SPL MixDream XP MK2 16x2 Analog Summing Mixer with Class-A Technology

SPL Mixdream XP Mk2 Overview

Mix with ease with the SPL MixDream XP Mk2, an all-analog 16x2 Class-A summing mixer with impressive sound quality that brings together single tracks in a musical way. Add spatial depth to the stereo stage, while the harmonic coherency of the summed signals make mixing a very special experience.

The MixDream XP MK2 offers the same outstanding audio quality as its predecessor, thanks to the internal audio operating voltage of ± 30 V. In addition to the new design and an even better feel, the MixDream XP Mk2 offers another new feature: the individually switchable -18 dB level attenuation for the last four stereo channels.

Analog Summing

• Analog summing with the MixDream XP Mk2 brings intense depth, precise localization and impressive spatiality. Individual instruments mix with smooth transitions.
• For the analog summing, individual tracks from the computer are sent via D/A converters into the MixDream XP Mk2. These are summed in the MixDream XP Mk2 and then recorded again as a stereo signal via an A/D converter in the DAW software.
• The MixDream XP Mk2 is designed for stereo summing of up to 16 audio tracks in the analog domain. In combination with digital production systems, the advantages of analog and digital techniques can thus be ideally combined: digital convenience is complemented by the sound quality that until now only the best analog consoles have been able to deliver. Conceptually, the reduction to high-quality analog summing without panorama controls and faders offers the great advantage of being able to retain the entire scope of computer automation.
• So, when using the MixDream XP Mk2, the usual workflow with the DAW does not have to be changed, all techniques and options of a DAW can still be used without any restrictions.

Mono

The first four channel pairs of the MixDream XP Mk2 (1/2 to 7/8) can be switched from stereo to mono via the Mono switch (red status LED lights up). This is important for mono signals that should be positioned exactly in the center of the mix (kick, snare, lead vocal, bass, and more). In stereo mode, the two channels are generally panned hard left/ right. This basic setting is useful for all stereo signals. Panorama settings and automation of the DAW remain perfectly unchanged.

-18 dB

The level of the last four channel pairs of the MixDream XP Mk2 (9/10 to 15/16) can be attenuated by 18 dB via the -18 dB switch (blue status LED lights up). Low level signals in the mix can thus be played back and get converted with a higher level, therefore with a higher digital resolution, from the DAW. This preserves more details and sonic characteristics.

Output

• The Output control adjusts the output level of the MixDream XP Mk2. The control range can be set from -10 dB to +5 dB.
• With the output control a perfect control for following AD converters can be performed.
• Since the main and monitor outputs are configured in parallel, the output control always affects both output pairs.

Variable Output

• The output control is switched on or off with the Variable Output switch.
• When the Variable Output switch is deactivated, the input level is maintained at 1:1 (Unity Gain).

Inputs and Outputs

Inputs

• MixDream XP MK2 has 16 inputs with DB25 connectors. (The DB25 sockets are assigned according to the Tascam standard.)

Main Output

• The Main Output sends the summed stereo mix. This signal can be fed back into the DAW via an A/D converter to get recorded there.

Monitor Output

• The Monitor Output has electronically balanced XLR connectors. The Monitor Output is connected in parallel to the Master Output and provides the stereo mix for a monitoring controller or a pair of studio monitoring speakers.

Expansion Input

• If 16 channels are not enough when summing, another MixDream XP Mk2 can be connected to the Expansion Input.
• The Expansion Input switch on the front of the MixDream XP Mk2 is used to switch the Expansion Input on or off.

Sounds Good

All SPL devices are develop not only according to plan, but also by ear. Many important components are installed on the circuit boards using Through-hole technology. This way SPL can ensure that they use the best sounding components.