal, put into my camera? The quality would be the same as if I would get the audio file from the recorder and use it in post production?
Yes. But the quality will probably not be the same depending on the camera.
@@curtisjudd thanks, Curtis!! The camera would be a Canon C200.
@@miguel_chain Ok, so the MixPre-6 has an unbalanced 3.5mm output and you can run that into the 3.5mm input on the C200. From what I can tell, the C200's 3.5mm input cannot be set to line level so you'll have to send tone to the camera and adjust the output fader. There most likely will be an audio quality hit with that approach. Another option is to use a DI box to convert the MixPre-6 output to balanced and then run that into one of the XLR inputs on the C200 at line level. with a good DI the audio quality should be better that way, in theory. But it is a potentially awkward setup with that extra DI box.
@@curtisjudd Man, thanks for taking time to explain that. It seems that it doesn´t worth . It might be easier get Video file from the camera, get the audio file from the recorder and sinc them on post...
Thank you again! I´m watching a lot of your videos today. I own a Zoom H6 right now - for everything - podcasts etc... but when I used the phones (not the line out) the phone jack - I get an annoing noise. As far as I researched - there´s no solutiion for it, since it may happen due to unproper sealing for that module ( or something like that). I´m thinking about getting or the Zoom F4 or MixPre-3 mkII . Your videos are helping a lot! Thanks again
The ZOOM F4 has balanced outputs so that would be ideal for sending audio to the C200.
One thing I can't find mentioned in this excellent review, or in the comments, is the poorly designed attachment for connecting a camera on top of this unit. It is a spring loaded screw which must be accessed from beneath the recorder. If you have this recorder mounted beneath your camera and wish to take the camera off ( say to change cameras or just use a microphone) you have to take the tripod plate off of the bottom to access that screw. Would it really have been too much for them to offer a mounting plate on the top like is available for the MixPre D ?
Looks like you have just called that out for those who attach their cameras atop the MixPre. Thank you!
Every review comes from the perspective and workflow of the reviewer. So your perspective is very helpful. As you gathered, I don’t mount my camera on the recorder all that often so it wasn’t a pain point for me. Thanks again!
Hi Curtis, thanks for the in-depth review. I'm having a difficult time deciding between the MixPre-3 and MixPre-6. I mostly shoot wedding, corporate, and narrative. My main focus with the MixPre will be for weddings and corporate as I'll just hire a sound mixer / boom op for narrative projects. Would the combo XLR ports on the MixPre-6 make it easier to plug into a DJ Board? Do you think the MixPre-6 makes more sense for wedding videos? It's tough because I really dig the small size of the MixPre-3!
Hi Alex, the MixPre-3 would work fine for recording from sound boards as long as you have a good selection of the right cables on hand. You'll want 2 sets of cables: 1) XLR-3M for the end that plugs into the MixPre and XLR-3F for the feed from the board. 2) XLR-3M for the end that plugs into the MixPre and 1/4" TRS for the feed from the board. That should cover most sound boards. I'm also assuming that 3 inputs will do the job which in my experience is usually enough for weddings and corporates. Best wishes!
Amazing vid as always. Making my decision between Zoom Fs and MixPres even harder:) can't wait for the showdown video either. Quick question, do the MixPres or Zoom Fs generate 1Khz tone to calibrate levels on your camera?
Thanks Casey Li, yes, they both generate tone. We demonstrated that in depth on the MixPre over here when showing how to send audio from the MixPre to camera and use the tone to set the input level on the camera: ruclips.net/video/bsUeXtxsa50/видео.html
Curtis Judd awesome. Thanks!
Maplestone followup: I think it might have something to do with the Output settings on the MixPre-3. I fiddled around with them a bit without really understanding how they work. A visit back to the owner's manual might clear things up for me.
+Maplestone yes, or my MixPre course at school.learnlightandsound.com :)
Definitely the course - long over due. Just signed up and enrolled in the MixPre course. Thanks and please keep up the great videos, tutorials, etc.
+Maplestone thanks and I hope it gets you up and running quickly 👍
Just FYI it looks like SD did an update with "a new automatic copying facility duplicates the data recorded on the internal SD card directly to an external USB thumb-drive inserted into the machine's USB-A port." (SOS)
Yes, thanks! We did several updated videos on the MixPre II series and the firmware updates.
Thanks again Curtis. My research continues to find the best on location recorder for acoustic instrument (classical guitar). I noticed with the Tascam d60 mk 2 you mentioned right at the beginning that it is not suitable for musicians, while in this one you say the opposite. You haven't made a similar comparison with the zoom f4 so I am not sure where that fits in. I want to know what makes a decide more suitable for music rather than 'field sound' or dialogue vocals? I am pairing my future recorder with Rode nt5 matched pairs and AKG p170 matched pairs as well. I will be doing some interviews so vocals matter as well but most of my work is on classical guitar and acoustic instruments.
I am understanding the specs more now but my brain is telling me that both the sound devices and zoom f4 are capable of driving my condenser microphones, so what makes one more suitable than the other (I am not really asking which one is better as that's subjective. I am more asking for what spec, or feature I should be looking for). If you're wandering why not laptop and interface: I'll be flying around and want a portable solution to video, lighting, and audio gear.
thanks again and happy new year!
Hi Mustafa, The Tascam's fader is a digital stepping fader so you'll get a "stair stepping" effect if you change its setting while recording. Not a nice sound.
The Sound Devices would be my recommendation for music recording because not only can you record dialogue and effects for film, but they also offer a software add-on that allows you to do overdub recording for music as well: ruclips.net/video/xdcKjASBAZ4/видео.html
Specifically, since you will be recording both for film and music, you want the non-M version of the MixPre and to purchase the Music plugin after. Good luck!
@@curtisjudd Thanks Curtis, The video link pretty much answered my question right away. I am not interested in overdubbing since I run my own audio studio and if clients want multi track overdub recording then I'll just do it at home. I want a 'live' take device that I can record audio with top quality preamps. My sound target is mostly solo classical guitar. The musicians I'll be working with usually won't need over dubbing. I am also a professional musician so working with a music score I can sketch out takes of different parts of the solo track and edit them in post. I'm more interested now in the mixpre 6 than the zoom f 4 but sadly the price is almost double in Canadian $ for the mixpre 6.
Thanks for your videos, I've spent quiet a bit of time watching and then re-watching the different recorders and mics you use!
Thanks Mustafa and best wishes!
Great review, very informative! :)
Thanks!
As always ...the audio guru of youtube 👍🏻
Thanks 🙌
Just heard back from Joel at Sound Devices about the timecode compatibility for Canon DSLRs.
He says: "I believe we don't support HDMI Timecode and record triggers due to Canon not opening up the protocol for 3rd party products. Unfortunately this is true of both our audio and video products. I couldn't say for sure if that protocol will be opened up for 3rd party products such as ours in the future, but I will definitely pass this on to our engineering team and let them know we're getting requests for it."
Now, it should be noted that the Canon C100 (Original version, not the Mark II) is working as far as accepting timecode ONLY. But no triggering and from what I can tell, It was just a lucky fluke.
The good news is Tentacle Sync bridges that issue for now. (Thank the Gods for Tentacle Sync!)
+Christopher John Taylor excellent info, thanks Christopher.
Timecode AND triggering works perfectly with the Canon XC10, with no need for Tentacle Sync. For anyone that might be useful info for.
Thanks Soundscapes UK!
Then I'd assume the same would be true for the XC15 also. Very cool!
One thing which you didn't mention which viewers might find useful, you can't change the gain levels from the Wingman app which is a huge shame especially for stealth recording with the mixpre in a backpack. I can see because the faders are not continuous knobs it would get confusing to adjust the fader position off the unit but maybe changes on the wingman app could engage a remote set gain option and when you come back to the machine a press of the faders re-engages the faders as the determining adjustment for gain. Any slight clunkiness in implementation would be worth bearing for the benefit of being able to remotely adjust the gain..............And as you did mention you can't stereo link channels when the gain is in basic mode which to expand on that if you want only the the ISOs and don't want to waste card space with a mix track and want to use the faders to adjust the levels on the go you can't do it with a stereo linked pair. If you link a pair you can only easily adjust levels of the mix track which i have no interest in having if using more than 2 mics and the side knob is really not user friendly. Press fader, select gain, hunt for knob in bag, adjust and before you have a chance to listen it's timed out and reset to headphone gain control on that knob. For field recording thats a huge bummer. I think they miss fired a little with the basic mode idea, beginners will need some of the advanced features and its maybe a bit more complicated to work out the custom mode way of adding those features, it's groups of features really which as in the gain group can cause loss of other functions. I think they should have just had the more advanced options available in the deeper menu screens so people could leave it as it comes or delve deeper as required.
I hope they'll work on these things. It still destroys the competition as a compact field recorder as it is but these things would make it significantly better for me anyway.
+Soundscapes UK thanks for the insights! Overall I agree, great recorder with a few little areas for improvement.
Thanks for a really useful review. I already ordered Mixpre6....but have to wait for a week or two to arrive.
Currently I'm using two field mixers (SQN-4S and SQN2 + Tascam DR-100 mk2) for audio recording.
I have two questions:
1) can you compare SD preamps to SQN preamps? Will I be disappointed with SD? (comparing to SQN)
2) did you try Mixpre6 with 600 ohms headphones? Is headphone amplifier strong enough to drive them loud and clear?
Thanks
Željko
Hi Zeljko, Thanks and I hope you enjoy your MixPre. I don't have an SQN available to compare. I've used many different recorders and I am very happy with the quality of the MixPre's Kashmir preamps. I used a variety of Sony and Beyerdynamic headphones with the MixPre ranging from 70 to 250 ohms. Even with the 250 ohm headphones, I only had to drive the gain to about 55 out of 100. I am hopeful that you won't have problems with 600 ohm headphones. Best wishes!
Curtis, great video as always. I do have a question I have not been able to get the answer for. I have a MixPre6 and want to input 4 XLR inputs in ISO tracks, then an additional 3.5mm mic input also in an ISO track. I cannot figure it out. I've tried most things. None of my tracks are stereo linked currently. When I bring the file into Adobe Audition or FCPX, the tracks are merged and I cannot isolate the tracks. Help! Thank you.
You need to change to advanced mode in the system menu. 😀
Informative Review !
Thanks AR
Curtis, this is great. I appreciate all the details you put into your reviews and has greatly help me improve my audio. I had one question - does this device support adding plugins ?
Hi Sandeep, thank you! Short answer: Yes, but only plugins from Sound Devices. Also, this is an older review for the first generation MixPre recorders. Here is a review of the newer II series and a link to the MixAssist plugin review: ruclips.net/video/8lRVnMO14k8/видео.html
ruclips.net/video/oTLfgQ3qSek/видео.html
@@curtisjudd Thank you for your response. I like the short answer. Let me put my question in a different way-- I have couple of mics and my main requirement is to connect them to my computer via some interface and use it on Zoom, Teams and Skype calls. I also want to add couple of plugins via OBS so that my voice sounds a little better and clearer. Right now I use SSL2 with macbook 13 and the issue with this setup is that macbook fans run very loud just to handle the plugins. I was looking at some device which could handle couple of simple plugins or have their inbuilt EQ where i can i achieve the same same result without using my computer-- any suggestions will be of great help.
@@sukhoi01 Maybe a processor like the dbx286S will do the job for you. It has a compressor, de-esser, enhancer (both low and high frequency - sort of an EQ), and a noise gate. You would then feed that live level into your SSL2. That would at least offload the audio processing from the MacBook.
@@curtisjudd Thankyou
@@curtisjudd wanted to update you on what I did for my issue. I could not get dbx fast enough so I researched a way of processing obs plugins in another computer ( which I had handy). Then I am bringing in the audio via network to my macbook13 as an audio stream in Obs, which I am using un processed in my skype and teams calls.
Thanks once again.
I am a RUclips creator and a total NEWB when it comes to video/audio equipment. Since I started my channel a couple years ago, I've embraced the "fake it until you make it" moto.
Having said that, I am trying to learn as much as possible to make the sound quality of my videos the best I can. Right now, I record into my GH4 camera that faces me using a Shure Lavalier Mic (this one: www.shure.eu/products/wireless_systems/pg-wireless-presenter-set) that feeds into my gh4 interface unit.
However, since I film by myself there are times when I forget to turn on the mic :( So...I am trying to set up another microphone to my 2nd Gh4 camera (that is over my head to capture my hands in my videos) that I can rely on for those unfortunate times. I've purchased a Rode VideoMic Go and mounted it to the camera...but I am getting terrible hissing in the video.
So here are my questions:
1. Would this equipment that you are showing here be a better option for me to get audio?
2. Or, do you have a suggestion to get better sound from the Rode mic I already have?
3. I sometimes have a guest on my videos but can't figure out how to connect a second Shure Lavalier to my GH4 Interface...do you have any suggestions? Am I just being daff? Is it even possible for me to record two people with two different lav's into one interface?
Honestly, I am really just looking for some sort of help. Anything you are able to offer me would be great!
I love the sound quality of your videos and would love to know how to get that. Thanks.
P.S. I do knitting and crochet videos.
Hi Marly! This could definitely help but might also be overkill at $900 USD. I had a quick look at a couple of your videos and the sound is quite good! Lavaliers are always a little tricky and I prefer the sound of a boom microphone but I'm wondering if that would work well given that you'll be looking down while teaching the knitting/crochet techniques. The VideoMic Go is not the greatest so it is not surprising that you're getting a hissing noise with that one. The RODE VideoMic Pro does quite a lot better without the hiss and sounds quite nice when you boom it. In your case it might make sense to position it at the front of the table you're working from aimed up at your mouth, as close as you can get it. Here's a sample of the sound quality you might expect with that: ruclips.net/video/TUEmQBZKoBs/видео.html
I hope that helps and good luck!
Curtis Judd thank you so much for your reply. I will try to place the Rode mic on the table in front of me and see how that goes. I will need to purchase an extension cable though. Do you have a suggestion for which one I should get? I use Amazon Prime for nearly everything so if you have an affiliate code, let me use it.
If I were to get another mic, would you recommend the Rode Pro or is there another one that would be better for my needs?
Again. Thank you so much ;) if I can ever help you with knitting or crochet just let me know *wink*
This is very helpful. Thank you for your reply. I've been watching more of your videos and I think that I want to get a Zoom F4 and a RODE NTG2 or NTG4+ Shotgun Microphone or would a
Electro-Voice RE20 Microphone work for my needs?
Also, I am looking for a video to show how to use two audio inputs into my GH4 interface. I want it to accept sound from my wireless lav receivers (I have two for when I have a guest in the video). Right now, I have the wireless lav receiver (only one) linked to a XLR adapter and plugged into the camera.
Why you ask? I can't figure out how to have the XLR go directly into the interface and record...the camera defaults to in camera sound (boo)! Again, I am a total newb and appreciate all your help. If you're available to ever do a facetime in my studio to see my set-up, I would totally pay you to do that and help me...if you are available for that, of course.
Okay, I figured out why my camera is only recording from the body...there is actually a control that I have to switch in the camera setting under the interface unit that tells it to accept audio from the body or XLR. Might seem really simple and not worthy of a video...but if there are others like me out there...they won't know that.
Anyway, wahoo! I am so proud of myself for figuring that out after 1.5 years. LOL.
Hi Marley, yes, here is the extension I use for my RODE VideoMic Pro: amzn.to/2ucv4nC
Curtis, thanks for the superb tutorials. I enrolled in your series of courses on the Mix Pre 6 and this has been helpful resource for learning technique and craft. I am still working to clear a couple hurdles: a) When sending timecode from the C300MKII to the MixPre 6 via HDMI I am having a latency issue that sounds like a delay. b) When sending the mix from the Mix Pre 6 into the C300MKII via 8th" stereo mic jack, I'm getting bad hiss. If you have any suggestions, I'd appreciate the advice. Thank you.
Hi Steve, camera HDMI signals generally involve some amount of latency so you may need to apply an offset to compensate. You’ll need to experiment to find that offset. You can use the free Wave Agent app from sound devices to apply the offset. As for the hiss, I’d check your cable first. Also, what do you have the output set to - mic/line, fader? And is the camera’s input switchable between mic and line and if so, do you have it set the same as the MixPre’s output?
Thanks Curtis! Great video. Could you also tell us about any differences between the Sound Device MixPre-3 and Sound Device MixPre-6?
Main differences: MixPre has 3 XLR inputs (no 1/4" TRS inputs), can record up to 5 tracks (3 XLR inputs plus stereo mix or 5 isolated tracks) and the sample rate on the MixPre-3 tops out at 96kHz.
Hi Curtis!
Im looking at obtaining one of these.
The enviroment would be shotgun on channel 1, with channels 2-4 for direct plug in of radio scanners for Tower, Ground, and air to air aviation frequencies.
Channels 2-4 being ISO tracks.
After setting levels, will channels 2-4 be routed to headphone out on the Mixpre6 if monitoring channel 1?
I wish not to hear them. Nor for them being recorded with the Mix. With Channel 1 set to stereo track.
Keep up the great work!
Brian
Hi Brian, you can set up a custom headphone preset that only monitors channel 1.
If you are interested, I have a MixPre course available over at school.learnlightandsound.com where we cover some of the settings in more depth.
Best wishes!
Hi Curtis,
Fantastic video on the mix pre 6. Is there any way you can review the mix pre 10? I would like to know if it specifically overcomes the mix pre 6 limitations for pro Sound recordists.
Just got it earlier this week and did an overview of the 10T here: ruclips.net/video/r0fPGr_SDxs/видео.html
+Curtis Judd - What would be some reasons someone chooses the MixPre 3 or MixPre 6? I am a videographer who currently owns an F4 however the interface is a bit too much for me to deal with, especially when it comes to mixing on the fly (I am still learning audio). Aside from that I hardly ever output to camera or output to any device on the F4. I have a boom and two wireless lavs with the intent of getting an indoor dialogue mic. I like the simplicity of the MixPre and want to get the best one for me.
Hi Zanin, in addition to the "Pros" listed in the summary at the start, I think the main reasons are that they are both very, very small, their preamps sound great, and they have several features which make it easier to record such as limiters and very nice gain/level knobs. Also, you can switch the MixPre in to "Basic" mode which makes them even easier to use to just record however many microphones into a stereo track. Good luck!
Curtis Judd Thank you! I got the MixPre3 and was the best decision I made in terms of audio. This thing is TINY. I was confused at first and thought someone gave me a toy. Much more easier to use. However I might return it to get the MixPre6 for the additional inputs and features.
Congrats and I hope it works out well for you!
Hi Curtis, you're reviews and discussions about audio are amazing! I was about to purchase a mixpre-3 and then realized: if I have it mounted between a tripod and my camera (GH5) and I have to change the GH5 battery, do I have to then remove the tripod plate and then unscrew the mixpre from the camera to get to the battery door?
Hi Steve, thanks! You are correct. I don't usually attach my audio recorder to my camera but if you do, then you'll either need an external battery solution for your camera or remove it from the rig to change the battery. Or you can use a camera cage to rig the MixPre above the camera. Best wishes!
I find it very difficult to find a right level on the four channels. I either have them set too low or too high. Ruined a lot of sessions trying to guess the right level... never had that problem with the ZoomH5. When it is set too high, an equalizer kicks in to counteract the high levels that makes the recording unusable. Any advice on how to set the levels? I record on four channels so they add up.
Hi Balint, I usually set the levels so that the peaks hit around -18dB on the meters. Then in post, I have freedom to compress the peaks and set the loudness where I want it. If set this way, the limiter - what you refer to as an equalizer - only kicks in slightly and helps prevent very occasional clipping events.
@@curtisjudd Thank you for your response. I watched one of the MixPre reviews in which you stated that it is almost "not important" to set the levels on this because it is not going to clip if an amateur recording engineer accidentally sets the level too high... but instead of clipping there is a limiter, which is very annoying and makes organ recordings unusable. I am thinking of going back to my good old Zoom H5, because I a making too many mistakes and setting errors on this device.:-(
Ok. I think a little bit of study should solve the problem for you.
Hello, you have been super helpful and just want to thank you!! Watching your videos has helped me a ton and I am starting to build my channel and it’s finally starting to grow and just want to thank you for the inspiration! I also have another question, I am trying to record the audio and the guitar into the camera. I have a mix pre 6 and I run both mics into that and stereo out into the Canon 80 D now my question is I usually take it into LumaFusion or final cut and edit it. When I do this it is far superior but is there a piece of gear or software that will allow me to some how filter the lapel mic out when I play my guitar. Or vise versus. That way there is the guitar and or the vocal isolated. Usually I just cut those parts out in post but I am trying to do multiple videos a day and it is super time consuming to edit all of it out. There has to be a way to do this. It’s killing me. Lol Thank you so much for your time!
You might check to see if the MixAssist plugin will work for you: ruclips.net/video/oTLfgQ3qSek/видео.html
Do you have any recommendations for sound devices that allows you to skip the syncing audio process in post? Would like high quality audio recorded straight to a DSLR or cinema camera like the c200. SM7b is the mic that’s used. Thank you
Yes, you can run the audio from the output of the MixPre into one of the XLR inputs on the C200 set to line level with very good results. I do this for my livestreams and and very happy with the sound quality.
Curtis Judd you’re the best. Thanks again
Curtis thank you for your review. I bought this unit and have tried using it. I've put in a fresh set of 4 alkaline batteries, and was amazed when the unit has drained my batteries within about 10 minutes. I plugged it to my computer and carried on with my recording to finish what I was recording. A few days later, I pulled out the "dead" batteries, grabbed a fresh pack of 4 - same story unit shut down due to low juice within 10 minutes. Would you have any idea why? First time I was using Sennheiser AVX Digital Wireless Microphone System - ME2 Lavalier Set. The second time I used Audio-Technica AT4053B Hypercardioid Condenser Microphone. I am at a loss as to why it chews through brand new batteries in less than 10 minutes flat!
Hi Serge, Sound Devices actually advises against using AA alkaline batteries and instead recommends NiMH or Lithium AA batteries. I don't fully understand the differences but I understand that the different battery chemistries behave differently. In any case, you'll probably want to go with NiMH rechargeables or Lithium AAs. Best wishes!
Thank you sir. Will switch. As long as they last for 2 hours and 20 minutes like you mentioned. I guess I assumed it would last this long on plain alkaline batteries... :)
I did too, Paul Isaacs from Sound Devices explained this to me just a few weeks ago. I missed it in the manual.
I love your reviews man! You are amazing! Thank you. I've watched so many of you vids... :)
thanks @chrismas
Hi Curtis, love your reviews. I am an amateur concert recorder who would like to possibly ease into a part time professional gig doing field recordings. In your opinion, would you consider this a good choice as opposed to the more expensive SD633? Would prefer to spend the money on good mics. What do you think?
Hi teddy G, I think it is but it depends on how much of an audiophile you and your potential clients are. Will this be for large professional orchestras? Sometimes the producer/directo will require higher grade gear, but not always. but for smaller, semi-pro and volunteer orchestras, I think the MixPre-6 is definitely up to the job.
Wow so could I basically record all my audio with this? This thing is amazing.
It'd work in most situations for sure!
Hi Curtis,
Great review. Only thing I'm unclear of is how you're attaching the MixPre to the tripod and GH5. I'm looking at getting this exact setup (except with a MixPre and GH5s when it comes out), do you think I should be able to operate both of these on the Zhiyun Crane 2 gimbal? Would be a great combination in terms of quality I think if I could get it working.
Hi Neil, I don't typically connect the two of them together, but if I need to, the MixPre has a 1/4-20 screw on the top of the recorder that connects to the GH5. There is a screw on the bottom of the MixPre that you use to tighten the 1/4-20 screw. I don't think that the Crane 2 will support the weight of both but you could attach the MixPre to the bottom of the Crane's handle but that will be an incredible workout for your arms. Also, where would you put the microphone? (or would you be using wireless)? Definitely good that you're thinking this trough before diving in! Good luck!
Thanks for the helpful information curtis
Hey Curtis. Great video. Do you know if you can route the stereo output and the headphone out independently of each other? Example, I want to use the stereo out as a playback out of my computer and also continue to monitor my two track mix via phones out. Also did you do any tests with going usb3 to usb C?
Hi Aaron, yes, you can monitor with the headphones and main out at the same time with separate routing setups for each. I used the USB C out for audio interface work. I have heard that the USB A port can work but only in class compliant mode (2 in 2 out) but I haven’t tested that.
Thank you, just fyi, two times that you pointed up to the left corner, there weren't anything there displayed :) right no 23:00 time. for example.
+Johnny WU thanks, yes, you'll need to hover your mouse over the video (if you're on a computer) or tap the screen on mobile to see the I menu.
Hi Curtis, great review :-) do you have any experience if the MixPre-3/6 timecode and start/stop function works with canon 70d over the hdmi output? In the sound devices list of supported cameras only the canon c100 is listed as inhouse-tested.
Thanks MJ. Unfortunately I don't have a 70D on hand to test that. You might submit a support email to Sound Devices to see if they can test that for you. Best wishes!
Great video! How on earth did you manage to fit 4 eneloop pros in the battery sled? I have a mixpre-6 ii and any battery with a high enough capacity will not fit flush in the battery sled and will stick out of the recorder in a funny way.
They seemed to fit fine. Have they perhaps changed the battery sled since I reviewed this several years ago?
Hi Curtis. I am going to purchase the L mount sled for my Mixpre6 but I am a tad confused about the charge base for the 2 batteries offered on Amazon. It does come with the USB cable but what do I need for the wall plug that the USB cable interfaces with? Thank you in advance.
Hi teddy G, you'd need to plug the USB-A into a USB to AC adapter like those for most mobile phones. You can also plug them into most computer USB ports or outlets with USB ports. It'll generally charge faster with larger phone AC adapters or wall outlets with USB ports.
Curtis thanks for this great review! Thanks for clarifying the unbalanced issue. I owner a Sound Device 302 and comparing this mixer with the new Kashimir which one has better quality. What is your view about it?
Hi Marcelo, I have not used the 302 in particular, but the Kashmir sounds very similar to the SD 633: ruclips.net/video/Hnvq-6M1adE/видео.html
My guess is that the 302 and MixPre-3/6 will sound very similar. The self-noise performance might be better on the MixPre, but I'm not certain of that.
Thanks Curtis for your replay. I just got the Mixpre and I haven’t try it yet. All my best
Good luck, I hope you like it!
Very nice bit of kit. :-)
+Scudo Camper indeed!
Possible to connect multiple 3.5 mm mics?
Is there some adaptor you would recommend that will enable a 3.5 mm mono (plug in power) mic to be connected, and also a 3.5 stereo (plug in power) to be connected to the PreMix 6 at the same time? Ideally connected into the XLR inputs so I could connect a number of them. Ideally an adaptor that does not increase the noise floor? Can the stereo 3.5 mm mic somehow be split into 2 separate channels? Mics will be used to record audio speech, with many silences so don’t want hiss during the silences. Someone mentioned a Rode VXLR+ but it appears to increase noise floor considerably?
Your reviews are excellent and have led me to the PreMix6... Thanks!
Hi Dave, I just received the RODE VXLR+ last week and haven’t had a chance to try it yet so I’m not sure how much noise it adds. You can use a splitter to feed two lava into the Aux input. They will then share the plugin power and cannot be adjusted in terms of gain independently. But should technically be possible.
Hi Curtis! Thanks for the great video! Question that I can't seem to find the answer too in the manual - if you record in basic mode with four channels for example, does it only record as a stereo file rather then a poly wave of those four channels? Or do you need to record in advanced fr that to come in to play? Thanks!
Hi Joshua, No, basic mode will only record a stereo mix. To get a poly wav file with the four isolated channels you'll want to go to advanced. mode.
If you are interested, I have a MixPre course over at school.learnlightandsound.com. Best wishes!
Hi curtis, Hare Krishna
Very nice video with many important information.
I do have H1, H4NPro and thinking to have a sound device premix 6. Do you have any video of H4NPro VS Sound Device Premix 6. Or can u plz let me know why Sound Device is better than H4NPro ?
Hi Madhava, the MixPre is far superior to the Zoom H series in terms of audio quality. It is really no comparison. I don’t have any specific videos comparing samples from the two but the MixPre is much much better. Best wishes!
Hare Krishna, Madhava. Since I own both the H4n Pro and H5 apart from the Mixpre 6; the Mixpre 6 wins hands-down on audio quality. I'd strongly recommend the Mixpre 6.
I hope you're getting commission for those links, I'm about to order one :) x
As an aside, do you sell 'one-on-one' workshop sessions? I think my sound is pretty good, but it would be great to have a teardown from a pro (particularly as your advice helped me build it)
Haha! Oh yes, the links are affiliate links but only for those who genuinely find the review helpful. Thanks!
I don't normally do a lot of consulting just because time is tight right now and you are right, your sound is already great! Keep it up!
Thank you!
You’re welcome Clint.
thank you. great and useful review as usual. the visual quality seemed very flat to me. Am I crazy?
+dana ross thanks Dana. I suppose it is flat.
I am curious if you have ever considered making a video that compares the top preamps to a scientific level. Are Cashmere better than Onyx or another manufacturer? Where can one find the "cleanest" preamp?
Hi Joseph, my approach is usually more practical and I don't have the type of measurement equipment necessary for such a video. But I would highly recommend Julian Kraus's channel for that type of info. Best wishes!