Soundcraft Signature 12MTK Reviews

Works as expected. Lots of features for a relatively cheap mixing console. 12 inputs, of which 2 are used for either RCA stereo or USB master return and then send to master. All 12 inputs are also USB interface inputs, or usable as USB returns for analogue summing. When used as USB interface for both in-and output, channels 11/12 are always the PC/DAW outputs and not usable as inputs.

Used with OSX and Logic X, works flawlessly. No drivers, no hassle, immediately recognized by both DAW and OS.

Operation of console is straightforward and easily learned.

Haven't used the Lexicon effects much, but are well known. Effect options were a little bit limited in terms of customisation but, for this price and build-in effects, more than enough.

Feels sturdy and solid. Faders and knobs are rigid enough, and replaceable.

4 stars because there is no on/off switch and the PSU is in the middle at the bottom. Not very accessible and removing the plug from the outlet is inconvenient too. A power switch at the back was the least they could add. But in this price range there is hardly anything better.

Great mixer for live performance, rehearsals and multitrack recording

We needed something that is easy to use in our rehearsal room, same time making multitrack recordings of our rehearsals via USB, and it works great. Another thing we use, is some backtracks for few of the channels mixed with live instruments on other channels, same time recording everything and not any problem has risen since buying it about half a year ago.

As it allows multiple monitor-mix options, it has some value for mini-concerts also.

fantastic flexible mixer

Great little mixer! well rounded features for it's price point. The limiters work well on ch1 and 2, like the interval mute button! it's quite light. sounds good, multi track works nicely, fx seems nice. would recommend it, and I would get it again! Only thing is that it feels a little be light and i'm afraid with hard use some of the plastics might break. but with good care i'm sure it'll be stellar.

ganz gut, aber

Ich habe das schon mal in englisch für ein Forum verfasst, daher lasse ich es einfach so auch hier:

It is a great mixer. 3 pre/post aux (mono), 1 subgroup (or 2 mono). Nice faders. Wobbly knobs. Great gain range. Pre-Amps a bit on the ?warm? side. ?British? EQ is to my taste. Effects are usable (2 parameters adjustable). Sounds good. So that?s a bargain.

The USB interface is pre-fader/pre-EQ/post-amp and allows to make an insert via your DAW for all channels. That?s neat.

The record levels do not match, though. I need to push output levels of all mono channels by 7.5dB and stereo by 12dB in the DAW to achieve a seemless integration. I do not understand what the engineers thought there?!

Latency is 2.7ms on my system (Linux, JACK, 48kHz/24bit/128 samples).

When working with the DAW you need 1 stereo output for the DAW master and that cannot be put directly onto the 12MTK master fader (another inexplicable engineering decission) - so that blocks 1 stereo channel.

This device allows you to jam making use of sends and groups without computer and to record or use a DAW plugin as insert it takes minimal effort to do so.

It just has some inexplicable technical caveats and some very weak knobs.

Great deal for the price...

This is probably the cheapest analog mixer with multi-channel sound card on board. I use the mixer for my live setup for almost a year and had not experienced any serious problems so far. Pots feel a bit cheap, faders are good. Lexicon on-board effect is superb!

Tip for travelling musicians, this one fits perfectly in Peli 1560 case (+ you are left with some space for other gear, cables and so...), and if you remove plastic sides from mixer you can even put foam around the desk to protect it even more.

For the price it is a good deal, probably the best you can find for a 12 channel analog mixer with on board soundcard...

Really just loving it

I am still seeing more and more after just a few months of using it both in the studio and on tour. Love it to bits.

Splendid bit of kit

Bought this to run a little hardware setup through and very pleased with it. I'm not sure you can find a plain interface with this many inputs for the money.

Pros

* Ridiculous amount of inputs over USB for the price of the unit

* Solid drivers, admittedly I couldn't run at super low latency but it can be worked with easily enough, software gives you extra control of routing

* Pre-amps are really good and recording the inputs gives nicer results compared to what I've used recently (2i2 and Zed14)

* Good channel EQs, the mid band sweeps give a great tone

* Did I mention it's also a mixer?

* It has a pretty passable effects section, tape delay is nice especially once you dial it in.

Cons

* Recording is Pre-EQ, which is a shame as I like the eq.

* The knobs feel a little bit light to me, the Zed14 has nicer ones, but also has a pretty rubbish 2x2 interface with an unstable buffer.

Everything as expected: Very good sound, usb recording, good build.. Probaby the best mixer in this price range right now.

Very recommended from my side.