PreSonus StudioLive AR8c 8-Channel Analog Mixer

The StudioLive AR8c audio interface and analog mixer from PreSonus is the ultimate recording solution for the modern musician and content creator. Its hybrid design includes deep integration with state-of-the-art recording software to help you achieve your creative vision, including Capture™ live multitrack recording software and the award-winning Studio One® Artist DAW. With high-resolution 96 kHz recording, a full complement of connections, and an instantly familiar workflow, the StudioLive AR8c is packed with all the connections and controls needed to mix and record podcasts, live streams, and music productions.

PreSonus StudioLive AR8c Features

• 8x4 24-bit/96 kHz, USB 2.0 (over USB-C connection) audio recording interface
• 2x2 SD recorder to capture the main mix
• 8-channel analog mixer
• 4 balanced microphone inputs with XMAX mic preamps
• 2 instrument/line inputs
• 6 balanced line level inputs
• Stereo Super Channel (Ch. 13/14) with Bluetooth 5.0 input, RCA inputs, 1/8-inch stereo input, and switchable SD/USB stereo playback
• 2 mono and 2 stereo channels, each with level knob, pan, mute, PFL solo, highpass filter, and 3-band semi-parametric EQ
• 1 monitor buses with dedicated channel sends, AFL solo, and balanced TRS output
• L/R Control Room outputs with level control
• Headphone output with level control
• Highpass filter on every channel
• 3-band semi-parametric EQ on every channel
• Stereo effects processor with 16 presets, dedicated send and return, and bypass footswitch jack
• Mic/line boost on stereo channels for low-level input sources and consumer devices
• Sturdy metal construction
• Internal power supply
• Standard IEC power connector

• StudioLive AR8c 8 channel analog-mixer1
• Capture™ live multitrack recording software1
• Studio One ® Artist recording and production software (DAW)1
• Studio Magic plug-in suite1

• Microphone preamp
  • Type: XLR female, Class A XMAX
  • Max input level: +9 dBu +/-1.0 dB (unity gain)
  • Gain control range: 43dB (12 to 55dB)
  • Frequency response to analog outputs: 20Hz to 20kHz, +0.5/-1.5 dB
  • Frequency response to USB (direct): 20Hz to 20kHz, +0.5/-1.5 dB
  • S/N ratio to outputs: 94dB (+4 dBu)
  • THD+N: < 0.01% (min. gain, A-wtd)
  • Input impedance: 1 kΩ
  • Common mode rejection ratio: 65dB (1kHz, +55dB gain)
  • Phantom power: +48V, +/-3V, global
• Instrument inputs
  • Type: 1/4" TS female, unbalanced, Hi-Z
  • Max input level: +9 dBu +/-1.0dB (min. gain, 1 kHz@0.5% THD+N)
  • Gain control range: 43dB, +/-1dB (12 to 55dB)
  • Frequency response to analog outputs: 20Hz to 20kHz, +0.5/-1.5dB
  • Frequency response to USB (direct): 20Hz to 20kHz, +0.5/-1.5dB
  • Dynamic range: >105dB (min. gain, A-wtd), >108dB (mid. gain, unwtd)
  • THD+N: < 0.01%
  • Input impedance: > 1 MΩ
• Line inputs
  • Type: 1/4" TRS female, balanced
  • Max input level: +26 dBu +/-1.0dB (min. gain, 1 kHz@0.5% THD+N)
  • Frequency response to analog outputs: 20Hz to 20kHz, +0.5/-1.5dB
  • Frequency response to USB (direct): 20Hz to 20kHz, +0.5/-1.5dB
  • S/N ratio to analog outputs: 85dB (+4dBu)
  • THD+N: < 0.01% (1 kHz, -1 dBFS, A-wtd)
  • Input impedance: 10 kΩ (balanced)
• Headphone output
  • Type: 1/4" TRS female, stereo, unbalanced
  • Max output level: 150 mW/channel @ 60 Ω
  • Frequency response: 20Hz to 20kHz, +0.5/-1.5dB
  • Dynamic range: >103dB (A-wtd)
  • THD+N: < 0.01% (bandwidth 20 Hz - 20 kHz, -1 dBFS, unwtd)
• System crosstalk
  • Input to output: -90 dBu (ref = +4dBu, 20 Hz to 20 kHz, unwtd)
  • Adjacent channels: -85 dBu (ref = +4 dBu, 20 Hz to 20 kHz, unwtd)
• Digital audio
  • ADC dynamic range: 114dB (component), 105dB (measured, A-wtd, 48kHz)
  • DAC dynamic range: 114dB (component), 105dB (measured, A-wtd, 48kHz)
  • Signal-to-noise: -96dB (A-weighted)
  • Bit depth: 24-bit
  • Internally supported sample rates: 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96 kHz
  • Jitter: < 80 ps RMS (20 Hz – 20 kHz)
  • Jitter attenuation: > 60 dB (1 ns in => 1 ps out)
• SD recorder
  • Supported media format: FAT16 formatted SD™ card, FAT32 formatted SDHC™ card
  • Media storage capacity: SD card 2 GB; SDHC card 32 GB
  • Recording file format: Stereo WAV
  • Playback file formats: Stereo WAV, MP3 (96-320 kbs, 32 / 44.1 / 48 kHz)
  • Sampling rate (WAV): 44.1kHz
  • Bit depth: 24-bit (recording), 16-or-24-bit (playback)
• Power connectorIEC
• Input voltage range90 to 240 VAC
• Dimensions (HxWxD)3.5x11x12.3"
• Weight7.1 pounds (3.2 kg)

About Analog Mixers at Sound Productions

An analog mixer (alternately spelled analogue mixer) is generally what comes to mind when you visualize a classic audio mixer. Compatible with analog electronic devices, analog mixers typically have a standard appearance and straightforward functionality of one control per function, which allows users with basic mixing knowledge to operate any analog mixer with relative familiarity.

When compared to their digital mixer counterparts, analog mixers offer fewer onboard features and lack the automation and wireless connectivity options that may be needed for more complex applications. However, their simplicity means that analog mixers are generally less expensive, making them an affordable option for applications that require more minimalistic mixing functionality.

Analog mixers are ideal for both live sound (FOH) and recording studios—anywhere that uses analog devices as their sound sources.