Sound Devices 888 16-Channel / 20-Track Multitrack Field Recorder

For filmmakers, field recordists, and sound designers who need pristine audio capture of up to eight microphones, Dante I/O, convenient automixing, and safe, redundant recording, the Sound Devices 888 multitrack field recorder is an ideal tool that puts the essence of the flagship Scorpio into a more compact and affordable form.

32-bit A/D converters allow you to avoid distortion and undue noise at virtually any input level. Utilize the internal 256GB SSD and up to two SD cards to record up to 16 tracks of external sources plus four buses at up to 192 kHz, and route custom mixes to the camera and crew while driving headphones and a headset.

Thanks to its handles and integrated 1/4" -20 threads, the 888 can be placed in a sound bag, attached to a camera/tripod, or even slung from a shoulder/neck strap. In addition to the large channel knobs, channel trims, PFL switches, and transport joystick, a sunlight-readable color touchscreen ensures user-friendly access to all settings.

From the eight high-gain, ultralow-noise mic/line preamps and 16-channel Dugan Automixing to the extremely powerful routing and sonic processing, everything about the 888 is optimized for peak audio performance and maximum workflow efficiency.

Accurate timecode synchronization and numerous powering options make the 888 adept at handling the varied demands of modern productions. For enhanced operating convenience, you can control the 888 wirelessly from the SD-Remote Android app, a Sound Devices CL-12 controller, or a compatible USB-connected MIDI controller.

Simultaneous 20-Track Recording

Record 16 input channels and four buses at the same time in sample rates up to 192 kHz, and even arm or disarm tracks during recording. The 888 utilizes monophonic and polyphonic BWF (Broadcast WAV) files that support embedded timecode and extensive metadata such as track names, file names, and notes. For quick entry of metadata text, you can hook up a USB keyboard.

10 Buses with Flexible Routing

In addition to the main stereo bus, the 888 boasts eight independent buses for flexible creation of custom mixes. All buses feature configurable source and destination routing as well as linkable limiters. Assign any physical input to any channel, send any channel to any bus, and even virtually " patch" sources (physical inputs or internal buses) to physical outputs.

32-Bit A/D Converters

Built with precision 32-bit A/D converters, the 888 ensures audio recordings surpass those of off-the-shelf, IC-based mic preamps. Plus, the vast dynamic range of the 32-bit converters allows you to record at extremely high or low levels without causing distortion or undue noise.

Records to Three Media

The 888 features an internal 256GB SSD and dual SD card slots. Customizable track-to-media routing means that you can record redundantly to all media or select specific sources for each media. For example, you can use the 888 to create multitrack files for production, AAC files for transcription, and a backup on the internal 256GB SSD.

16-Channel Dugan Automixing

Enable Dugan Automixing or MixAssist to automatically attenuate unused microphones in multi-microphone applications. Up to 16 channels can be automixed at a time, and two separate groups can be mixed simultaneously.

Eight Mic/Line Preamps with Independent Phantom Power

Passed on from the flagship Scorpio, the 888 s Class-A preamps deliver premium amplification with a massive 76 dB of maximum gain and an ultralow noise level of -131 dBV (-129 dBu). Eight locking inputs (four XLR and four TA3) with per-channel 12V/48V phantom power support mic level and +4 dBu line level to accommodate external microphones or balanced outputs from high-end wireless receivers. The first XLR input can alternatively accept AES3 or AES42 digital signal.

Independently switchable polarity, multistage limiting, 3-band EQ (pre- or post-fade), and low-cut filtering allow you to tailor each channel for the best tone. Plus, eight channel fader knobs and eight channel trims with LED rings ensure fast mixing on the fly.

16-Channel Dante I/O

A single transformer-balanced RJ45 Ethernet port supports up to 16 channels of Dante/AES67 I/O for sending and receiving audio over Ethernet.

TA3 and 3.5mm Aux Inputs

Dedicated TA3 and 3.5mm connectors are provided for multiple aux input functions. Use them as additional channel inputs or to monitor audio returns from a camera or DSLR.

Versatile Analog and Digital Outputs

The XLR main outputs can function as analog or digital outputs. Assign them to send stereo analog signal at line, -10 dB, or mic level, or set them to route up to four channels of AES3 digital signals. Four X1/X2/X3/X4 TA3 jacks are presented for additional line, -10 dB, or mic-level balanced outputs, and a single X5/X6 3.5mm mini jack is nearby for an assignable unbalanced output.

Headphone and Headset Jacks

The 888 features 1/4" and 3.5mm stereo headphone outputs and a TA5 headset port, all driven by 400mW per side for high output and compatibility with headphones of any impedance. Selectable and editable headphone presets empower you with fast configuration of the monitoring source, mono/stereo/MS mode, and more. With the addition of the dedicated TA3 com return jack, the 888 is capable of coms and slate for professional bidirectional communication with other crew members.

Powerful FPGA Processing

The FPGA-based engine boasts a 6-way ARM multiprocessor system that executes 64-bit audio processing precision, letting you have total control of each track s sonic characteristics in real time.

Powered via L-Series Batteries or External DC

The 888 supports powering from dual L-Series batteries and external DC power (10 to 18 VDC) via a locking TA4 connector. Intelligent power-down of unused mic preamps and select internal circuits minimizes unnecessary power drain. The 888 has on/off switchable built-in chargers for convenient charging of your L-Series batteries.

Accurate Timecode Synchronization

The 888 s LEMO jack supports 2-pin and 5-pin options for functionality as an input or output for timecode or word clock. Sync to the internal clock, word clock, LTC in, or AES and choose from multiple timecode modes such as free run, auto record, jam sync, and many more. The precision timecode generator s start time and UBits may be specified by the user. The 888 will hold timecode for up to four hours after shutdown.

Ideal for Sound Bag or Camera-Mount Configurations

Sized like the popular 788T mixer, the rugged, compact, and lightweight 888 is compatible with common setups. With audio and power connections on the side panels, it fits handily in sound bags. Female 1/4" -20 threads on the bottom panel support tripod- or camera-mounted arrangements.

Powerful Wireless/Wired External Remote Control

Control the 888 remotely from a USB-connected Android device via the SD-Remote app, which generates sound reports and displays high-resolution meters, current timecode, transport buttons, solo/mute buttons, and more.

For tactile mixing and transport control, connect a Sound Devices CL-12 or a compatible USB MIDI controller such as the Icon Platform M+/X+/B+, the Behringer X-Touch, or the Mackie MCU Pro.

Firmware v8.10 Supports GainForward Architecture for A20-Mini

• The A20-Mini transmitter introduces GainForward, a new feature that eliminates the need to adjust microphone preamplifier gain at the wireless transmitter. Audio levels from the transmitter are controlled either directly at the mixers trim control or at the wireless receiver.
• When the A10-RX receiving an A20-Mini signal is slotted into an SL-2 or SL-6, the A10-RX Input menu settings are bypassed and all gain, low cut, and limiter activity are performed and controlled by the 833, 888, or Scorpio. Trim gain range is 0 to 60 dB for the 8-Series channel receiving signal from the A20-Mini.
• A10-RX Receiver Setup screens show limiter, h