Presonus StudioLive 1602 Vs. PreSonus StudioLive AR12c: Reviewed & Compared

Choosing the right mixer when there are so many on the market these days isn't easy.
Especially when many of them are built for one specific need but being marketed as an all-rounder 🙄
But not to worry, I've got ya!
I have taken a deep dive into two beasts in the audio-mixing game and gone head to head with them: Presonus StudioLive 1602 vs. PreSonus StudioLive AR12c.

We're looking at things like:
  • Sound Quality: This is the heart of the matter, right? How each mixer holds up in delivering crisp, clear audio. Are we talking about a mixer that makes your tracks sound like they're live from the garage, or are we hitting studio-quality sound?
  • Ease of Use: Nobody wants to spend hours figuring out which button does what. I’ll break down the user interface of both Presonus StudioLive 1602 and PreSonus StudioLive AR12c. Are they plug-and-play easy, or will you need a PhD in mixology to use them?
  • Features and Functions: Ie. What's under the hood? Let's find out what sets them apart.
  • Durability: No matter your reason for buying, you want something that's gonna last, not fall apart after a few light sessions.
  • Price Point: Yep, money talks. When it comes to prices, we need to see which mixer gives us more bang for our buck. Is the higher price of one justified by its features, or is the other a hidden gem at a bargain price?
  • Customer Reviews and Feedback: What's the word on the street? Sometimes real-world use tells a different story than what the sales page says.

Presonus StudioLive 16.0.2 USB

After having a little play around with the Studio Live 16 from PreSonus, here's my verdict:

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Setup and Software Integration

Straight out of the box, the setup was a breeze. There are tons of YouTube tutorials available that make configuring individual channels for various inputs like mics, drums, and guitars pretty straightforward. The recording software, Studio One, is a gem – intuitive and powerful. I even upgraded to the professional version because of a sweet 50% off deal they were running, and I'm glad I did.

Sound Quality and Recording Capabilities

The sound quality, both live and recorded, is top-notch. There's a certain accuracy in playback that makes the live music sound just as it's being played. The mixer does a great job in capturing the essence of live performance without any loss in sound quality.

Customer Support: A Mixed Bag

While I personally didn't run into major issues, I've heard some chatter about PreSonus' customer support being a hit or miss. One user mentioned an issue with warranty support on a unit just 45 days old, which is concerning. It seems like your experience might vary depending on the problem at hand.

User-Friendliness and Learning Curve

For beginners, this board and the accompanying DAW are a godsend. They're easy to learn and use. Even if you're at an intermediate level, like me, you'll find the Studio Live 16 to be quite adaptable. You can record jam sessions, concerts, and even phone calls with ease.

Remote Access and Portability

A standout feature is the ability to control the mixer remotely via a laptop and router, which adds a layer of convenience, especially in live settings. However, some users might find this setup a bit cumbersome, as it requires extra gear (laptop and router) for remote access.

Overall Experience

Overall, the Studio Live 16 is a great piece of equipment for semi-pro studios, small churches, and clubs. Its integration with Studio One DAW is seamless, and the mixer itself offers a great range of features. However, the learning curve can be a bit steep, especially if you're transitioning from analog to digital, and the remote access setup might not be ideal for everyone.

In short, if you're looking for a digital mixer that feels somewhat analog, has scene-saving capabilities, and offers remote access (with a bit of setup), the Studio Live 16 could be a solid choice. Just keep in mind the potential support issues and the learning curve involved.

PreSonus StudioLive AR12c

Presonus StudioLive AR Series Mixer: In-Depth Review After Extensive Use

Initial Impressions and Functionality

After over two years of using the Presonus StudioLive AR Series Mixer, I've got a lot to share. Initially, this mixer impressed with its robust features – SD recording, Bluetooth connectivity, and the abundance of free software it comes with. The multi-track software, particularly useful for recording and editing, adds significant value. Its form factor and features like the microphone preamps and USB-C connectivity seemed promising for a range of applications – from music production to podcasting.

Performance and Reliability Issues

Short Lifespan and Quality Concerns

The major downside, however, has been the mixer's reliability. It worked flawlessly for a period, but after 2.5 years, it abruptly stopped working. This was particularly frustrating as the mixer was handled with care and never subjected to any rough use. The lack of durability for a high-end piece of equipment is a significant drawback, especially considering the cost of repair, which can run into hundreds of dollars.

Customer Service Experience

Lack of Support and Warranty Concerns

My experience with customer service was less than satisfactory. When the mixer failed, I reached out, only to be told that it was out of warranty. While this is technically true, the expectation for a quality mixer to last beyond 2.5 years is reasonable. The company's approach to customer service and their unwillingness to provide support or reasonable repair options is a major red flag.

Sound Quality and Features

Excellent Audio but Some Limitations

On the positive side, the mixer's sound quality is excellent when it works. The microphone preamps, while needing to be turned up high for certain mics, provide clear and crisp audio. The multi-track capabilities are user-friendly and the mixer is fairly easy to navigate, even for those new to audio equipment. The inclusion of SD card recording and Bluetooth adds to its versatility, although the SD recording could benefit from more informative display features.

Form Factor and Build

Good Design with Some Build Quality Issues

The mixer's form factor is appealing – it's compact and fits well in various setups. However, the build quality seems to be a concern given the longevity issues I've experienced. The unit feels sturdy initially, but the internal components may not be as reliable.

Overall Experience

Mixed Feelings Due to Reliability Issues

In summary, while the Presonus StudioLive AR Series Mixer offers a range of impressive features and excellent sound quality, its reliability is a major concern. The poor customer service and the mixer's short lifespan significantly overshadow its initial appeal. For those considering this mixer, it's crucial to weigh these factors. The possibility of encountering similar issues and the lack of support from Presonus might be deal-breakers for many potential buyers.

Head 2 Head: Presonus StudioLive 1602 or PreSonus StudioLive AR12c

After slipping on my favorite pair of headphones and spending a considerable amount of time with both the Presonus StudioLive 16.0.2 USB and the PreSonus StudioLive AR12c, I'm ready to lay down some truths about these two formidable mixing powerhouses.

Presonus StudioLive 16.0.2 USB: The Lowdown

Setup and Software Integration

The Presonus StudioLive 16.0.2 USB is like that new friend who's super easy to get along with – the setup was a walk in the park, even if you're not a tech wizard. Plus, it's best buddies with the recording software, Studio One, making it an enticing duo for anyone looking to produce some killer tracks.

Sound Quality and Recording Capabilities

Put simply, this beast can belt out some pretty impressive sounds. It captures live music with an accuracy that makes you feel like you're right there in the thick of it all.

Customer Support: A Mixed Bag

One area where Presonus could dial up their game is customer support – I've heard mixed reviews on this front from fellow sound enthusiasts.

User-Friendliness and Learning Curve

If you're new to this world or somewhere in the middle, this board's got your back – it's intuitive and easy to navigate.

Remote Access and Portability

The ability to control this mixer remotely is like being able to command your coffee machine from your bed – super handy but does require extra gear (laptop and router), which might be a bummer for some.

PreSonus StudioLive AR12c: Let's Break It Down

Initial Impressions and Functionality

The PreSonus StudioLive AR12c enters the game promising a lot – SD recording, Bluetooth connectivity, and a bunch of free software. It's like the Swiss Army knife of mixers.

Performance and Reliability Issues

However, it seems to lose its sheen over time. After about 2.5 years of use, it decided to throw in the towel, which is a real downer considering its initial promise.

Customer Service Experience

When it comes to customer service, let's just say there's room for improvement. My experience was less than stellar when I reached out for help after my mixer decided to go on an unscheduled break.

Sound Quality and Features

Despite some setbacks, this mixer does deliver on sound quality. It also boasts some cool features like SD card recording and Bluetooth connectivity that add to its appeal.

Form Factor and Build

I love the compact design of this mixer; it could fit in anywhere from a home studio setup to professional recording settings. However, the internal build quality could use a boost considering its lifespan issues.

So after all that riffing and running through these two mixers, who takes home the gold? Cue drum roll… The winner is… [Presonus StudioLive 16.0.2 USB](https://amzn.to/3SdJGvL). Despite having a few areas for improvement, the StudioLive 16.0.2 USB offers a combination of easy setup, high-quality sound, and user-friendly design that makes it a solid choice for both beginners and intermediates. While the AR12c does offer a range of impressive features, its reliability issues and subpar customer support put it in second place. In short, if you're looking for a mixer that's adaptable, easy to learn and use, the StudioLive 16.0.2 USB is your best bet. Just remember to keep those customer support stories in mind as you make your decision!