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.

MixPre-3 II Recorder    2 x NP-F770 Lithium-Ion Batteries    MX-LMount Battery Sled    International Battery Charger

Like the original unit, the MixPre-3 II offers class-A Kashmir mic preamps. All inputs are fully RF-filtered to keep interference out.

Create a mix using the built-in 3x2 portable mixer.

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).

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

• 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.

• 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

Related Questions and Answers

Q: 1. Is it possible to record 4 inputs and end up with a single 4-channel .wav file?

A: Yes; It is possible to record 4 inputs and end up with a single 4-channel .wav on the Sound Devices MixPre-6 II 6-Channel / 8-Track Multitrack 32-Bit Field Recorder. The YouTube video entitled "MixPre Quick Tip: Track Arming and Recording", from the Sound Devices channel, explains how. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zJzBxb3WwGg

Q: 2. Can phantom power be switched individually by channel? For example, two Shure SM86 mics in 1 and 2 and output from a stereo lav system (i.e. Rode Go II) in 3 and 4. 1/2 need power and 3/4 do not.

A: Yes, phantom power can be allocated to individual channels on the Sound Devices MixPre-6 II 6-Channel / 8-Track Multitrack 32-Bit Field Recorder in each channel's menu parameter settings.

Q: 3. The B&H article on these second-gen MixPres says, "you can power the MixPre II series recorders via AA or Sony L-mount batteries, USB bus power, or an external power source." How? The pictures don't show any DC power input or an L-mount... just the flimsy, unacceptable USB.

A: That is what they chose to use on the 2nd generation, the MX-PSU power supply with USB connector, or the MX-LMount sled.

Q: 4. Hi Is it possible to use Channel Knobs to Adjust ISO Levels in 32-Bit float? BR

A: Thank you for the immediate response. I asked this because in my MIxpre 6 in Custon mode I have full control of the gain level up to 96dB (76 plus 20 dB), and the most important thing I can see the meter view at the LCD With the series II, which can be see (always talking about ISO track in 32 Bts) One more time thanks BR Renzo

Q: 5. Are the outputs balanced?

A: The MixPre-6 II analog output is an unbalanced 3.5mm port.

Q: 6. The MixPre6 II can generate a Sound Report? And what's the utility of recording in 2 tracks using the TRS/AUX input? Thank you

A: thank you for your question. the MIX PRE 6 cannot generate a sound report. The TRS input can be used for a tentacle sync to record time code or to record any external line level signal

Q: 7. Is this recorder capable to solo and mute channels to the headphone out, while recording?

A: Hi Alejandro. Yes, both mute and solo are available while recording. Please note that mute will also mute it from the currently recording tracks.

Q: 8. I have a power bank with 2 usb-a ports, (1) 5V 2.1A and (1) QC 2.0: 5V 2A - 9V 2A - 12V 2A, in this case do I have to plug both USB-A’s ? Or this could damage my device ?

A: If you’re using the MX-USBY cable you should plug both USB-A ports (Data & Power) into the same destination to properly power the MixPre. MX-USBY: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1333784-REG/sound_devices_mx_usby_y_cable_usb_c_to_2x.html We also recommend looking at our Powering Options page to get a list of powering methods that we have tested: https://www.sounddevices.com/mixpre-3-mixpre-6-powering-options/ Any powering method/battery bank not on that list means it has been tested and we cannot guarantee it will work as expected.

Q: 9. Can I bluetooth connect this to a BMPCC? therefore eliminating the need of an external timecode generator?

A: Hi Robin. The MixPre-6 II does not require a timecode generator, as it has one built-in. However, it does not have the capability to accept timecode over Bluetooth.

Q: 10. I'm a little confused. The mixpre 3 ii has a timecode generator, but you have to keep it on the camera? Can't you just jam timecode to the camera then separate them. My whole reason for picking up the zoom f6 or mixpre 3 ii was to get my sound equipment off my shoulder rig

A: The MixPre-3 II has a timecode generator, so it can maintain timecode on its own. As long as the camera that is being jammed from the MixPre-3 II also has a timecode generator, the 2 devices do not need to be continuously connected. However, if the camera only contains a timecode reader, the camera would require a constant connection to a timecode generator.