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 32-Bit Field Recorder    Field Case for MixPre-3 II    Battery Sled for the MixPre-3 II    Rechargeable Li-Ion Battery    AC/DC Charger for Li-Ion Battery    Sony MDR-7506 Headphones    SDHC Memory Card    Pack of Cable-Organizing Fastener Straps    Carabiner Cable Carrier

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. can i add a 3.5mm jack microphone?

A: An adapter would be required. Kopul A-XMMF 3.5mm TRS Female to XLR Male Adapter B&H # KOAXMMF: https://bhpho.to/3DC1cAN The Kopul A-XMMF is an adapter that lets you connect a mic equipped with a 3.5mm TRS connector to the XLR input of a professional camera, recorder, or mixing console. The VXLR is terminated by a 3.5mm female TRS connector at one end and an XLR male connector at the other.

Q: 2. What does the built in Timecode generator do?

A: Timecode allows you to synchronize the audio recorder with a compatible video camera.

Q: 3. Is there an option to bypass MixPre onboard preamps in case i want to use external preamp?

A: Hi Andrew. Sure, if you want to use an external preamp, just set the XLR input(s) of the MixPre-3 II to LINE level and connect your preamp to the MixPre-3 II.

Q: 4. How does this compare to the Zoom F6?

A: I couldn't say you are asking about a product that has not even arrived yet. The F6 does not arrive till October.

Q: 5. Is there a way to be able to record and have the files save to directly to a Laptop?

A: Yes, the Sound Devices MixPre-3 II 3-Channel / 5-Track Multitrack 32-Bit Field Recorder can be used as an audio interface for your computer.

Q: 6. Does this output timecode?

A: Yes it does.

Q: 7. I know the 1/8" stereo-in is TRS, but I was wondering if it would be possible to somehow jerry rig a mix-minus using it? (I know a mix-minus is possible over USB) Thanks!

A: Yes. According to Sound Devices, the 3.5mm stereo input can be split in the mixer and the audio can be sent to two different channels. With the proper headphone preset, you can create a mix-minus using audio from the 3.5mm input.

Q: 8. I am a filmmaker. What is the process for separating the polyphonic files in post? Is conversion software provided with this device? Is the software free?

A: The Sound Devices MixPre 6 II records six multi-track files as well as a stereo mix to an SD card. The files would be loaded onto your computer and then can be put into software for mixing. If you use video software, you can import the individual tracks, and sync them to the video. Then you can make adjustments in gain, EQ and edit each individual track. Adobe Premiere Pro CC (1-Year Subscription, Download), BH #ADPPCCDL is a popular video editing software that will allow you to import audio tracks.

Q: 9. Can the MixPre-3 send or receive TC from with the Atomos Ultrasynch Blue?

A: The Sound Devices MixPre-3 II 3-Channel / 5-Track Multitrack 32-Bit Field Recorder is not compatible with the Atomos UltraSync BLUE.

Q: 10. No XLR outputs? Bummer. I suppose I could take the stereo out to cameras but that seems clunky.

A: Hi Matt. If you require XLR outputs, the MixPre-10 II has TA3 outputs (mini XLR). As you mention, you can send audio to cameras via the 3.5mm STEREO OUT jack, but that signal is unbalanced and is therefore more susceptible to interference over longer runs.