PreSonu introduces the 22-channel StudioLive AR22 USB hybrid mixers, the newest member of the company’s StudioLive AR series with analog connections and digital tools for live performance and studio use. The StudioLive AR22 USB mixer is equipped with a Mac- and Windows-compatible, 24-bit, 96 kHz, USB 2.0 audio interface that can capture all input channels and the main mix. The mixer comes equipped with an onboard stereo SD recorder that allows users to record the main mix and use the SD recorder to play up to 32 GB of MP3 and WAV files for hours of program music or backing tracks, all without a computer.
The StudioLive AR22 USB provides a flexible array of inputs and outputs. Featuring 16 Class A mic preamps and 26 analog line inputs. In addition to a 60 mm fader, each of the 12 mono channels and four stereo channels gives you a low-cut filter, mute, pan, and solo with pre-fader listen. Phantom power can be enabled globally for use with condenser microphones.
All mono channels feature three-band, semi-parametric EQ with a sweepable mid band, and there are four channel inserts (on Channels 1-4) to add external processors. Each of the four stereo channels provides a single mic input, plus balanced ¼-inch left and right line inputs and a basic three-band, semi-parametric EQ.
PreSonus Super Channel allows audio play from four stereo sources simultaneously. A media player can be plugged into the Super Channel’s unbalanced RCA inputs, a tablet into the 1/8-inch stereo input and stereo audio can be played from the onboard SD recorder or from a USB-connected Mac or Windows PC.
Onboard Bluetooth 4.1 can pair a phone to the mixer for wireless access to a music library for break music, backing tracks, ear-training or music rehearsals. The Super Channel allows audio play back from four stereo sources at one time.
Like every PreSonus mixer, this one is bundled with everything needed to record, mix, and distribute music. Multitrack recordings can be created with one click in PreSonus’ Capture live-recording software, then mixing, editing, and distribution is handled in Studio One 3 Artist DAW production software; both are included free. Studio Magic Plug-in Suite for Mac and Windows is also included, with seven popular plug-ins in VST, AU, and AAX formats.
The StudioLive AR 22 USB is expected to be available early in the fourth quarter of 2017 at $799.95.