PreSonus StudioLive AR8c vs Soundcraft Signature 10 Mixer: Comprehensive Buying Guide (2024)

You're ready to make a big purchase, but you're having trouble deciding between these two powerhouses, the PreSonus StudioLive AR8c and the Soundcraft Signature 10 Mixer.

Trust me, I know how difficult that decision is… especially if you have no plans on whipping out that dreaded return postage label!

You know how the saying goes, buy right, buy once! Or something like that…

Either way, I've got you covered!

I've broken down the good, the bad and the ugly of these babies, so providing you have a clear idea of exactly what you plan on doing with it, you will have a clear idea on which one is best for you, by the end of this article.

Let get into it…

At A Glance:

PreSonus StudioLive AR8c

PreSonus StudioLive AR8c Pros & Cons

• Pros:
  • Has great features like SD recording and bluetooth.
  • Comes with free multi-track software.
  • Has nice inputs and outputs.
  • Good for recording and live sound.
  • Software has lots of digital patches for guitar effects.
• Cons:
  • More expensive than other mixers.
  • Microphone preamps don't have a lot of gain.
  • SD card lacks a display that shows recording details.
  • Unreliable components in their hardware.
  • Unhelpful tech support and poor customer service.
  • Short lifespan of the mixers.
  • Software and hardware issues that hinder its functionality.
  • Difficult to get in touch with customer support.
  • Long waiting time for equipment repair.

 

Soundcraft Signature 10 Mixer

Soundcraft Signature 10 Mixer Pros & Cons

• Pros:
  • Flexible routing options.
  • Clean sound.
  • Includes effects like reverb.
  • Three band EQ with sweepable mids on the main channels.
  • Quiet operation.
  • Has more outputs and features than other comparable mixers.
  • Features a take-a-break mute switch for easy transition to ambient music.
  • Has a USB charger on the console.
  • Individual mute buttons and Pre-Fade-Listen buttons on all channels.
  • Two channels have Hi-Z inputs.
  • Good value for the price.
• Cons:
  • No individual channel inserts.
  • Three band EQ can be complex to use.
  • No 1/8th-inch stereo input jack.
  • Hi-Z inputs have low impedance for piezo pickups.
  • Not well shielded from wireless interference.
  • Preamps may not be clean enough for some users.

Key Differences Between The PreSonus StudioLive AR8c And The Soundcraft Signature 10 Mixer

The main differences between PreSonus StudioLive AR8c and Soundcraft Signature 10 Mixer are largely due to their distinct features, build, and user applications.

The PreSonus StudioLive AR8c is built as a hybrid digital/analog mixer, catered to modern creators.

• The mixer is compact enough for on-the-road usage.
• It is renowned for its XMAX Class A preamps, recognized for their superior sound quality.
• This PreSonus model provides a 14-channel analogue mixer with a USB audio interface, permitting multi-track recording on both Mac and PC.
• It incorporates 16 high-quality effects such as reverb (room, hall and plate), chorus, delay, amongst others.

Conversely, the Soundcraft Signature 10 Mixer comes equipped with its own strengths.

• The mixer houses Ghost preamps which are well-regarded in the industry for their performance.
• This Soundcraft model's notable characteristic lies in its Lexicon Effects feature.
• The series as a whole is appreciated for its Ghost mic preamps and signature Soundcraft sound.

Both mixers incorporate onboard effects but the PreSonus stands out with its on-board recording capabilities making it more versatile for applications such as podcasting and home recording.

In terms of connectivity enhancements,

The Presonus AR8c includes updates like USB Type-C connection and Bluetooth 5.0, offering increased convenience for today's users while retaining an array of analog connections.

While both mixers demonstrate their unique strengths catering to different user needs – ranging from home-based music creators to professional studio engineers – they make solid choices depending on specific requirements.

Specifications	PreSonus StudioLive AR8c	Soundcraft Signature 10 Mixer
Audio Recording Interface	8×4 24-bit/96 kHz, USB 2.0 (over USB-C connection)	2-in/2-out USB interface
SD Recorder	2×2 SD recorder (record main mix); supports SD and SDHC formats up to 32 GB	N/A
Channel Inputs	8-channel analog mixer with 4 balanced mic inputs with XMAX mic preamps, 2 instrument/line inputs, 2 pairs of stereo balanced line inputs	10-Input Mixer with XLR and switchable Hi-Z inputs
Extra Features	Stereo Super Channel with Bluetooth 5.0 wireless, RCA inputs, 1/8-inch stereo input, switchable SD/USB stereo playback, stereo effects processor with 16 presets, dedicated send and return, and bypass footswitch jack	Built-in Lexicon studio-grade reverb, chorus, modulation and other effects and dbx limiters on the input channels
Software Included	Includes Capture live-recording software and Studio One Artist DAW for Mac and Windows	Free downloads of the Lexicon MPXL native plug-in and Ableton Live 10 Lite
Phantom Power	Global +48V phantom power	N/A
Construction	N/A	Tour-grade robust metal construction and top-quality components with an internal universal power supply
Bundle Includes	N/A	Soundcraft Signature 10 10-Input Mixer with Effects, HDM-100 Uni-Directional Dynamic Cardioid Microphone (Clip Included), 2 x 1/4-Inch TRS Patch Cable (6-Feet) and 2 x 25-Feet XLR Male to XLR Female Microphone Cable

What You Need To Know About PreSonus StudioLive AR8c

The PreSonus StudioLive AR8c is a top-notch audio recording interface. It's 8×4 24-bit/96 kHz, USB 2.0 (over USB-C connection).

This means you can record every channel plus the main mix.

This gadget has a 2×2 SD recorder to record the main mix.

It supports SD and SDHC formats up to 32 GB, which is quite a lot of space for your recordings!

The StudioLive AR8c isn't just about recording though – it's also an 8-channel analog mixer.

There are four balanced mic inputs with XMAX mic preamps for great sound quality.

It also comes with two instrument/line inputs and two pairs of stereo balanced line inputs.

One cool feature is the Stereo Super Channel with Bluetooth 5.0 wireless. This lets you connect your devices wirelessly!

Plus, there are RCA inputs and a 1/8-inch stereo input.

For playback, you can switch between SD/USB stereo playback easily.

Other neat features include a stereo effects processor with 16 presets and dedicated send and return for more control over your sound.

And let's not forget about the bypass footswitch jack!

It also includes Capture live-recording software and Studio One Artist DAW for Mac and Windows, making it an all-in-one recording solution.

Finally, it provides global +48V phantom power – beneficial if you're using condenser mics that need extra power source.

This device is pretty impressive in terms of versatility & quality! Whether you’re into music production or podcasting, this could be perfect for your needs!

My 1 Month Review Of The PreSonus StudioLive AR8c

Design and Construction

After a month of daily use, the PreSonus StudioLive AR8c has really made me appreciate quality design.

The construction is solid, and it's clear that it's geared towards durability. The knobs and sliders are tactile and comfortable to handle – they've withstood my constant tweaking throughout the month.

There's also this fantastic feel of assurance when you connect cables into the jacks; you just know they're not going anywhere.

User Interface

Speaking about interfaces, I've discovered that the User Interface on this device is top-notch.

It's intuitive enough for a newbie yet sophisticated enough for a pro.

The screen might seem small to some but I found it sufficient for my needs, and its bright display makes all information easy to read.

Sound Quality

One notable aspect of the PreSonus StudioLive AR8c is its Sound Quality. Delightfully crisp, clear audio every single time.

It doesn't matter if I'm recording vocals or instrumentals, this mixer delivers exceptional quality consistently.

Bullet points highlighting my personal experience:

• The built-in effects are solid and diverse.
• This mixer shines particularly well in live performances.
• The USB-C connectivity is reliable and efficient when recording tracks directly into my computer.
• Capturing multitrack recordings has been hassle-free thanks to PreSonus' Capture software integration.

Gripes and Grumbles

Now onto some things that didn't quite hit the mark with me. While there were no major dealbreakers as such, here are my Gripes and Grumbles:

First off, I felt like there could have been more direct outputs on this unit than just two – especially at this price point.

Secondly, dialing in effects ‘on-the-fly' during live performances required some practice initially.

Last but not least – even though Studio One Artist series software came free with the mixer – it did take me awhile before getting used to its interface.

The Bottom Line

This may not be a cheap device but considering everything you're getting – great sound quality, intuitive interface tightly integrated with superb software – it feels like an investment worth making.

What You Need To Know About Soundcraft Signature 10 Mixer

The Soundcraft Signature 10 Mixer Bundle is jam-packed with everything you need for high-quality audio.

The bundle includes a 10-input mixer equipped with Soundcraft's Ghost mic preamps, a standard in professional-grade audio equipment.

These preamps deliver exceptional sound clarity and resolution, handling high headroom and wide dynamic range with ease.

It doesn't stop there! This bundle also comes with an HDM-100 Uni-Directional Dynamic Cardioid Microphone with clip included.

It's perfect for recording vocals or instruments directly, as it focuses on the sound source while minimizing background noise.

Plus, you'll get two 1/4-inch TRS patch cables that are six feet long and two 25-feet XLR Male to XLR Female Microphone Cables.

With these tools in your arsenal, you're ready to record or perform!

One of the standout features of the Signature 10 is its built-in Lexicon studio-grade reverb, chorus, modulation effects and dbx limiters on the input channels.

Guitars, basses and other instruments can be plugged directly into the XLR and switchable Hi-Z inputs.

To top it all off, this whole setup is built for durability.

The Signature Series uses tour-grade robust metal construction, top-quality components and has an internal universal power supply ensuring longevity of your investment.

A complimentary download of Lexicon MPXL native plug-in and Ableton Live 10 Lite is also included along with a convenient interface that comes with a 2-in/2-out USB setup.

This gives you all you require to mix tracks right from your console!

My 1 Month Review Of The Soundcraft Signature 10 Mixer

After a month of testing the Soundcraft Signature 10 Mixer, here are my thoughts:

Sound Quality

The sound quality is absolutely top-notch. The EQ section has a huge range and allows for great control over your sound.

The preamps are high-quality, offering clean and dynamic signal processing.

Features & Functionality

The Soundcraft Signature 10 Mixer is packed with a wide array of features, perfect for both live shows and studio recording sessions.

It's extremely versatile – the built-in effects processor works like a charm, and the Ghost mic pres give each channel an undeniable professional edge.

Its XLR outputs, Hi-Z inputs, plus USB I/O feature gives it an edge over other mixers in its price range.

Additionally, it's really nice having three Aux sends; two pre-fade and one post-fade.

User Experience & Ease of Use

I have to say that this mixer is really user-friendly; the layout is logical and intuitive to navigate which makes operating it a breeze.

Notably, the faders feel solid under my fingers, giving me confidence as I make adjustments on-the-fly during live performances or while tracking in the studio.

This mixer just feels right in terms of usability.

Build Quality & Design

The build quality is impressive – robust yet lightweight enough for easy transportation. The metal casing feels sturdy and durable while still maintaining a sleek aesthetic.

The metering lights are vibrant, making them easy to read even in low light conditions at gigs.

 

In conclusion,

After using this mixer daily for over a month now, I can confidently say that it offers excellent value for money with its superior sound quality, vast functionality, easy-to-navigate user experience as well as its robust build design.

Here’s why you should consider this mixer:

• Solid sound quality: Clean pre-amps with broad EQ range.
• Vast functionality: Loaded with features such as built-in effects processor.
• User-friendly design: Intuitive layout with smooth faders.
• Durable build: Robust casing with clear metering lights.

Investing in the Soundcraft Signature 10 Mixer has been a great decision thus far – both my live performances and studio work have reaped tremendous benefits.

Who The PreSonus StudioLive AR8c Is For & Why You Might Choose It Over The Soundcraft Signature 10 Mixer

The PreSonus StudioLive AR8c is for those who value high-quality sound, innovative features, and advanced software integration.

You might choose this mixer for a variety of reasons.

First off, it delivers some unique features that set it apart from the competition.

Features like SD recording and Bluetooth connectivity are not common in other mixers within the same price range.

Furthermore, you get free access to multi-track software which enhances your mixing capabilities.

However, be aware that the microphone preamps may not offer substantial gain and you might find yourself maxing out on the trim with certain microphones.

Also, note that there could be room for improvement on SD card usability such as a display informing about recording details.

On another note, while inputs and outputs are generally satisfactory, an unbalanced output may enhance your experience with this unit.

Issues have been raised regarding potential reliability concerns with PreSonus's hardware based on experiences of premature mixer failure.

While these issues might not affect every user,

PreSonus's customer service has been criticized for being unresponsive and less than helpful when it comes to addressing hardware issues or offering technical support.

Despite complaints about reliability, many users appreciate the sound quality and feature set offered by PreSonus StudioLive AR8c.

Some customers did report trouble with software performance (like Ampire), however these issues were resolved after speaking to tech support.

The bottom line:

• If you're looking for advanced features like SD recording and Bluetooth connectivity,
• Or if you want free access to multi-track software,
• Or if a comprehensive input/output selection matters most to you,

Then PreSONUS StudioLive AR8c could be an ideal choice for you.

However,

• If microphone preamp gain is crucial,
• If detailed information display on the SD card is important,
• Or if dependable customer service is a must-have,

You might need to consider other options.

Always remember that the PreSonus StudioLive AR8c is also one of the best studio mixers available today according to our top 10 selection.

Regardless of its notable shortcomings mentioned in this review data analysis, its outstanding features make it worth considering.

Who The Soundcraft Signature 10 Mixer Is For & Why You Might Choose It Over The PreSonus StudioLive AR8c

The Soundcraft Signature 10 Mixer is a perfect companion for musicians and audio professionals who are in need of a flexible, small-format mixer.

You might be in a band that performs live shows regularly or conducts podcast audio/video production – this mixer could really come in handy.

Why Choose Soundcraft Signature 10 Mixer?

– It comes with three auxiliary buses plus a headphone out, giving you the flexibility to send signals to various remote speakers.

– The mixer delivers clean sound quality, making it ideal for those who value clarity in their audio outputs.

– With a well-designed FX and three-band EQ with sweepable mids, you can easily tweak and enhance your sound.

– It is overall very quiet, eliminating unwanted noise that could hamper the quality of your output.

– The unit features an innovative feature, the take-a-break mute switch (or interval mute button), allowing you to play music with one button-push when taking breaks.

– The channels have individual mute buttons and Pre-Fade-Listen buttons, which makes controlling your mix much easier.

– The mixer features Hi-Z inputs at 968 K-ohms, suitable for electric guitars with magnetic pickups.

This device ranks above Mackie and Yamaha in terms of reviews received.

However, keep in mind that this unit may require an adaptor if you need a 1/8-inch stereo input jack.

Also, it's not as shielded against wireless interference as some other mixers, so consider turning off phones while recording.

If you're used to using brands like Allen & Heath or Mackie but aren't completely satisfied with them because they lack certain features or have experienced issues over time, this mixer could be an excellent alternative for you.

As someone who has gone through quite a few mixers myself, I believe you won't regret choosing the Soundcraft Signature 10 Mixer considering its robust features and reasonable price point.

If the PreSonus StudioLive AR8c and Soundcraft Signature 10 Mixer aren't quite hitting the mark for you, don't worry.

I've done tons of comparisons on similar products you might be interested in.

You could consider checking out my post where I compared the PreSonus StudioLive AR8c vs Behringer Xenyx 802.

Or if you're more inclined towards Mackie's mixer, explore my take on PreSonus StudioLive AR8c vs Mackie ProFXv3 Series.

There's also a detailed comparison between PreSonus StudioLive AR8c vs Tascam Model 12 which may pique your interest.

And if none of those do the trick, maybe PreSonus StudioLive AR8c vs Zoom LiveTrak L-8 will.

Please have a read through, and hopefully, you'll find something that suits your needs perfectly!

FAQs

Buyer's Guide: Important Things To Consider & Look Out For When Buying A Mixer

1. Decide Between an Analog or Digital Mixer

Your first step in buying a studio mixer is figuring out whether an analog mixer or digital mixer will serve your needs better.

An analog mixer, like the Soundcraft Signature 10, offers hands-on control and typically provides a more natural sound.

On the other hand, digital mixers like the PreSonus StudioLive AR8c are versatile and come with advanced features such as built-in effects and EQ controls.

2. Determine Your Need for Channels and Inputs

Before you buy your new recording equipment, consider how many channels you'll need.

In terms of inputs, consider whether you require more XLR inputs for microphones or line-level connections for instruments.

Remember that mixers come with different configurations; for instance, the PreSonus StudioLive AR8c offers eight channels while Soundcraft's Signature 10 delivers ten.

3. Consider Preamps and Phantom Power Supply

Never compromise on sound quality when buying a studio mixer!

Good mic preamps can make all the difference in achieving professional audio results at home or in the studio.

Look for features like reliable phantom power supply to ensure superior performance from condenser mics.

4. Check Out Built-In Effects

Built-in effects can be immensely beneficial when crafting your sound aesthetic; they add flavor to your tracks without requiring special external gear—like specific plugins or outboard gear—just to achieve desired tones/effects.

The PreSonus StudioLive AR8c includes a wide array of these built-in effects.

5. Review EQ Controls

The equalization (EQ) controls on your potential new mixer is another crucial feature to assess before purchasing!

A robust EQ section allows for precision tone shaping across all channels which equates to sonic versatility during both live performances and recording sessions.

6. Evaluate The Audio Interface Functionality

Today’s modern mixers often incorporate an audio interface directly into their design which provides added functionality such as direct-to-computer recording via USB connection among other capabilities.

Devices like the StudioLive AR8c work double-duty serving both as a robust live sound system while also providing that fantastic USB audio interface functionaly: two birds, one stone scenario if this fits within your required parameters!

7. Consider Brand Reputation And User Reviews

Last but not least , don’t overlook brand reputation along with user feedback!

Brands like PreSonus, soundcraft have earned recognition due of their dedication towards creating quality professional grade products reflecting precisely in models such as SoundCraft Signature 10 & Presonus Studiolive Ar8C.

Reading user reviews will also let help assess if product suits discussed parameters ,check functionalities match what real users actually say about practical usage.

Furthermore will even enlighten about customer service support/features missing in company description/other aspects otherwise ignored but could affect long term usability.

So not only rely on feature list mentioned by company always dig into user experiences ensuring no bad surprises post purchase!

In conclusion: understanding specifically what factors affects performance ,real world use case scenario along with thorough research leads towards best result while purchasing studio mixers.

Whether your pick ends up being Digital/Analog fancy packed offering from Presonus/SoundCraft – following these steps ensures informed decision leading towards productive purchase suiting exactly towards intended requirements ensuring joyous creative musical journey ahead!

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