Sound Devices MixPre-D Compact Field Mixer
The MixPre-D Compact Field Mixer from Sound Devices is a versatile audio mixer built for the digital age. Based on the popular MixPre, the "D" in the name indicates the extensive digital technology that's been incorporated into the mixer. The MixPre-D features a pair of studio-grade mic/line XLR inputs with limiters, high-pass filters, and phantom power. The inputs can be linked in standard or MS mode for stereo recordings. These options are configured via easy-to-use front panel controls.
The MixPre-D puts a heavy emphasis on output, due to the increasing number of cameras and devices being used in professional productions. It offers a pair of mic/line XLR outputs, one of which can also be switched to AES digital output. There is a TA3 consumer mic level output, ideal for DSLR-type inputs, plus a 3.5mm aux output and a 1/4" headphone jack for monitoring. A 24-bit class-compliant USB streaming output is also offered, providing internet connection with Mac, Windows, Linux, and select iOS devices, plus computer audio in the MixPre-D headphones.
Other features of the MixPre-D include a sunlight viewable 16-segment GaN LED output meter with adjustable brightness, and a slate microphone and tone oscillator for labeling takes. The mixer can operate on a pair of AA batteries, or via 5-18VDC power from an external input. The extruded aluminum chassis provides excellent strength and durability while keeping weight down for portability.
- Compact and lightweight design with a high-strength extruded aluminum chassis and metal connectors for professional field use
- Based on the popular MixPre mixer, with additional digital technology to meet the changing needs of the current production landscape
- Studio-grade transformer-balanced mic/line XLR inputs with unclippable peak limiters, 80/160Hz high-pass filters, and 48V or 12V phantom power allow you to connect a variety of input devices
- The inputs can be linked in standard or mid-side stereo matrix mode with width control and front-panel channel flip for stereo recordings
- Input panning is provided for left, center, or right to the outputs
- Pair of XLR mic/line outputs, one of which can also be switched to digital AES output with a sample rate of 44.1/48/96kHz
- The 3.5mm return jack can be used as channel 3/4 aux level inputs with selectable pan and level control
- A TA3 consumer mic level output provides ideal connection for DSLR-type inputs
- A 3.5mm aux output allows you to connect additional equipment
- A 1/4" stereo headphone jack provides monitoring of program audio or external return audio
- A 24-bit class-compliant USB streaming output provides interconnection with Mac, Windows, and Linux computers, plus select iOS devices. No drivers are required
- Sunlight viewable 16-segment GaN LED output meter with adjustable brightness provides convenient visual monitoring of audio levels
- A slate microphone and tone oscillator make it easy to label takes
- The mixer can operate on a pair of AA batteries, or via 5-18VDC power from an external input
| Frequency Response | 20Hz - 30kHz, +0.2, -0.5dB (Relative to 1kHz level with 150 ohm source, gain controls set at 50%) |
| EIN | -126dBu (-128dBV) maximum mic in to line out (150 ohm source, flat weighting, 22Hz - 22kHz bandwidth, gain control set at 50% or higher, phantom power off) |
| Input Clipping Level |
Mic: -10dBu minimum Line: +28dBu minimum |
| Output Clipping Level |
Mic: -18dBu minimum with 100 kohm load Line: +22dBu minimum with 100 kohm load |
| Gain |
Mic to Line, max: 66dB Line to Line, max: 26dB Line to Mic, max: -14dB Mic to Mic, max: 26dB Mic (TA3) relative to Line out: -36dB |
| Dynamic Range | 110dB minimum, mic input to line output |
| THD + Noise | 0.05% maximum (from 50Hz to 22kHz @ +4dBu output level) |
| CMRR | 100dB minimum at 80Hz, 60dB minimum at 10kHz |
| Connectors |
2 x Transformer-Balanced XLR Mic/Line Inputs 2 x XLR Mic/Line (1 AES) Outputs 1 x 3.5mm Tape Return 1 x 3.5mm Tape Out 1 x TA3 Male Mic Output 1 x 1/4" Headphone Jack 1 x USB Port 1 x DC Power Input |
| Input Impedance |
Mic: 2 kohms Line: 16 kohms |
| Output Impedance |
XLR Mic/Line: 100 ohms XLR-AES3: 110 ohms TA3: 200 ohms 3.5mm: 2.1 kohms |
| USB |
USB class-compliant device, analog input to USB output, USB monitoring in headphones 103dB typical, A-weighted; sample rate selectable 44.1, 48, or 96kHz |
| Output Noise | -100dBu (-102dBV) maximum (22Hz - 22kHz bandwidth, flat filter) |
| High-Pass Filter | 80 or 160Hz (switch selectable), 6dB per octave |
| Phantom Power | 12V through 680 ohm resistors or 48V through 6.8 kohm resistors (switch selectable) |
| Limiter | Threshold adjustable, +8dBu to +18dBu, 20:1 limiting ratio, 1mS attack time, 200mS release time |
| Metering | 16 segment x 2 GaN (Gallium Nitride) meters, peak + VU responding, adjustable brightness |
| Power |
Internal: 2 x AA alkaline batteries, 4 hours life typical, no phantom power External: 5-18VDC via 4-pin Hirose, pin 4 = positive, pin 1 = negative, completely isolated floating supply |
| Environmental |
Operating Temp: -4 to 140°F (-20 to 60°C) Storage Temp: -40 to 185°F (-40 to 85°C) Relative Humidity: 0 to 95%, non-condensing |
| Dimensions (HxWxD) | 1.7 x 3.7 x 5.5" (43 x 94 x 140mm) |
| Weight | 1.5 lbs (0.7kg) (with batteries) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 15 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
100%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Compact (13)
- Excellent sound (12)
- Simple controls (10)
- Versatile (10)
- Easy to use (9)
Cons
Best Uses
- Professional recording (12)
- Amateur recording (5)
- Outdoor events / games (5)
- Performances (3)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Experienced (12)
Reviewed by 15 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-15
Pros
- Accurate Controls
- Compact
- Excellent Sound
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Events
- Performances
- Professional Recording
Comments about Sound Devices MixPre-D Compact Field Mixer:
This is a very nice box that does everything it promises to do. The mic pres are quiet. The transformer inputs work fine with an Earthworks M30. (There has been some concern about this on Internet forums.) On 12V power it uses 80mA at idle, no phantom, 120mA w/ 1 Earthworks M30, and 105 mA with 2 Shure SM-81s. The AES-3 output does not appear to be compatible with some S/PDIF inputs at fs > 44.1 kHz, specifically Tascam DR-100mkII, in my case. Not the fault of this box, I think, but a heads-up for those anticipating such use.
Pros
- Accurate Controls
- Compact
- Easy To Use
- Excellent Sound
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Professional Recording
Comments about Sound Devices MixPre-D Compact Field Mixer:
I do not want to use a "dual audio system", so this is the best solution for bringing pro audio into a DSLR. I am using a Nikon D7000, waiting for my D4. Works as advertised, clean preamp, built like a tank! Typical high quality Sound Device product.
Pros
- Accurate Controls
Cons
- None
Best Uses
- ENG
- Professional Recording
Comments about Sound Devices MixPre-D Compact Field Mixer:
Sony EX1 & Canon 5D MK II are my two cameras. I'm a one man shooter and I was never happy with my audio until I got the MixPre-D. I like it so much that don't shot anything without it.
Pros
- Accurate Controls
- Compact
- Easy To Use
- Excellent Sound
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Events
- Professional Recording
Comments about Sound Devices MixPre-D Compact Field Mixer:
This thing is expensive, but if you're capturing high-end audio into a dSLR camera, it's far better than using an external recorder and makes your external mic really shine.
I'm just starting out with hifi audio, but the external recorder option left me with much to be desired. The MixPre-D is easy to use and cranks out clean pre-amp power to my Sennheiser 416. It's got built-in adjustable limiters that are very useful when working outside of a controlled environment. The built-in tone oscillator tells you exactly where to set your in-camera mic level before recording- an imperative feature for determining sound level in camera. Incredibly bright LED interface that you could literally use to light your way at night, or it's adjustable to lower intensity.
Coupled with the TA-3 cord, it plugs right into the camera's mic-level input. XLR's are adjustable for Phantom power or not, and for mic or line level out depending on your recorder. The linked audio switch takes your mono single channel and puts it on both channels for output, which saves time in post.
I still haven't figured out the best mounting for it on my rig. Under camera mount is nice but gets in the way of my follow focus. Time to get creative!
Overall, excellent product. Does what it says.
Pros
- Compact
- Easy To Use
- Excellent Sound
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Sound Devices MixPre-D Compact Field Mixer:
I am using this unit with a Canon 5DMII and a T3i for local commercial production, interviews and documentary video. I had previously used a wireless lav, which was ok for one person, but now I can mike one person with the lav and use a shotgun on a boom for a group or for ambient sound. Mounting the unit under the camera makes a convenient and professional looking rig. Expensive, but well worth the price.
Pros
- Compact
- Excellent Sound
Cons
Best Uses
- Events
- Professional Recording
Comments about Sound Devices MixPre-D Compact Field Mixer:
If you're a minimalist and like to travel light, this is the unit for you. Sound Devices built upon their successful predecessor the Mixpre, and added A/D converters for digital recording up to 96K, a TA3 to 1/8" stereo mic level output for DSLR enthusiasts needing top notch audio - and other enhancements to make this unit a no-brainer.
As with all Sound Devices equipment, the specs will most likely exceed that of your ears. You will be thrilled with this unit's performance long after you forgot what you had to pay for it. You'll wonder how you ever got along without it.
Pros
- Accurate Controls
- Compact
- Easy To Use
- Excellent Sound
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Professional Recording
Comments about Sound Devices MixPre-D Compact Field Mixer:
Got this to use on some simple doc shoots. The interface is simple to understand, once you learn a couple button sequences. It's compact but powerful. The sound is awesome. Would recommend to someone doing small shoots.
Pros
- Accurate Controls
- Compact
- Easy to use by feel alone
- Excellent Sound
Cons
Best Uses
- Film making
- Professional Recording
Comments about Sound Devices MixPre-D Compact Field Mixer:
I can't believe how quiet the mic pre's are on this mixer. Navigating through the various options is easier than expected. It will make all your mics sound better: our sound operator was sure I'd also upgraded our inexpensive Azden shotgun mic. Fits nicely in our Petrol Deca Mixer bag. Pricey but completely worth it when you hear it.
Pros
- Accurate Controls
- Compact
- Easy To Use
- Excellent Sound
- Versatile
Cons
- Bad tripod options
Best Uses
- Events
- Performances
- Professional Recording
Comments about Sound Devices MixPre-D Compact Field Mixer:
This is really a remarkable device. It's amazing it vast array of functionality. I has so many functions, it's hard to actually get your head around it. it does everything, almost.
the one drawback for me is it's mounting capability. I bought the additional screw attachment but since that only has a single tripod screw hole, I don't want to mount it below the camera. I have found myself either placing it on the hotshoe or hanging it from the battery compartment wire, which seems sort of off balanced...
Pros
- Accurate Controls
- Compact
- Excellent Sound
Cons
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Performances
- Professional Recording
Comments about Sound Devices MixPre-D Compact Field Mixer:
I use this for DSLR film making. It is totally solid construction and yields remarkable results. Sound Devices makes industry-standard tools, and even if this is a two-channel "entry-level" unit, it functions just like a 302 (sans the extra channel.)
SD MixPre + Rode NTG-3 = jaw-dropping results!
Pros
- Compact
- Easy To Use
- Excellent Sound
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
Comments about Sound Devices MixPre-D Compact Field Mixer:
good for beginners
Pros
- Accurate Controls
- Compact
- DSLR Enabler
- Easy To Use
- Excellent Sound
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- DSLR Audio
- Events
- Professional Recording
Comments about Sound Devices MixPre-D Compact Field Mixer:
I mount the Mixpre-D underneath or near my 60D on my shoulder rig, set the DSLR audio level manually and then make all my audio changes using the nice big led meters. The audio that comes out of my DSLR is now actually usable and I'm no longer ashamed to record audio onto it for general use. I pair this with a Rode NTG-1.
I love the big LED meters, the limiter and ability to easily monitor before going into the DSLR. Having the slate mic and tone generator make this my favorite general purpose audio tool ever.
On the downside it is a little pricey, but I don't know of anything else that can deliver this kind of control and quality, so that's ok. Additional money for the mounting bracket (I put my dslr on top of this sucker) and the unbalanced stereo mic out cables make me sad for having a lighter wallet, but ultimately much happier for having decent DSLR recorded audio. The ability to use this as a computer audio interface sealed the dealf or me.
Pros
- Accurate Controls
- Compact
- Easy To Use
- Excellent Sound
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Professional Recording
Comments about Sound Devices MixPre-D Compact Field Mixer:
My initial expectations were totally blown away by this thing. Contrary to my expectations, it has a comfortable size and heft that let you know this is no toy. The menu system is also very well thought out and very intuitive. I love how the TAPE3/4 can be assigned to the main ST Bus (with individual pan and level) which makes it a 4ch mixer in reality. I also love the A-D functionality.
The only things that caught me off guard are facts that in USB mode, the unit is NOT bus powered, and it only outputs via the HP jack. In my opinion, SD left these features out so it would not compete with the USBPre-2. Not deal breakers, but good to know.
Overall a great unit that I would definitely recommend. The couple things that aren't perfect could easily be fixed with firmware updates(fingers crossed).
Comments about Sound Devices MixPre-D Compact Field Mixer:
This is an excellent mixer, and perfect for the "one man band." There's no doubt that you can get more channels for less money with other mixers, but if you're by yourself, will you be able to keep track of all those channels? For 2 channels (you actually get 4 total, if you utilize the stereo 3.5mm Tape RTN), you get a GREAT mixer, and a SOLID investment!
If I had any complaints, it's that, although this mixer is capable is MANY things, you must learn what series of switches and buttons to toggle to make it work to it's fullest potential. It's nice that it can do so many things, I just wish that there were DEDICATED switches for functions, but I can understand how that would clutter the interface, and also increase the size. With that said, Sound Devices printed these toggle "shortcuts" on the bottom of the device, just in case you forget!
Pros
- Clear Sound
- Compact
- Durable
- Easy To Use
- Lightweight
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Professional Recording
Comments about Sound Devices MixPre-D Compact Field Mixer:
Amazing product........Sound devices or the best!
Displaying reviews 1-15
Batteries & Power
Required item:
- Price: $1.23
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- Original: $13.99
- Save: $1.40
- Price: $12.59
Cables
-
- Original: $14.99
- Save: $1.50
- Price: $13.49
Digital Cables
- Price: $19.95
Cases & Protection
- Price: $160.00
Adapters
- Price: $40.00
Great for input to a DSLR or consumer video camera.
Mounting
- Price: $80.00
Headphones
- Price: $59.99
What's in the Box
- 1-Year Limited Warranty
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