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Sound Devices MixPre-3 II 3-Channel / 5-Track Multitrack 32-Bit Field Recorder

BH #SOMIXPRE3II • MFR #MIXPRE-3 II
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Sound Devices MixPre-3 II 3-Channel / 5-Track Multitrack 32-Bit Field Recorder
Key Features
  • Field Recording, Filmmaking & Podcasting
  • 32-Bit Recording / 32-Bit USB Streaming
  • Record up to 192 kHz, Stream to 96 kHz
  • 3 x High-Gain, Low-Noise Mic Preamps
For independent filmmakers, field recordists, and podcasters who need pristine audio capture of up to three microphones, the Sound Devices MixPre-3 II multitrack field recorder is an ideal tool. Record up to three tracks of external sources plus a stereo mix at up to 32-bit / 192 kHz while monitoring your audio headphones. If you choose to use the MixPre-3 II as your studio interface, you'll be able to achieve sample rates up to 96 kHz.
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Sound Devices MixPre-3 II Overview

For independent filmmakers, field recordists, and podcasters who need pristine audio capture of up to three microphones, the Sound Devices MixPre-3 II multitrack field recorder is an ideal tool. Record up to three tracks of external sources plus a stereo mix at up to 32-bit / 192 kHz while monitoring your audio headphones. If you choose to use the MixPre-3 II as your studio interface, you'll be able to achieve sample rates up to 96 kHz.

The MixPre-3 II offers many upgrades over its predecessor. Chief among these features is the ability to record at 32-bit floating point to an internal SD card. The unit also functions as an audio interface capable of 32-bit floating point streaming over USB to a Mac computer. This makes it nearly impossible for you to clip (distort) audio on the way in. Whether you're recording hot or making use of the unit's astounding 142 dB dynamic range, you'll only be handicapped by the quality of your microphone.

Other improvements include the ability to auto-copy recorded tracks to USB thumb drives, making file transfers a breeze. Lovers of sync will revel in a handy new feature: a full-fledged, built-in timecode generator, accurate to better than 0.2 ppm (0.5 frames in 24 hours). Even when powered off, the MixPre-3 II maintains accurate timecode for up to four hours.

All of this is available in a three-channel package that can be powered from wall chargers, computers, AA batteries, or Sony L-series batteries. Whether you use the device in an advanced or basic capacity, the MixPre-3 II will suit any intimate, field-based production.

Kashmir Preamps
Like the original unit, the MixPre-3 II offers class-A Kashmir mic preamps. All inputs are fully RF-filtered to keep interference out.
On-Board Mixing
Create a mix using the built-in 3x2 portable mixer.
Audio Interface Functionality
When connected to a Mac or Windows computer, the MixPre-3 II can serve as a 5-input / 2-output USB audio interface for your favorite audio recording software. The unit will record three tracks in isolation and provide a stereo mix of all three to boot. You can stream audio at sample rates up to 96 kHz.

The unit can send a complete 32-bit float audio signal over USB when connected to a Mac computer running macOS Catalina (version 10.15 or later).

USB Audio Input
Stream up to two tracks into the unit over USB, using the MixPre-3 II as a recorder from your host device. If you're a musician, you can utilize this feature to record a stereo mix from your host DAW as a backing track for further standalone recording.
Connections
For inputs, you'll find three XLR jacks. Headphone output connections are handled over a 3.5mm jack, and stereo line outputs can be secured over a dedicated stereo 3.5mm jack. Timecode I/O is made possible via 3.5mm connections, though you also have the option of HDMI for inputting timecode.
Adjust on the Fly
Adjust the limiters, change the bit depth, shift panning and polarity in the stereo mix, and filter out extraneous bass rumble with low-cut filters. Whether you record to an SD card or to your computer over USB, the MixPre-3 II can be customized to your needs.
Built-In Timecode Generator & Bluetooth Control
Thanks to the device's timecode generator, you can even trigger recording from the camera. With built-in Bluetooth, you can control the unit over the Wingman app, available from Sound Devices. This app displays high-resolution meters, current timecode, transport buttons, and more.
Transport and Mounting Options
The MixPre-3 II is rugged, lightweight, and relatively compact, so you can throw it in a bag or mount it to a tripod or camera.
Firmware 9.0
  • Now supports two instances of the optional NoiseAssist plug-in (available separately), useful to instantly suppresses background noise, which can be handy on location.
  • Supports the optional +2 channel plug-in (available separately). Once installed, the plug-in adds two audio channels to your device and transforms your MixPre-3 into a 5-channel / 7-track recorder. The two extra channels will be sourced from the Aux or USB-C input.
  • Facilitates both timecode and audio output on the stereo 3.5mm output connector.
Key Features at a Glance
  • Kashmir microphone preamps with 48V phantom power
  • Internal timecode generator
  • Sample rates up to 192 kHz
  • Bit depths up to 32-bit float
  • Adjustable limiters
  • SD card recording and reading
  • Backup to USB drive
  • 10 seconds of pre-roll at 48 kHz
  • USB control surface support
  • Customize with plugins
  • Add low cut, high pass, delay, polarity invert, and panning
  • Simultaneous recording, mixing, and USB audio streaming
  • Trigger record via timecode or HDMI timecode
  • Bluetooth for wireless control via Wingman app
  • Basic, advanced, and custom modes
  • High-fidelity headphone amplifier
UPC: 854454006527

Sound Devices MixPre-3 II Specs

Key Specs
Form Factor
Field Recorder
Number of Channels
3
Number of Tracks
5
Maximum Sampling Rate
192 kHz / 32-Bit
Microphone
No
Audio Interface Capability
Multi-Track
Timecode
In & Out
Analog I/O
XLR / 1/8" (3.5 mm) / 1/8" (3.5 mm) Headphone
Bias/Plug-In & Phantom Power
3 V Bias/Plug-In Power
48 V Phantom Power
Digital Audio I/O
No
Form Factor
Field Recorder
Primary Use Applications
Audio-for-Video
Number of Input Channels
3
Number of Microphone Inputs
3
Number of Tracks
5 (3 Inputs + Stereo Mix)
Maximum Sampling Rate
192 kHz / 32-Bit
Display
Backlit LCD Touchscreen
Built-In Speaker
No
Special Features
Pre-Record Buffer, Remote Control Capable
Microphone
Microphone
No
Recording
Audio File Formats
WAV
Sample Rates
44.1 to 192 kHz
Bit Depth
16/24-Bit, 32-Bit Float
Audio Interface Capability
Multi-Track
Signal Processing & FX
Delay, Limiter, Low-Cut Filter
Timecode
In & Out
Frame Rates Supported
23.976 / 24 / 25 / 29.97 / 29.97 DF / 30 / 30 DF
Media/Memory Card Slot
Single Slot: SD/SDHC/SDXC [512 GB Maximum]
Internal Storage
No
Connectivity
Analog Audio I/O
3x XLR 3-Pin Mic/Line Input
1x 1/8" / 3.5 mm TRS Line Output
1x 1/8" / 3.5 mm TRS Aux Input
1x 1/8" / 3.5 mm TRS Headphone Output
Bias/Plug-In & Phantom Power
3 V Bias/Plug-In Power
48 V Phantom Power
Digital Audio I/O
No
Network I/O
No
Sync I/O
1x 1/8" / 3.5 mm SMPTE Input
1x 1/8" / 3.5 mm SMPTE Output
1x Micro-HDMI SMPTE Input
USB
1x USB-C (Host Connection)
1x USB-A (Control, Text Entry, Thumb Drive)
Wireless
Bluetooth 4.0
Mobile App Compatible
Yes: Android & iOS
App Name: Wingman
Functionality: Remote Control
Performance
Frequency Response
10 Hz to 80 kHz ±0.5 dB (at 192 kHz)
Gain
Up to 76 dB (Mic Inputs)
Up to 30 dB (Line Inputs)
Up to 40 dB (Mic/Aux Inputs)
Up to 20 dB (Line/Aux Input, Fader)
Maximum Input Level
+14 dBu (Mic Input)
+28 dBu (Line Input)
-10 dBu (Mic/Aux Input)
+10 dBu (Line/Aux Input)
Headphone Output Power
300 mW per Channel
SNR/Noise
-128 dBu EIN (A-Weighted)
THD/Distortion
≤ 0.005% THD+N
Dynamic Range
142 dB (A/D Converters )
Power
Power Options
Battery, USB Bus Power, AC/DC Power Adapter
Battery Type
4x AA (Included)
2x L Series (Requires Optional Equipment, Hot-Swappable, Not Included)
AC/DC Power Adapter
5 VDC (Included)
Physical
Mounting Options
1/4"-20 Male (Top)
1/4"-20 Female (Bottom)
Operating Conditions
-4 to 140°F / -20 to 60°C up to 90% Humidity
Dimensions
5.7 x 1.4 x 4.3" / 144 x 36 x 110 mm
Weight
16.8 oz / 0.5 kg (without Batteries)
Packaging Info
Package Weight
2.59 lb
Box Dimensions (LxWxH)
10.7 x 8.1 x 3.6"

Sound Devices MixPre-3 II Reviews

I'm Totally Head Over Heels in Love

By Leslie
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2025-09-18

This is not a long term review, but it doesn't need to be: hundreds of thousands of hours of professional use since its release is already this unit's testimonial. But if you are a solo or Indie creator looking to upgrade from a prosumer-grade, two or three hundred dollar recorder, here are some of the things that might stand out when you unbox your new MixPre3 unit and unwrap it from its tissue-paper, new-from-the-factory gift wrapping (nice touch Sound Devices, by the way): 1. A super premium, aircraft-radio-grade build quality, 2. Super smooth GAIN KNOBS which ACTUALLY CONTROL GAIN (and not just headphone volume level), 3. A very nice and bright touch screen with an intuitive menu, 4. Top-of-the-line, locking XLR inputs that lock with a super satisfying click and unlock with a very pleasing, straight inward push, (instead of pressing upward and outward), 5. Super easy and intuitive, RECORD and STOP RECORDING buttons that LIGHT UP when pushed--which make mistaking one button for the other (in the day or in the dark) a THING OF THE PAST, 6. A PRE-RECORD option for dynamic situations (like wildlife recording or weddings) so you don't miss the moment, 7. a USB BACK UP RECORDING option (IE two card slots, one SD and one USB), 8. An excellent, lightweight, slim-design form factor with rubberized top and bottom for cushioning and grip that is surprisingly pleasant to pick up, hold and pack--, and last but not least, 9.The MixPre-3's start-up, power-on light show (so pretty!). This unit has all that, with perhaps the lowest noise-floor rating in the industry. More money than other, more recent, prosumer options out there right now? Of course, but I am SOOO GLAD I went this route. This recorder is the recorder that can take someone from YouTube to Sundance and beyond.

Dont buy this, get F6 Instead.

By Ayatullah
Rated 1 out of 5
Date: 2024-09-04

DONT BUY THIS PRODUCT, THE BATTERY SLED EASILY FALL AND IT WILL BE BROKEN AND YOU'LL BE FORCED TO BUY ANOTHER ADAPTER THAT WILL COST YOU ANOTHER MONEY. GET ZOOM F6 INSTEAD. IT WILL COST YOU ANOTHER $99 JUST TO MIX THE AUDIO BETTER.

See any errors on this page?

The specs say operating temperature of Mix Pre 3 ...

The specs say operating temperature of Mix Pre 3 II is -4 to 86°F . The Mix pre 3 goes up to 140°. Thats a huge difference. 86° is ridiculously low. Is that correct?
Asked by: Geoff
Per Sound Devices, the operating temperature range is -20 to 60 C, which is -4 to 140 Fahrenheit. I have sent a note to the web group for a correction. https://www.sounddevices.com/product/mixpre-3-ii/
Answered by: John
Date published: 2021-01-07

What cable would I need to run stereo out audio ...

What cable would I need to run stereo out audio from the Sound Devices MixPre3-II to a Canon R5C mic input?
Asked by: Ryan
The Sound Devices MixPre-3 II 3-Channel / 5-Track Multitrack 32-Bit Field Recorder features unbalanced line-level output signal. You can use a level-matching cable like the Sescom LN2MIC-TASDR100 Line Out to Camera Mic Level In Cable (B&H # SEL2MTDR100) to convert the line-level stereo audio signal coming out of the recorder into mic-level signal for compatibility with the camera's 3.5mm mic input.
Answered by: Marisa P
Date published: 2024-12-27

What is the correct cable to connect to camera ...

What is the correct cable to connect to camera from aux port for scratch track?
Asked by: Allen
1/8" stereo from the MixPre. Other end would depend on the camera.
Answered by: Michael
Date published: 2021-02-22

What accessory can I use to mount this on a mic ...

What accessory can I use to mount this on a mic stand or neck of a tripiod?
Asked by: Patrick
There is 1/4 inch thread in the bottom, just like you'd find in the bottom of a camera. Mount it directly to anything with a 1/4 screwpost. There is also a springloaded 1/4 post/bolt for the top, that lives recessed inside. Push a hex wrench up through a hole in the bottom, to pop it out on top and screw it into whatever you want to mount there. So you either need something with 1/4" post, or an adapter to 1/4". As an example, here's what I do much of the time for a static shot of a live music performance: 1. Turn camera upside down, then place MixPre upside down on the bottom of the camera. 2. Use the hex wrench to push the 1/4" post into the 1/4" thread of the camera, and tighten it down. Now the MixPre is mounted to the camera. 3. Place quick-release plate (for tripod) upside down on the MixPre, line up the 1/4" post of the plate with the 1/4" thread of the MixPre, and tighten it down. Now you have a camera and audio recorder in one unit, with a quick release plate for mounting on a tripod. To mount it on a mic stand... just need an adapter from your mic stand threads to 1/4" post.
Answered by: Jeremiah
Date published: 2020-05-12

How does this compare to the Zoom F6?

How does this compare to the Zoom F6?
Asked by: Elazar
I couldn't say you are asking about a product that has not even arrived yet. The F6 does not arrive till October.
Answered by: John
Date published: 2019-09-16

Will Mixpre-3II stay in sync with a Sony A7Siii ...

Will Mixpre-3II stay in sync with a Sony A7Siii timecode after removing the hdmi cable (used to sync camera and recorder)?
Asked by: Mircea
No, the MixPre-3 II cannot be jam-synced via HDMI.
Answered by: Calvin M
Date published: 2024-01-29

Can you jam timecode from a camera that sends ...

Can you jam timecode from a camera that sends timecode over hdmi like the Sony FS5 without leaving the hdmi cable plugged in?
Asked by: kevin
The MixPre does not see timecode from an external source, unless it is recorded onto an unused audio track. It does have a generator that can feed your other devices, such as a camera.
Answered by: James Cruz
Date published: 2022-07-25

On the specs for the Mixpre 3 II, it says there ...

On the specs for the Mixpre 3 II, it says there are 3 XLR-1/4 Combo inputs. That is incorrect according to the pictures. They are only XLR inputs and not a Combo Input. Can you confirm?
Asked by: Henry
Yes, I can confirm that the 2 Mixpre 3 ll units that I purchased from B&H have only the XLR inputs.
Answered by: James
Date published: 2019-11-26
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